2006-09-20 Regular Meeting
~~(G~UW1le~
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING SEPT. 20, 2006 7:30p.m. OCT 1 9 2006 i
KODIAK ISLAND BOROUGH ASSEMBLY CHAMB S
Minutes BOROUGH CLERK'S OFFICE
I. CALL TO ORDER
The regular meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission was called to order at 7:30
p.m. by CHAIR FRIEND on September 20, 2006 in the Borough Assembly Chambers.
II. ROLL CALL
Commissioners
Present Excused Absent
Others Present
Duane Dvorak
Community Development
Zoe Pierson
Community Development
Ed Coe
Peggy Tuttle
Richard Collins
Greg Lopez
J ames Brune
Linda Freed
Clarence M. McClaren
Jerrol Friend - Chair
David King
Gary Carver
Brent Watkins
Dennis McMurry
Casey J anz
Gary Juenger
x
X
X
X
X
X
X
CHAIR FRIEND expressed his willingness to accept a motion to excuse COMMISSIONER
MCMURRY. COMMISSIONER KING MOVED to excuse COMMISSIONER MCMURRY,
and COMMISSIONER JANZ SECONDED the motion. CHAIR FRIEND authorized a voice
vote, and the motion CARRIED unanimously, 6-0.
III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
CHAIR FRIEND asked if there were any changes or additions to the Agenda as distributed,
noting that a communication item, the notes resulting from the August 30, 2006 work session
regarding the Women's Bay Comprehensive Plan, had been added on the day of this meeting.
CHAIR FRIEND expressed his willingness to accept a motion to approve the agenda as
presented. COMMISSIONER.JANZ MOVED TO APPROVE the Agenda as presented, and the
motion was SECONDED by COMMISSIONER KING, and CHAIR FRIEND authorized a voice
vote, and the motion CARRIED 6-0.
IV. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
CHAIR FRIEND asked if there were any changes or additions to the Minutes of the meeting of
August 16, 2006. Noting that no changes to said Minutes were desired, CHAIR FRIEND
expressed his willingness to accept a motion to approve the Minutes as presented.
COMMISSIONER WATKINS MOVED TO APPROVE the minutes as submitted.
COMMISSIONER JANZ SECONDED the motion, and upon CHAIR FRIEND's authorization
of a voice vote, the motion CARRIED 6-0.
September 20, 2006
P & Z Commission Notes
Page 1 of 19
I
I
v. AUDIENCE COMMENTS AND APPEARANCE REQUESTS
CHAIR FRIEND solicited audience commentary regarding matters not listed under "Public
Hearings". No one responded.
VI. PUBLIC HEARINGS
Toll Free Telephone Number 1-800-478-5736
Local Telephone Number 486-3231
A) CASE:
APPLICANT:
REQUEST:
LOCATION:
ZONING:
07-001
Earlene and Robert Berg
A disposal of borough land for fair market value, in accordance with
KIBC 18.20, of a portion of Lot 1A-3, U.S. Survey 3465, a 6,000
square foot parcel of land located next to the principal residence of
the requesting parties. (Postponed and amended from the August 16,
2006 regular meeting)
Along Dark Lake beyond the end of Scout Circle. NHN Assigned.
PL-Public Use Land
CHAIR FRIEND introduced Case No. 07-001, noting the information above. Staff reported that
18 public hearing notices had been mailed since this request was postponed from the August 19,
2006 regular meeting for further consideration at the September 20, 2006 Regular Meeting of the
Planning and Zoning Commission, and that one more response had been received, making the
number of comments supporting the request received three. ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK
noted that staffhad received additional information since the Commission's work session of
September 13,2006. Although staff had not had an opportunity to make a thorough analysis
which would include the additional information and the amended site plan indicates a smaller
area to consider which makes a determination of the impact more difficult. Staff is rescinding its
original recommendation following the Applicants' amended request, reducing the subject square
footage from approximately 12000 to approximately 6,000. ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK
reminded the Commission that if they would prefer staff to conduct a more thorough analysis of
the newly received information, the option of postponing this matter for hearing to the next
regular meeting through a motion remains. ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK commented that the
Applicants' amended request and site plan seems to balance their actual need against their
original request well. CHAIR FRIEND asked if the Commission had any questions for staff, and
receiving no response to his query, he asked the Commission to express its wish with regard to
this matter.
~r'\' If1\. IfT~ ClTr'\."llr.. mn T A "Tf7 ... 6~"- T~""'" r- ..,
'-'VIVUVll~~lVl'll.DK Jfli'llL !UU v .r..u as IOllOWS:
Move to adopt the following resolution containing the recommendation to the Borough
Assembly regarding the request for a land disposal, per Kodiak Island Borough Code
18.20.030.
Now therefore be it resolved by the Kodiak Island Borough Planning and Zoning
Commission:
September 20, 2006
P & Z Commission Notes
I
I
I
;;
Page 2 of 19
That the applicant in this case, 07-001, has insufficient usable land area for
the purpose of constructing an attached residential/garage addition to the
existing residential dwelling on Lot 1 United States Survey 3466.
That the disposal of a portion of Lot lA-3 United States Survey 3465, will not
be detrimental to the borough's ability to develop or dispose of the remainder
of Lot lA-3, Us. Survey 3465 in the future.
That the disposal of an unsubdividable portion of Borough land, described as,
a portion of Lot 1 A -3 United States Survey 3465, for fair market value is
hereby recommended by the Planning and Zoning Commission for approval
by the Kodiak Island Borough Assembly, subject to the following stipulations:
1. The parcel of land shall be appraised in accordance with the KIBC
18. 20.130 as part of the disposal; that the appraisal shall be at the
petitioner's expense as indicated by KIBC 18.20.080.
2. The petitioners shall arrange for having the disposal area surveyed and
subdividedfrom Lot lA-3, Us. Survey 3465 and consolidated with Lot 1,
Us. Survey 3466. The survey shall be at the petitioner's expense as
indicated by KIBC 18.20.080.
3. Prior to final approval of the subdivision, the petitioners shall obtain
approval ofa rezonefor the disposal areafrom PL-Public Use Land to
RRI-Rural Residential One, in accordance with the procedure set forth in
KIBC 17.72.
COMMISSIONER KING SECONDED the motion.
