Public Meetings - Anchorage, Alaska

This work session of the Anchorage Assembly, held on July 17, 2026, focused on two proposed ordinances: AO 2026-89 (tax incentives for first-time home buyers) and AO 2026-93 (tax incentives for mixed-use multi-unit housing). Administration representatives from the Mayor's Office and Community & Economic Development presented the proposals, which aim to increase housing supply and affordability through 10-year property tax abatements. Assembly members engaged in detailed discussion about the mechanics, targeting, and potential impacts of the programs. Discussion Items - AO 2026-93 – Mixed-Use Multi-Unit Housing Tax Incentive: This ordinance creates a 10-year property tax exemption for newly constructed or rehabilitated mixed-use buildings that include owner-occupied residential units. The exemption applies only to the residential portion of the property; land and commercial portions remain taxable. Developments must produce at least four residential units, with a price cap set at the average assessed home value (approximately $500,000). The program targets conversion of underutilized commercial properties (e.g., vacant office buildings) into housing. The developer can get provisional approval before construction, with final approval upon completion. - AO 2026-89 – First-Time Home Buyer Tax Incentive: This ordinance offers a 10-year tax exemption for newly constructed homes purchased by qualified first-time home buyers (no ownership interest in a home within the prior seven years). Homes must be priced at or below the average assessed home value ($500,000). The tax abatement applies only to the building value, not the land. The program aims to increase purchasing power for first-time buyers and incentivize builders to produce lower-priced homes. Short-term rentals are prohibited; the home must be owner-occupied. - Discussion on Program Design and Targeting: Assembly members raised several concerns. Member Baldwin Day questioned whether the first-time home buyer program actually incentivizes supply, given that few new homes are built under $500,000 and the tax break may primarily benefit buyers with means rather than targeting lower-income households. She also noted that income verification is administratively challenging. Member Handelin suggested a phased approach to the price cap to avoid a hard cutoff and raised the issue of the “tax cliff” in year 11 when full taxes begin. Member Silvers asked about alternatives to tax abatements, such as permit fee reductions, and noted that a $500,000 condo is still expensive. Member Scout pointed out that the average first-time home buyer cannot afford a $500,000 home, and suggested tying the incentive to income rather than home value. Member Martinez discussed the mechanics of how builders would use the incentive and whether a pure price cap is the best mechanism. - Service Area Opt-Out: Member Gurker announced his intent to introduce an amendment allowing service areas with appointed boards (e.g., road board, parks and rec board) to opt out of the tax abatement by resolution, mirroring state statute that already allows elected service area boards to opt out. - Rehabilitation and Existing Tools: Administration noted that the multifamily rental exemption (AO 1260) and the vacant/abandoned property exemption (AO 1280) already address some rehabilitation needs. The mixed-use ordinance can apply to conversions of existing commercial buildings to residential. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; the meeting was a work session for discussion and feedback. - Both ordinances are scheduled for public hearing on August 4, 2026. - Administration expressed openness to amendments, including potential changes to price caps, phased approaches, or service area opt-out language. - There was general agreement on the need for more housing, but mixed opinions on the effectiveness of these specific tax incentives. - The Chair suggested a broader future work session on housing to review all existing tools.

This meeting covered a broad range of economic development topics, including a detailed report from the Director of Economic and Community Development, updates from the Anchorage Community Development Authority (ACDA) and the Downtown Partnership, a presentation on the 18-hour economy, and a discussion on a pending marijuana retail license. No formal votes were taken, but several action items were identified for follow-up. Note: The transcript references the meeting date as Thursday, July 9, but the meeting is officially recorded as July 17, 2026, per instruction. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were presented. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided testimony. Discussion Items Director Dole's Report - Director Dole provided a comprehensive overview of economic development activities. He highlighted JBER's planned $2 billion in military construction next year, growing to $8 billion over five years, which is expected to bring 2,000 additional service members and create a housing shortfall of about 3,500 homes. He reported that as of the previous day, 289 dwelling units had been permitted in 2026, exceeding the total for all of 2020, and permit valuations were running 124% of last year (about $100 million ahead). Notable permits include the Westmark reconstruction ($22 million), Captain Cook Hotel renovations ($8.4 million), and the Touchmark Senior Living Center (120 units in phase one, 227 total). Three new single-family homes in the mid-$500k range were seen as a positive sign for affordability. Dole also reviewed nuisance property abatement efforts, including the upcoming demolition of 907 East 11th Avenue and progress on other properties. He noted ongoing efforts to improve permit review times, including cross-training and hiring additional staff, and mentioned that the planning director has authorized at-risk permits for residential projects when reviews exceed 10 days. The Mayor has approved an additional zoning/land use reviewer position. - Member Baldwin Day asked about a publicly accessible living document for code enforcement updates. Dole agreed to share talking points with the committee and explore creating a more visible tracking mechanism with the clerk’s office. - Member