(a) The governing body of a municipality operating a public utility may provide by ordinance for a utility board of five members and define the board's powers and duties. (b) As determined by ordinance, members of a utility board are either appointed by the mayor and confirmed by the governing body or are elected at a regular election. The term of a utility board member is two years and until a successor is selected and qualifies. However, the governing body may by ordinance provide for a different term not to exceed four years. The current term of an elected incumbent may not be altered. (c) Vacancies on a utility board are filled by the mayor. Executive appointments shall be confirmed by the governing body. A person appointed to fill a vacancy on a utility board serves until the expiration of the term for which appointed and until a successor is elected and qualifies. (d) Unless otherwise provided by ordinance, a utility board shall (1) choose its chairman and secretary; (2) appoint the manager of the public utility for a term not longer than five years and set the manager's salary; (3) formulate and enforce the general rules and policies of the utility.
Alaska Legal Code