HomeMy WebLinkAbout08042026 Planning & Zoning PacketPlanning & Zoning Commission
Meeting Packet
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, August 4, 2026
Council Chambers, City Hall
7: 00 p.m.
1963 1965 2005
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All-Amenca City
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The City of Seward, Alaska
PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
City Council Chambers, 410 Adams Street
Please silence all cell phones and devices during the meeting
Chair Clare Sullivan
Vice Chair Brenan Hornseth
Commissioner Nathaniel
Charbonneau
Commissioner Vanessa Verhey
Commissioner Rhonda Hubbard
Commissioner Andrew Wilder
Commissioner Tyna Siptrott
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL
Community Development Director
Daniel Meuninck
City Planner Courtney Bringhurst
Executive Assistant Jamie Crocker
Deputy City Clerk Jodi Kurtz
August 4, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
4. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ANY SUBJECT EXCEPT THOSE ITEMS SCHEDULED FOR
PUBLIC HEARING (Those who have signed in will be given the first opportunity to speak. Time is limited
to 3 minutes per speaker and 36 minutes total time for this agenda item.)
5. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA (Approval of Consent Agenda passes all
routine items listed under Item 6. Consent Agenda items are not considered separately unless a commissioner
requests. No second or vote is needed. In the event of such a request, the item is returned to the Regular Agenda.
Marked with *)
6. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Minutes of Preceding Meeting
1)* Approve July 7, 2026 Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting Minutes 4
7. SPECIAL ORDERS, PRESENTATIONS, AND REPORTS
A. Proclamations and Awards - None
B. City Administration Report
C. Other Reports and Announcements - None
D. Presentations (Presentations are limited to ten minutes each, excluding Q&A, and are limited to two per
meeting unless increased by the commission.) - None
8. PUBLIC HEARINGS (Chair shall ask if any commissioner needs to declare a conflict of interest at this
time. Public hearing comments are limited to five (5) minutes per person. After all speakers have spoken, a
person may speak for a second time for no more than one (1) minute.)
A. Resolutions Requiring Public Hearing
Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting Agenda August 4, 2026
2
1) Resolution 2026-009 of the Planning and Zoning Commission of the City of Seward
Alaska, granting a conditional use permit to Major Marine Tours LLC to construct a
third employee bunkhouse on Tract B, Leirer Industrial Subdivision, at 1804 Leirer
Road within the Industrial (I) Zoning District 10
*Quasi-judicial item. Commissioners may not discuss any items about this Resolution with the
applicant, other commissioners, or the public.
9. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
A. Resolutions - None
10. NEW BUSINESS
A. Resolutions - None
B. Other New Business
1) Discuss work session topic for August 18, 2026.
11. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS (No action required.)
A. Reminder of upcoming P&Z Meetings
1) Work Session on Tuesday, August 18, at 6:00 pm in Council Chambers at City Hall.
2) Regular meeting on Tuesday, September 1, at 7:00 pm in Council Chambers at City
Hall.
12. FINAL PUBLIC COMMENTS (There is no sign -in for this comment period. Time is limited to five (5)
minutes per speaker.)
13. ADMINISTRATION AND COMMISSION COMMENTS AND RESPONSES TO PUBLIC
COMMENTS
14. EXECUTIVE SESSION - None
15. ADJOURNMENT
Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting Agenda August 4, 2026
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City of Seward, Alaska Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting Minutes
July 7, 2026 Volume 8, Page
CALL TO ORDER
The Tuesday, July 7, 2026, regular meeting of the Planning & Zoning Commission was called to
order at 7:00 p.m. by Chair Clare Sullivan.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Commissioner Rhonda Hubbard led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
There were present:
Clare Sullivan, presiding, and
Brenan Hornseth
Nathaniel Charbonneau
Vanessa Verhey
Rhonda Hubbard
Andrew Wilder
Tyna Siptrott
comprising a quorum of the Commission; and
Daniel Meninck, Community Development Director
Courtney Bringhurst, City Planner
Jamie Crocker, Executive Planning Assistant
Kris Peck, City Clerk
Excused — Charbonneau, Wilder
Vacant — None
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ANY SUBJECT EXCEPT THOSE ITEMS SCHEDULED FOR
PUBLIC HEARING - None
APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA
Motion (Hubbard/Hornseth) Approval of Agenda and Consent Agenda
Sullivan requested to switch the order of Resolution 2026-007 and 2026-008.
