The city collected water samples from 10 homes during a routine check in August. Two came back above the Environmental Protection Agency’s lead action level of 15 parts per billion, which triggers extra testing, public notice and a review of how the water is treated.

The justices heard oral arguments on Sept. 9 in a lawsuit over a Kotzebue police sergeant’s 2022 nonfatal shooting of an Alaska Native man, Luke Outwater, who was experiencing a mental health crisis.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency announced today that more than $4 million is headed to several Alaska communities through its Public Assistance program.

Ambler Metals, the company behind the proposed open pit copper and zinc mine, has touted local benefits from the project ranging from construction and mining jobs to new infrastructure and even lower fuel prices.

The money will fund new pipes and manholes near three of the system's 12 lift stations, said Russ Ferguson, the city’s public works director.

Begich, a former state senator and Alaska Senate minority leader from Anchorage, said he has spent years working in villages across Alaska. He said his work in juvenile justice in the state’s smallest communities sets him apart in the crowded race for governor.

Republican candidate Click Bishop for governor and his independent running mate, Greta Schuerch, visited Kotzebue last week, as part of a statewide tour ahead of the August 18 primaries.

Four Kotzebue residents filed suit in Kotzebue Superior Court on Jan. 21. They allege the city failed to provide “safe, effective and sanitary” water and sewer to its residents, which the lawsuit describes as a breach of contract.

Ron Johnson was hired in early December, but his position was not officially approved until Thursday night. The Kotzebue City Council unanimously approved his appointment during an executive session, according to the city’s attorney.

Unofficial election results for the Northwest Arctic Borough’s only contested race for Assembly Seat 4, which represents Kotzebue, show Carl Nasruk Weisner ahead of Thomas Ikaaq Baker by about 70 votes.