CHAIR FRIEND closed the regular session and opened the public hearing. Edward Coe
spoke in opposition to the Applicants' request, explaining that he was attending this
hearing on behalf of the Kodiak Elks Lodge, a neighbor by dint of Camp Mueller, which
is located on the lake in front of this parcel, and they are vehemently opposed to any
change in the status of the subject property from its originally intended use (i.e., it is
intended for youth activities). He explained the Elks' position that title to the subject
property, "3465", "passed hands" to be dedicated to youth activities in Kodiak via
Smokey Stover's efforts in the time of the Territorial Congress, through Representative
Bob Bartlett, to the City of Kodiak, who subsequently gave all 16 acres of 3465 by deed
to the Elks. Subsequent to this period, when the Bureau of Land Management was in the
process of settling the Alaska natives' claims to land by either deed or patent, because of
its policy dictating that it not negotiate with private persons, the Bureau required that
individual owners pass control of property to the Borough, then the Bureau would convey
title to the Borough, and as part of this transaction, it was stipulated that the Borough was
to return title to the subject property to those private parties \-vho had relinquished title
originally. Mr. Coe explained that the Elks, one of the parties to whom title should have
been returned, had lost track of this matter due to personnel changes. Mr. Coe recalls that
a copy of the letter explaining this transaction was extant at the time the Elks' ceded
ownership but that despite his efforts, he has been unable to locate it. He reminded
attendees that the Elks feel a deep commitment to preserving this land for youth activities
and vehemently opposes to "cutting" or "whittling" the land for any other use. He
reiterated the fact that the subject property, "3465", has never belonged to the Borough,
September 20, 2006
P & Z Commission Notes
Page 3 of 19
l
I
ownership of it having passed from the City to the Elks before the Borough came into
existence and that Representative Bob Bartlett and Smokey Stover had ensured that the
land be used for youth activities only. CHAIR FRIEND thanked Mr. Coe for his
comments. Robert Berg, one of the Applicants, stated that to his knowledge, the area's
land had been designated for various uses in the 1960s and 1970s and that since then,
these designations had been changed many times. He stated that his and his wife's
purpose in making the application is merely to build a garage, using a very small amount
of land. However, he comprehends Mr. Coe's concerns regarding land use on the "youth
permit", having noticed himself that the land in question is being "used and abused" by
"four-wheelers" which are "tearing it all up". CHAIR FRIEND thanked Mr. Berg and
closed the public hearing and reopened the regular session. In response to
COMMISSIONER CARVER's question regarding this property's history and title,
ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK stated that staff does not engage in title searches as
staffs responsibility is only to analyze applications with respect to the physical layout
(e.g., topography, soil condition, etc.) of and the occurrences (e.g., utility easement for
sewer and/or water, driveway easement, etc.) taking place on a property. He pointed out
that as staff had documented for last month's meeting, the current records indicate that
title is in the hands of the Borough. The records reflect that when the property was
divided, Camp Mueller and the "front" three (3) parcels of "this" subdivision (along
Island Lake Road) were designated as parks and/or Open Space. Lot 1A-3 has been
designated for disposal. As for Mr. Coe's description of the subject property's history,
this is the first time that staff has heard that there was another designation for this area,
and staff can offer no opinion on it as time to research this issue thoroughly would be
needed. If the Commission were to adopt a recommendation and forward this matter to
the Assembly, the Assembly has yet to review the issue of disposal which would occur
under conditions stipulated by the Assembly and which may include conducting a title
search. In response to a comment made by COMMISSIONER WATKINS, ACTING
DIRECTOR DVORAK stated that he is unaware of an official bike path being used to
traverse the area. He noted that to his knowledge, the utility easement's only function is
as a utility easement. There is no description designating public or pedestrian access over
the property. The other easements on other area properties have been incorporated into
shared driveways. Access has been determined only by property owners' agreements.
CHAIR FRIEND noted the fact that in his own experience at Island Lake, there is a
"history of people" traversing the property but that that use is not a recorded use.
COMMISSIONER WATKINS noted that "they have been supporting that use of the
public lands across their property", commenting that the revised request for a smaller lot
seems to "leave that intact and unencumbered". COMMISSIONER JUENGER stated that
he had been reluctant to entertain the notion of granting this application last month but
that he had reconsidered his position. He commented that Mr. Coe's description of the
history of the property is ne\Xl to him but that he believes ACTfr~G DIRECTOR
DVORAK is correct in his assessment that the Commission's decision will not be the
sole determinant of the outcome of the application. CHAIR FRIEND recalled that this
property's dedicated use has always been and is supposed to be for youth activities. He
agreed that he is in favor of forwarding the matter to the Assembly for consideration
where title can be investigated. He asked if further discussion was warranted, and
receiving no response, he authorized a roll call vote. The motion CARRIED 6-0.
September 20, 2006
P & Z Commission Notes
Page 4 of 19
i
I
l
I
;=
B) CASE:
APPLICANT:
REQUEST:
LOCATION:
ZONING:
07-005
Kodiak Island Borough
Review of the option for Kill acquisition of Lots 1B and IE,
Woodland Estates Subdivision under the applicable provisions of
KillC Title 18, as recommended by the Planning and Zoning
Commission in Subdivision Case No. S05-005. (Previously
reviewed and forwarded by the Kill Parks and Recreation Committee
with a recommendation for approval)
383 Plover Way/369 Plover Way, Kodiak
R2- Two- family
CHAIR FRIEND introduced Case No. 07-005, noting the information above. Staff reported that
72 public hearing notices were mailed to which there was no response. ACTING DIRECTOR
DVORAK reminded the Commission that it was they who initiated this project with the
condition for approval of Case No. S05-005 that the Borough retain a one-year option to acquire
Lots 1B and IE, a condition prompted by the comments made by neighboring property owners.
The plat has been recorded, and the option can be exercised. The matter has been reviewed by the
Parks & Recreation Committee. Staffs recommendation is for the Commission to subscribe to
the motion putting this matter before the Assembly. COMMISSIONER KING moved to forward
Case 07-005 to the Kodiak Island Borough Assembly with a recommendation from both the
Parks and Recreation Committee and the Planning and Zoning Commission, to take action on the
one (1) year option to purchase required by the Commission in Subdivision Case S05-005, to
acquire Lots 1B and IE, Block 4, Woodland Estates for recreational use as a pocket park, open
space or other related purposes, and COMMISSIONER JANZ SECONDED the motion. CHAIR
FRIEND closed the regular session and opened the public hearing. Ms. Peggy Tuttle of 390
Plover Way stated that she is one of the original property owners to express officially concern
with regard to the church's lot becoming nine residential lots and that her attendance at this
meeting is the result of her attempt to see this matter through to its conclusion. She reminded the
Commission that the vision for the community officially expressed by the Borough is to preserve
Open Space for the sake ofthe community's children (e.g., outdoor parks and having "something
to do") and that this is a step in the Borough's fulfilling its commitment to establish pocket parks
within subdivisions. She noted that the subdivision at issue currently has over 190 homeowners
and only one pocket park on Harlequin Court with "one or two swings". She expressed her desire
for the Commission to forward this matter to the Assembly with a strong recommendation for the
creation of additional pocket parks. CHAIR FRIEND closed the public hearing and reopened the
regular session. A Commissioner commented that he is "still behind it". CHAIR FRIEND
authorized a roll call vote, and the motion CARRIED 6-0.
CHAIR FRIEl-ill then amlounced a short recess. After an approximate one- to two-minute break,
CHAIR FRIEND called the meeting back to order.
