Public Meetings - Anchorage, Alaska

This special meeting of the Anchorage Assembly Committee was convened to discuss AO 2026-45, which would extend the reverter clause for the Raspberry Town Homes project, and to address broader concerns about the closure of South Park Estates mobile home park. The meeting included presentations from municipal staff, discussion of potential solutions, and public testimony. Note: The transcript begins with "It is Wednesday, April 29th at 1 p.m.," but the meeting date is specified as April 30, 2026, in the instructions; this discrepancy is acknowledged. Public Comments & Testimony - Verena Favrick (resident of South Park Estates): Expressed that the proposed solutions are complicated and not what residents are asking for. Stated residents need fair compensation to relocate, noting that an updated relocation payment of $9,000 and paperwork were promised for the previous Friday but had not been received. Raised concerns about leases from 2021 lacking the required notice clause (Exhibit D). Highlighted barriers in existing programs, such as the health department's requirement that a home be moved to a new park before repairs can be paid for. Noted that the South Park Estates Homeowner Association is negotiating with the owner, Mr. DeVoe, and hopes for a solution for all residents. - Jamie (homeless advocate): Criticized the lack of plans for people currently being displaced, citing a recent code enforcement action that left 20 people on the street, including elderly individuals, with no social workers or shelter offered. Stated that this is a recurring issue and urged the committee to consider immediate needs for those facing homelessness. Discussion Items - Context and Purpose of Meeting: Chair noted that the previous night's discussion conflated two issues: the Raspberry Town Homes reverter extension and the South Park Estates closure. The meeting was called to separate these topics and focus on potential solutions for South Park Estates. - AO 2026-45 – Raspberry Town Homes Reverter Extension: Bob Dole, Director of Community and Economic Development, presented the item. The property was sold at a market rate of $150,000 with a five-year reverter clause set to expire in 2027. The owner, Town Northwest LLC, has spent about $1 million removing peat and addressing soil conditions, and needs an extension to secure financing for construction. The municipality has never refused a reverter extension for a project making progress; similar extensions have been granted (e.g., Triviak Senior Center received three extensions). Assembly Member Martinez questioned the lack of interim progress reports and the five-year standard, suggesting longer terms or clearer metrics. Staff agreed to circle back with industry on potential metrics. - South Park Estates Background: Bob Dole explained that the mobile home park has aging infrastructure, including fuel contamination (recognized by DEC in 2005) and ongoing boil water notices. The park was rezoned in 2021 for higher density, but no provisions were made for displaced residents. The owner is offering $9,000 relocation assistance, which is above the state's legal requirement of 270 days' notice and a summer quit date. The park has 30+ households; residents face limited options because many mobile homes are too old to move, and there are few available spaces in other parks. - Existing Resources: Staff presented municipal programs, including mobile home repair grants (up to $20,000 per home, income-restricted to 80% AMI), the relocatable dwelling unit code change, and a proposed housing rehab fund ($692,000). Assembly Member Raleigh noted a federal housing bill that could change income limits. Member Baldwin Day emphasized that lot rent ($710/month) is among the most affordable housing in Anchorage, and replacing that segment is a challenge. - Potential Solution 1: Resident-Owned Community (ROC): Staff proposed transferring municipally owned land to a resident-owned entity, using the land as collateral to finance infrastructure. The ROC model (e.g., ROC USA) would allow residents to own shares and place manufactured or modular homes. It would require about 50% of spaces committed to be viable. Zoning (R5 or PLI) allows this without changes. Timelines: could break ground next summer. Assembly Member Brawley suggested considering the municipality or AHFC as permanent landowners; Member Baldwin Day asked about land trust models. - Potential Solution 2: Cottage Development of Modular Homes: Staff proposed using modular construction built in Alaska to create a rental or condo model for displaced residents. This would require seed funding to set up modular production and technical assistance. Two local manufacturers expressed interest if demand is sufficient. Assembly Member Brawley wanted to include discussion of the municipality being the landlord. - Broader Policy Discussion: Assembly members raised issues about the legal disconnect between land and structure ownership, the need to update the comprehensive plan's treatment of mobile homes, and the importance of distinguishing between manufactured and mobile homes. Staff noted ongoing work on a mobile home community study and code updates. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. The meeting was informational and exploratory. - Staff will circulate the 2021 rezone language for South Park Estates and the targeted housing update draft. - Staff will circle back with industry on potential metrics for reverter clause extensions. - The committee acknowledged the urgency of the South Park Estates closure and the need for coordinated, long-term solutions to preserve affordable housing options. - The meeting adjourned with no specific next steps, but the committee indicated interest in pursuing the proposed pilot projects.

