For generations, Eaglecrest has been part of the fabric of Juneau. It is more than a ski area. It is a place where families gather, where lifelong memories are made and where residents and visitors alike experience the outdoors that make Southeast Alaska unique. Having access to year-round recreation and outdoor amenities is part of what makes Juneau such a special place to live.

That is one reason Goldbelt chose to participate in the Eaglecrest gondola project.

As Juneau’s urban Alaska Native corporation, Goldbelt has been invested in the future of this community for more than 50 years. Our responsibility to Juneau and Southeast Alaska is not temporary. Our shareholders live here, raise families here, build businesses here and care deeply about the future of the place we all call home.

When the opportunity arose to partner with the City and Borough of Juneau on the gondola project, Goldbelt viewed it as an opportunity to invest in both our shareholders and the long-term vitality of the community.

For Goldbelt, the gondola was never simply about a lift system. It represented an opportunity to support year-round recreation, economic activity and community amenities that contribute to the quality of life people value in Juneau. Like many residents, our shareholders care deeply about maintaining access to the outdoor experiences, recreation opportunities and community assets that help keep Juneau strong for future generations.

To understand Goldbelt’s role, it is helpful to understand how Alaska Native corporations operate.

Under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act, or ANCSA, Alaska Native corporations were created to provide long-term economic opportunity and stewardship for the benefit of Alaska Native shareholders, their descendants and family members. Unlike reservation systems in the Lower 48, ANCSA corporations operate as shareholder-owned businesses with a broad responsibility to promote the health, education and welfare of our shareholders, their descendants and family members through investment, development and stewardship of our assets.

That responsibility shapes every investment decision we make.

Our obligation is to steward resources responsibly while also supporting the communities where our shareholders live and work. Those responsibilities are not separate. They are deeply connected.

In 2023, Goldbelt invested $10 million in the Eaglecrest gondola project through a revenue-sharing agreement tied to future project operations. The agreement was intentionally structured at approximately 7%, below many alternative investment opportunities available at the time.

That decision reflected a balance between two responsibilities: stewarding shareholder resources responsibly while supporting a project that leaders believed could create lasting value for the Juneau community. The goal was not simply to maximize financial return. It was to make a disciplined investment that aligned shareholder interests with community benefit.

In other words, Goldbelt chose to support a community-focused project under terms that reflected both our commitment to Juneau and our responsibility to shareholders.

It is also important to understand what Goldbelt’s role was — and was not.

The gondola project has always been owned and led by the City and Borough of Juneau through Eaglecrest. Goldbelt’s role was solely as a financial partner. Goldbelt did not control project management, construction costs, design decisions or decisions regarding the project’s future.

As project costs increased and circumstances changed, Goldbelt worked with the City to explore potential paths forward while remaining mindful of our responsibility to shareholders.

That included exploring alternatives beyond direct cash repayment, including repayment through land. Goldbelt expressed openness to solutions that could reduce immediate financial pressure on the City while also creating long-term economic value for both the community and our shareholders. Those discussions reflected a desire to identify constructive paths forward, even as circumstances surrounding the project evolved.

Ultimately, the parties agreed to conclude the arrangement through cash repayment of Goldbelt’s investment and termination of the agreement.

While the project ultimately took a different path than originally envisioned, Goldbelt remains proud to have supported an effort intended to benefit Juneau.

At its core, this conversation is about more than a gondola.

It is about how communities invest in their future. It is about balancing recreation, economic opportunity, infrastructure and long-term sustainability. It is about finding ways for community benefit and responsible development to work together rather than compete with one another.

Goldbelt’s future is directly tied to Juneau’s future. Our shareholders live here. Our employees live here. Our headquarters are here. The success of our corporation is connected to the success of this community.

That is why we continue to approach investments with a long-term perspective rooted in stewardship, responsibility and partnership.

Juneau faces important conversations in the years ahead about housing, transportation, recreation, economic diversification and infrastructure. Goldbelt intends to remain an active participant in those discussions as a committed community partner.