C) CASE:
APPLICANT:
REQUEST:
September 20, 2006
07-006
Richard E. Collins Jr
An appeal in accordance with KillC 17.90.020 of an administrative
decision resulting in a notice of violation in accordance with KillC
Chapter 17.75 to disallow the continued occupancy of an accessory
i
I
~
I
P & Z Commission Notes
Page 5 of 19
LOCATION:
building (second dwelling) on a lot in the RR1-Rural Residential
One zoning district which only allows single-family residential as a
permitted use.
Lot lA, Block 1, Monashka Bay Subdivision; 2653 Monashka Bay
Road
RR1-Single-family Residential
ZONING:
CHAIR FRIEND introduced Case No. 07-006. ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK reminded the
Commission that an appeal hearing differs in procedure from a public hearing and referred
Commissioners to KIBC Chapter 17.90. He drew their attention to Chapter 17.90.040,
Subsection B which delineates the time limits for the presentation. Furthermore, he pointed out
to the Commission that the secretary attending this meeting is unfamiliar with the timing device
and that extra care should be taken to ensure adherence to the appeal procedure as dictated by
Borough Code. He also wished to inform the Commission that 34 public hearing notices
regarding this matter had been mailed, to which no written responses had been received.
ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK added to his prefatory remarks that except for the Appellant,
only witnesses who had submitted written comments could testify at this appeal hearing. CHAIR
FRIEND asked for confirmation that the appeal hearing procedure does not include closing the
regular session and opening a public hearing and then reopening the regular session, a query to
which ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK responded by saying that "No, it's all appeal hearing"
and advising that the Commission follow the steps as written in the Code. He then stated that this
matter is an appeal of a case which had been initiated by a complaint made that the property
owner, Mr. Collins, was renting a room or dwelling in an accessory structure on his property.
Staff investigated, and they reviewed materials on file in their records. They found prior notices
regarding zoning violation with regard to the accessory building and prior letters regarding the
illegal apartment use. They also saw an advertisement for the apartment in an April, 2006 issue
of the Kodiak Daily Mirror. Based on the file contents, a site visit and the complaint, staff issued
a Notice of Violation, and Mr. Collins has appealed the Notice, claiming his tenant should be
deemed a "caretaker". However, staff points out that the tenant's unit is advertised for rental at
current market rental rates and that given that the tenant is paying market-rate rent, the tenant
cannot be classified as a housesitter. The zoning for this area is RR1, which permits property
owners to maintain only one dwelling per lot. Mr. Collins' letter of appeal requests a variance;
however, this type of action by the Borough is no longer legally viable. With regard to the statute
prohibiting "exceptions" or "variances", ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK quoted the State
statute:
A variance from a land use regulation adopted under this section
may not be granted if-
"And then Subsection 2 below says:"
The variance will permit a land use in a district in which that use
is prohibited.
Pursuant to State statute, the granting of a use variance is barred. However, a rezone request
might be appropriate, noting that rezoning is dependent on the planned designation in the area
and that Mr. Collins' case does not necessarily lend itself to this option otherwise staff would
have already suggested it as a potential remedy.. ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK stated that it
September 20, 2006
P & Z Commission Notes
Page 6 of 19
,
I
is staffs opinion that there is no cause to void the Notice of Violation but that staff has provided
a Motion which would grant Mr. Collins relief by reversing the Department's Notice of
Violation. However, staff recommends failing said motion and has provided an alternative
Motion denying Mr. Collins' request for voiding of the Notice of Violation and enumerating
certain Findings of Fact. CHAIR FRIEND invited Mr. Collins to speak. Mr. Collins stated the
number of years of his residence at the property and that he is a commercial fisherman/guide. He
stated that his dwelling had been robbed or vandalized on numerous occasions while away from
the residence and that he had then built a "watchman's" quarters. For six months of each year,
there is one person on his property while he is "in the bush", and the "watchman's" dwelling has
served this purpose for 13 years. He stated that he has never received nor been made aware of a
complaint from any of his neighbors before. He attributed the complaint to the purported fact that
his neighbor from "below" of two years has a dog of whom Mr. Collins has reported for noise to
authorities on an official basis twice, both times resulting in court appearances and court
decisions in Mr. Collins' favor. He stated that the complainant has also accused Mr. Collins of
releasing effluent from the septic system, an accusation which Mr. Collins claims has been
proven false. He stated that since he began renting to a "watchman", his property has not been
subjected to further robbery or vandalism, and he contends that his efforts to improve his
property have increased the property values of his neighbors. He alleges that without a
"watchman" on his property, he will be the victim of future robbery. CHAIR FRIEND noted that
as COMMISSIONER KING pointed out and ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK confirmed, in
addition to taking testimony from those who had submitted written comments, the Commission
is permitted to take testimony from property owners who received the public hearing notice for
this matter. Greg Lopez, who identified himself as the Complainant, stated that the area is zoned
as an Rl district and that the area should remain an Rl district in order to keep "taxes down". He
contends that this is a "pretty simple" matter and claims that there is "more than one person on
that property six months out of the year". He expressed his desire that the Commission act to
prevent this activity. James Bruin, who identified himself as the immediate neighbor of Mr.
Collins' "illegal apartment", stated that he has lived next door for seven years and that the
apartment overlooks his dwelling. Further, it is his claim that the apartment has been
continuously rented for two years. He expressed his desire that this Rl-zoned area remain an Rl-
zoned area. CHAIR FRIEND advised Mr. Collins that he is permitted 10 minutes during which
he can offer a rebuttal. Mr. Collins stated that despite the area's current zoning designation, there
are "illegal aluminum welding shops, bed and breakfasteses [sic) . . . apartments" in the area and
that thus, he is not the only "abuser" of the "system". He reiterated his contention that this matter
was of no concern to his neighbors before Mr. Lopez's complaint and that this matter is an
outgrowth of his adversarial relationship with Mr. Lopez in regard to Mr. Lopez's dog. He
reiterated his claim that the apartment and its use have been extant for 13 years and that he is
frequently absent from his property. He apologized to the Commission for this matter's taking
their time. CHAIR FRIEND asked for the Commission's wish. COMMISSIONER JUENGER
MOVED to reverse the decision of the Community De\Telopment Director that the construction
and occupation ofa Second Dwelling Unit in an RR-l Rural Residential Zoning District does not
violate KIBC 17.03.20 - Conformity with Regulations Required, and COMMISSIONER JANZ
SECONDED the Motion. COMMISSIONER CARVER noted that it is apparent that Mr.
Collins' apartment violates the zoning code despite any sympathies held by Commissioners and
that Borough Code dictates the Commission's decision, eliciting CHAIR FRIEND's concurrence.