The Urban Design Commission met on April 30, 2026, from 6:32 PM to 8:12 PM to conduct two public hearings: the AMATS Fish Creek Trail Connection (Case 2026-0047) and the Glen Highway and Highland Road Interchange Improvements (Case 2026-0051). Both projects were approved unanimously (6-0). The meeting also included a disclosure from Commissioner McKee regarding a potential conflict of interest, and staff announced that the Anchorage Assembly had adopted an ordinance to sunset the Urban Design Commission, making the May 2026 meeting the final regular meeting. Disclosures and Minutes - Minutes from March 20, 2026, were approved unanimously. - Commissioner McKee disclosed a professional relationship with the project manager for Case 2026-0051 but stated no financial interest; the commission directed her to participate. Public Comments & Testimony - Fish Creek Trail: Diana Rhodes, representing the Anchorage Park Foundation, testified in strong support, noting the project has been a goal since the 1997 trails plan and that six voter-supported bonds have passed to provide the local match. She also mentioned an indigenous place names plaza planned for the nearby coastal trail. - Glen Highway Interchange: No public testimony was offered. Discussion Items - Fish Creek Trail Connection (Case 2026-0047): The proposed 1.1-mile non-motorized pathway from Northern Lights Boulevard to the coastal trail, including a realignment of a segment of the coastal trail. The project team (CRW Engineering Group, DOT, MOA Parks and Recreation) presented the 75% design. Key features include a 40-foot pedestrian bridge over Fish Creek, continuous fencing along the railroad (6-foot chain link with barbed wire) and a 3-foot wood-clad fence on the estuary side, and a 350-foot soldier pile retaining wall to minimize visual impact on adjacent properties. The trail is routed close to the railroad tracks per community council requests. Commissioners asked about wildlife escape, drainage, wayfinding, and maintenance. The design was found consistent with multiple adopted plans. - Glen Highway and Highland Road Interchange Improvements (Case 2026-0051): The project addresses morning commute queuing on Eagle River Loop Road by constructing a "diverge about" (diverging diamond interchange with roundabouts) at the interchange. The design includes a center-running multi-use pathway on the existing bridge to improve non-motorized safety, reducing crossings from eight to six and shortening the walking distance by 400 feet. The project budget is approximately $21 million. Commissioners asked about wrong-way signage, drainage, snow removal, and pedestrian safety. The design was praised for its context-sensitive approach. Key Outcomes - Case 2026-0047 (Fish Creek Trail): Approved unanimously (6-0). The motion was made by Commissioner Lenig, seconded by Commissioner Strait, and included findings that the project complies with the comprehensive plan and other adopted plans. - Case 2026-0051 (Glen Highway Interchange): Approved unanimously (6-0) with conditions as listed on page six of the staff report. The motion was made by Commissioner Strait, seconded by Commissioner Lenig, and included extensive findings regarding compliance, context, costs, and pedestrian accommodations. - Commission Sunset: Staff announced that the Anchorage Assembly adopted the ordinance to sunset the Urban Design Commission. The May 2026 regular meeting will be the final meeting, after which reviews will go to the Planning and Zoning Commission.