Motion Passed as Amended Unanimous
The clerk read the following approved consent agenda items:
Approval of the June 2, 2026, Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting Minutes
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City of Seward, Alaska Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting Minutes
July 7, 2026 Volume 8, Page
SPECIAL ORDERS, PRESENTATION, AND REPORTS
City Administration Report
Community Development Director Daniel Meuninck reminded the Commission about the Joint
Work Session with City Council regarding short-term rental regulations. He also talked about
public outreach for the Comprehensive Plan. He reminded everyone that the Kenai Peninsula
Borough Planning Commission was still looking to fill the Seward Seat.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Resolutions Requiring Public Hearing
Resolution 2026-008 of the Planning and Zoning Commission of the City of Seward Alaska,
granting a variance from Seward City Code 15.10.220 Development Requirements to Rodney
Roemmich to reduce the 10' setback requirement to construct a lean-to structure on the side of a
warehouse located at 1605 Leirer Road, within an Industrial (I) zoning district
Motion (Hornseth/Verhey) Approve Resolution 2026-008
City Planner Courtney Bringhurst summarized the request for the variance and why a property
owner would request one. She referred to page 75 of the packet and explained the covered storage
and setback requirements. She showed an example of a proposed lean-to and explained the
property lines and Alaska Railroad right-of-way. Bringhurst went over the conditions that went
along with this variance.
Applicant Rodney Roemmich introduced himself and explained he wanted to make the property
look nicer and be more functional.
Notice of the public hearing being posted and published as required by law was noted and the
public hearing was opened.
Carol Griswold, inside city limits, noted her observations in driving by the property. She
encouraged P&Z to consider the reasons for the setbacks. A variance may not be granted simply
for inconvenience. She urged P&Z to deny the variance.
No one appeared and the public hearing was closed.
Hubbard asked about the non -confirming property. Bringhurst explained the exception.
Main Motion Passed Unanimous
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City of Seward, Alaska Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting Minutes
July 7, 2026 Volume 8, Page
Resolution 2026-007 of the Planning and Zoning Commission of the City of Seward Alaska,
granting a conditional use permit to Marathon Ridge Retreat LLC for the development of a
Recreational Resort, including lodging, recreational, and accessory uses, at 110 Aialik Street
within the Resource Management (RM) Zoning District
Motion (Hornseth/Siptrott) Approve Resolution 2026-007
Bringhurst noted this was an extensive application. She summarized some key points from the
packet regarding the Marathon Ride Retreat. She noted a recreational resort was not defined in
Seward City Code. The applicant would have to comply with federal regulations and
environmental mitigation. She summarized phases 1-4 which included the access road,
maintenance building, guest cabins, lodge saunas, and a chairlift. Bringhurst also highlighted some
key conditions in the packet.
The applicants are allowed to speak for 10 minutes prior to the public hearing and save unused
time for after the public hearing is closed.
Applicants Tim Ozerkov, Matt Ozerkov, and Heather Ozerkov introduced themselves to the
Commission. They wanted to invest in Seward's future with this unique piece of property. They
described the work and community outreach that went into their master plan. They were grateful
for the opportunity to contribute something special to Seward for the locals and the kids.
Notice of the public hearing being posted and published as required by law was noted and the
public hearing was opened.
Kevin Clark, outside city limits, described his one-on-one tour with Tim Ozerkov regarding the
project. He appreciated their outreach and supported the project.
Bob Candopoulos, outside city limits, recalled a positive experience meeting the owners when
they bought property in his residential neighborhood. He thought this new resort project would
bring winter business and bring activities for kids in the winter.
Harold Faust, inside city limits, noted development and roads on that rugged mountain terrain
was concerning. The road in the summer was difficult, and in the winter would be impossible. This
plan did not make good sense. He did not want business traffic in his quiet residential
neighborhood. Faust opposed this resolution.
Sue Faust, inside city limits, did not want business traffic in her quiet neighborhood. She thought
the activity use would be much higher than how it was described as "low intensity." She opposed
this resolution.
Tom Reese, outside city limits, had taken a tour of the property with the owner. He was confident
the owners could make the road meet the criteria for emergency first responders. The project would
be a plus for Seward.
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City of Seward, Alaska Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting Minutes
July 7, 2026 Volume 8, Page
Annette Reese, outside city limits, had also toured the property and said the view was magical.
The chairlift would make the mountain accessible to anyone with limited mobility. She hoped the
traffic issues could be worked out with the local residents.
Bob Linville, inside city limits, only just recently heard about this project. He lived on Vista
Avenue and cherished the quiet neighborhood setting. He noted the current road provided beautiful
public hiking access to Mt. Marathon. He hoped for continued public access on the land. Linville
would fight tooth and nail to preserve his quiet street.