Johnson expressed concern about JBER construction potentially straining local builder capacity, especially for residential projects. Dole acknowledged the risk and noted that many commercial builders do not work on single-family or triplex projects, but labor importation may be necessary. The chair asked for clarification on wetland permits. Dole explained that outdated maps and overlapping jurisdictions (local, state, federal) complicate development. The chair noted the intersection with wildfire interface concerns, which the administration is addressing. ACDA Update (Mr. Robbins) - Mr. Robbins presented ACDA’s hot projects: Fireweed Flats (tax foreclosure, 80–120% AMI, 10 RFP respondents, waiting on EPA determination expected next week); Third and Ingra (RV resort lease, one respondent, working on alternative proposals, considering temporary activation); JC Penny’s garage (final stages of purchase and redevelopment); 603 D Street (due diligence complete, installed cameras, working to purchase a co-owner’s share, redevelopment expected next fall); Anchorage Workforce Housing Initiative (AWIH) – a duplicatable system pairing developers with investors, with three project sites selected and a formal demand study underway; Alaska Housing Accelerator Fund – partnering with ADA and local banks (up to $50 million commitment) to lower construction loan costs and offer 40-year amortization takeout loans for multifamily (8+ units) new construction. Robbins also mentioned ongoing work with DNR to identify state-owned parcels for transfer and upcoming land leases. - Member Baldwin Day asked about the demand study parameters. Robbins explained it will target workforce housing consumers (employers providing housing) to quantify their unit needs and appetite for the program. He noted a separate full market housing study with McKinley Research will include inventory and demand by price point. - The chair praised the GIS team and joked about not poaching them. Downtown Partnership (Radica) - Radica highlighted the city’s role as majority landowner downtown (about one-third of assessed value). Current public projects: Town Square Park renovation (fenced, 90 days of construction, then closed longer for lighting), Peratrovich Park (starting July 22), downtown wayfinding signs (five installed, remainder in May 2027), Ship Creek to Coastal Trail connection, and the new downtown library (opening winter/spring). Private development: 11 new retail businesses opened in 2025, 7 in formerly vacant spaces; major remodels at Hilton, Salted Roots Base Camp, Hotel Captain Cook; Fourth Avenue Marketplace (15 residential units), Block 41 (first major new construction), 30 residential units north of Second Avenue (ribbon cutting May 2025). Events are increasing despite park closures; arts and culture are key economic drivers. - Member Baldwin Day asked about a commercial-to-residential conversion project. Radica declined to name the developer but offered to connect offline. She noted this conversion model is a key opportunity. - The chair asked if the trash can art program with the school district could continue. Radica said the grant had ended but expressed interest if provided with cans, paint, and a school district contact. Chair’s Update on Missing Middle Housing and NACo Resolution - The chair reported that the National Association of Counties (NACo) will vote on a resolution supporting federal policies that incentivize accessory dwelling units and missing middle housing while preserving local control. He framed this as aligning with local efforts and preparing Anchorage for potential federal support. Chair’s Presentation: 18-Hour Economy and Creative Economy - The chair presented lessons from the Sociable City Summit and Americans for the Arts Conference. Key observations: the creative economy is economic infrastructure; vibrant cities intentionally cultivate activity; Anchorage should aim to be an 18-hour city (6 a.m. to midnight); public safety improves with active streets (citing Pokemon Go and community murals); community-centered development produces better outcomes; resilience is a cultural strategy. He introduced a “social ability scorecard” used by other cities and noted that Nashville funds police overtime for nighttime districts through BID partnerships – a model Anchorage could consider. He encouraged committee members to provide feedback and indicated resolutions may come from this work. Marijuana Retail License Application (Slurp / Censumia) - The chair invited the applicant to present voluntarily. The applicant, Jan Owel Teen, explained a lengthy community engagement process: five community council meetings and two additional meetings from 2023 to 2025. An initial MOU with a management company (Good) fell through; a revised MOU was presented in February 2025, leading to a tie vote (34-34 in person, with Zoom votes tipping the result negative). The applicant noted concerns about too many marijuana shops and proximity to Chatsu Park, but provided a survey showing the distance exceeds the 200-foot code requirement (733 feet pedestrian route). The applicant argued that Northeast Community Council has the fewest marijuana shops in the bowl and that the code is met. - The chair stated he attended most meetings and believes everything is in order. He noted that the application followed the correct pathway, and the appearance before the committee was voluntary. He acknowledged the community council’s concern about saturation but noted that without a city-wide cap, the code must be applied uniformly. He directed staff to provide a GIS map of all marijuana retail license locations for the next meeting to facilitate discussion on equity and saturation across neighborhoods. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken during this meeting. - The chair directed staff to provide a GIS map of marijuana retail license locations for review at the next meeting. - Director Dole agreed to share his talking points with committee members and explore a more visible tracking system for code enforcement updates with the clerk's office. - The committee acknowledged ongoing work on the missing middle housing AO, the housing accelerator fund, and creative economy initiatives, with expectations of future resolutions and reports.

