While yes, police officers technically have statewide jurisdiction, they are still limited by other factors. In this case, when the city established what is known as the metropolitan police service area (MPSA), Girdwood was not a component piece. To ensure that the city couldn't force taxes for police service on Girdwood, a provision was added that an expansion had to be approved by voters in the affected area, ie: Girdwood.

Now the city's hands are tied. Unless Girdwood votes to accept the cost of funding APD patrols and expand the MPSA, APD is not really able to force themselves on Girdwood. AST maintains statewide jurisdiction under Alaska Statute, and therefore would remain the lead agency by law.