Note: The meeting was called to order on April 28, 2026 at approximately 7:26 p.m. (Alaska time), though the provided timestamp corresponds to April 29, 2026 UTC. The regular meeting of the Anchorage Assembly included consent agenda approvals, public hearings, budget revisions, tax levy ordinances, election certification, and farewells to departing members. New members were sworn in and new leadership elected. Consent Calendar - Items 10A through 10G were approved as a block, minus polled items. - Approved recognition resolutions: National Day of Prayer (May 7), Bike Month, Trail Town designation, Winter Olympians, Election Workers, Teresa Churchill (21 years of service), and the outgoing youth representatives. - Also approved: contract awards, commission appointments, and sole source purchases (including NICE 911 software maintenance). Public Comments & Testimony - On AO 2026-53 (feeding wild animals): Chris Jansen (Spenard) opposed the ordinance, arguing it would harm abandoned domestic bunnies and small birds; requested exceptions. Mirror LaFrance (West Anchorage) similarly expressed concerns about bird feeders and bunnies. - On other items: During later audience participation, Diane Ningle (District 3) praised the assembly for bipartisanship and public service. Stephen Rydell (Spenard) complained about planning department and Army Corps delays affecting his housing project. Discussion Items - Mayor's Report: Mayor LaFrance noted the revised budget sits $47,325 under the tax cap; invited the public to the Downtown Projects Expo; requested item 10D9 (behavioral health facility) be pulled for community conversation. - Committee Reports: Various updates on legislative (state budget, port funding), infrastructure (port modernization, waste-to-energy, water supply agreement extension, Merrill Field staffing), budget/finance, Alaska Municipal League, quality/municipal services (cemeteries, downtown library), housing/homeless (Raspberry Townhome report), and public health/safety committees. - AO 2026-56 (Attorney reporting): Substitute version passed after amendments requiring annual briefings on significant legal matters, reporting settlements over $200,000 (changed from $500,000) in the preliminary budget memo, and specifying briefings may be in executive session. Amended to twice per year. Passed 11–1. - AO 2026-34 (FTE budget cap): After amendments (vacancy reporting at 120-day memo, no automatic elimination), the item failed 5–7. - AO 2026-46 (Urban Design Commission sunset): Passed unanimously 12–0. - AO 2026-53 (Feeding wild animals): Substitute version passed 9–3 after reopening the public hearing. - Budget AR 2026-81 (General Government): Omnibus amendment passed 10–2, including: $80,000 for full-time constituent relations (net zero), $75,000 for AFD operational analysis, $35,000 for massage parlor inspection team, and $35,000 for civic youth summit. Another amendment on SAP reporting failed. Budget passed as amended. - Tax Levies: AO 2026-43 (general government mill rate slightly lower than 2025) passed 12–0. AO 2026-44 (school district mill rate same as 2025) passed 12–0. - Utility Budget AR 2026-82: Passed 12–0. - Election Certification (AM 283-2026 and AM 313-2026): Election administrator reported 28.40% turnout (66,848 ballots), 815 rejected; recount in District 4 matched unofficial results. Passed 12–0. - Organizational Meeting: New members Handelin (District 2), Park (District 4), and Perez-Redia (District 4) were sworn in. Anna Brawley was elected Chair (unanimous), and Daniel Voland was elected Vice Chair (ballot vote). Key Outcomes - AO 2026-56S as amended passed 11–1. - AO 2026-34 failed 5–7. - AO 2026-46 passed 12–0. - AO 2026-53 passed 9–3. - AR 2026-81 (budget) passed as amended. - AO 2026-43 and AO 2026-44 (tax levies) passed. - AR 2026-82 (utility budget) passed. - Municipal election certified and new assembly impaneled. - New Chair (Brawley) and Vice Chair (Voland) elected. - Departing members Constant, Rivera, and Myers gave farewell speeches; their service was recognized. Farewell Remarks and New Leadership - Outgoing Chair Constant and members Rivera and Myers delivered farewell addresses. Constant highlighted achievements in housing reform, port financing, election security, and tribal sovereignty. Rivera emphasized the assembly’s evolution as a co‑equal branch. Myers expressed a desire for fiscal restraint and common-sense governance. - The new assembly, under Chair Brawley and Vice Chair Voland, committed to continuing the work of building a strong legislative branch and addressing challenges in housing, behavioral health, and fiscal sustainability.

The Anchorage Election Commission met on April 27, 2026, to address unfinished business concerning ballots voted by unauthorized individuals and to certify the results of a recount for Assembly District 4 Seat C. The commission unanimously accepted the recount results, which matched the original vote tallies exactly, and confirmed that the recount process complied with law. No public testimony was heard. Unfinished Business – Warning Letters for Unauthorized Ballot Voting - Commissioner Ralph Duir requested that letters be sent to voters whose ballots were rejected because someone else voted them, adding a paragraph emphasizing the illegality of the practice. Chair Katie Dillon noted that existing rejection letters already cite the reason ("ballot voted by another") per code AMC 28.85.010. - Municipal Attorney Eva Gardner pointed out that the current letter goes to the voter whose ballot was not counted, not necessarily to the individual who actually voted the ballot, so it may not reach the intended recipient. Duir acknowledged the limitation but argued the ballot owner is still responsible. No formal motion was made; the chair indicated the matter would be handled under the existing vote. Discussion – Recount Certification for District 4 Seat C - Municipal Clerk Matt reported on the automatic recount held on April 24, 2026, triggered by a margin under 0.5% between the top two candidates. The recount reviewed 66,848 ballots in 827 batches with observers for both candidates and public attendance. - Approximately 140–150 ballots required adjudication (ambiguous marks, overvotes, write‑ins). There were zero challenges. Final results were unchanged: Dave Donnelly – 5,004 votes; Kim Winston – 397 votes; Janice Park – 5,030 votes. - Commissioner Whipple asked about evidence of ballot harvesting; Clerk responded that no such evidence was found and described existing safeguards (reviewing witness signatures, limiting special‑needs ballot requests to two). Key Outcomes - Motion to accept recount results: passed unanimously (all members present voted yes). - Motion to certify that the recount process complied with law and that no illegal practices affected the outcome: passed unanimously (all members present voted yes). - These motions serve as the commission’s report to the Assembly, per code 28.90. Commissioner Comments - Commissioner Lehman emphasized the importance of every vote and praised the accuracy of the recount, noting that identical results demonstrate system competency. - Commissioner Duir expressed satisfaction that the recount effectively replicated the original election with no challenges, reinforcing public confidence in the process. - Clerk added historical context about prior prosecutions for unauthorized voting, where family members voted on behalf of those who were out of town, and reiterated that alternative options (e.g., mail forwarding) are available.