The conversation surrounding the gondola has at times focused on what separates us. We believe it is more important to focus on what unites us: a shared commitment to Juneau’s future.

Goldbelt remains committed to collaboration, thoughtful investment and responsible stewardship. We believe the strongest future for Juneau will be built through partnership, shared purpose and a collective commitment to preserving what makes this community special for generations to come.

Author bio: 
McHugh Pierre is President and CEO of Goldbelt, Inc., Juneau’s Alaska Native corporation. Goldbelt is rooted in the traditional homelands of the Áak’w Kwáan and T’áaku Kwáan and serves more than 4,000 shareholders, the majority of whom are Alaska Native heritage.

FAQs:

• Did Goldbelt own or control the Eaglecrest gondola project?
  • No. The project was owned and led by the City and Borough of Juneau through Eaglecrest. Goldbelt participated solely as a financial partner.  CBJ, through Eaglecrest, owned the project and made all management decisions.
• What was Goldbelt’s role?
  • Goldbelt invested $10 million in 2022 through an agreement tied to the proposed gondola project. Goldbelt did not manage or control the project.
• Why did Goldbelt participate?
  • Goldbelt saw the project as an opportunity to support year-round recreation, economic activity and community amenities while making a disciplined investment aligned with long-term shareholder and community interests.
• Was Goldbelt responsible for project cost increases?
  • No. The City and Borough of Juneau, through Eaglecrest, owned and managed the project. Goldbelt was not responsible for project cost increases.
• Why were the investment terms structured differently than a typical investment?
  • The agreement was structured to achieve a 7% return, which was below market-rate returns available through many other investment opportunities at the time. Goldbelt believed the project had the potential to benefit both shareholders and the broader Juneau community, and the terms reflected an effort to balance responsible stewardship of shareholder resources with support for a community-focused project.
• Did Goldbelt expect to earn revenue from the project?
  • Yes. The agreement included a revenue-sharing component tied to future gondola operations that would have repaid Goldbelt’s principal investment plus a return. However, because the project did not become operational, that revenue was never realized.
• Did Goldbelt make money on the gondola project?
  • No. Goldbelt did not receive revenue from gondola operations. The City ultimately repaid the principal investment, and the original agreement was terminated.
• Did Goldbelt work with the City when project challenges emerged?
  • Yes. Goldbelt extended its original agreement by one year and remained open to discussions about potential solutions as the City evaluated next steps.
• What happened in the end?
  • After reevaluating the project, the City repaid Goldbelt’s $10 million investment and the agreement was terminated.
• Is Goldbelt still financially involved in the gondola project?
  • No. Following repayment and termination of the agreement, Goldbelt no longer has a financial role in the project.
• What is Goldbelt’s approach moving forward?
  • Goldbelt remains committed to responsible stewardship of shareholder resources, constructive partnerships and investments that support both shareholder value and the long-term success of the Juneau community.  Goldbelt continues to be open to partnering with CBJ on future projects.
• Why does Goldbelt emphasize its role as an ANCSA corporation?
  • Under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA), Goldbelt’s mission goes beyond financial goals.  Our mission includes stewardship of our assets, the health and welfare of our stakeholders, and the health of our community.  That responsibility guides how Goldbelt evaluates investments, partnerships and opportunities that can create lasting value for future generations.

The post Goldbelt’s Role in the Eaglecrest Gondola and in Juneau’s Future appeared first on Goldbelt, Inc..

Goldbelt was created through the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA), legislation that resolved Indigenous land claims by creating corporations, instead of reservations, and returning select lands to Alaska Native people through regional and village corporations. As Juneau’s Alaska Native corporation, we selected parcels from our ancestral homelands that were important to our people and that we are responsible for stewarding these ancestral lands today.

Under ANCSA, these lands are not taxed until they are developed. That structure was designed to support long-term economic opportunity for Alaska Native people and to keep Native land in Native hands.

