About Aleutians West Borough
Aleutians West Borough is a unique political subdivision in Alaska, established in 1980 as an unorganized borough that functions administratively as a borough rather than a traditional borough. The borough includes much of the Aleutian Islands chain, spanning approximately 4,390 square miles of land and covering a total area of over 14,000 square miles when including water. The borough seat is located in Unalaska, home to the famous Dutch Harbor port, one of the nation's most productive fishing harbors.
- The economy revolves almost entirely around commercial fishing and seafood processing.
- Aleutians West Borough Borough School District provides educational services.
As of recent census data, the population hovers around 5,500 residents, with approximately 80% residing in Unalaska. Aleutians West Borough is geographically remote, situated in the North Pacific Ocean and Bering Sea, characterized by volcanic islands, dramatic coastlines, and challenging maritime weather. Major landmarks include Mount Shishaldin, one of the most active volcanoes in the Aleutian arc, and the Aleutian World War II National Historic Area commemorating the only land battle fought on American soil during WWII.
Because Unalaska area is a borough rather than an organized borough, traditional borough offices like a Borough Recorder or Assessor function differently than in the lower 48 states. Land records and property assessment functions are handled by the Alaska Department of Natural Resources and the State Recorder's Office, with local administrative services provided through the City of Unalaska for incorporated areas. Aleutians West Borough's isolation and unique governance structure make it one of Alaska's most distinctive regions for public records access.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Sheriff & Law Enforcement
Aleutians West Borough does not have a traditional sheriff's office due to its unique borough structure. Instead, law enforcement services are primarily provided by the local police departments in each community, such as the Unalaska Department of Public Safety. These departments are responsible for patrolling their respective areas, managing local detention facilities, and processing arrests. They maintain criminal records and work with state agencies to ensure public safety.
Police Departments
Law enforcement in Aleutians West Borough is primarily provided by the Unalaska Department of Public Safety, which serves the city of Unalaska and surrounding areas. Other communities, such as Adak, may have their own local police departments or rely on state troopers for law enforcement services. These agencies coordinate on major crimes and emergencies, often working with state and federal agencies due to the borough's remote location and strategic importance. Their jurisdiction covers local law enforcement, emergency response, and community safety initiatives.
Law Enforcement & Arrests
Law enforcement in Aleutians West Borough operates under Alaska's unique public safety structure, with primary jurisdiction held by the Alaska State Troopers rather than a traditional borough sheriff's office. The Alaska State Troopers maintain a post in Unalaska and provide patrol, investigation, and emergency response services throughout the borough.
- Written requests for arrest records should be directed to UDPS or the Alaska State Troopers Unalaska Post.
The Unalaska Department of Public Safety (UDPS), located at 66 East Broadway Avenue, Unalaska, AK 99685, is the primary municipal law enforcement agency for the City of Unalaska and can be contacted through the office’s website. UDPS operates a detention facility for short-term holding, though longer-term inmates are typically transported to regional facilities. For arrest records and incident reports, requests must be submitted under Alaska Statute 40.25.110-140, Alaska's Public Records Act, which requires agencies to respond to public records requests within a reasonable timeframe. Mugshot and booking information may be available through direct contact with UDPS, though Alaska does not maintain a centralized statewide mugshot database accessible to the public.
Inmate information for people held at the Unalaska facility can be obtained by calling UDPS directly. The Alaska Department of Corrections operates the statewide Offender Lookup system at http://www.correct.state.ak.us/corrections/inmate-info which allows searches for inmates in state facilities. Given the remote nature of the Unalaska area Borough, law enforcement cooperation between state troopers, local police, and the U.S.
Coast Guard is essential. The Ounalashka Corporation, the local Alaska Native village corporation, may also coordinate with law enforcement on matters affecting tribal lands and members.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Criminal Records
The criminal records system in Aleutians West Borough includes records of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. Local police departments maintain these records, while the Alaska Bureau of Investigation provides additional resources for background checks and criminal history information. Residents can request background checks through the Department of Public Safety, which offers full reports on criminal history.
- The Alaska Bureau of Investigation assists with investigations and provides support for local law enforcement in handling complex cases, making sure of a thorough and coordinated approach to criminal justice.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Aleutians West Borough are maintained by the local police departments, such as the Unalaska Department of Public Safety. These records include details of the arrest, charges, and booking information. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records by submitting a formal request to the department, in compliance with the Alaska Public Records Act. Arrest records typically contain the individual's personal information, arrest date, charges, and booking details. The process ensures transparency while protecting sensitive information as required by state law.
Jail & Inmate Records
The primary detention facility in Aleutians West Borough is managed by the Unalaska Department of Public Safety. The booking process involves photographing and fingerprinting individuals upon arrest, with records maintained by the department. Inmate lookup services are available through direct contact with the department, as online databases are limited. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, requiring prior scheduling and adherence to security protocols. The bond and bail process follows Alaska state guidelines, allowing for the posting of bail through approved channels.