COMMISSIONER JANZ stated her opinion that if a property is vulnerable due to a property
owner's absence, the solution generally accepted is the retention of a housesitter, an option which
September 20, 2006
P & Z Commission Notes
Page 7 of 19
is permissible under Borough Code. COMMISSIONER W A TIaNS noted that there did not seem
to be "a happy medium for everybody" involved in this matter. CHAIR FRIEND authorized a
roll call vote, and the motion to reverse was DENIED 6-0. COMMISSIONER JANZ MOVED to
affirm the decision of the Community Development Director that the construction and
occupation ofa Second Dwelling Unit in an RR-l Rural Residential Zoning District violates
KlBC 17.03.20 - Conformity with Regulations Required, and to adopt the Findings of Fact
contained in the Staff Report dated August 21,2006, as Findings of Fact for Case 07-006, and
COMMISSIONER KING SECONDED the motion. CHAIR FRIEND authorized a roll call vote,
and the motion CARRIED 6-0.
FINDINGS OF FACT
[1] The Appellant applied for, and was granted, Zoning Compliance Permit No. BZ89-156
dated November 16, 1989, for the construction of a Gear Shed permitted under the
auspices of prior Chapter KlBC17.52 - Agricultural Buildings.
[2] Zoning Compliance Permit BZ89-l56 identifies the applicable zoning district as RR-l
Rural Residential Zoning District, and the existing use as "house".
[3] An unpermitted second dwelling unit has been established in the detached accessory
building permitted by BZ89-l56.
[4] Multiple dwelling units, as defined in KlBCI7.06.2201 are not a permitted use in the RR-
1 Rural Residential Zoning District.
[5] The Applicant may not rely upon a nonexistent tool (Exception) in order to absolve them
of the requirement to observe applicable zoning district regulations.
CHAIR FRIEND called for a five-minute recess.
...............................................................................
CHAIR FRIEND called the regular session back to order.
D) CASE:
APPLICANT:
AGENT:
REQUEST:
LOCATION:
ZONING:
S06-011
Northland Ranches, Inc.
Omar Stratman
Request to delete a condition of approval from the preliminary plat
approval for Case S06-011 relating to future access through a
portion of the proposed subdivision.
A portion of U.S. Survey 4964; Generally located near the
intersection of Chiniak Highway and Pasagshak Road.
C-Conservation
CHAIR FR1.1:~J'IIu introduced Case No. S06-011. Staff reported that this matter concerns the
removal of one of four conditions for approval of preliminary plat. The condition for which
Agent Stratman has applied for removal refers to a 60-foot-wide flag stem designated as an
access/utility easement. Staff, looking forward to potential further subdivision, recommended
1 17.06.220 Dwelling unit. "Dwelling unit" means one (1) or more rooms and a single kitchen in a dwelling designed as a unit for
occupancy by not more than one (1) family for living or sleeping purposes, and in which not more than two (2) persons are lodged
for hire.
September 20,2006
P & Z Commission Notes
Page 8 of 19
that in the case of creation of a service district, upon the Borough's request, the property owner
(at the time of future further subdivision) be required to dedicate the easement to public use.
Agent Stratman has objected to this condition and seeks its removal. In order to remove the
condition, procedurally, it is necessary to "recreate" the process. The Petitioner has paid an
additional fee to accomplish this. As staff has summarized the situation, keeping good planning
in mind, property owners at a future date may not willingly work together for the sake of the
community. However, staff does respect the subdivider's wishes and does not strenuously object
to the condition's removal. Staff has provided an appropriate draft motion and revised Findings
of Fact. CHAIR FRIEND solicited the Commission's wish. COMMISSIONER CARVER
MOVED to amend the preliminary approval for Case S06-01l to eliminate Condition of
Approval No.3, and the numbering of the remaining conditions as 1 through 3 and to adopt the
findings in that staff report dated September 12, 2006 as "Findings of Fact" for this case.
COMMISSIONER JANZ SECONDED the motion. CHAIR FRIEND closed the regular session
and opened the public hearing, soliciting testimony, and three being none, he closed the public
hearing and reopened the regular session. ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK, noting the lack of
testimony, explained that staff had received no response to the eight public hearing notices
mailed in regard to this matter. COMMISSIONER JUENGER noted the staffs wisdom in
imposing the condition although it is probably not a necessary condition at this time. CHAIR
FRIEND authorized a roll call vote, and the motion CARRIED 6-0.
FINDINGS OF FACT
1. This plat meets the minimum standards of survey accuracy and proper preparation of
plats required in Title 16 of the Borough Code.
2. This plat meets all the requirements of Title 17 of the Borough Code.
E)
CASE:
APPLICANT:
AGENT:
REQUEST:
LOCATION:
ZONING:
S07-002
City of Kodiak
Linda Freed, City Manager
Preliminary approval of the replat of lots affected by right-of-way
acquisitions associated with the Alder Lane and Natalia Lane road
improvements project recently undertaken by the City of Kodiak;
and a request for a waiver in accordance with KIBC 16.110 to
allow a deviation from the explicit provisions Kille 16.50.050 by
permitting the required signatures of affected property owners and
equitable owners (e.g. financial institutions) to provide final
signatures on documents separate from the plat to be recorded
together with the plat at the time of plat filing; and a vacation, in
accordance with the provisions of KillC 16.60 to permit the
vacation of a portion of the Natalia Land right-of-way generally
located between existing Natalia Lane and RezanofDrive.
Lots in the vicinity of Alder Lane and Natalia Lane
Varies
CHAIR FRIEND introduced Case No. S07-002. ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK stated that
this is a complicated matter and that the City has engaged in an effort which will improve the
September 20,2006
P & Z Commission Notes
Page 9 of 19
area by "clean[ing] up" boundary issues arising from its road and utility project. ACTING
DIRECTOR DVORAK explained that the City could have engaged in an abbreviated plat
procedure, but because of the vacation of right-of-way and consolidation oflots involved, the
course pursued is the preliminary plat procedure before the Commission at this meeting. He
noted that the City's project has involved not just changing right of way but, by dint of new lot
boundaries, creating new legal descriptions as well, making this a more substantive matter. A
large number, comparatively, oflots were assembled, consolidated and/or vacated. Staff has
conducted a thorough review of the matter and is willing to recommend approving the plat
subject to six conditions arising from the fact that the surveyor hired by the City is not local,
rendering them unfamiliar with the Code regulating subdivision and, thus, causing "minor
issues" (e.g., ill-conceived or missing information on the plat). Staff has included recommended
Findings of Fact. Staff is recommending that the Commission approve issuance ofa waiver of
the subdivision standard in this matter. Normally, property owners affected in this type of matter
must each sign the first page of the amended plat. This procedure requires that three copies of the
plat be distributed to each party individually. The City is asking for dispensation from the
Commission to follow a different procedure per Borough Code. Pertaining to approval of the
right-of-way vacations, ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK explained that "vacations of right- of-
way should not normally be permitted unless an area clearly has no more benefit to the public".
He also believes that Hillcrest was never actually used as a road despite its right-of-way status,
but he noted that portions of Natalia and Alder Lanes are "clearly substandard by most road
standards" and that some portions there have been vacated and consolidated with adjoining lots.