The Assembly Rules Committee met on Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The meeting was chaired by Evan (substituting for Chair Constant). Members present included Aaron Baldwin Day, Chair Gerger, Keith McCormick, Anna Brawley, and on phone: Yarrow, Zach, and George. Staff from the Assembly Council, Legislative Services, Clerk's Office, Ombudsman, and Mayor's Office were also present. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were noted. Public Comments & Testimony - Jamie Lopez (East Acres, formerly homeless) testified on several issues. He characterized the Quality of Life Task Force as a symptom of economic struggles, arguing that people steal for food due to poverty, and urged against creating more criminals. He criticized a reduction in curfew at the Alex Out Hotel, suggesting it creates barriers to shelter. He also mentioned reported stop-and-frisk incidents in Mountain View and raised concerns about election security, advocating for air-gapped systems not connected to the internet. Mayor's Report - Eva Gardner (Municipal Attorney) reported that Title 8 penal code changes went into effect last week. APD supervisor training began March 12, with a target date of March 16 for full officer training, pending court system processing. - Suzanne Green (Chief of Staff) announced the Quality of Life Task Force, a joint state-municipal effort to aggressively prosecute retail theft. The MOU runs for one year and is terminable on 14-day notice. - A bond fair will be held March 19 at Lusac Library to educate the public on ballot initiatives (bonds and education levy). - Port Director Terry Umatum testified in Juneau on the port modernization project and a $200 million state funding request. - A delegation from the Port of Tacoma will visit the Port of Alaska at the end of April; federal MARAD officials may also attend. - The administration is monitoring the state operating supplemental; transportation funding for Anchorage was not included but is being pursued. - A letter of interest for the Rural Health Transformation Project (federal funding) was submitted; a follow-up meeting with the commissioner of health is pending. Clerk's Office Report - Jamie reported that the elections team is monitoring cybersecurity issues related to the Iran conflict, targeting local/state/tribal websites and data centers. - Senate Bill 64, which includes assembly legislative package amendments, was in finance committee and continued to the next day. Council Update - Dean reported that the council is identifying members not returning after the election and working to ensure their projects are introduced before the last meeting (April 28). Legislative Services Report - Claire announced the new "Civic Anchor" civic engagement program, including a physical space at Lusac Library and resources for youth engagement. - The first pre-approved ADU design was released; more to follow. - A new constituent services aide, Noah Warnock, was introduced. He will assist with communications and research. - The newsletter themed around gardening achieved the highest click rates of the year so far. - Claire clarified the program name is "Civic Anchor" (not "Civic Anger"). Ombudsman Report - Daryl reported that the office is approaching its 300th case entry for the year, with numbers up from last year. - An investigative report by Drew was issued and will be on the consent agenda. - The office hosted an open house for its 49th anniversary with over 100 attendees. - A difficult dialogues workshop with Libby Roderick is planned for late April. Unfinished Business: Assembly Email Routing - Jamie presented two options for routing constituent emails to appropriate district members: FormStack with district selection or distribution groups by district. - Members discussed the challenge of identifying constituent emails. Aaron initiated the conversation to prioritize constituent responses. - Keith supports keeping the mass email option but restricts replies to his district. - Claire offered that legislative services could help with general responses, and new aide Noah could request district information. - No decision was made; the topic will be revisited with visual examples. New Business: Committee Meeting Schedule - Evan opened a discussion on meeting structure, suggesting options like one-hour meetings, less frequent committees, or more work through committees. - Jared prefers longer committee meetings to reduce the number of work sessions. - Aaron supports flexibility and adjusting meeting frequency based on workload. - Daniel emphasized the need to preserve the ability for members with other jobs and suggested streamlining or moving some committees to bi-monthly/quarterly. - Keith agreed, preferring scheduled meetings over ad hoc work sessions. - Zach stressed the importance of preserving deliberative