Mugshots & Booking Photos
Mugshots in Aleutians West Borough are taken and retained by the arresting police department, such as the Unalaska Department of Public Safety. These booking photos are part of the arrest record and can be accessed through formal requests to the department. While there is no centralized online database for mugshots, individuals may inquire directly with the department for access. Alaska does not have specific mugshot removal laws, but individuals may seek removal through legal channels if applicable. The process is governed by privacy considerations and public records laws.
Courts & Case Records
Aleutians West Borough falls under Aleutians West Borough of the Alaska Court System's Third Judicial District, which covers a vast area of western Alaska. The Unalaska Court, located at 60 East Broadway Avenue, P.O. Box 245, Unalaska, AK 99685, handles both District Court and Superior Court matters for the borough. The court can be reached at (907) 581-1pasteur259. The Unalaska Court handles criminal misdemeanors, preliminary hearings for felonies, civil cases up to $100,000, small claims, domestic relations including divorce and custody, probate matters, and guardianships.
- Superior Court handles felony criminal cases, civil cases over $100,000, and appeals from District Court decisions.
- Access to CourtView is free for basic searches, though some documents may require a fee.
- Certified copies of court documents can be requested from the Unalaska Court clerk's office for a fee of $5 for the first two pages and $2 for each additional page as of current schedules.
- For magistrate services and small claims matters under $10,000, the local magistrate has jurisdiction.
Alaska's court system provides online access to case records through CourtView at www.courtrecords.alaska.gov, which allows public searches of case information including party names, case numbers, filing dates, and dispositions for both criminal and civil matters. Alaska Court Rule 37 and Alaska Statute 09.25.100-220 govern public access to court records, establishing that most court records are public unless specifically sealed by court order or protected by statute. The court also handles traffic violations, protective orders, and other legal matters.
Given the borough's remote location, the court may conduct some proceedings via audio or video conference.
Property & Public Records
Property and land records for Aleutians West Borough are maintained differently than in organized counties due to Alaska's unique land ownership patterns and the borough's unorganized status. The Alaska Department of Natural Resources (DNR) maintains records for state lands, and the State Recorder's Office in Juneau is the central repository for recorded documents including deeds, mortgages, liens, easements, and subdivision plats. The State Recorder can be contacted through the office’s website, and their office is located at 550 West 7th Avenue, Suite 1260, Anchorage, AK 99501.
- Certified copies of recorded documents can be requested from the State Recorder for $5 for the first page and $2 for each additional page.
- The City of Unalaska provides a parcel viewer and property information system accessible through their website at ci.unalaska.ak.us.
Alaska maintains the Alaska Land Records Information System (ALRIS) at dnr.alaska.gov/mlw/landrec which provides free online access to recorded land documents searchable by location, grantor/grantee name, or document number. Property tax assessment for areas within the City of Unalaska is handled by the Unalaska Finance Department at 64 Eleanor Drive, P.O. Box 610, Unalaska, AK 99685
The City of Unalaska maintains property tax records and assessment information for properties within city limits. Much of the land in Aleutians West Borough is federally owned, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as part of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, or held by the Ounalashka Corporation and Qawalangin Tribe of Unalaska under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act.
For questions about federal lands, contact the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge office in Homer or the local refuge staff.
Vital Records
Vital records for Aleutians West Borough residents are maintained by the Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics, the centralized state agency responsible for birth, death, marriage, and divorce records throughout Alaska. The Bureau of Vital Statistics is located at 5441 Commercial Boulevard, Juneau, AK 99801, and can be contacted through the office’s website. Birth certificates cost $30 for a certified copy, with a processing time of approximately 4-6 weeks for mail requests. Death certificates also cost $30 for a certified copy with similar processing times.
- The marriage license fee is $60, and there is no waiting period or blood test required.
- Online ordering of vital records is available through VitalChek at www.alaska.gov/dph/bvs for expedited service with additional fees.
- For immediate needs, expedited service is available for an additional fee.
Marriage licenses are issued by the State of Alaska and can be obtained through any Alaska court location, including the Unalaska Court. Alaska Statute 18.50 governs vital records, establishing that birth and death records less than 100 years old are confidential and available only to qualified applicants including the registrant, immediate family members, legal representatives, or those with a tangible interest. Marriage records less than 50 years old are similarly restricted.
Divorce records are maintained by the court that granted the dissolution and are public record unless sealed. Applicants must provide valid government-issued photo identification and proof of relationship to the registrant. The Unalaska Court can provide information on marriage licenses and may assist with applications.
Walk-in service is available in Juneau and Anchorage offices only, with appointments recommended.
Business & Licensing
Business licensing and registration in Aleutians West Borough involves both state-level and local municipal requirements depending on the nature and location of the business. The Alaska Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing maintains the statewide business entity database searchable online at www.commerce.alaska.gov/cbp/main. This free search tool allows lookup of corporations, LLCs, partnerships, and trade names registered in Alaska, providing information on business status, registered agent, formation date, and filing history.
- The city requires annual business license renewal, with fees varying based on business type and gross receipts.