The City contacted and negotiated with affected property owners directly and the project is
already completed. Staff mailed public hearing notices which have clearly delineated the changes
to the owners, but ifthe Commission and/or City feels that additional notification is warranted,
staff does not object to postponing this matter and engaging in new advertising. ACTING
DIRECTOR DVORAK continued by noting that the disposition of Hillcrest Street generated an
additional condition for approval and that its features are referred to in Motion Nos. 1 (Condition
No.6) and 3 (approval of right-of-way vacation) due to the right of way, as well as vacation,
issues. The vacation requires review by the City under Title 29. Vacation of right-of-way or
easement impinging on public interest within the City must be reviewed by the City or, if
occurring outside ofthe City, by the Borough. In addition, another proposed condition for
approval requires the City's signature for any new right of way created by this plat, but given the
"checks and balances of the process", staff feels that this matter can be moved forward but is also
not opposed to the Commission's postponing the matter. COMMISSIONER JUENGER asked if
the outcome of granting the City's application will be that all the affected property owners'
signatures will be filed with the Recording District but that the plat with all signature lines will
not be circulated, a query to which ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK responded affirmatively.
The City is proposing an effective way which will complete the task efficiently.
COMMISSIONER WATKINS MOVED to grant preliminary approval of the Alder - Natalia
Subdivision, Lots 1 through 22, and the associated replat of rights-of-way as indicated on the
preliminary plat dated July 21, 2006, subject to the conditions of approval contained in the staff
report dated September 12, 2006, and to adopt the findings in that staff report as "Findings of
Fact" for this case, and COMMISSIONER KING SECONDED the motion. CHAIR FRIEND
closed the regular session and opened thepublic hearing. City Manager Linda Freed apologized
for being unable to attend the Commission's work session of September 13, 2006, since she was
out of town. She went on to thank Borough staff for working with the City and to explain that the
matter before them was the result of a long process and that the City wants to finalize the plat and
September 20, 2006
P & Z Commission Notes
Page 10 of 19
"sort[ -] out" the property lines. She noted that the City had waited to conduct the survey until
construction was completed since actual construction does not conform entirely with the
construction's documentation. She said that the City desired the Commission's approval so that
the City can finalize the plat, record the property transfers through Quitclaim Deeds and
"exchange funds with" the affected property owners of the area. She commented that the plat is
"very difficult to read" and "complex" as there had been many transfers made in order to
accommodate both the City's project and the affected property owners. She noted that the process
had "taken a lot longer than we expected". Clarence McClaren, who identified himself as the
owner of Lot No. 11, expressed his appreciation for the Commission's taking the time to
consider this matter. He made a note of the City's "good job", noting, however, that this had been
a "long process". He acknowledged that he had benefited from the vacation of right-of-way as it
had added to his property and that he is awaiting the project's documentary completion in order
to deconstruct a "cow barn" from "1912" which will add to aesthetic improvement to the area.
He noted that there continue to be some minor issues which must be resolved, including the need
for future exchanges among affected property owners, an aspect which complicates this as well,
and he again thanked the Commission for considering the matter and urged the Commission to
approve the City's application. CHAIR FRIEND closed the public hearing and reopened the
regular session. CHAIR FRIEND authorized a roll call vote, and the motion CARRIED 6-0.
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
1. Provide a revised preliminary plat that clearly identifies the portion of Natalia Lane that is
to be vacated by this plat, in lieu of the proposed 16 foot wide utility and driveway
easement serving Lots 16 and 17.
2. Clarify on the plat that the City of Kodiak is the principal subdivider.
3. Designate Lots 7 and 12 as "Non Development" lots due to their respective lot areas less
than 1,000 square feet each.
4. Include a separate acceptance for right-of-way dedications for the City of Kodiak as
required by KIBC 16.50.050.E.
5. Include a plat clarifying that zoning information is included as of the date of the plat and
that the zoning designations may be subject to change over time.
6. Clearly identify (by crosshatching or other method) where the Alder Lane, Natalia Lane
and Hillcrest Street rights-of-way are being vacated where those vacations fall within
proposed lots.
FINDINGS OF FACT
1. Subject to conditions of approval, this plat meets the minimum standards of survey
accuracy and proper preparation of plats required in Title 16 of the Borough Code.
2. Subject to conditions of approval, this plat meets all the requirements of Title 17 of the
Borough Code.
3. This plat provides a subdivision of land that is consistent with adopted Borough plans for
this area.
COMMISSIONER WATKINS MOVED to grant a waiver of the subdivision standards, in
accordance with KIBC 16.110 to allow the subdivider to obtain property owner signatures and
the authorized signatures of associated financial institutions on affidavits that are physically
separate from the plat but which will be filed with the plat at the time of recording, and
COMMISSIONER KING SECONDED the motion. CHAIR FRIEND closed the regular session
September 20, 2006
P & Z Commission Notes
Page 11 of 19
and opened the public hearing. Linda Freed stated that this request is significant to the City,
noting that not only can the standard process take a detrimental length of time but documents can
stop circulating far from the sender and "more significant", a "traveling" plat is often destroyed
in the course of circulation, making it illegible and requiring the originator to "start over". The
City's proposed solution is part of a "coming wave" in resolving these types of matters. CHAIR
FRIEND asked Ms. Freed if the City could apply for an amended plat under Title 16, a query to
which Ms. Freed responded that the City would probably be unable to meet Title 16
requirements, noting that the certificate of plat would most likely lapse prior to obtaining all the
signatures and that the City had decided to pursue a course of "clean[ing] up" upon the project's
completion at the suggestion of ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK, who asked Ms. Freed if the
affected property owners would be sent a copy of the plat for review which is automatically a
part of the older, more standard process. Ms. Freed responded that affected property owners will
receive a copy of the plat along with an Affidavit which includes their oath that they have
reviewed the plat. She noted that this procedure had been designed because it is unlikely that
financial institutions would sign any Affidavit relating to a plat if they did not have an
opportunity to review the plat themselves. However, she noted that the plat copies will be
"simplified" - one suggestion is to prepare individual maps for the affected property owner in the
area immediately surrounding the change rather than one map for all 22 property owners. The
fully amended plat will be included as well but only on a letter-sized photocopy. CHAIR
FRIEND closed the public hearing and reopened the regular session. CHAIR FRIEND authorized
a roll call vote, and the motion CARRIED 6-0.
FINDING OF FACT
1. The nature and complexity of this subdivision requires some relaxation of the normal plat
requirements in order to ensure the re-plat, which is primarily intended to clean up the
right-of-way configuration and consolidation oflots associated with the Alder and Natalia
Lane road and utility improvements, is completed and recorded within a reasonable time-
frame.
COMMISSIONER WATKINS MOVED to grant approval of the vacation of portions of Alder
Lane, Natalia Lane and Hillcrest Street, as indicated on the plat dated July 12, 2006, subject to
the following condition of approval-
[ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK suggested confirming the date on the plat in front of the
Commissioners, and while the Commissioners took up his suggestion, he discovered that the
reduced copy he had stated the date as July 21, a fact confirmed by COMMISSIONER
WATKINS.]