process through work sessions. - No formal action; discussion to continue. Assembly Member Updates on Pending Business - Aaron provided an update on the Transit Supportive Development Overlay (formerly TISDO). She plans public meetings in March, April, and May to discuss housing supply. The ordinance will be introduced with minor changes and a name change, with a public hearing in the fall. - Jared announced a veteran preference ordinance for city contracts (Title 7) nearing introduction. - Evan reported that the federal "21st Century Road to Housing" bill passed the Senate 89-10; a letter of support was sent with the chair and mayor. It will be discussed in the legislative committee on March 25. - Evan noted S versions for the ASD budget (allowing adjustment if Proposition 9 passes) and data centers (tweaking definitions). - Evan mentioned the Sunset of Urban Design Commission is still moving through the process. - A potential special meeting on April 22 was proposed to clear agenda items before new members are seated. Key Outcomes - Reports from the Mayor's Office, Clerk, Council, Legislative Services, and Ombudsman were received. - No votes were taken; decisions on email routing and committee schedule are deferred for further discussion. - The next regular assembly meeting is April 14, with a potential special meeting on April 22.

Note: The transcript indicates the meeting was called to order on March 11, 2026 at 4:03 PM, but the provided metadata states the meeting took place on 2026-03-12T17:49:31+00:00. This summary uses the date from the metadata. The meeting lacked a quorum (only 4 of 7 members present), so no formal votes or binding decisions could be made, but discussions were held. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - Indigenous Naming Pathways Policy Consultation Update: Members discussed the status of outreach to the Native Village of Eklutna. Commissioner Daryl Hess reported on a joint meeting with Eklutna council members and assembly members where the commission presented but received no commitments. The idea of sending a formal letter requesting an Eklutna representative was raised. Commissioner Jennifer Harrison noted that youth (ages 16-18) can serve on advisory commissions. - Recruitment for Vacant Seats: The commission identified current seat holders: Selma (history/anthropology/archaeology), Jennifer Harrison (Alaska Native culture advisor), Daryl Hess, Kevin Heller, and Cuckoo Gupta (all community at-large). Vacant seats include: native culture advisor, historic preservation, diversity/equity/inclusion, and one community at-large. Members discussed strategies: sending letters to the Native Village of Eklutna, UAA history and MPA programs, the Cook Inlet Historical Society, the Municipal Historic Preservation Commission, and community councils in underrepresented areas (East Anchorage, South Anchorage). Commissioner Kevin Heller expressed interest in the DEI seat but noted that switching seats would require mayoral nomination and assembly confirmation. The chair was authorized to draft a generic recruitment letter. - Potential Naming Change Applications: Commissioner Daryl Hess reported that three community groups have expressed interest in submitting applications: - H.E.A.R.T. (Hmong community group) proposes renaming Centennial Park to Hmong Veterans Park, with a legislative appropriation for a memorial. - Bayshore Klatt Community Council is interested in renaming KFQD Park to Bayshore Community Park (or Bayshore Park). - South Addition Community Council is interested in renaming Frontierland Park, possibly with an indigenous name. Commissioner Hess suggested incorporating indigenous words (e.g., Dena'ina for eagle) into park names, as was done with Fairview Delga Park. - Member Updates: Kevin Heller announced he will be working in Yelchik two weeks per month and traveling to New Zealand in April, but intends to attend virtually. He stated he is willing to remain vice chair but cannot serve as chair. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken due to lack of quorum. - Consensus was reached to draft and send recruitment letters to: Native Village of Eklutna, UAA History Department, UAA MPA Program, Municipal Historic Preservation Commission, Cook Inlet Historical Society, and community councils in underrepresented areas. - The chair and vice chair election, originally scheduled for January, was postponed due to prior lack of quorum. - The commission anticipates receiving applications for park renaming in the near future. - The next meeting will require a quorum to elect officers. Discrepancy Note - The transcript states the meeting was called to order on March 11, 2026 at 4:03 PM, but the provided metadata indicates the meeting occurred on March 12, 2026 at 17:49:31 UTC. The reason for this discrepancy is unknown.

