Planning Commission Approves Land Use Review Requirement

The Mat-Su Borough Planning Commission voted to repeal the existing mandatory land use permit to replace it with a mandatory land use review process. Borough Planning and Land Use Director Alex Strawn says at the Commission meeting that this review process would provide information to residents about applicable requirements for building in their area.

Strawn also says this is a more proactive approach that would provide landowners with information about floodplains, setbacks, driveways, special land use districts, and other issues that might affect their development.

The new review requirement would apply to any building or addition whose gross floor area is 480 square feet or larger. In addition, this review would be required within 75 feet of any watercourse or water body.

Strawn says once the Planning Department receives a complete application, they have five days to review it or return the application fee. No fee has been set at this time.

The proposed legislation will return to the Borough Assembly for discussion and approval at a later date.