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There has been virtually no sustainable economic development here as a consequence of two decades of oil development next door in Prudhoe Bay. Oil money invested by the Arctic Slope Regional Corporation and the North Slope Borough has not created sustainable jobs here in Kaktovik. Only now, at enormous expense, are we getting water and sewer services, being installed by heavy equipment humming outside my classroom as I write this. Will this infrastructure bring in sustainable businesses? Doubtful at best.

There is significant concern here that residents of Kaktovik could suffer severe social and domestic problems if ANWR is developed, as happened in nearby Nuiqsut due to oil development in Prudhoe Bay. Even Arctic Power, the state-funded lobby for ANWR development, was honest enough to post this concern as part of the results of a survey conducted in Kaktovik. Even though there is considerable support for ANWR development within Kaktovik, this is by no means unanimous, and even some strong supporters have serious reservations.

The most pressing concern for many people in Kaktovik, is that they be guaranteed a seat at the table when issues regarding their homeland are discussed. They often feel left out of important decision-making. That must be rectified. This is their homeland, and they rightfully should have a central role with respect to any local development, and this role should include some oversight capacity if development proceeds.

• Bob Woolf teaches math and science in Kaktovik at Harold Kaveolook School. He is a former member of the Juneau Energy Advisory Committee.