The Assembly Infrastructure Enterprise and Utility Oversight Committee met on July 16, 2026 from 11:16 a.m. to 12:18 p.m. The agenda included updates on the NPDS permit renewal, solid waste master plan, Marad settlement, Port of Alaska modernization, AWU/Eklutna agreements, and the waste energy project. No public testimony was heard. Discussion Items NPDS Permit Renewal for Asplin Water Pollution Control Facility: David Persinger (AWWU GM) and Sarah Rolando (Jacobs) presented the renewal of the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit, which has been on administrative extension since 2005. They reviewed the nine criteria under Clean Water Act Section 301(h), allowing less-than-secondary treatment due to Cook Inlet's unique conditions. The permit application includes extensive monitoring, biological evaluations for endangered beluga whales and Steller sea lions, and risk assessments for 250 analytes. A draft permit from EPA Region 10 is expected later in 2026 with a 45-day public comment period. Member Silvers asked about other cities with similar permits and potential federal funding impacts. Merrill Field Gas Project Closeout and Integrated Solid Waste Master Plan: Kelly Toth (Solid Waste Services Director) presented the closeout of the Merrill Field gas migration mitigation project, which included 21 new wells, 1,500 feet of header, and a new gas control system. Since implementation, no landfill gas migration has been detected in buildings, and the system has had zero shutdowns. The integrated solid waste master plan includes a tipping building replacement, additional gas collection and control systems, a 3,000 SCFM flare, and a 50,000 gallon per day evaporator. A temporary building from a FEMA project will be moved, and a biogas building grant proposal is pending. The landfill’s solar panels have made the pump house self-sustaining, with $2.35 put back onto the grid in the previous month. Port of Alaska Update – Marad Settlement: Terry Amitum (Port Director) reported that the settlement with the Department of Justice and Marad was completed a week prior, totaling approximately $191 million ($180 million plus $11.3 million from a previous appellate award). The funds are expected within months, and the administration plans to use them to lower consumer costs in Alaska. Municipal Attorney Eva Gardner noted a final item will come before the assembly to close out legal fees of about $1 million. Member Brawley inquired about the intended use of funds, and Amitum indicated the plan of finance may be amended. Port of Alaska Modernization Project (PAMP) Update: Eric Adams (Jacobs) gave a monthly update. Terminal one construction is on track with precast deck elements arriving, piling installation beginning, and a bubble curtain installed for beluga whale protection during impact hammer noise expected imminently. The electrical substation for the terminal is at 65% design. Terminal two design is progressing toward 35% design by end of September. The north extension helipad is out for bid with bids expected at the end of July. AWU Agreements Relating to Eklutna: Eva Gardner (Municipal Attorney) updated on AO 2024-123S, which approved three agreements (water supply, interconnection, and transportation) to enable the fish and wildlife program at Eklutna. The original ordinance included a condition that Chugach and MEA support AWWU’s voting rights on the owners’ committee. Since Chugach and MEA declined, the voting rights case is on appeal, and the condition is now obsolete. Gardner proposed bringing the agreements back without the condition for the assembly to approve on their own merits. David Persinger noted the 32-year water supply agreement would secure long-term rate certainty and eventual water rights. Member Brawley clarified this decouples the voting rights issue from the contracts. Member Baldone asked for specifics on the agreements, and Persinger detailed the three components. Waste Energy Project Update: Aaron Hudson and Laquita Jumalowski (Jacobs) presented the siting study results. After reviewing 90,000 parcels and a three-phase selection process, the preferred site is the Anchorage Regional Landfill (ARL) plus the JBER lease boundary. This site scored highest due to zoning, separation from sensitive receptors, co-location with the landfill, and limited environmental constraints. Next steps include geotechnical investigations, utility analysis, air quality and FAA analysis, concept site plans, stakeholder engagement, and cost estimates. A new website and newsletter are launched, with in-person and virtual engagement sessions planned for fall. Member Gerker recommended engaging with community councils, especially in Eagle River, and offered to facilitate conversations. Key Outcomes NPDS Permit: No vote; update only. Draft permit anticipated later in 2026 with public comment period. Merrill Field Gas Project: Project completion imminent; no action required. Marad Settlement: Settlement amount confirmed; funds expected within months; plan of finance may be amended. Future assembly item to close out legal fees. AWU/Eklutna Agreements: Administration will bring revised ordinance to remove the condition on voting rights; introduction expected at the second meeting after this one (likely August). Assembly members will consider agreements on their own merits. Waste Energy Siting: Preferred site identified as ARL/JBER; further investigations and public engagement underway. No formal action taken.