As Juneau’s Alaska Native corporation (ANC), owned by Tlingits of the Áak’w Kwáan and T’áaku Kwáan, Goldbelt’s responsibility is to the Indigenous people who make up our shareholder base. Our shareholders will always be our top priority. Unlike a publicly traded company, our responsibility does not end with dividends. It includes building systems and infrastructure that support our shareholders and the broader community.

As an example, when Goldbelt invested $10 million in a revenue-sharing agreement with the City and Borough of Juneau on the Eaglecrest gondola project, it did so because it was a strong investment for our shareholders. It also reflects an investment in our community. We believe that a prosperous Juneau depends on a sustainable, year-round outdoor recreation facility at Eaglecrest.

The Goldbelt Aaní port project on the backside of Douglas is another example of investment that serves our stakeholders while supporting the community. The port reflects decades of planning by Goldbelt and its shareholders for development of our ANCSA lands. Not only will it create local jobs and produce profits that remain here in Juneau, the project will enhance Borough infrastructure with upgraded utilities and a new wastewater treatment facility on Douglas Island.

Once developed, the port is expected to become one of Juneau’s largest taxpayers. That revenue supports schools, infrastructure and the services residents rely on every day. Sustainable, thoughtful development supports jobs, strengthens the economy and contributes to a stable tax base.

Goldbelt is a forever company supporting people who have been here since time immemorial. We are here to stay and to contribute to Juneau’s long-term economic stability because this is where our people live. We operate businesses around the world, but our headquarters and our home are in Juneau. We invest our profits in Juneau’s future. As an Alaska Native corporation, those investments stay with our people and our lands, adding long-term value for locals instead of flowing to outside investors.

Goldbelt wants to help build a future where families choose to stay in Juneau, where people have confidence in the economy, where children are raised, and people invest in their future now and forever.

Author bio: 
McHugh Pierre is President and CEO of Goldbelt, Inc., Juneau’s Alaska Native corporation, rooted in the traditional homelands of the Áak’w Kwáan and T’áaku Kwáan and representing more than 4,000 shareholders.

FAQs: 

• Why is Goldbelt speaking publicly about development now? 
  • Goldbelt is involved in numerous projects that are important to Juneau’s future, including Eaglecrest, the downtown tram, and Douglas Island. We believe it is important to clearly explain our role, our approach, and how these projects may impact both our shareholders and the broader community. 
• Is Goldbelt advocating for more growth at any cost? 
  • No. Growth is already happening in Juneau. Our focus is on planning growth in a way that is thoughtful, coordinated, and sustainable for the community. 
• What kind of development is Goldbelt supporting? 
  • Development that is planned and designed to support long-term livability, economic stability and responsible growth. 
• How does development benefit residents? 
  • Thoughtful development strengthens the local economy by creating jobs and business opportunities. Goldbelt’s investment contributes to the tax base that funds our schools, infrastructure and the services residents rely on every day. It can also help reduce pressure on existing infrastructure by planning how growth is managed. 
• How does this connect to shareholders? 
  • Goldbelt has a responsibility to create long-term value for its shareholders and family members. In Juneau, that responsibility is closely tied to the strength of the community, where many shareholders live. 
• What does Goldbelt mean by responsible development? 
  • Responsible development means planning for infrastructure, understanding long-term impacts and making decisions based on lasting value rather than short-term gain. 
• How will Goldbelt ensure development does not negatively impact quality of life? 
  • Projects move through established local, state and federal permitting processes and require coordination with the City. Goldbelt is committed to planning, transparency and ongoing engagement to address community concerns. 

Questions? Email communications@goldbelt.com

The post Goldbelt’s Vision: a Future That Works for All of Juneau appeared first on Goldbelt, Inc..

Genovieve was recently nominated for the prestigious DAISY Award, a meaningful recognition that honors nurses who go above and beyond in providing exceptional clinical care and compassion to patients and families.

