Wasilla public meetings in 2021

City Council Special

The Wasilla City Council will consider Resolution Serial No. 21-35, authorizing up to $200,000 in CARES Act funds for IT equipment and services to support a mobile workforce. The proposal includes contracts with World Wide Technology (estimated $99,662) and Bridge Data Solutions (estimated $56,428) for virtual desktop infrastructure, storage, and network switches. The meeting is otherwise procedural, with public participation and comments.

• Resolution Serial No. 21-35: Authorize IT equipment and services purchase up to $200,000 from CARES Act funds.
• Contract with World Wide Technology estimated at $99,662 for VMware, Dell servers, and Cisco switches.
• Contract with Bridge Data Solutions estimated at $56,428 for NetApp storage arrays.
• Funds from account 110-4181-499-45-18 City Resiliency and Recovery.
• IT upgrade aims to allow employees to use personal computers for city work with enhanced security.

City Council Special - 20 Dec 2021 (Distribution of COVID-19 Relief and Recovery Funds)

The Wasilla City Council is holding a special meeting to consider two COVID-19 relief spending items. They will vote on a resolution to grant up to $144,000 to Urgent Care at Lake Lucille for monoclonal antibody infusions, and another to authorize the purchase of COVID-19 antigen home test kits for $569,531. Both items are funded from the city's COVID-19 relief funds.

• Resolution 21-33: Grant up to $144,000 to Urgent Care at Lake Lucille for monoclonal antibody infusion clinic support.
• Resolution 21-34: Authorize purchase of 25,984 COVID-19 antigen home test kits (2 tests per kit) for $558,656 plus $10,875 air freight, total $569,531.
• Test kits to be distributed by Mat-Su Health Foundation to Wasilla residents.
• Funds for both resolutions come from City Resiliency and Recovery account (110-4181-499-45-18).

Planning Commission Regular

The Wasilla Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a conditional use permit for a tattoo and hair studio at 260 E. Nelson Avenue, and consider resolutions recommending a 30-year airport lease, supporting the FY2023 Capital Improvement Program, and forming a committee to review landscape code. The agenda also includes routine reports, consent agenda, and logs.

• Conditional Use #21-09: tattoo and hair studio at 260 E. Nelson Avenue, 0.48 acres, Commercial/Downtown Overlay District
• Resolution 21-16: recommend approval of 30-year lease to Michael Sandstrom at 4160 W. Aviation Avenue, Lot 18A
• Resolution 21-17: support goals for FY2023 Capital Improvement Program
• Resolution 21-18: recommend City Council establish committee to review WMC Chapter 16.33 (landscaping)
• Consent agenda: approve minutes of November 9, 2021 regular meeting

City Council Regular

The Wasilla City Council is holding a public hearing on the police department employees' collective bargaining agreement and authorizing negotiations for a new contract. The council will also consider several budget amendments, including a $595,515 purchase of COVID-19 antigen home test kits, and hear the FY2021 financial audit. Other items include accepting grants for library materials and airport operations, and appropriating funds for traffic control at the Iron Dog snowmobile race.

• Resolution 21-27: Public hearing on police union contract and authorization to negotiate new contract for July 1, 2022–June 30, 2025
• Resolution 21-32: Authorizing purchase of COVID-19 antigen home test kits for $595,515
• Ordinance 21-23: Accepting $6,000 from Alaska State Library/IMLS ARPA funds for library storytime walk and collection materials
• Ordinance 21-24: Accepting $32,000 FAA grant for Wasilla Airport operations
• Ordinance 21-25: Appropriating $15,000 from General Fund for traffic control at 2022 Iron Dog snowmobile race

CANCELED - City Council Special - 07 Dec 2021 (Discussion on Goals and Initiatives for Fiscal Years 2023/2024)

This December 7, 2021 special meeting of the Wasilla City Council was canceled because the council completed its discussion on Fiscal Years 2023 and 2024 goals and initiatives at its December 6, 2021 meeting. The agenda contains no items for action or discussion.

• Meeting canceled; goals discussion completed on December 6, 2021

City Council Special - 06 Dec 2021 (Discussion on Goals and Initiatives for FY 2023/2024)

The Wasilla City Council is holding a special meeting to discuss goals and initiatives for fiscal years 2023 and 2024, using the previously approved FY 2022 goals as a starting point. This is a discussion item, with action expected at a regular meeting in January 2022. The agenda includes public participation and comments, but the main focus is the goal-setting discussion.