Max Ingalls, outside city limits, vouched for the Ozerkovs' work ethic and character. He thought
they were very environmentally conscious. They were dreaming for something different for
Seward. Ingalls supported their plan.
Carol Griswold, inside city limits, said the project was not in the community's best interest. Much
of the information provided was incomplete and inaccurate. She summarized the items in the plan
including lodges and parking lots and noted these were not small scale uses. These developments
would have a negative impact on all aspects of Mt. Marathon. The Comprehensive Plan was not
in harmony with this project. She urged P&Z to deny this CUP based on this factor alone. She
provided recommended changes to the conditions as written testimony.
Morgan Huffman, inside city limits, thought the project would be a phenomenal addition to the
community, especially in the winter.
Rodney Rommerich, outside city limits, made a comparison to visitors experiencing boat tours
of the Kenai Fjords and supported this project. He supported bringing more year-round business
to Seward.
Mark Kanstiener, inside city limits, just found out about the project two days and was surprised
he didn't know about it. He spoke about the chairlift idea being so far down the road it may never
happen, so don't pin all hopes on the chairlift. He was opposed to this project for many reasons.
Mica Van Buskirk, inside city limits, supported the project. She appreciated the collaborative
approach to the project from the owners. It was beautiful land and it would add lasting value to the
community. She noted making the road feasible was not going to be easy. There were a lot of
conditions in the application.
John Wisel, outside city limits, spoke in support of the project. It was tough to find stuff to do in
the winter time. He noted the applicants were courteous about involving the public. He noted Vista
Road access should be shared. The resort would be fun for kids in the winter.
Gina Vendola, outside city limits, echoed previous comments that supported the plan.
Matt Anderson, outside city limits, echoed previous comments that supported the plan. He
thought the development would be small scale. He thought it was a great idea.
City of Seward, Alaska Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting Minutes
July 7, 2026 Volume 8, Page
Kim Warner, inside city limits, compared the Ozerkov brothers to the Ballaine brothers who also
had a vision for Seward. He recalled previous developments that were opposed initially but now
were cherished. Warner supported this project.
No one appeared and the public hearing was closed.
The applicants had 7 minutes and 30 seconds remaining from their initial 10 minutes.
The Ozerkovs appreciated all the comments. They wanted the project engineered so as not to
impact the viewshed. There was no intention to close public access to the road. They spoke to the
chairlift and being sustainable financially. They wanted to continue to get feedback as the
development progressed. Ultimately, they wanted to create something special for Seward and fun
activities for kids such as capture -the -flag. In regard to the lack of detail in application, first they
needed to know if they could use the property in this way prior to investing more money into the
project.
The applicants had used up their remaining time and now it was the Commission's turn to discuss
the resolution.
Hornseth discussed a possible tree canopy amendment with the applicant and the Community
Development Director.
The Commission amended Resolution 2026-007 with the following condition:
"At the completion of all approved phases of development, no more than ten percent (10%) of the
approximately 44-acre property shall consist of permanent tree canopy removal, as measured from
the existing tree canopy on the property at the time this Conditional Use Permit is approved.
Temporary clearing necessary for construction is permitted, provided such areas are replanted or
otherwise restored to tree canopy upon completion of construction so that the property complies
with this condition."
The Commission continued to discuss the resolution as amended.
Hornseth wanted to address trespassing and a condition to retain the right to use the property to
access Mt. Marathon in perpetuity. The applicant noted liability of allowing access pending legal
council.
Siptrott asked about parking, feasibility, and the possibility of having a maximum occupancy. The
applicant explained each building would have maximum occupancy ratings. There was no way of
controlling transient traffic and hikers passing through the area.
Verhey noted this was in a resource management zone, and wanted to keep short-term rentals in
mind.
Main Motion Passed Unanimous
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City of Seward, Alaska Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting Minutes
July 7, 2026 Volume 8, Page
NEW BUSINESS
Other New Business
Discuss work session topic for July 21, 2026
Meuninck said the work session would be a continuation of the CUP process to bring it closer to a
finished product.
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS
Work Session on Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at 6:00 p.m.
Joint Work Session with City Council on Monday, July 27, 2026 at 5:30 p.m.
Topic: Short-term rentals
Regular meeting on Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
FINAL PUBLIC COMMENTS
Tom Reese, outside city limits, spoke about Herman Leirer pioneering a road for people to see
Exit Glacier. He spoke to the original vision leading to thousands of people enjoying Exit Glacier.
He thought the Marathon Ridge Resort would have similar positive outcome.
ADMINISTRATION AND COMMISSION COMMENTS AND RESPONSES TO PUBLIC
COMMENTS
Meuninck thought it was a great meeting and good public participation. He noted the Ozerkovs
were open to community feedback.