- Alaska does not have a statewide sales tax, but the City of Unalaska imposes a local sales tax, and businesses must register with the city Finance Department.
For businesses operating within the City of Unalaska, local business licenses are required and administered by the Unalaska Finance Department at 64 Eleanor Drive, P.O. Box 610, Unalaska, AK 99685 Professional licenses for occupations such as contractors, electricians, plumbers, and healthcare providers are issued by the Alaska Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing.
Building permits and zoning approvals for construction projects within Unalaska city limits are handled by the Unalaska Planning Department for The Unalaska Chamber of Commerce, which can be found online, provides resources for local businesses and economic development information. DBA (Doing Business As) or fictitious name registrations must be filed with the Alaska Division of Corporations. Commercial fishing businesses must obtain permits through the Alaska Department of Fish and Game and the National Marine Fisheries Service.
Elections & Voter Records
Election administration for Aleutians West Borough is managed by the Alaska Division of Elections, which oversees all state and federal elections throughout Alaska. The borough falls within House District 37 and is part of Alaska's at-large congressional district. Voter registration can be completed online through the Alaska Division of Elections website at voterregistration.alaska.gov, by mail using a voter registration form, or in person at any Division of Elections office or at the Unalaska City Clerk's office located at 64 Eleanor Drive, P.O. Box 610, Unalaska, AK 99685.
- Alaska requires voters to register at least 30 days before an election to be eligible to vote in that election.
- Absentee and early voting options are strong in Alaska; voters can request an absentee ballot by mail or online through the Division of Elections website, with applications accepted up to 10 days before the election.
- The Division of Elections provides detailed election results broken down by precinct, and citizens can request additional election records under Alaska's Public Records Act.
For local election information and voter services specific to Aleutians West, voters can contact the Division of Elections at or toll-free for Polling places in Aleutians West Borough are limited due to the sparse population and geographic isolation; the primary polling location for Unalaska voters is at the Unalaska Community Center. Voters can find their specific polling place by using the online polling place lookup tool at myvoterinformation.alaska.gov. Public election records available under Alaska law include voter registration lists (with certain personal information redacted), campaign finance disclosure reports filed with the Alaska Public Offices Commission, candidate filing information, precinct-level election results, and ballot measure materials.
Alaska Statutes Title 15 governs elections and campaign disclosure. In the 2024 general election, Aleutians West Borough had voter turnout of approximately 55-60%, somewhat lower than the statewide average due to the transient nature of some of the workforce population. The next major election is scheduled for November 3, 2026, featuring U.S.
House midterm elections and Alaska state legislative races. Alaska has implemented ranked-choice voting for federal and statewide offices following a 2020 ballot measure. Ballots must be postmarked by Election Day and received within 10 days after the election to be counted.
Election transparency is generally strong, with full online access to results, campaign finance data through the Alaska Public Offices Commission database at aws.state.ak.us/ApocReports, and voter registration statistics.
Economy & Demographics
The economy of Aleutians West Borough is dominated almost exclusively by commercial fishing and seafood processing, making it one of the most specialized economies in the United States. Dutch Harbor in Unalaska consistently ranks as the number one fishing port in the nation by volume and value of seafood landed, with annual catches valued in the hundreds of millions of dollars. The primary species harvested include pollock, Pacific cod, halibut, various crab species (king crab, snow crab, and opilio), and other groundfish.
- Major employers include UniSea, Westward Seafoods, Icicle Seafoods, and Alyeska Seafoods, which operate large-scale processing facilities employing hundreds of seasonal and year-round workers.
- The extremely remote location creates both economic opportunities through fishing access and challenges through transportation costs and isolation.
The median household income in the borough is estimated at approximately $75,000, significantly higher than the national average due to high-paying fishing industry jobs, though the cost of living is also substantially elevated. The Port of Dutch Harbor, managed by the City of Unalaska, is a critical economic asset providing fuel, supplies, and services to the North Pacific fishing fleet. The Ounalashka Corporation, the local Alaska Native village corporation, contributes to the economy through land leases, property management, and investment activities.
Tourism represents a small but growing sector, with cruise ships occasionally visiting during summer months and sport fishing attracting some visitors. The Grand Aleutian Hotel is the primary accommodation for business travelers and visitors. Unemployment can fluctuate seasonally based on fishing seasons, but Aleutians West Borough generally maintains relatively low unemployment during active fishing periods.
Infrastructure projects including harbor improvements and renewable energy development represent ongoing economic development efforts.
Transparency Score
Court Records: Yes: Online via CourtView | Property: Yes: Online via ALRIS | Arrest/Jail: Limited: Contact UDPS | Vital Records: Limited: State Office Only | Business: Yes: Online State Database | Elections: Yes: Online Statewide Access | Overall Score: 7/10, Aleutians West Borough relies heavily on state-level digital systems for public records access, with local offices providing supplementary services.
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Cities & Towns in Aleutians West Borough
Explore public records for 7 cities and communities in Aleutians West Borough, Alaska.