COMMISSIONER KING SECONDED the motion. CHAIR FRIEND closed the regular session
and opened the public hearing. There being no further testimony, CHAIR FRIEND closed the
public hearing and reopened the regular session. CHAIR FRIEND authorized a roll call vote, and
th.. mnt;r\1'" r A DDmn h_f\
\..1..1."'" .1..1..1.'-'\."''-1.1..1. '-".L 1..J..~'-L...L....ILJ v-v.
CONDITION OF APPROVAL
1. The revised preliminary plat shall be submitted to the City of Kodiak Council for
review and approval of the right-of-way vacations noted on the plat.
FINDING OF FACT
1. This review is required both by Borough Code and by Title 29 Alaska Statutes.
September 20, 2006
P & Z Commission Notes
Page 12 of 19
F) CASE: 07-007
APPLICANT: Kodiak Island Borough
REQUEST: CIP
CHAIR FRIEND introduced Case No. 07-007 regarding the Borough's Capital Improvement
Projects list. ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK reminded the Commission that they should use
the revised 8.5" x II" copy of the list for their review. He also reminded them that at the work
session, the Commission had discussed the way the CIP program works, the reason for its
existence and the need to review this list on an annual basis. He further noted that the scores
appearing on the list could have been made by the Commission itself, the Parks and Recreation
Committee or staff, stating that the Commission has the power to change the score. He then
explained the scoring mechanism, noting that if the Commission determines that a score is too
low or too high, they should move to change it so that staff can incorporate the desired score
(which can change a project's ranking) for forwarding to the Assembly. COMMISSIONER
JUENGER asked when the Commission's recommendations would need to be received by the
Assembly, a query to which ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK responded by stating that pursuant
to Borough Code, the deadline for the Commission's forwarding recommendations to the
Assembly is October 1 - i.e., 90 days before the end of the calendar year. He noted that the
Assembly desires the Commission's recommendations at this time so that they have time to
adopt Resolutions which annually update the CIP list for distribution to State officials in Juneau,
lobbyists or other agencies who request the Borough to communicate the community's needs.
CHAIR FRIEND expressed his desire for more time to review the list but noted that he is willing
to move ahead on it. Of particular concern to him were the state of local football fields and
projects to relieve "dramatic" overcrowding at the high school. He noted that the School Board
included such a project on their list for the Assembly, and he asked if the Commission could add
to make a higher score for this project. ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK responded that the
Commission can make additions to the list via motion, that the Assembly had added these
projects to the list last year "at the last minute", that staff was not specifically informed as to how
these projects came to be added to the list although they are aware of the additions. He noted that
School District's list is not consolidated with the list before the Commission, and staff would not
have the knowledge to score School District-generated projects properly. He pointed out that for
projects which the Commission would like to see on the list, their wishes would be best
accomplished by a motion to add a project to the list and direct staff to "do its best" to score it.
This process would move a project onto the list, but "ultimately", it is the Assembly which
decides the Borough's priorities. ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK reiterated that "this is a multi-
year list" subject to the Commission's annual review. He reminded the Commission that there is
an "A list" ofprojects and also a "B list". He noted that during the course of the annual reviews,
some projects are removed from the list because they have received funding through grants or
local fundraising efforts. CHAIR FRIEND exnressed his willimmess to entertain a motion to add
- .I. ""'" - - - - ~ -- - ~ .- ----
what he believes the School District calls a "Kodiak Wellness and Learning Facility" (he directed
staff to obtain the correct term from the School District for addition to the list).
COMMISSIONER JANZ stated that she had two possible suggestions for the list, leaving it to
the Commission as a whole to determine if they should be added. She expressed her concern in
regard to the extremely limited outdoor space available to the high and middle schools' physical
education classes, noting that it is her belief that better facilities should be provided.
COMMISSIONER JANZ noted that she has this concern because of the current outdoor facility's
September 20, 2006
P & Z Commission Notes
Page 13 of 19
lack of availability during football season. She stated that her second concern, only recently made
apparent to her, is the issue of security of the playground at Main Elementary School, where the
playground area lacks fencing, enabling "a lot of traffic" to traverse the playground. This is a
dramatic contrast to the current attitude of protecting the children through precautions such as
locking the school's doors and lock-down drills. In her own experience, she has observed
strangers who sit and watch the children on the playground. She noted that fence installation is
"fairly expensive". She expressed her uncertainty as to whether or not such a project belongs on
the list, and CHAIR FRIEND expressed his opinion that it might but noted that he too is
uncertain as to the appropriateness of adding such a project to the list. COMMISSIONER KING
MOVED to add a wellness and learning facility for outdoor activities for children to the CIP list,
and the motion was SECONDED by COMMISSIONER JANZ. A voice vote was called, and the
motion CARRIED unanimously, 6-0.
COMMISSIONER WATKINS expressed his desire to add a footpath and emergency egress
along the shadow line of the bridge from the Channel to RezanofDrive, noting that the "only
technical part" of this addition would be the construction of a suitable landing for the staircase
from RezanofDrive "so you don't end right up in traffic" and that the remainder of such a project
is essentially "grade work". CHAIR FRIEND MOVED to add a footpath and emergency egress
along the shadow line of the bridge from the Channel to RezanofDrive to the CIP list, and the
motion was SECONDED by COMMISSIONER JANZ. A voice vote was called, and the motion
CARRIED unanimously, 6-0.
CHAIR FRIEND expressed his willingness to entertain a motion that the Commission forward
their amended CIP list to the Assembly. COMMISSIONER KING MOVED to forward the
amended CIP list to the Assembly, and the motion was SECONDED by COMMISSIONER
JANZ. CHAIR FRIEND closed the regular session and opened the public hearing. Ms. Freed
expressed her desire to describe the City's process for prioritizing and funding its projects-
especially in light ofthe two projects which the Commission had just added to their CIP list. The
City does not accept staff's invitation to add its projects to the Borough's CIP list because it has
its own process which entails generating "its own CIP list for different functions" - e.g., the City
maintains separate water, street and sewer improvement list. Ms. Freed went on to say that the
City, through the City Council, conducts an annual review of its lists, choosing 5 or 6 projects of
greatest significance to the City or of such size and scale that the City cannot fund the projects
alone; the City Council then prioritizes these projects. The City then distributes one version of
the list to the State Legislature and a second version of the list to the State's federal
Congressional delegation. Ms. Freed cited the Willow Street sewer and water replacement
project's Phase II as an example of a project which will be on the City's list for this year. She
stated that the City has almost completed the Willow Street project's Phase I. She stated that the
cost of said Phase I was approximately $3 million for construction and that the City had been
solely responsible for its funding through City revenue. The City is hoping, however, that next
year. for Phase II. thev will be awarded the matchim! lITant offered bv the Denartment of
..' '., ............ "".l.
Environmental Conservation for such projects (which would represent half of Phase II's costs).