Hornseth thanked the public for coming out and thanked Community Development for the assist
on the amendment.
Hubbard thanked all the public for coming out and their opinions. She said resource management
was complicated and noted this CUP had a lot of conditions.
Sullivan noted the Ozerkovs were willing to work with the community. She appreciated all the
work that went into this meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 8:42 p.m.
Kris Peck Clare Sullivan
City Clerk Chair
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Planning and Zoning Agenda Statement
Meeting Date: August 4, 2026
To: Planning and Zoning Commission
Through: Daniel Meuninck, Community Development Director
From: Courtney Bringhurst, Planner
Agenda Item: Resolution 2026-009 of the Planning and Zoning Commission of the City
of Seward Alaska, granting a conditional use permit to Major Marine Tours
LLC to construct a third employee bunkhouse on Tract B, Leirer Industrial
Subdivision, at 1804 Leirer Road within the Industrial (I) Zoning District
Background and justification:
Colby Lawrence, on behalf of Major Marine Tours LLC, has applied for a Conditional Use Permit
(CUP) to construct a third employee bunkhouse on Tract B of the Leirer Industrial Subdivision at
1804 Leirer Road. The bunkhouse will serve as an accessory structure to the existing Major Marine
warehouse and maintenance facility. The property is owned by Leirer Enterprises LLC and leased
by Major Marine Tours LLC.
The bunkhouse will provide seasonal employee housing for employees of Major Marine Tours,
Harbor 360 Hotel, and Seward Gateway Hotel. These businesses are all located within
approximately one mile of the proposed development and rely on seasonal workforce housing to
support their operations. The proposed bunkhouse is approximately 20 feet in height and contains
16 sleeping rooms with a maximum occupancy of 32 employees (two occupants per room).
The parcel is located within the Industrial Zoning District, and a bunkhouse is allowed according
to the Land Uses Allowed Table with an approved conditional use permit.
The applicant has complied with all the public hearing requirements of Seward city code
§ 15.01.040.
Regarding conditional uses, Seward city code § 15.10.320 states, "it is recognized that there are
some uses which may be compatible with designated principal uses in specific zoning districts
provided certain conditions are met. The conditional use permit procedure is intended to allow
flexibility in the consideration of the impact of the proposed use on surrounding property, and the
application of controls and safeguards to assure that the proposed use will be compatible with the
surroundings. The commission shall permit this type of use if the conditions and requirements
listed in this chapter (Title 15) are met."
Prior to granting a conditional use permit, the Commission shall establish that the use satisfies the
following conditions as listed in SCC §15.10.320(D):
1. The use is consistent with the purpose of this chapter and the purposes of the zoning district;
2. The value of the adjoining property will not be significantly impaired;
10
3. The proposed use is in harmony with the comprehensive plan;
4. Public services and facilities are adequate to serve the proposed use;
5. The proposed use will not be harmful to the public safety, health or welfare;
6. Any and all specific conditions deemed necessary by the commission to fulfill the above -
mentioned conditions shall be met by the applicant. These may include but are not limited
to measures relative to access, screening, site development, building design, operation of
the use and other similar aspects related to the proposed use.
Surrounding Land Use and Zoning:
Development Requirements: Staff has reviewed the submitted site plan and finds that the
proposed development complies with the applicable development standards of SCC Table
15.10.220, including minimum lot size, setbacks (Front — 10', Side — 10', Side adjacent to street
— 20', and Rear — 10'), maximum lot coverage (100%), and maximum building height (34'). The
proposed bunkhouse has a building height of approximately 20 feet, which is below the
maximum height permitted within the Industrial zoning district.
Surrounding Land Use: Surrounding development is primarily industrial in nature. Adjacent
uses include the Alaska Railroad corridor to the north and west, Shoreside Petroleum's bulk fuel
storage facility to the east, and industrial storage facilities and Icicle Seafoods' seasonal
employee housing to the south.
The proposed bunkhouse is located adjacent to the Shoreside Petroleum bulk fuel storage
facility. The Seward Fire Chief reviewed the proposal and indicated that although the adjacent
fuel tanks warrant consideration, the facility was constructed in accordance with applicable
International Fire Code and International Building Code requirements and incorporates fire
detection systems, secondary containment, retaining walls, and on -site fire suppression systems.
Staff has incorporated a condition requiring compliance with all applicable Building and Fire
Code requirements through the building permit process.
Floodplain status: According to the Kenai Peninsula Borough Floodplain Map, the property is
not located within a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA).