The Urban Design Commission (UDC) met on March 11, 2026, at 6:40 p.m. (the provided timestamp indicates March 12, 2026, a discrepancy noted). The meeting covered a recommendation to sunset the UDC and two variance requests. Commissioners voted 5-0-1 to recommend approval of the sunset ordinance to the Anchorage Assembly, approved a traffic access variance for a church, denied a parking setback variance, and approved a hot tub variance. The meeting adjourned at 7:57 p.m. Consent Calendar - Minutes from December 10, 2025: Approved unanimously. - Resolution 2025-007: Approved on consent without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Case 2026-0010 (Sunset of UDC): Peter Briggs, former UDC commissioner, testified as an individual, thanking the commission for its past work and expressing nostalgia over the potential sunset. - Case 2026-0038 (Church variances): No public testimony was offered. The petitioner, Peter Briggs (representative), accepted staff findings and reserved rebuttal time but did not use it. - Case 2026-0043 (Hot tub variance): The petitioner, James Fowler, testified. Three letters of support from neighbors were submitted (pages 27-29 of the staff packet). Discussion Items - Annual Election of Officers: Postponed to a date undetermined, pending UDC reauthorization. - Case 2026-0010 – Sunset of the Urban Design Commission: - Staff reported that the proposed ordinance would sunset UDC and transfer its reviews to the Planning and Zoning Commission (PZC) for efficiency. In 2025, six of 12 regular meetings were canceled. Staff estimated 2025 costs: $28,000 in staff time for 7 cases and 350 volunteer hours. PZC meets twice monthly, potentially offering applicants faster scheduling. - Commissioners discussed concerns: Commissioner Foland suggested bringing major site plan reviews earlier (e.g., 15% design instead of 65%) and delegating minor variances (e.g., fence height) to staff. Staff noted these ideas are under consideration. Commissioner Strait asked about efficiency percentages; staff did not have a precise figure. - Commissioner Lenig expressed sadness but supported the motion, citing consolidation benefits. Commissioner Collis seconded, noting potential optimization for small cases. Commissioners Foland and Strait also spoke in favor. The motion passed 5-0-1 (Commissioner Nanalo abstained due to technical issues). - Case 2026-0038 – Church Variances (6821 Weimer Road): - Variance 1 (Traffic access): Request to allow ingress/egress on Weimer Road (a local street) instead of Raspberry Road (a major arterial). Staff found all eight standards met and recommended approval. Commissioner Lenig moved for approval, finding each standard met. Commissioner Strait seconded, citing safety benefits. The motion passed 6-0. - Variance 2 (Parking setback): Request to allow parking in the front setback. Staff found standards A, B, C, E, and G not met and recommended denial. Commissioner Foland moved to deny, stating the standards were clearly unmet. Commissioner Lenig seconded, noting the use would not be permitted in the zoning district. The motion failed 0-6 (all opposed). - Case 2026-0043 – Hot Tub Variance (West 82nd and Mentor Street): - Request to allow a hot tub to encroach 7.4 feet into a 10-foot setback. The property is a corner lot with a small rear yard. Staff found all eight standards met and recommended approval. Commissioner Strait moved for approval, and Commissioner Lenig seconded. The motion passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - Annual election postponed to a date undetermined. - Consent agenda approved (minutes and Resolution 2025-007). - Case 2026-0010: Recommended approval of the ordinance to sunset the Urban Design Commission to the Anchorage Assembly (5-0-1, with Commissioner Nanalo abstaining). - Case 2026-0038, Variance 1 (Traffic access): Approved (6-0) subject to conditions on pages 6-7 of the staff report. - Case 2026-0038, Variance 2 (Parking setback): Denied (0-6) as the standards were not substantially met. - Case 2026-0043 (Hot tub variance): Approved (6-0) subject to conditions on pages 4-5 of the staff report.