Said Phase II, in light ofthe City's goal of obtaining the DEC grant, will be one of the top
projects on the list distributed to the State (via Resolution) since the State awards top-priority
projects more points when reviewing grant applications. The list is usually ready for forwarding
to the new legislative session Juneau or Washington, D.C. in December or January. It is the City
Council's opinion that the projects they choose are of such importance to the City and its
residents that they employ this process in order to have the chosen projects "stand out" and that
September 20, 2006
P & Z Commission Notes
Page 14 of 19
therefore, they have no wish to include these projects on a list with "a hundred other projects".
Ms. Freed continued by explaining that it is through a public process that the Resolutions making
the "short list" clear are adopted. She wanted to inform the Commission of work which has been
initiated by the City which have some bearing on the Commission's recommended additions to
the Borough's CIP list, and she wished to provide the Commission with the background thereto.
The first area she wished to discussed was access between Mission Road and RezanofDrive. She
noted that there is an informal trail which pedestrians use to traverse the route. A project
formalizing the trail and emplacing walkways will be "difficult" inasmuch as its route over
private property will entail a great deal of time and documentary creation in order to accomplish
the project. The City is considering the installation of a metal stairway similar to those already
emplaced in other access locations. The City is also considering constructing connecting
pathways and posting signage. The City has placed this project on its transportation list. As for
"the other project", the City has received $100,000 from the State Legislature with regard to
redesigning and engineering the City's BaranofPark, which is the current site for the high and
middle schools physical education classes as the School District has no outdoor recreational
facilities for high and middle school students. BaranofPark is the subject of a multi-year joint-
use agreement recently signed by the City, Borough and School District which formalizes the
pre-existing arrangement between the three parties - e.g., times are now formally set aside by the
City for the School District's use (by any of its multiple schools) of the park. This means, for
example, that the public is denied access to the park for the times set aside for school use. The
City feels that there are "public needs for the community as well as very specific needs related to
School District recreational activities". She cited as examples the installation of a shotput
facility, noting that "there's not too many of us" in need of such an improvement, or a high-jump
facility but that these facilities have been "identified in terms of location in the future" and that to
move forward efficaciously at the park shows that this can be a joint-use facility. The City's
Parks and Recreation Committee is still engaged in working on this project which remains in the
concept stage. As part of its planning process, the City is estimating the total cost of this
improvement project, the cost of improvements which accommodate the School District's needs
and the cost of improvements which accommodate the community as a whole. The City intends
to ask the Borough and the School District to help support the cost of the improvements made to
accommodate the School District's needs; The City is extremely interested in continuing to work
with both the Borough and the School District in order to provide joint-use facilities because this
is, in the City's view, the most efficient way to provide the facilities to the community. Ms. Freed
cited as an example the shed at BaranofPark which, because of an act of vandalism, burned
several years ago. The School District lost all of their hurdles and other track equipment, but the
City paid for the shed's replacement. The City views improvement of Baranof Park as an
important project not only for itself but for the greater community. The track, which was a 15-
year track but is now in its 18th year of use, has "outlived its life" and probably will not sustain
mere maintenance "much longer". The City has obtained cost estimates for its replacement, and
the School District's coaches have requested that the City add two lanes to the track in order to
conduct regional meets locally. Again, this type of improvement is not needed for City or
community residents who use the track, but it could be important to the School District's
recreation program. The City hopes to have a plan which they can bring to the Borough and the
School District within the next three months. Ms. Freed added that the City also has a long list of
in-City projects which they are reviewing. CHAIR FRIEND thanked Ms. Freed for her
appearance, taking special note of its informative nature, and he closed the public hearing and
opened the regular session. COMMISSIONER KING stated that he would be unable to vote in
September 20, 2006
P & Z Commission Notes
Page 15 of 19
favor of forwarding the CIP list in its current state because seven days of review is not enough, a
sentiment shared by CHAIR FRIEND, who asked staff to explain the consequences of
postponing the forwarding of the list to the Assembly by a month. ACTING DIRECTOR
DVORAK stated that the consequences of missing the deadline are uknown to him. However, in
his review of "all the Resolutions", he noticed that they are usually approved in December or
January (immediately prior to the legislative session). He noted that October is "an elections
month" and that in November, Assembly members attend AML, thus altering the Assembly's
regular meeting schedule although ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK is unaware of whether or
not the Commission's recommendation is actually circulated for review by Assembly members
during those months. However, he did not think it impossible to delay the Commission's
forwarding of a recommendation to mid-October as long as the Assembly is notified of the delay
with an explanation. He reiterated that this would constitute a violation of the ordinance
however. COMMISSIONER JUENGER expressed his reluctance to forward a recommendation
given the short timeframe for review, noting his awareness, however, of the current staffing
problems and his appreciation of staffs efforts. He stated that he would dissent from a vote
approving forwarding of the list "if only to send the message" that he wanted more time for
review. He expressed his view that it was a "harsh outcome that we miss a deadline. . . given the
history of the Assembly's ability to address the list in what might be considered a timely
manner". He stated that he is not lobbying against forwarding the Commission's
recommendation but merely expressing his support for COMMISSIONER KING's contention
that more time is needed to review the list, adding that given his status as a "newcomer, the
Commission can give his comments the weight they believe them to deserve. COMMISSIONER
JANZ asked ifthe Commission would decide to hold a special session to review the list and
discuss it if the Commission's recommendation is to be delayed by a month. A discussion
regarding a special session ensued. CHAIR FRIEND asked staff if the Commission's
recommendation, as the result of a work session can be forwarded to the Assembly. ACTING
DIRECTOR DVORAK responded by saying that a recommendation, as a body, cannot be made
as a result of a work session but explained that the Commission is confronting two different
issues: manipulating the list and making a formal recommendation which must be made at a
regular meeting. COMMISSIONER CARVER asked if a work session and a special meeting can
be held "back to back, an hour apart". A discussion of procedural mechanics ensued. CHAIR
FRIEND informed the Commission that it is their decision and that he is willing to schedule a
special session. COMMISSIONER WATKINS stated that it was his wish that the entire
Commission support a recommendation forwarded to the Assembly. CHAIR FRIEND expressed
his desire for more information. COMMISSIONER CARVER expressed his support for holding
a special meeting. COMMISSIONER JUENGER stated that a special meeting provides him with
the incentive to "pursue it hard". CHAIR FRIEND proceeded to move to postpone the matter
until the special meeting of September 27,2006. COMMISSIONER KING SECONDED the
motion. CHAIR FRIEND authorized a roll call vote, and the motion CARRIED unanimously, 6-
O.
CHAIR FRIEND noted that the Commission would return to the issue of the special meeting in
the discussion of Reports, below.
VII. COMMUNICATIONS
A) Letter of Courtesy and Advisory, M & H Corriere, 3668 Puffin Circle
B) Notes of August 30, 2006 Work Session Regarding Women's Bay Comprehensive
Plan
September 20, 2006
P & Z Commission Notes
Page 16 of 19
COMMISSIONER JANZ MOVED TO ACCEPT Communications as presented. The motion
was SECONDED by COMMISSIONER.W ATKINS, and upon voice vote, it CARRIED 6-0.