The Assembly Budget and Finance Committee met on Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:05 AM. Chair Anna Brawley called the meeting to order with members present in person and via phone. The committee received updates on the MOA Trust, municipal revenues, and year-to-date budget performance, and held substantive discussion on a draft FY27 Assembly Budget Priorities Resolution. Budget Advisory Commission (BAC) Report - BAC Chair Donald Handelin reported that the commission had a productive meeting last week and previewed a presentation on service areas. The BAC is drafting a budget priorities memo, expected for adoption at its August meeting. The August meeting will also include a presentation from the school district on the foundation formula. - Member Baldwin Day expressed appreciation for the commission's active role. MOA Trust Update - Kevin Liu, Investment Director, reported a June return of 0.1% and a year-to-date return of 6.9%, with total trust value over $509 million. The trust outperformed major U.S. indexes despite a late-June sell-off concentrated in technology and semiconductor sectors. The trust maintains a long-term investment strategy with a 2% cash allocation. The inflation rate at end of June was 3.5%, and Liu expressed optimism about meeting the 4% payout target. Revenue Report - Municipal Treasurer Glenn Sabriano presented revenue highlights as of July 14, 2026. Key items: - Room tax: $8.1 million collected in the first quarter, against a $30 million annual budget. A more balanced, four-season revenue stream is emerging. - Tobacco tax: $7.4 million collected ($19 million budget). Revenue has stabilized after a major vendor revised its processes. - Rental vehicle tax: About $200,000 below typical year-to-date levels, possibly due to increased cruise traffic vs. longer stays. - Building safety: $3.9 million collected ($5.9 million budget), an active indicator of economic activity. - Alcohol and marijuana taxes: Appear to have stabilized at lower projected levels ($14.2 million and $5.5 million respectively). - Member Zach Johnson asked about the tax rate on vape products; Sabriano said a lower rate applies to tobacco-derived products. Budget-to-Actuals Report - Director Owner Brouse of the Office of Management and Budget presented the report through June 30, 2026 (49.3% of the fiscal year). Overall municipal spending and encumbrances were at 46%. A few departments are running about 5% hot in non-labor categories, which is typical at mid-year. Overtime spending was a major focus: - Finance Department overtime was at 342% of budget, attributed to property appraisal and assessment hearings. - Fire and Police overtime budgets are outdated; actual overtime for Fire was nearly $7 million in 2025 vs. a budget of $4.3 million; Police was over $10 million vs. $4.9 million budget. OMB will recalibrate overtime allocations during the FY27 budget process, adjusting for wage increases and operational needs. - Maintenance & Operations (MO) had spent 100% of its overtime budget, which was addressed by a prior reappropriation. - Travel budget year-to-date spent was 36%, with a $585,000 adjusted budget. The Fire Department received a budget transfer for travel funded by external partners. - Alcohol tax and marijuana tax funds are nearly fully encumbered, mostly due to contractual obligations. Discussion of FY27 Assembly Budget Priorities Resolution - The committee reviewed a draft resolution (version labeled Baldwin Day) intended to guide administration priorities during the FY27 budget process. The resolution was described as broad, requesting information rather than specific funding levels. - Key points of the draft as presented by Member Baldwin Day: - Whereas clauses note ongoing fiscal pressures: recapitalization at JBER, the proposed LNG pipeline, natural gas shortages, structural constraints (tax cap, education funding, deferred maintenance, geographic dispersion). - Resolved clauses request scenario planning from the administration on trade-offs between funding education and municipal services under the current tax cap, alongside a comprehensive assessment of deferred maintenance (roads, fleet, stormwater, facilities, enterprise assets) and analysis of population, economy, housing, and tax base. - Recommendations include setting realistic community expectations, quantifying service gaps, identifying internal budget efficiencies, prioritizing capital projects to avoid catastrophic failures, promoting housing development, and encouraging technology use to improve efficiency. - The resolution concludes that the current fiscal situation is unsustainable and commits the Assembly to pursue structural changes. - Member Jared Gerker introduced an amendment requesting information on changes in FTEs allocated to each department in FY27, and a count of vacant non-recruited positions over the past 12 months with rationale for continuation. - Member Sydney Scout asked whether the administration could provide a third scenario showing the budget without the tax cap in place. Director Brouse noted that defining such a scenario would require clarification of parameters, and detailed analysis may be difficult to include in the 120-day memo due to staff capacity constraints. Chair Brawley and others emphasized that the request is for a rough compilation to characterize the scope of the problem, not a 500-page report. - Member Baldwin Day raised the need for broader structural conversations, such as alternatives to bond-funded drainage projects (e.g., a stormwater utility). - Chair Brawley clarified the timeline: a version of the resolution will be posted for the July 21 Assembly meeting as an addendum, with a substitute version expected. Committee members were invited to submit further suggestions to the clerk. Key Outcomes - The committee will forward a revised version of the FY27 Assembly Budget Priorities Resolution to the full Assembly for the July 21 meeting, with an intent to adopt a substitute version. - OMB will work with the committee to refine requests for information, particularly on deferred maintenance and scenario modeling, ensuring feasibility given staff resources. - The next regular Budget and Finance Committee meeting is scheduled for August.