Working in the fast-paced Ambulatory Procedure Unit (APU) and Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU), Genovieve consistently demonstrates calm leadership, attentiveness, and empathy during some of their most vulnerable moments. Her dedication to patient safety, comfort, and recovery has made a lasting impact on both patients and colleagues alike.

“Genovieve represents the very best of what we strive for in healthcare support services,” said Jen Juliano, Program Manager supporting the Navy healthcare contract. “Her professionalism, teamwork, and compassionate care are noticed every day by both staff and patients. We are incredibly proud to see her recognized through this DAISY Award nomination.”

The DAISY Award nomination reflects not only Genovieve’s clinical excellence, but also the heart she brings to nursing every day. Goldbelt is honored to support healthcare professionals like Genovieve who make a meaningful difference in the lives of military service members, families, and the broader community overseas.

Congratulations to Genovieve Ambulo on this well-deserved recognition and thank you for your continued commitment to exceptional patient care.

The post Celebrating Excellence in Patient Care: Genovieve Ambulo Recognized with DAISY Award Nomination appeared first on Goldbelt, Inc..

The post Employees Safe After Goldbelt Tram Incident appeared first on Goldbelt, Inc..

“At Naval Hospital Okinawa, exceptional care is about connection, trust and compassion. We are proud to recognize psychiatric technician Steven Steffey for embodying these qualities,” said Jen Juliano, program manager on the Goldbelt Glacier Allied Health Navy contract.

Employees like Steffey play a vital role in helping Goldbelt meet the military community’s behavioral health needs. His ability to connect with patients in moments of distress is a key part of what sets Goldbelt apart. His approachable demeanor and commitment to patient-centered care help break down barriers and foster trust, making it easier for service members to access support.

“I am thankful to Goldbelt for the opportunity to continue serving our service members and helping to dispel the stigma associated with seeking behavioral health resources,” Steffey said. “It’s truly an honor to continue supporting the military community.”
Steffey’s work reflects the core mission of Goldbelt: delivering high-quality care while supporting the well-being of those who serve the country. His dedication not only impacts individual lives but also contributes to a broader culture of acceptance and support around mental health.

Steffey embodies Goldbelt’s Gold Standard which includes a commitment to service, empathy and unwavering support for the military community.

The post Goldbelt psychiatric technician lauded for compassionate, exceptional care appeared first on Goldbelt, Inc..

These gatherings are an important part of ownership, ensuring shareholders have access to information, opportunities to ask questions, and a gain a clearer understanding of how Goldbelt is creating long-term value for its owners and communities. 

Whether you attended this year or were unable to participate, the purpose remains the same: strengthening transparency, stewardship, and engagement with our shareholders. 

Transparency in Action 

Shareholders deserve clear and accessible information about how the company is performing and where it is headed. During this year’s meetings, leadership shared financial updates, business projections, and insight into market conditions affecting revenue and margins. 

Across Anchorage, Tulalip and Juneau, 337 shareholders participated, reflecting strong engagement from owners who want to stay informed and connected to Goldbelt’s future. This number does not include the many valued guests who joined shareholders at the meetings. 

Shareholders can also stay informed year-round through our online resources.
Visit our Shareholder FAQs here: https://mygoldbelt.com/FAQs/GeneralInformation

Performance and Long-Term Stewardship 

Goldbelt’s annual gross revenue projection is on pace to exceed 2025’s record-breaking total of $505 million, with 2026 gross revenue predicted in the $550 million range. 

While gross revenue continues to grow, federal contracts are carrying smaller margins. As a result, net income is projected to be lower despite higher overall revenue totals. 

• 2024: Gross revenue of $481 million; net income of $31.6 million
• 2025: Projected gross revenue of $505 million; projected net income of $23 million 

Sharing this level of detail reflects our commitment to responsible stewardship and informed ownership. 

Investing in Communities 

Our investments are tied directly to our mission of strengthening the communities where we live and work. 

Goldbelt Aaní represents a long-term investment in Juneau’s economic future. The project continues moving through the City and Borough of Juneau permitting process. 

