Talkeetna Residents Request Reconsideration for Land Transfer

Some Talkeetna residents are requesting a reconsideration from the Alaska Department of Natural Resources in their decision to transfer land to the Mat-Su Borough. The two forested parcels that may be transferred are located on Front Street in Talkeetna and are bordered by private property on both sides. The land would be used for a new well and water storage tank. 

Borough Engineer Mike Campfield says after looking at multiple options through a recent study, with none being a good fit, this land is the most viable option. Some study sites showed contamination and others would have required additional piping. He says though the Airport site showed promise, the State refused due to liability concerns. Campfield notes the Borough will qualify for some grant programs only if they own the land.

A test well site on nearby Alaska Railroad property showed good pressure and less arsenic. Though Railroad Director of External Affairs Meghan Clemens says in a previous interview that the Railroad was willing to work with the Borough for permanent placement at that site, Campfield says owning the land means they would not have to pay an annual lease.

Residents argue that the bordering properties have septic fields. Drawings show the facility placed on the 1.4 acres of land just outside the required septic system radius for both neighboring parcels.

Talkeetna resident Andrea Larson, whose property and business borders the proposed site, is leading the request for reconsideration, which is due this week. She says DNR did not address the residents’ petition in their formal comments for the final finding and decision. She also questions siting a well so close to septic systems. The DNR notes 13 topics from 18 residents, as well as their responses, in their decision. 

Should the transfer proceed, there is a stipulation that the land must be used for a public purpose. Campfield says the Borough could begin working on a land survey and grant applications that would help cover the costs of new water lines, water tank, and well housing soon after the land conveys.