The Anchorage Assembly held a work session on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, from approximately 12:00 PM to 1:45 PM to discuss AO 2022-662, the proposed Public Safety Partnership Commission. The session featured a presentation from sponsors, extensive Q&A, and review of amendments. No votes were taken; the public hearing is scheduled to continue on July 21. Presentation by Sponsors - Chair Brawley and Assembly Member Presford, co-sponsors of the ordinance, presented the evolution of the proposal from the original version through the "S" and "S1" versions. - They emphasized the commission would be community-led, advisory, and systems-focused, not an investigative body. They stated that investigative oversight is a separate conversation requiring a different legal framework. - The S1 version restores community leadership, moves ex-officio members to non-voting, expands expected activities, and adds relationships with the audit committee and Ombudsman. - Presford described the commission as "pro-police, pro-public safety, and pro-community." Assembly Member Questions and Discussion - Ms. Baldwin asked about how to get input from departments and unions; sponsors suggested offline conversations or inviting them. - Ms. Silvers questioned the cost and time demands on public safety departments; sponsors acknowledged the need for estimates and noted the economic effect is likely below the $30,000 reporting threshold. Training would use existing programs. - Ms. Silvers also asked whether any elements of professional oversight models were incorporated; sponsors said they consulted NACOLE and integrated best practices but the commission is advisory. - Mr. Handeland asked how this commission differs from the previous public safety advisory commission; sponsors cited broader public safety definition, balanced membership, clearer roles, and dedicated staffing rotation. - Mr. Handeland expressed concern about moving the commission forward before the 21st Century Policing report is released; sponsors said the report provides valuable data for the commission's work. - Ms. Baldwin Day questioned the core problem the ordinance aims to solve; sponsors articulated the need for a permanent community voice on public safety systems and cited examples like license plate readers and violence prevention. - Ms. Baldwin Day and others asked about administrative support, training, records requests, and the relationship with the audit committee; sponsors explained the rotating staffing model, requirements for commission action via resolution, and intent for joint sessions. - Ms. Scout raised concerns about equitable participation by uncompensated community members; sponsors acknowledged the challenge but noted compensation is not standard practice. - Ms. Scout also asked about executive session authority; Mr. Gates confirmed commissions can hold executive sessions under Title 4. Amendment Presentations Several assembly members presented amendments drafted for the S version but intended for the S1 version: - Amendment (Johnson, Handeland, Hirker) - Victim Seat: Designates one seat for a person with lived experience as a crime victim. - Amendment (Johnson, Handeland, Hirker) - Minimum Public Safety Experience: Establishes a minimum of two seats for persons with law enforcement experience (or family members) and raises the cap from three to four. - Amendment (Johnson, Handeland, Hirker) - Felony Prohibition: Prohibits persons with felony or violent crime convictions from serving. Ms. Baldwin Day asked about a time limit; sponsors indicated openness to modification. - Amendment (Scout) - Investigative Authority and Subpoena Power: Authorizes the commission to conduct investigations (or commission them) and issue subpoenas, while respecting active investigations and personnel matters. Scout clarified the commission would act as a body and investigations could be delegated. Ms. Silvers noted this would require a summary of economic effects. - Amendment (Scout) - Neutral Staffing: Proposes staffing by a neutral entity like the Office of Equity and Inclusion rather than rotating through police, fire, and OEM. Scout emphasized the need for neutrality. - Amendment (Scout) - Broad Records Access: Expands commission access to all public records, including those exempt from disclosure, subject to other legal protections. - Amendment (Silvers) - Current Employee Seat: Allows one seat for a current public safety employee at sergeant/lieutenant rank or below. - Amendment (Brawley/Presford) - Ombudsman Relationship: Establishes a formal quarterly report from the Ombudsman's office to the commission. Next Steps - The proposed ordinance (AO 2022-662) is noticed for continued public hearing on July 21, 2026. - Testimony at the continued hearing is limited to changes in the new version. - After public hearing, the assembly intends to close the hearing and proceed to debate and amendment consideration.

