Planning Commission Votes Against Waterbody Buffer Setback Changes

At its Monday meeting, the Mat-Su Borough Planning Commission voted unanimously against changes to the waterbody buffer setback requirements. That resolution will be sent to the Borough Assembly.

The Assembly’s proposed changes to the setbacks would allow structures to be built in the 75-foot buffer if they are designed and constructed by a qualified professional. Landowners would be responsible for maintenance of any rain gardens, bio-swales, or other pollution reduction measures. 

All members of the public who spoke and wrote expressed opposition to the changes. After hearing comments from the public and the Borough Fish and Wildlife Commission at the previous meeting, the Planning Commission drafted the resolution against the changes.

Approximately 700 structures are in violation of the current setbacks. Enforcement of the legislation and efforts to bring structures into compliance have been challenging. The Planning Commission proposed creating a committee to develop a solution to resolve the issues. 

Proposed changes to the waterbody buffer setback requirements will be discussed at the July 18th Borough Assembly meeting.