Utilities: Water, sewer, and electricity are already available to the property. Adequate fire, police
and solid waste disposal services are available to the property via Leirer Road. The city code
also requires that every building or building site within the city must provide containers suitable
for refuse collection (SCC 14.05). All containers shall be watertight with an animal -proof lid.
Parking: Under SCC § 15.10.215, off-street parking may be provided at the discretion of the
property owner or developer, provided applicable design and dimensional standards are met. The
zoning code does not establish a minimum parking requirement for bunkhouses.
The proposed bunkhouse contains 16 sleeping rooms, with a maximum occupancy of two residents
per room (32 residents total). Previous Conditional Use Permits for bunkhouses have required a
minimum of one off-street parking space for every four residents. The proposed development
provides a total of 37 parking spaces serving all three bunkhouses. Based on the maximum
occupancy of 88 residents, the development provides approximately one parking space for every
three residents, exceeding the parking ratio required for previous bunkhouse approvals.
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In addition, ADA standards require two accessible parking spaces for parking areas containing 26
to 50 spaces. The site plan provides the required accessible parking.
Comprehensive and Strategic Plan Consistency Information mill
This legislation is consistent with (citation listed):
Comprehensive Vol 1, Chapter 3.2.1.2 — Expand the opportunity for affordable, diverse,
Plan:
year-round housing through appropriate land use regulations.
- "Support apartments and other high density residential
development, including seasonal working housing."
Vol 1, Chapter 3.3.1.1 — Support a range of housing choices that meet the
needs of people in various income and age groups.
- "Encourage the development of seasonal employee housing."
Strategic Plan: "Encourage construction of residential and seasonal housing at all market
levels" (Page 9).
Staff Comments
Department
Comments
No Comment
N/A
Building Department
No concerns
Fire Department
No concerns. Additional
verification and review will
occur during plan review once
the building permit is
submitted.
Public Works
Department
X
Harbor Department
No concerns
Police Department
X
Electric Department
X
Telecommunications
X
Public Comment
Property owners within three hundred (300) feet of the proposed land use amendment were notified
of this public hearing. Public notice signs were posted on the property and all other public hearing
requirements of Seward City Code § 15.01.040 were complied with.
At the time of this publication the Community Development Department has not received public
inquiries and comments, which have been included in the packet. If any correspondence is
received after publication of this agenda statement, it will be submitted to the Commissioners for
their review.
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Recommendation
The proposed use is permittable through the Conditional Use Permit process, which allows the
Commission the opportunity to ensure that the use is consistent with the purpose of the zoning
district and surrounding land uses, is in harmony with the Comprehensive Plan, and will not be
harmful to the public safety, health, or welfare.
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Sponsored by: Applicant
Public Hearing: August 4, 2026
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
RESOLUTION 2026-009
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
SEWARD, ALASKA, GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO MAJOR
MARINE TOURS LLC TO CONSTRUCT A THIRD EMPLOYEE BUNKHOUSE ON
TRACT B, LEIRER INDUSTRIAL SUBDIVISION, AT 1804 LEIRER ROAD WITHIN
THE INDUSTRIAL (I) ZONING DISTRICT
WHEREAS, Colby Lawrence has applied for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) from the Seward
Planning and Zoning Commission on behalf of Major Marine Tours LLC to construct a third
employee bunkhouse at 1804 Leirer Road; and
WHEREAS, the property is owned by Leirer Enterprises LLC and Major Marine Tours LLC is
the lessee of the property; and
WHEREAS, the property is in an industrial (I) zoning district; and
WHEREAS, a bunkhouse is allowed in the industrial zoning district with an approved CUP; and
WHEREAS, the bunkhouse is intended to provide much -needed, high -quality housing for
employees of Major Marine Tours, Harbor 360 Hotel, and/or Seward Gateway Hotel, all of which
are located less than one mile from the proposed bunkhouse location; and
WHEREAS, the public notification process was complied with and the appropriate public hearing,
as required by Seward City Code § 15.01.040.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE PLANNING AND ZONING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA:
Section 1. According to SCC 15.10.320 It is recognized that there are some uses which may be
compatible with designated principal uses in specific zoning districts provided certain conditions
are met. The conditional use permit procedure is intended to allow flexibility in the consideration
of the impact of the proposed use on surrounding property, and the application of controls and
safeguards to assure that the proposed use will be compatible with the surroundings. The
commission shall permit this type of use if the conditions and requirements listed in this chapter
are met. According to SCC 15.10.320.D., the Commission shall establish a finding that the use
satisfies the following conditions prior to granting a conditional use permit:
A. The use is consistent with the purpose of this chapter (the Seward Zoning Code) and the
purposes of the zoning district.