This meeting of the Anchorage Planning and Zoning Commission covered several land use and zoning matters, including a sign variance for a Coca-Cola mural, a comprehensive plan amendment and rezone, extensive discussion on B3 zoning ordinances (the "stick" and "carrot"), and an update to the Wetlands Management Plan. All items received staff recommendations for approval, and the Commission acted on each with votes and amendments. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public testified on any agenda item. The public hearings were opened and closed with no testimony. Discussion Items Sign Variance (Case 2026-0080) - Staff presented a request for a sign variance to allow a 3,500 square foot painted mural on the west facade of the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce building at 1016 W. 6th Avenue. The mural includes a small Coca-Cola logo (approximately 29 square feet) and is part of Coca-Cola's America 250 initiative. Because the mural contains advertising, the entire area is considered signage, exceeding code limits. - Kathleen McArdle, President and CEO of the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce, testified in support, describing the mural as a locally designed, culturally relevant artwork with corporate sponsorship. She stated the Chamber board formally supported the project. - Commissioner McKee moved to approve the variance subject to staff conditions, citing that the variance criteria were met, the commercial element is minimal, and the mural beautifies the building and area. The motion passed unanimously. Comprehensive Plan Amendment and Rezone (Cases 2026-0085 and 2026-0086) - These companion cases, requested by the property owner, seek to change the land use designation on one parcel from Compact Mixed Residential Medium to Town Center and rezone the same parcel from R-5 (low density residential) to B-3 (general business). Staff reported no public or agency opposition, and the Abbot Loop Community Council did not comment. - Petitioner representative Kate Sauve expressed support, noting the site is appropriately located near Abbott Road. Commissioner Pullis moved to recommend approval for both items, citing appropriate buffer conditions and alignment with approval criteria. Both motions passed unanimously. B3 Ordinance – “The Stick” (Case 2026-0034) - Staff reviewed AO 2025-63, which would change the purpose statement of the B-3 district and make self-storage, storage yards, and large parking lots (50+ spaces) conditional uses rather than permitted. Discussion focused on the purpose statement language, the role of parking in development, and impacts on future development. - Commissioner Pullis moved to recommend approval as originally drafted (with all three conditional uses). An amendment by Commissioner Krishna to remove parking lot/structure conditional use from the ordinance passed (vote not recorded but stated as passed). An amendment by Commissioner Eber to also remove self-storage and storage yard conditional uses failed (vote: 2 in favor? unclear tally, but motion failed). The main motion as amended (only parking lot conditional use removed) then passed, with Commissioner Eber voting no. B3 Ordinance – “The Carrot” (Case 2026-0035) - This companion ordinance aims to incentivize housing in B-3 by allowing all forms of housing, simplifying dimensional standards, and cleaning up the definition of mixed use. Staff noted a drafting error in the dimensional standards table and recommended corrections. - Commissioner Ron moved to recommend approval with the corrected table. After debate on whether single-family detached should remain a permitted use (it does, to enable “shop house” development), the motion passed unanimously. Wetlands Management Plan Update Phase 1 (Case 2026-0036) - Staff presented updates to the Anchorage Wetlands Management Plan to improve clarity, update mapping without Assembly approval for minor changes, and create an in-house flowchart. The proposal was developed with input from municipal regulatory staff. Commissioner Pullis moved to recommend approval, noting the revisions address implementation and mapping issues. The motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Sign Variance: Approved (unanimous). - Comp Plan Amendment & Rezone: Recommended to Assembly for approval (unanimous on both). - B3 Stick (Case 34): Recommended to Assembly for approval as amended (with parking lot conditional use removed; self-storage and storage yards remain conditional). Vote: 7-1? (Eber dissented). - B3 Carrot (Case 35): Recommended to Assembly for approval with table correction (unanimous). - Wetlands Plan Update (Case 36): Recommended to Assembly for approval (unanimous). - The Commission also heard an overview of the Long Range Planning work plan for the remainder of 2026, with no formal action.

