Anchorage’s land use laws, referred to as Title 21 after their section of the legal code, are being rewritten. This is not a small issue since all who live or work in Anchorage, or even visit here, will be affected by the results of the zoning regulations. Often this boils down to a battle of interests between developers and residents, so much of the drama has an element of “follow the money” in it. Chapters four through six cover Zoning Districts, Use Regulations (residential, commercial, accessory, etc.) and Dimensional Standards (height, lot coverage, setbacks). These chapters will be up for hearings and worksessions the Week of March 17.
In addition, the long-awaited Economic Impact Study and the review schedule are now posted on line. Work sessions with the consultant will be held March 19. However, the Title 21 Summary has not yet been released, and yet important chapters go to public hearing March 20. This informs people how proposed land use laws differ from todays. Citizens were successful in getting the summary created, the draft was first reviewed three weeks ago and now it needs to be released. It is a huge challenge to educate the average person about Title 21 and what is at stake in terms of neighborhood integrity, infill and redevelopment, wildlife habitat, northern design standards and more.
Contact the Anchorage Citizens Coalition for specific dates and times of the various hearings and work sessions, and find out what role you can play. The coalition is committed to providing you with the most up to date information available, and sends out alerts to inform you how your voice can be heard. The Anchorage Citizens Coalition is a nonprofit membership organization that advocates:
* Responsible development
* Neighborhood quality and character
* Parks and open spaces
* Transportation choices
* Meaningful public participation
The Coalition actively participates in comprehensive plan implementation, promotes local and regional land use and transportation planning, publishes a newsletter for members, and sponsors events. For more information about the Anchorage Citizens Coalition, call 907 274 2624.
Anchorage Citizens Coalition
P.O. Box 244265
Anchorage, AK 99524