VIII. REPORTS
A) Meeting schedule:
· October 11,2006 work session at 7:30 p.m. in the KIB Conference room.
· October 18, 2006 regular meeting at 7:30 p.m. in the Assembly Chambers.
ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK explained that there were "a couple" of items which staff
would like to report to the Commission. He asked if the Commission would confirm that they
had requested recording of their work sessions and, if so, were these recordings to be treated as
minutes or notes. CHAIR FRIEND confirmed that the Commission had requested the recording
of work sessions in order to help them in their discussions by noting more comments and to "get
more work done". ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK noted that the notes of the August 30, 2006
work session regarding the Women's Bay Comprehensive Plan, given the informal nature of
work sessions and the fact that the secretary attending the meeting was a temporary one
unfamiliar with procedure at the time, are definitely only notes as conversation took place at a
speed which at times exceeded the speed at which staff could record it. He pointed out that there
are "parenthetical remarks" which indicate a lack of clarity in the notes. He noted that staff
would appreciate the Commission's further direction with regard to their expectations for notes
of the work sessions. He stated that generation of the notes consumes a lot of staff time. He noted
also that these type of notes, given that they serve only as reference material, will not be stored
with the minutes of regular meetings as minutes are the formal record of official actions taken by
the Commission. CHAIR FRIEND recollected that in a previous discussion of note-taking at the
work sessions, the point that notes would be taken but not adopted and that they would serve as
reference material only if a problem with a case arose. ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK
expressed the opinion that given that the informal nature of these notes, they can be edited to
make corrections or to add missing details. COMMISSIONER KING noted that while the
documentation of the August 30, 2006 was well done, it is not necessary to create or retain notes
as extremely detailed as those. ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK sought clarification of the
comment by asking if the Commission merely wants the notes "as a fall-back", a query to which
he received an affirmative response. CHAIR FRIEND asked if staff would be distributing notes
after each work session, a query to which ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK responded by saying
that the conveyance of the August 30, 2006 notes had occurred in order to discuss note-taking in
general by proffering the Commission an example of the work product. COMMISSIONER
CARVER noted that he had found the detailed notes extremely helpful since he was unable to
attend the August 30, 2006 work session. ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK asked the
Commission to advise staff at any time of any further thoughts on the subject which they might
have. CHAIR FRIEND asked to be told the amount of staff time which generating the notes had
consumed, a query to which ZOE PIERSON responded by saying that it had taken her between
seven and nine hours (spread over a couple of days). CHAIR FRIEND, concluding a discussion
of the notes' contents, commented that he believed that the time spent was more time than was
necessary to accomplish the Commission's purpose in keeping such notes. ACTING DIRECTOR
DVORAK suggested that staff would review and refine the process now that this discussion had
taken place. COMMISSIONER CARVER, noting the need at times for detailed reference
material, asked for confirmation that audiocassette recordings will continue to be available, a
query to which ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK responded affirmatively. COMMISSIONERc
September 20, 2006
P & Z Cormnission Notes
Page 17 of 19
CARVER noted that an abbreviated summary document would be very useful and would reflect
the Commission's wishes more completely.
ACTING DIRECTOR DVORAK noted that at the August 30, 2006 work session regarding the
Women's Bay Comprehensive Plan, the Commission had planned to have an additional work
session on the issue on September 27,2006, the date which the Commission had just chosen for a
special meeting to discuss the CIP list. He further noted that staff had been planning to make the
revisions to the Women's Bay Comprehensive Plan which had been generated by the August 30,
2006 work session by September 13, 2006, but that since the work session, the staff had been
"flooded" with new chapters relevant to its responsibilities from the Borough-wide
comprehensive plan as well as other responsibilities, thus impeding staffs ability to comply with
that schedule. Completion of the revisions is anticipated by the "end of this month" - i.e., two to
three weeks before the October 18, 2006 meeting, when the issue is on the Agenda. ACTING
DIRECTOR DVORAK has informed the area residents who have contacted staff of the delay but
expressed his desire to have the delay noted on record, reiterating the reason as being staffs lack
of time. CHAIR FRIEND responded that the Commission had previously discussed the staff s
potential need for an extension of time with regard to this issue due to staffing issues. ACTING
DIRECTOR DVORAK thanked the Commission, and CHAIR FRIEND formally requested that
staff place an advertisement for a September 27,2006 special session, to take place at 7:00 p.m.
COMMISSIONER JUENGER MOVED that the reports be accepted as submitted, and
COMMISSIONER WATKINS SECONDED the motion. Upon voice vote, the motion was
CARRIED unanimously, 6-0.
IX. AUDIENCE COMMENTS
CHAIR FRIEND solicited comment, but there was no response.
X. COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS
CHAIR FRIEND solicited comment and recognized COMMISSIONER JANZ, who thanked City
Manager Linda Freed for her comments and informing the Commission of the City's plans; she
also thanked Steve of CableVision for "always being out there" and the temporary secretary for
her "good job". COMMISSIONER JANZ concluded her remarks by saying that this had been a
"good meeting". COMMISSIONER KING thanked staff, noting that they are doing a "good job
in light of their being short on personnel". He went on to say that he had printed the Borough-
wide comprehensive plan and that he found it "really interesting, fantastic reading"and that his
opinion is that it can be worked into neighborhood comprehensive plans to make those plans
"really good" as well. COMMISSIONER CARVER also thanked the staff, noting they are
"doing well" "under duress", and he thanked City Manager Freed for her "really good"
explanation, and he noted that he too had observed "a lot" in the Borough-wide comprehensive
plan and that it is time to "plug in and retool all that" and he encouraged his fellow
Commissioners to review it if they have not done so already. COMMISSIONER KING noted
that "there is a lot of information". COMMISSIONER WATKINS thanked the staff and the
audience for their attendance at this meeting. COMMISSIONER JUENGER affirmed
COMMISSIONER WATKINS' comments and expressed his appreciation to his fellow
Commissioners for having scheduled a special meeting to consider the CIP list, and he thanked
the staff again for their work given the fact that they are "short-handed", and he noted his
appreciation, given his status as a new Commissioner, for City Manager Freed's praise regarding
the efforts made by the City, Borough and School District to complement each other's efforts
September 20, 2006
P & Z Commission Notes
Page 18 of 19
CHAIR FRIEND affirmed the comments made previously with regard to staff and made a jovial
comment addressed to City Manager Freed.
XI. ADJOURNMENT
CHAIR FRIEND adjourned the meeting at 9:31 p.m.
KODIAK ISLAND BOROUGH
PLANNING AND ZONIN C MISSION
By:
ATTEST
By: ~ISlc:V:Q:D~ho:l ;Or::< PI.Q.M01\
Zoe Pierson, Temp. S~reta .
Community Development Dept.
DATE APPROVED: October~ 2006
September 20, 2006
P & Z Commission Notes
Page 19 of 19