Finding: According to the Land Use Allowed Table, § 15.10.226, a "Bunkhouse" is
allowed within an industrial (I) zoning district with an approved Conditional Use Permit.
The industrial zoning district is defined as "a district in which the principal use of land is
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PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
RESOLUTION 2026-009
Page 2 of 5
for business, manufacturing, processing, fabricating, repair, assembly, storage, wholesaling
and distributing operations, which may create some nuisance, and which are not properly
associated nor compatible with residential land uses. It is intended to provide
environmental safeguards for people employed in or visiting the district. Some visual
amenity is expected in this district to make it compatible with adjoining residential or
business districts."
A bunkhouse is defined as "a building used as living quarters for employee housing where
shower and sanitary facilities are shared and in which there are no individual cooking
facilities."
The proposed bunkhouse provides employee housing that directly serves nearby
commercial and industrial businesses. With a maximum building height of 20 feet, the
structure is well below the 34-foot height limit permitted within the Industrial zoning
district and is compatible in scale with the existing development on the site and
surrounding area, which includes industrial businesses, warehouses, maintenance
facilities, and existing employee housing. Although the Industrial zoning district is not
intended for conventional residential neighborhoods, the Zoning Code specifically
recognizes bunkhouses as an appropriate conditional use when reviewed through the
Conditional Use Permit process. The proposal also supports the district's purpose by
providing safe and functional housing for employees working within the industrial area
while maintaining compatibility with surrounding uses.
B. The value of adjoining property will not be significantly impaired.
Finding: The proposed bunkhouse will not significantly impair the value of adjoining
properties. The property currently contains two employee bunkhouses that have operated
without known adverse impacts to neighboring properties. The proposed building is
compatible with the existing development pattern on the site and will be constructed and
maintained in accordance with applicable City requirements. The landscaping and site
improvement requirements imposed as conditions of approval will further improve the
overall appearance of the development.
C. The proposed use is in harmony with the Seward Comprehensive Plan.
Finding: This criterion has been met. The proposal is in harmony with the Seward 2030
Comprehensive Plan.
Seward Comprehensive Plan (approved by Council, May 30, 2017)
Vol 1 Ch 3.2.1.2 — Expand the opportunity for affordable, diverse, year-round housing
through appropriate land use regulations.
• "Support apartments and other high density residential development,
including seasonal working housing."
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PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
RESOLUTION 2026-009
Page 3 of 5
Vol 1 Ch 3.3.1.1 — Support a range of housing choices that meet the needs of people in
various income and age groups.
• "Encourage the development of seasonal employee housing."
Strategic Plan (1999)
"Encourage construction of residential and seasonal housing at all market levels" (Page
9).
D. Public Services and facilities are adequate to serve the proposed use.
Finding: Sewer, water, electric, and road infrastructure currently serve the property.
Police, fire, emergency medical, and solid waste services are available to the site. The
proposed development is not expected to create demands on public services beyond their
existing capacity.
E. The proposed use will not be harmful to the public safety, health or welfare.
Finding: The proposed bunkhouse will be designed and constructed in accordance with
the International Building Code and International Fire Code. The adjacent bulk fuel storage
facility was previously approved through a Conditional Use Permit and is required to
comply with applicable building, fire, state, and federal regulations. According to the
Seward Fire Chief, the facility includes fire detection systems, secondary containment
designed to capture fuel releases, on -site fire suppression systems, and other protective
measures that provide an acceptable level of life safety for the proposed adjacent use.
The proposed bunkhouse has a maximum occupancy of 32 residents, with no more than
two occupants permitted per sleeping room. On -site parking, bear -resistant refuse
containers, and E-911 addressing will further support the health, safety, and welfare of
occupants.
Section 2. Any and all specific conditions deemed necessary by the Commission to fulfill the
above -mentioned conditions shall be met by the applicant. Approval of the CUP shall be subject
to the following conditions:
1. The applicant shall comply with all applicable International Building Code, International
Fire Code, and other requirements identified by the Building Official or Fire Chief through
the building permit process.
2. For any upgrades or connections to the water, sewer and/or electric utilities prior to a
certificate of occupancy being issued, the applicant will work with the appropriate city
departments.
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PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
RESOLUTION 2026-009
Page 4 of 5
3. A minimum of 1 parking space per 4 residents at maximum capacity shall be provided for
on site. At least one (1) of those parking spaces shall be compliant with the Americans
Disabilities Act (ADA).
4. All parking and maneuverability shall remain on site for the life of the use.
5. For E-911 emergency response, separate street addresses shall be assigned to each structure
and each structure shall be marked accordingly.