To view architectural renderings and learn more about the project, visit goldbeltaani.com 

The Cascade Point DOT and AMHS Ferry Terminal project continues advancing through the Alaska House and Senate. Once constructed, it will provide more consistent and reliable transportation and help reduce the cost of transporting goods and services to Juneau. 

These efforts reflect our role not only as a business, but as a community partner and land steward. 

Opportunity for Shareholders 

Ownership should create opportunities across generations. 

Goldbelt supports shareholders through employment pathways, scholarships, internships, and programs that help families plan the future of their shares. These efforts reflect our commitment to strengthening opportunities for shareholders today while protecting value for future generations. Shareholders are encouraged to stay engaged and take advantage of available opportunities. 

Explore current job openings:

• Human Resources Generalist
• Project Coordinator within the Marketing and Communications department
• Seasonal opportunities with the Goldbelt Tram, Goldbelt Security and other operational roles are also available.

Apply here: https://www.goldbelt.com/careers/

Scholarships and internships supporting education, job training, and career development. 

Plan for the future of your shares:
Learn more about gifting shares: https://mygoldbelt.com/FAQs/Giftingandstockwill
Learn more about testamentary distributions: https://mygoldbelt.com/FAQs/Giftingandstockwill

Stay connected:
Update your contact information here: https://mygoldbelt.com/AboutMe

Watch for the Shareholder Survey in March. 

Annual Meeting of Shareholders
July 11, 2026
Juneau, Alaska
Virtual participation available on MyGoldbelt.com 

Shareholder Cultural Speaker RFP
Priority submissions due April 24, 2026
Learn more and apply: Shareholder Cultural Speaker RFP

Advocacy and Owner Engagement 

As an Alaska Native Corporation, our participation in the 8(a) program supports economic opportunity that help us develop  long-term shareholder value. Shareholders are encouraged to stay informed and support efforts that protect and strengthen the program. 

Shareholders may also have opportunities to participate in public processes that affect Goldbelt projects. During the CBJ Conditional Use Permit commenting period related to Goldbelt Aaní, shareholders may submit comments in support of responsible development that benefits Juneau and our shareholders. Information on how to participate will be shared when available.

The post Why We Gather: The Purpose of Goldbelt’s Shareholder Opportunity Meetings appeared first on Goldbelt, Inc..

Serving under program manager Jen Juliano on the USAF Medical Services Contract, Katie plays a critical role in the Directorate of Healthcare Business, where precision, compassion, and coordination are essential. In a fast-paced environment supporting military members and their families, Katie consistently rises above expectations, ensuring referrals are managed accurately, efficiently, and with the utmost professionalism.

In the nominating process, colleagues described Katie as a steady presence and a trusted problem-solver; someone who not only masters the complexities of referral management but does so with a collaborative spirit that lifts those around her. Her willingness to mentor teammates, and tackle challenges head-on has made her an invaluable asset to the department. Whether she is navigating complex cases or streamlining processes to improve patient experience, Katie approaches every task with care, integrity, and a genuine commitment to excellence.

What sets Katie apart is not only her technical expertise, but her heart for service. Her dedication helps foster a positive, welcoming environment where both patients and teammates feel supported. Through her selfless service and relentless pursuit of excellence, Katie exemplifies the very spirit of teamwork and mission readiness that defines U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa.

Katie’s contributions reflect great credit upon herself, the Directorate of Healthcare Business, and the entire Referral Management team. Her recognition as Star of the Month is a well-deserved celebration of the impact she makes every day, and a reminder of how one individual’s commitment can elevate an entire organization.

The post Goldbelt Glacier’s Katie Khamphanthirath is U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa Star of the Month appeared first on Goldbelt, Inc..

In a critical medical clearance situation with less than 24 hours before a family’s required departure, Ms. Lacsamana-Leyva responded with urgency and unwavering commitment. She worked tirelessly to expedite the medical clearance process, coordinated closely with the transferring hospital and medical staff–and personally reached out to multiple bases to resolve outstanding requirements that could have delayed care. Maria went well beyond her normal duty hours to maintain continuous follow-up and clear communication to ensure no detail was overlooked to see the job from start to finish.