The Anchorage Board of Ethics convened on July 9, 2026, at 4:18 p.m. with Chair Bell Reeve presiding. Members present included Miss Mogadam and Mr. Cacher; Ms. Guess and Mr. Drama were excused. The meeting covered approval of minutes, disclosures, a closed session for confidential ethics matters, and administrative items. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the June 4, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. - Disclosures (Item 6A1, items 2–4): Routine disclosure forms for members other than Mr. Cacher were approved without discussion. - Mr. Cacher's Disclosure (Item 6A1, item 1): After Mr. Cacher recused himself, the board approved his disclosure, noting that neither he nor his immediate family have a personal or financial interest in municipal contracts. - Notice of Intent to Respond to Public Solicitation (Item 6A2): Approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Closed Session: The board entered a closed (executive) session to discuss confidential items: Ethics Complaint 2026-01 and Advisory Opinion Requests 2026-02 and 2026-03. - Post‑Closed Session Deliberations: - Ethics Complaint 2026-01: The board voted to make substantive revisions to the response draft and to continue discussion at the next meeting, with an invitation to Ms. Gardner to attend. - Advisory Opinion 2026-02: Discussion was continued to the next meeting with an invitation to Ms. Gardner. - Advisory Opinion 2026-03: The board approved the response with the chair authorized to review and incorporate typographical edits before publication. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes of June 4, 2026 (unanimous). - Approved all disclosure forms (items 6A1.1–4) without opposition. - Approved notice of intent (6A2) unanimously. - Moved to closed session to deliberate on confidential ethics matters. - Approved substantive revisions to response to Ethics Complaint 2026-01 for further review at the next meeting. - Continued discussion on Advisory Opinion 2026-02 to the next meeting with an invitation to Ms. Gardner. - Approved Advisory Opinion 2026-03 with chair authorized to finalize typographical edits. - Adjourned; next meeting to be scheduled via Doodle poll with inclusion of Ms. Gardner.

Note: The transcript references July 9, 2026, but the provided date for the meeting is July 10, 2026. The summary uses the provided date as instructed. The Anchorage Zoning Board of Examiners and Appeals met on July 10, 2026 to consider two variance requests and other administrative items. The board approved both variance requests unanimously. Consent Calendar - Minutes from June 11, 2026, approved with corrections (two wording changes). - Mark Mazley abstained from voting on minutes as he was absent at the previous meeting. Unfinished Business - Case 2026-0076 (Municipality of Anchorage Current Planning) postponed to September 10, 2026, per staff memo, approved unanimously. Public Hearings Case 2026-0068: Brogan Variance Amendment (Stream Setback) - Applicant: Casey and Kirsten Brogan, represented by Jeremy Hearst. - Request: Amend a previously granted dimensional variance to allow the front cabin to encroach up to 9 feet (additional 2 feet) into the 25-foot stream setback due to as-built piling location. - Staff recommendation: Approval subject to conditions (standards A-F, H met; G not applicable). No reviewing agency objections. - Public comments: Kevin Jensen and Jim Mendenhall spoke. Both expressed no objection but raised concerns about glaciation and drainage issues from the stream, requesting review of drainage. - Board discussion: Members expressed sympathy with glaciation issues but found all variance standards substantially met. Staff noted the unusual winter contributed to glaciation. - Outcome: Motion by Mr. Shuti, seconded by Mr. Bennett, to approve with conditions. Unanimously granted (7-0). Case 2026-0074: Benson Variance (Secondary Front Setback) - Applicant: Mr. Benson, represented by Jeremy Hearst. - Request: Dimensional variance to allow a commercial building to completely encroach into the 8-foot secondary front setback on Stumpy Way (a dedicated right-of-way used as a parking lot). - Staff recommendation: Denial recommended because standards A, B, C were partially met and H was not met (building could be redesigned to comply). - Public comments: None. - Board discussion: Staff noted utility constraints and lot narrowness. Applicant argued the variance is minimal for reasonable use, that the lot is unique, and that redesign would not be commercially viable. Board members discussed the uniqueness of the lot, the 12.5-foot buffer between the building and the right-of-way, and that the variance is the minimum needed for a viable mixed-use development consistent with zone intent. Several members noted the applicant sought permission rather than taking a violation. - Outcome: Motion by Mr. Norris, seconded by Mr. Mazley, to approve with conditions. Unanimously granted (7-0). Board Member Comments - Mr. Norris requested staff review dimensional standards for the district to assess if minor modifications are reasonable. - Meeting adjourned. Key Outcomes - Case 2026-0068: Variance amendment granted (7-0) to allow 9-foot stream setback encroachment, subject to conditions. - Case 2026-0074: Variance granted (7-0) to allow commercial building to exceed secondary front setback, subject to conditions. - Case 2026-0076: Postponed to September 10, 2026. - Minutes approved with corrections.

