HomeMy WebLinkAbout02172026 Planning & Zoning Work Session NotesWORK SESSION NOTES
PLANNING & ZONING
Called by: Clare Sullivan
Time: 6:00 P.M.
Date: 2/17/2026
Purpose: KPEDD training and overview of subdivision code
Present:
Daniel Meuninck
Courtney Bringhurst
Jamie Crocker
Commission Members Present:
Clare Sullivan
Brenan Hornseth
Nathaniel Charbonneau
Rhonda Hubbard
June Pemberton
Andrew Wilder
Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting Summary
Meeting called to order at 6:00 P.M.
1. KPEDD / CEDS Overview
KPEDD (Kenai Peninsula Economic Development District) is a federally recognized Economic
Development District (EDD) that maintains the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy
(CEDS), required for many EDA grants. KPEDD provides regional data and coordination but does not
regulate zoning. Public comment on the draft CEDS is open through March 7.
• Seward Trends Discussed:
• Borough growing overall; Seward shrinking
• Aging population and fewer young families
• Housing and workforce constraints
• CEDS Focus Areas:
• Broadband, workforce, infrastructure, transportation, land use, resiliency
Industry Forum scheduled for April 23 in Seward. Staff to distribute draft CEDS and local data links.
2. Title 16 — Subdivision Code Updates
Purpose: Clarify subdivision standards, address gaps from recent development, align with state/borough
practices, and improve predictability.
• Major Proposed Changes:
• Adds clear purpose/intent language to Chapter 16
• Requires construction plans prior to final plat approval
• Developer responsible for roads, water, sewer, drainage, electric, communications
• No sale of unplatted property; no building permit without required utilities
• Clarifies preliminary plat process and roles of staff, Commission, Borough
• Establishes detailed standards for utilities, drainage, streets, lighting
WORK SESSION NOTES PLANNING & ZONING
3. Subdivision Agreements & Financial Security
Improvements must be completed prior to final plat approval or secured through a Subdivision
Agreement with financial guarantee.
Commission discussed simplifying current tiered contingency percentages to a flat -10%. Staff to
consult Finance and report back.
4. Utilities, Wells & Septic
Sewer connection required within 200 feet of a main; septic allowed beyond 200 feet if DEC compliant.
Considering a waiver process for wells in constrained areas, potentially requiring 1-acre minimum lots,
engineering/geologic reports, and ongoing owner maintenance. Staff coordinating with DEC and
Borough.
5. Drainage
Drainage plans must show stormwater collection, conveyance, and discharge. Concerns include
downstream impacts and driveway flooding. Staff to refine standards with Public Works and evaluate
retention basin options.
6. Streets & Lighting
Increase right-of-way from 50 to 60 feet.
Consider limiting cul-de-sacs and establishing maximum block length standards.
Require sidewalks, bike lanes, or equivalent pedestrian facilities.
Require downward -shielded, dark -sky —friendly street lighting with consistent standards.
7. Developer Reimbursement Program (DRP)
Located in Title 5. City may fund up to 50% of infrastructure costs. Does not eliminate subdivision
security requirements. Contingency percentages may require review alongside DRP.
8. Next Steps
Staff to obtain input from Public Works, Electric, Fire, Finance, and Borough/DEC on technical
standards and well/septic issues. Commission priority is completing Title 16 before summer.
March regular meeting may be canceled if there are no agenda items. March 17 work session to continue
Title 16. Possible special meeting for multifamily CUP if ready.
Meeting adjourned at 7:30 P.M.