The Anchorage Planning and Zoning Commission met on March 10, 2026, to consider several agenda items including a combined land use plan amendment and rezone for 23 parcels, a proposal to sunset the Urban Design Commission, and a text amendment for the Girdwood Airport. The commission also handled disclosures, reordered the agenda, and approved a consent agenda. Key votes included recommendations to the Assembly on all three main items. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda included a resolution (2026-014) for case 2026-0015 (Girdwood Airport rezone, previously heard on February 9, 2026). Commissioners Mills and McKee abstained from voting on the consent agenda as they were not yet seated at the time of the original hearing. Commissioner Mills noted she had listened to the audio of the February 9 hearing and could vote. The consent agenda was approved after a brief discussion about including a Girdwood Board of Supervisors resolution; the commission opted to pass it as-is. Public Comments & Testimony - Fred Kring (property owner in the Sand Lake area): Testified on combined cases 2026-0025 and 2026-0024. He expressed concern that rezoning his TR-zoned parcel to R1 would reduce development options, increase taxes, and limit future flexibility. He stated he had been told by a municipal staff member that TR allowed many uses. Staff clarified that due to proximity to R1 zoning, his property was already restricted to R1-equivalent uses under current code, so the rezone would not change allowable uses. Mr. Kring indicated he objected to the rezone. The public hearing was reopened to accommodate his testimony. Discussion Items - Combined Cases 2026-0025 (Land Use Plan Amendment) and 2026-0024 (Rezone): Staff planner Luke Bertram presented the proposal to amend the Anchorage 2040 Land Use Plan map for three parcels (changing from community facility/institution and town center to light industrial/commercial) and to rezone 23 parcels across four areas (Sand Lake, Huffman/Seward, Totem Theater/Muldoon, and Airport Heights) from legacy D2, B4, and TR districts to modern R1, R2M, R3, B3, and I1 districts. The purpose was to clean up the zoning map more than a decade after Title 21 was rewritten. Staff noted 91 acres of outdated zoning remain. The Anchorage School District expressed no concerns. An open house had one attendee. The commission asked clarifying questions about the history, land use changes, and impacts on existing mobile homes. Following testimony, Commissioner Ron moved to approve the land use amendment (seconded, passed), and Commissioner Krishna moved to approve the rezone (seconded, passed). - Case 2026-0010 – Sunset Urban Design Commission (UDC): Staff planner Daniel Kanfoush presented a draft ordinance to sunset the UDC. In 2025, the UDC heard 7 cases, costing $28,000 in staff time and 350 volunteer hours. The commission had held a work session discussing absorbing UDC functions. No public testimony was offered. Commissioner McKee, current UDC chair, moved to approve the sunset, citing staff efficiency and volunteer demands. The motion passed with thanks to former UDC members. - Case 2026-0042 – Text Amendment to Title 21, Chapter 9 (Girdwood Airport): Staff presented a corresponding text amendment to align with the previously approved Girdwood Airport rezone (case 2026-0015). Changes included deleting a duplicate governmental services listing and adding a new governmental services use. The Girdwood Board of Supervisors passed Resolution 202601 in support. No objections from reviewing agencies. Commissioner Krishna moved to approve (seconded), and the motion passed. Key Outcomes - Case 2026-0025 (Land Use Amendment): Motion to recommend approval to the Anchorage Assembly passed unanimously. Findings: facilitates zoning updates, simplifies land use system, provides certainty, and school district expressed no opposition. - Case 2026-0024 (Rezone): Motion to recommend approval to the Anchorage Assembly passed unanimously. Findings: updates 91 acres of outdated zoning, meets approval criteria (AMC 21.03.160L). - Case 2026-0010 (Sunset UDC): Motion to recommend approval to the Anchorage Assembly passed unanimously. Finding: UDC no longer meets municipal needs; planning received no opposition. - Case 2026-0042 (Text Amendment): Motion to recommend approval to the Anchorage Assembly passed unanimously. Findings: meets text amendment criteria, no opposition, supported by Girdwood Board of Supervisors. - Consent Agenda: Approved (Commissioners Mills and McKee abstained due to not being seated at the time of the original hearing).