One of the comments that stood out from the Interactive Customer Evaluation was, “what could have been an overwhelming and stressful experience was transformed into one marked by reassurance, confidence, and peace of mind for the family involved.”

Comments like this illuminate the ethos of our mission at the Exceptional Family Member Program–caring for the whole family. Ms. Lacsamana-Leyva’s advocacy, expertise, and compassion resolved a complex situation under intense time constraints, while demonstrating a deep commitment to the well-being of those she serves.

Her dedicated work is a powerful reminder of the impact that our dedicated professionals can have on military families. Her exemplary performance is a testament to the high standards of care and service delivered across the program. We are proud to recognize Ms. Lacsamana-Leyva for setting the gold standard with her outstanding dedication that truly makes a difference for our military families.

The post Outstanding Advocacy and Compassion in Support of Military Families appeared first on Goldbelt, Inc..

During a recent Joint Commission review, Powers’ work was singled out among her peers. She was one of only six nurses whose Electronic Credentialing Action File (e-CAF) folders were reviewed directly by Joint Commission surveyors. Her work was praised by Medical Director, Lt. Col. Edwards, and Supervisor, Maj. Franklin, who described her e-CAF as “pristine.” This recognition reflects her attention to detail, accountability, and adherence to the highest professional standards.

This honor is especially notable given the demanding circumstances under which Powers completed her credentialing. While managing a full caseload, she also coordinated three urgent MEDEVAC cases in a single week, requiring extensive collaboration with Japanese host nation hospitals, Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command Okinawa, and multiple facilities in the continental United States. Despite long hours and complex logistics, Powers ensured every requirement was met with accuracy and professionalism.

Powers’ performance during the Joint Commission review highlights the consistency, reliability, and excellence she brings to her role every day. “Her work is outstanding! Her dedication, professionalism, and attention to detail continue to set the standard for excellence at Kadena Air Base,” said her supervisor, Jen Juliano.

The post Janet Powers, RN, Recognized for Professionalism, Precision, and Leadership appeared first on Goldbelt, Inc..

In sharing feedback, our U.S. Navy partners lauded Eden for her exceptional initiative and indispensable expertise she has brought to her service in the inpatient pharmacy. “It has been a joy to see her shine in the inpatient setting, as she brings her wealth of knowledge to her duties at the pharmacy. “Her proactive, self-directed efforts directly resulted in improved operational readiness, technician training capacity, and adherence to regulatory standards,” they concluded.

In her role as an inpatient pharmacy technician, Ms. Buongiorno has played a key role in improving clean room procedures, ensuring all technicians are well trained and compliant with sterile compounding standards. Her focus on regulatory compliance and best practices has enhanced both workflow efficiency and patient safety across the department.

Beyond clean room operations, Ms. Buongiorno has successfully streamlined Pyxis medication dispensing systems, optimizing functionality without disrupting patient care. She has also empowered fellow technicians by ensuring they are confident and knowledgeable in using both Pyxis machines and the Pyxis server. Her commitment to teamwork and mentorship is equally noteworthy. Eden has trained new pharmacy staff in both inpatient and outpatient settings, helping develop well-rounded, capable technicians who are prepared to support the hospital’s mission.

“We appreciate her professionalism, dedication to patient safety, and her overall assistance in supporting our mission of delivering safe, effective, and mission-ready pharmaceutical care to those living and serving in Okinawa,” said supervisor Jen Juliano. Goldbelt is honored to have professionals like Eden Buongiorno supporting the Defense Health Agency mission. Her contributions exemplify the high standards, expertise, and dedication that Goldbelt brings to its Navy healthcare contracts around the world.

The post Goldbelt’s Eden Buongiorno Providing Excellence in Pharmacy Care appeared first on Goldbelt, Inc..