6. The site shall be developed in a manner that provides an attractive and well -maintained
appearance appropriate for an industrial area. Areas immediately surrounding the employee
bunkhouse shall incorporate landscaping or other site improvements, such as native
vegetation, shrubs, trees, decorative rock, or similar materials, to soften the appearance of
the development. Landscaping and site improvements shall be completed within one year
after issuance of the certificate of occupancy.
7. Refuse containers designed to prevent the upsetting or spillage by wind, weather, animals,
or accident, including bear -resistant containers where required, shall be provided for the
life of the use. Such containers shall be stored within a roofed, three -sided enclosure
constructed of durable materials.
8. Per Seward City Code §15.10.325(f). an approved CUP shall lapse six months from the
date of approval if the use for which the permit was issued has not been implemented or a
building permit obtained. The Commission may grant a six-month extension upon finding
that circumstances have not changed sufficiently since the date of initial permit approval.
9. Modification of final approval of a conditional use permit may, upon application by the
permittee, be modified by the Planning and Zoning Commission:
a. When changed conditions cause the conditional use to no longer conform to the
standards for its approval.
b. To implement a different development plan conforming to the standards for its
approval.
c. The modification plan shall be subject to a public hearing and a filing fee set by
City Council Resolution.
Section 3. The Planning and Zoning Commission finds that the proposed use, subject to the above
conditions satisfies the criteria for granting a conditional use permit provided the conditions listed
in Section 2, are met by the applicant, and authorizes the administration to issue a conditional use
permit to Major Marine Tours LLC for the construction of a third employee bunkhouse on the
property located at 1804 Leirer Road, within an Industrial (I) zoning district.
Section 4. The Planning and Zoning Commission finds that adherence to the conditions of this
permit is paramount in maintaining the intent of Seward City Code Section 15.10.320: Conditional
Use Permits and authorizes the administration to issue a conditional use permit.
Section 5. Administration shall periodically confirm the use conforms to the standards of its
approval. Nonconformance to these above stated conditions shall be grounds for revoking the
Conditional Use Permit.
17
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
RESOLUTION 2026-009
Page 5 of 5
Section 6. This resolution shall take effect 10 days following its adoption.
APPROVED BY THE PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION THIS 4TH DAY OF
AUGUST, 2026.
Clare Sullivan, Chair
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
VACANT:
ATTEST:
Kris Peck
City Clerk
(City Seal)
18
Context Map
L.EIRERI!NM STR
5 13 LVI5I0
200 feet
Conditional Use Permit Application Property Map
Single-family Residential
Two-family Residential
Auto Commercial
Industrial
RES 2026-009 - Granting a conditional use permit to Major Marine Tours LLC to
construct a third employee bunkhouse
Location: 1804 Leirer Road
Parcel #: 14525030
19
Existing Site Conditions
Left - Bunkhouse #2
Right - Location for proposed Bunkhouse #3
Existing Carport Shed - Location for proposed Bunkhouse #3
Bunkhouse #1
Bunkhouse #1
Bunkhouse #2
1U
7/15/26, 11:18 AM CUP-26-2
Application Details
This completed application is to be submitted to the Community Development
Department bo M) eeksi advance of the next regularly scheduled
Planning and Zoning Commission meeting See link below for the submission deadline
dates.
Daps www.distyofseward §oaacidesciorhs planning-zoning-
ftommission planning-zoningeozettrigsion
RAgTiulesatayffii regchrretbaththe The application must be
accompanied by the $on Nig
Documents Needed
• 19,eilt survey of the property if it has been developed or a scaled site plan with
elevations if the property is undeveloped
• Scaled drawings of structures to be built
• Any other pertinent documents to describe or support the project
Applicant Information
Fthie
Mng Address
Major Marine Tours LLC E57$ox ,Seward 99664
Ei
Lanni wIby
Property Information
.com
linter
9074910335
*tic Oteperty owner ?* Property° Meer
No LEIRER ENTERPRISES LLC
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Property° lamer di
Property° ier
leirer net 9075297769
Address der
11 J z r RD „Seward 90664 14525030
Mt* 0
industrial
silo
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sig District
Leg® ascription 0
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mallard arcgis .room zipps webappviewer x ?
