Joseph L. Hayes

Joseph L. Hayes was an American civil engineer, lobbyist, and politician who served as a member of the Alaska State House of Representatives. A member of the Republican Party, Hayes represented District 12, which encompasses parts of west Anchorage. His legislative career spanned two distinct terms, during which he held the position of speaker of the house on two occasions. Hayes was born on February 18, 1930, and passed away on February 16, 2018, just two days shy of his 88th birthday.

Early life and career

Joseph Lynn Hayes was born in Bakersfield, Missouri, to Norman "Darby" Hayes and Dicy Hayes. In June 1946, he moved to Alaska with his family, following his uncle, Herman Cotter, who had worked in the territory during World War II. This journey made them among the early civilians to traverse the Alaska Highway, a significant route that connected the contiguous United States to Alaska. The Hayes family settled in Anchorage, where Joseph completed his high school education at Anchorage High School.

Following high school, Hayes pursued higher education in engineering. He earned a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from the University of Washington in 1951. Later, he furthered his education by obtaining a master's degree from the University of Alaska in 1966. His academic background laid a strong foundation for his professional career as a civil engineer and surveyor. Hayes became a partner in the engineering firm Tryck, Nyman and Hayes, which has been recognized as one of Alaska's leading engineering firms since the late 20th century. His expertise in civil engineering and surveying contributed significantly to various projects and developments in the region.

In addition to his engineering work, Hayes was active in local governance. He served as chair of the Anchorage Platting Commission from 1959 to 1964, where he played a role in overseeing land use and development in the Anchorage area. This experience in public service likely informed his later political career.

Legislative service

Hayes's political career began when he was elected to the Alaska House of Representatives, where he served as a Republican representative for west Anchorage. His tenure in the state legislature lasted from 1977 to 1984, during which he completed two distinct terms. Hayes's leadership abilities were recognized when he was elected as speaker of the house on two occasions, in 1981 and 1983. His ascent to this influential position occurred during a significant political shift, where a coalition of dissident Democrats and members from various parties, including two Libertarians, united to challenge the existing Democratic leadership. This coalition led to the removal of the incumbent speaker, Jim Duncan, and allowed Hayes to take on the role of speaker.

Throughout his time in the Alaska State House, Hayes was involved in various legislative initiatives and discussions that shaped the state's policies and governance. Although specific details of the legislation he supported or opposed are not documented, his leadership roles suggest that he was a key figure in the legislative process during his tenure.

In addition to his legislative work, Hayes sought higher office on multiple occasions. He ran unsuccessfully for the position of Mayor of Anchorage in 1981 and later attempted to secure the Republican nomination for governor in the 1986 primary election. Despite investing a significant amount of his own resources into his gubernatorial campaign, he received a modest share of the vote in a crowded field, finishing fourth among Republican candidates.

Policy focus and district

During his time in the Alaska State House, Hayes represented District 12, which includes parts of west Anchorage. The district is characterized by a diverse population and a mix of urban and suburban environments. As a legislator, Hayes's policy focus likely reflected the interests and concerns of his constituents, although specific legislative initiatives or policy areas he championed are not detailed in the available records.

After leaving elected office, Hayes transitioned to a career as a lobbyist. By the turn of the 21st century, he had established himself as a prominent figure in Alaska's lobbying landscape, reportedly earning a significant portion of the total revenue spent on lobbying in the state. His experience as a former legislator likely provided him with valuable insights and connections that facilitated his work in this new role.

In his later years, Hayes returned to Missouri, where he purchased an estate and lived until his passing. He maintained connections to his roots and, in June 2016, reunited with a cousin in Anchorage to reminisce about their journey along the Alaska Highway, reflecting on their shared history and experiences.

Hayes was a member of the Lutheran faith and was married to Patricia. Together, they had three daughters. His life came to an end on February 16, 2018, in Anchorage, just two days before his 88th birthday. His contributions to civil engineering, public service, and political life in Alaska remain part of the state's history.