The Assembly Rules Committee met on July 9, 2026, with Vice Chair Daniel Boland presiding in Chair Brawley's absence. The meeting covered reports from administration, council, legislative services, and the ombudsman, followed by a detailed proposal from former youth representatives for a 2027 Youth Summit, and member updates on upcoming legislation and initiatives. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were discussed. Public Comments & Testimony - Jamie Lopez, identifying as formerly homeless, criticized the city's homeless response, saying last year's "Great Homeless Summit of 2025" had almost no homeless participants. He expressed disappointment that the summit was not held this year, and argued that the "10,000 homes in 10 years" plan is not building homes fast enough while displacement continues. He also criticized the proposed public safety commission as "gutted" with no real investigative authority. He praised the youth summit proposal and suggested contacting the UAA chancellor to offset costs. Discussion Items - Employee of the Quarter: Krista was recognized for her communications work, including bus advertisements, social media, Spotify campaigns, and election support. She received a mug, pins, certificate, and the opportunity to build her own trophy. - Reports from Assembly Chair & Mayor (Nora Morse, Deputy Chief of Staff): - Reported a port settlement of "1910 dollars" (likely a transcription error; also described as "almost 200 million dollars") from the mayor ad settlement, with pile driving to begin July 18th. - Announced upcoming Big Timber teardown (sledgehammer event suggested), and two "Beyond the Beige" events: August 1st bike rack ribbon cutting in Muldoon and mural installation on the McKinley building by July 18th. - Requested a more formal process for administration and staff attendance at assembly meetings to avoid unnecessary late stays. - Assembly Council Report (Dean): Noted heavy workload due to new member requests for drafting and advice; asked for patience and suggested members also use the Department of Law. - Legislative Services Report: Promoted "Deep Dives" via Civic Anchorage, completed a 50th anniversary anthology booklet, worked with youth rep interns, and sought a UAA intern for the fall. - Ombudsman Report (Drew Ford): - Shared annual report priorities and invited assembly input on content. Provided year-to-date statistics: 144 cases closed, 198 contacts, 350 referrals; police department cases down 7%, non-department specific cases doubled. Currently 11 open cases. - Highlighted deferred maintenance needs at Anchorage Cemetery: out of space, fencing falling down, stairs deteriorating, over 100 markers awaiting installation, and a columbarium in disrepair. Member Baldwin Day asked about specific funding needs; Drew had no dollar figure but stressed the urgent need. - Cameron discussed using ombudsman data to gauge public sentiment and connect with public safety commission work. - New Business: 2027 Youth Summit Proposal: - Former youth reps Gwyneth (East High, heading to Utah), Jacob (West High, heading to Colorado), and Kennedy (Chukiak High, via phone) presented a proposal for a spring 2027 summit at UAA (Lucy Cuddy Hall and classrooms). - Goals: increase youth participation in local government, identify community issues, connect youth with resources, and create youth social networks. - Schedule: morning classes on local politics, history of youth involvement, leadership and public speaking; afternoon block schedule with topics (environment, mental health, infrastructure) including guest speakers; mock assembly testimony session at end. - Estimated costs: three classrooms ($990), Lucy Cuddy Hall ($880), catering alternative ($800), plus swag, decorations, travel. - Promotional ideas: social media, youth groups, high school civics classes; advised against surveys based on past ineffectiveness. - Suggested guest speakers: Kwana Chasing Horse (environment), Krista Schuly (mental health), local officials for infrastructure. - Assembly members responded: Cameron suggested producing a shareable output; Aaron proposed integrating with Model UN-style ordinance drafting; Yarrow wanted feedback mechanisms from youth. The youth reps expressed openness to expansion in future iterations. - Assembly Member Updates on Pending Business: - Janice: Working on a resolution honoring Eklutna youth building a cultural center. - Erin: Working on CDBG reallocation for mobile home park relocation fund and resident-owned communities; streamlining commercial-to-SRO conversions; continuing missing middle housing work with listening sessions. - Cameron: Finalizing public safety commission ordinance; working on licensing for massage parlors and increased penalties for solicitation ("buyer's remorse"); interested in housing type terminology. - Handeland (by phone): Ordinance to formalize CASA advisory board with prescribed seats and removal of signed agreement requirement; exploring an advisory vote on automated traffic enforcement (red light, speed, noise). Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken during this committee meeting; discussions were informational and preparatory. - Next Steps: The youth summit proposal will be considered further; members were encouraged to provide input to the ombudsman on annual report content; assembly members to follow up on their individual projects (Erin's housing initiatives, Cameron's public safety commission, Handeland's CASA board and traffic enforcement advisory vote). - Public Comment: No direct action was taken on Mr. Lopez's comments; they were received into the record.