T 1S R 1W SEC 3 SEWARD MERIDIAN SW 2002019 LEIRER INDUSTRIAL SUB TRACT B
The legal description of a property and the KPB Parcel number can be found at this link
bttps giskpb us Wtdpx Ithimiker
iltkikozetlireyiaddrimur from the left that looks like a pin and says
when you hover your mouse over it.Jffi' in your address and press Click on your
parcel..A white box with information in it should appear on your screen The parcel ID
number is at the top.,The Legal name of the property is in the middle under the heading
Legal :"
Development Information
pates ?* 0
Commercial Building
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7/15/26, 11:18 AM CUP-26-2
blw property currentlybbitt
Currently Major Marine Tours, Harbor 360 Hotel and Gateway Hotel operates their
warehouse and vessel parts and maintenance shop as the primary building on this
property. There are 2 secondary buildings both are 14 unit buldings used as a
bunkhouse which was allowed under a Conditional use permit by the City of Seward
in 2023 and 2024
Siepestld
?*
Major Marine Tours, Harbor 360 Hotel and Gateway Hotel would like to add an
additional 16 unit bunkhouse on this property.
tiliwrelinent ?*
ogn.nJlaytion April
2027
Requirements for Consideration
Please note that prior to the Seward Planning and Zoning Commission granting a
Conditional Use Permit,iitlhalftoltoycitatlished that the proposed use satis
FeattitEllis[olbgewahadigjiyceode ti City Code
requirements)
sy
k1eId
municode .from zik geward nodes Otaificances
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8 how jiepi ei t tilfidhlirements ewad Z6ning tkibign
stirigt
Employee bunkhouse in an industrial area with CUP
0
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EiilfaktsrofIiadhnkdoirt itt crlle
lifitasy municode .room geward nodes afxdieances
&ieId LUMBERED E
Daycribe imp Olibiplinties property vales yUe ected
No negative impacts. This additional bunkhouse will only improve the area.
b(w jiaastetalit ewe! timprehensive E ajdle pules
csde below)
According to the Land Use Allowed Table, a bunkhouse is allowed in an Industrial
Zone with a CUP.
Seward Comprehensive Plan
b tps www.fllgl>nfseward g154WP3130E1192616601-53XIO0
DjilIt ibes
tliiities Mi sed (i erp ds utilities y•
Water, Sewer, Elecric and Road.
jed
fikitiztadent
fety ad welfae D bsmribe the
This will open up high quality housing for seasonal employees, as well as opening up
a few single family homes for year round residents.
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Daycribe mitig thin tires yjkletted h hety ad welfae .
None needed
Document Uploads
Include building elevation plans and a site plan drawn to scale. The site plan should
include
• Property dimensions
• Location and dimensions of proposed and existing buildings
• Rartitli con
• Driveways and access
• Natural features
• Other pertinent information
B'e e[ Bpporting ocuments
IMG_2105.jpeg
Bpporting ocuments
No File Uploaded
Bpporting ocuments
No File Uploaded ! No File Uploaded
Signature
h blowing testy
Lessee
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I understand that this item will be scheduled for a Planning and Zoning Commission
meeting ynl if all application materials are submitted not less than (A) eeks in
advance of the next regularly scheduled Planning and Zoning Commission meeting
#gTwlasalnyeii : laferiteiththe
I hereby certify that the above statements and other information submitted are true and
accurate to the best of my knowledge
Aplic ie
0 Colby W Lawrence
Sul 2026
Property° doer
0 Steve C Leirer
301 2026
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/
27
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Gordon Thompson Architect
711 M STREET. SUITE 101 ANCHORAGE. ALASKA 99501 (907) 360-0795
No 1.1.d/V -I
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MAJOR MARINE BUNKHOUSE SOUTH
2024 Seward. Ata
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Gordon Thompson Architect
711 M STREET, SUITE 101 ANCHORAGE, ALASKA 99501 (907) 360-0795
6
MAJOR MARINE BUNKHOUSE SOUTH
2024 Seward. Alaska
29
CITY OF SEWARD, ALASKA
AFFIDAVIT OF MAILING
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
(on Lfoc\ v', upon oath, deposes and states:
That she is employed in the Community Development Office of the City of
Seward, Alaska; and that on - ,9C 3she mailed a Notice of
Public Hearing to the real property owners within a 300-foot periphery of the
property located at 1804 Leirer Road as prescribed by Seward City Code
15.01.040/16.01.015.
Affirmed and signed this DO day o2026.
AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
I (0 ( LcvW v_ f? , hereby certify that I have posted a
Notice of Public Hearing, as prescribed by Seward City Code
15.01.040/16.01.015 on the property located at 1804 Leirer Road on
which the applicant has petitioned for a Public Hearing for a Conditional Use
Permit to construct a third employee bunkhouse, within an Industrial (I)
Zoning District.
The notice was posted on a�� , which is I 5
days prior to the public hearing on this petition. I acknowledge this Notice
must be posted in plain sight, maintained and displayed until all public
hearings have been completed.
Affirmed and signed this O day of ',-Yu \ , 2026.
Signature
31