The mayors, Toralf Heimdal and Andre Kristoffersen, are seeking support to cover the costs of the appeal. The court case has so far cost the two municipalities just over 1 million kroner, according to the mayors. They have received support from USS, Fjellstyresambandet, Bondelaget, and some municipalities, but the financial burden remains significant for small municipalities in a case of national importance.
The outcome could have consequences for other municipalities in Troms and Nordland. The appeal is scheduled for the Court of Appeal in December. It is not yet known which other municipalities will provide financial support or what the total estimated cost of the appeal will be.