The Community and Economic Development Committee of the Anchorage Assembly met on March 9, 2026, to receive departmental updates, discuss a major update to Title 23 building codes (AO 2026-33), and explore potential legislation on abandoned shopping carts. No votes were taken; a work session on the building code update was scheduled for the following day. Regular Reports - Community Development (Bob Dole): Emphasized that a safe house is an affordable house, noting the lessons from the 2018 earthquake where poorly built structures led to foreclosures and special assessments. He thanked over 100 industry professionals who contributed to the building code update. - Greg Silai (Operations): Reported that the assembly approved a sole-source contract for an implementation consultant for software update; the contract was signed and a kickoff meeting will be scheduled. - Planning Director (name not given): Announced three open positions, including a zoning and land use review manager, and provided updates on the comprehensive plan review and parks rezone project. - Foster (Long Range Planning): Summarized multiple planning actions: updates to future land use designations, legacy rezones to eliminate old TR D2/E4 zones, omnibus technical fixes, B3 mixed-use changes, agricultural/food production ordinance, wetlands plan update, and Eagle River RFP. Noted that 11 rezones to implement the comprehensive plan have been tracked so far. - Real Estate (Tiffany Briggs): Reported an ordinance to dispose of two parcels to Habitat for Humanity, with construction to be completed within five years. HLB survey work is 75% complete; new test drilling starts March 10; hazardous materials testing at Tosher track parcel underway. - Public Works (Ken Colhays): Detailed snow removal operations (5–6 day crews, 3 night crews), new equipment (four sanders from the $3.5M levy, five new sidewalk tractors), speed reduction analysis for downtown, and 10–15 large downtown construction projects coordinated to minimize business disruption. Responded to complaints about DOT-maintained roads and sidewalks, acknowledging poor coordination but noting ongoing discussions with DOT. Member Brawley noted preferential staffing for Anchorage vs. other regions and called for eventual municipal takeover of winter maintenance. Chair Martinez praised the improved snow removal and asked about the relationship between speed limits and economic development. - ACDA (Mr. Roberts): Announced AO 2026-24 (transfer of lots under old North Streams building) coming March 24; Beyond the Beige downtown grant program launching; Fireweed Flats RFP to be issued; 30 NIngra resort RFI response meeting; downtown weekend market returning Memorial Day to Labor Day with new contractors. Public Comments & Testimony - Wayne Baxter (Fairview resident): Spoke about bicycle and pedestrian safety, citing his experience cycling since 1990 and observations from Denmark. He emphasized that walking is safest and noted improvements like pedestrian countdown signals. The committee acknowledged his comments and highlighted ongoing safety programs (helmet giveaways, smoke detector campaigns). Discussion Items - Building Code Update – AO 2026-33 (Daniel King): A comprehensive update to Title 23, repealing fire inspection fees (AS 07.75) and reenacting 11 chapters of building codes. The process involved over 100 professionals starting in January 2025, meetings with the Building Board, On-Site Tech Board, and Alaska State Fire Marshal. Key changes included: - Administrative changes: Increased non-structural repair permit threshold from $5,000 to $10,000 (adjusted for inflation since 2003); clarified building permit requirements for mobile food units and shelter units. - Inspection fee restructuring: Limited commercial permits to a fixed number of inspections (based on 2020-2024 data) – 1% of permits under $1M will exceed limits; doubled residential inspections from 23 to 23 +2 per $100,000 valuation; doubled inspections on retro permits (e.g., water heater replacement) to reduce surprise fees. - International Building Code: Allowed single-exit buildings up to six stories with up to four dwelling units per floor (previously three stories) – supported by a request for modification from the state fire marshal; added requirements for integrated fire alarm systems. - Plumbing, electrical, energy code changes: Allowed horizontal wet venting and circuit bending; reduced exterior outlet requirements proportionally to parking spaces; added enhanced energy efficiency options (increased R-value from R21 to R21+2" continuous insulation) but maintained minimum standards. - Existing buildings: Removed 1970 cutoff for verifying roof structural capacity when increasing insulation; added exception for cold-vented roofs. - Residential: Allowed dwelling unit fire separation to be substituted by interconnected smoke detectors for units under 1,200 sq ft; allowed non-pressure-treated lumber for deck beams if protected (painted, capped, ice & water shield). - Insurance rating: Anchorage’s ISO rating dropped from 3 to 5 due to not adopting 2021 code; adopting 2024 code will restore rating to 3. - The presentation noted that the building safety service area (BSSA) data from University of Colorado/Notre Dame showed houses within the BSSA are more complex but not higher cost per square foot; outside the BSSA, simpler designs prevail. - Shopping Cart Containment & Disposal Policy (Chair Martinez): Initial discussion on whether abandoned shopping carts warrant new legislation. Members expressed mixed views: - Member Johnson questioned the scale of the problem, noting wheel locks are becoming more common. - Member Brawley suggested retailers should be responsible but cautioned against shifting costs to the city. - Chair Martinez noted that some retailers (e.g., Walmart) are non-responsive to cart retrieval and that Parks and Rec currently absorbs the cost of removing carts from public spaces. He asked whether retailers should be required to use anti-theft wheel locks or contribute to cleanup programs. - Scott Campbell (Code Enforcement) reported that cart complaints are low priority and current enforcement is minimal. He described approaches in other cities (city-funded enforcement, wheel lock mandates, retailer fines). - Discussion indicated a need for data on the geographic distribution and volume of abandoned carts to determine next steps. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on any item. - Committee members requested a work session on AO 2026-33 (building code update) to be held the following day, March 10, for deeper review of specific provisions. - Chair Martinez will follow up with staff to gather data on shopping cart incidents and explore potential legislative options, aiming to bring a proposal back to a future meeting.