Emily Goodykoontz

Anchorage Assembly members say the texts, which Henning Inc. officials say were taken out of context, raise concerns about its shelter management.

“The mere fact that information may be highly embarrassing does not render it private,” said Superior Court Judge Andrew Guidi.

Anchorage Mayor Dave Bronson stood by the decision to strike an informal deal, calling it “a matter of public safety.”

Homeless residents, nearby business owners and service providers say that gun violence, assaults, extortion, theft and drug dealing have proliferated, largely unfettered, in the Third Avenue encampment and surrounding streets.

It’s not clear how the former chief of staff to the mayor, Sami Graham, and the two other election observers knew of the internal policy. The city ombudsman is investigating the incident.

An influential friend of Mayor Dave Bronson is at the center of several of the controversies that have enveloped City Hall.