• Discussion of FY 2023-24 goals, based on FY 2022 goals approved Jan 11, 2021
• FY 2022 goals include maintaining a 0.0 mil rate
• Invest $1,250,000 annually in infrastructure improvements (target)
• Invest $1,000,000 annually toward paving all roads (target)
• Assign $100,000 for land bank for future land purchases

City Council Special - 30 Nov 2021 - RS 21-30: Awarding A COVID-19 Relief/Recovery Grant To Thread

The Wasilla City Council is deciding whether to adopt Resolution Serial No. 21-30, which would award a COVID-19 relief and recovery grant of up to $750,000 to Thread, a nonprofit, to administer assistance to childcare facilities. The grant includes a $10,000 administrative fee for Thread and would distribute funds to about sixteen childcare providers based on licensed capacity. If adopted, the funds would be transferred from the City Resiliency and Recovery account to the Small Business Grant account.

• Resolution Serial No. 21-30: Awarding up to $750,000 to Thread for childcare facilities program
• $10,000 administrative fee to Thread for program administration
• Funding source: transfer of $750,000 from account 110-4181-499-45-18 to 110-4181-499-45-15
• Estimated $740,000 distributed to childcare providers based on capacity (approx. $740.74 per capacity slot)
• Unspent funds to be returned to City; ~$2M in CARES funds may remain unspent by Dec 31, 2021

City Council Regular

The Wasilla City Council is holding a regular meeting with public hearings on two budget amendments: $30,000 for building security risk assessments at City Hall, library, and museum, and $54,000 for Hurley Circle utility extension engineering. The council will also consider a $500,000 COVID-19 relief grant to Wasilla Area Seniors for Meals on Wheels, plus several consent agenda items including a police union contract resolution and appointments. Executive sessions are scheduled for potential litigation on a property and police union negotiations.

• Ordinance 21-20: $30,000 from general fund for building security risk assessments
• Ordinance 21-22: $27,000 each from sewer and water funds for Hurley Circle utility engineering
• Resolution 21-28: COVID-19 relief grant up to $500,000 to Wasilla Area Seniors for Meals on Wheels
• Resolution 21-27: Police union contract review and negotiation authorization
• AM 21-48: $54,000 contract to HDL Engineering for Hurley Circle utility extension

City Council Special - 10 Nov 2021 (Disbursement Of Remaining CARES Act Funds)

The Wasilla City Council is holding a special meeting to discuss, consider, and possibly act on disbursing the remaining $2,326,669 in CARES Act funds before the December 31, 2021 deadline. The city attorney recommends directing administration to contact third-party organizations with existing CARES Act programs to administer the funds, as the city's own assistance programs are fully funded and completed. The council will also review examples of other municipalities' CARES Act programs and may enter executive session to discuss potential litigation and attorney-client privileged matters related to the disbursement.

• Remaining CARES Act balance: $2,326,669 as of November 1, 2021
• Total CARES Act funding received: $18,690,897.67
• Recommended motion to contact Thread, Food Pantry, Matanuska Electric Association, and Enstar about administering funds
• Prior disbursements: $2,534,727 small business grants, $907,754 PPE, $720,000 rental/mortgage assistance, $9,799,110 police payroll
• Executive session on potential or pending litigation regarding CARES Act funds

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Wasilla Parks and Recreation Commission meeting scheduled for November 10, 2021, was not called to order because a quorum was not present. All items of business, including the approval of September minutes and setting 2022 meeting dates, were postponed to the next regular meeting on January 12, 2022. The agenda packet also includes the minutes from the September 8, 2021 meeting, which show the commission voted to support Resolution 21-03 for two additional softball fields and parking at Bumpus Ballfields Complex.

• Meeting cancelled due to lack of quorum; items deferred to January 12, 2022
• 2022 Parks and Recreation meeting dates (postponed)
• Approval of September 8, 2021 minutes (postponed)
• September minutes show unanimous support for Resolution 21-03: two additional softball fields and parking at Bumpus Ballfields Complex

Planning Commission Regular

The Wasilla Planning Commission will continue its public hearing on Resolution Serial No. 21-14, which proposes extensive amendments to the city's landscaping regulations, including new definitions, revised parking and exemption rules, and new fines for violations. The commission will also review the minutes from the October 12 meeting and receive reports from city staff. This is a continuation of a hearing that was postponed from the previous meeting to allow for additional public input.

• Resolution Serial No. 21-14: amend landscaping code (definitions, parking, exemptions, fines)
• Public hearing continued from Oct. 12 for landscape regulation amendments
• Review of Oct. 12, 2021 regular meeting minutes
• 2022 Planning Commission meeting calendar
• Permit and enforcement logs

City Council Regular

The Wasilla City Council will hold a public hearing on an ordinance accepting an $820 grant for youth court conference travel, and will consider consent agenda items including budget appropriations for building security risk assessments and utility extensions, plus a resolution for City Hall remodel funds. The agenda also includes proclamations, a COVID-19 update, and a draft code of ethics review.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 21-19: $820 from United Way Mat-Su for Youth Court conference travel
• Ordinance 21-20: $30,000 from General Fund for building security risk assessments
• Ordinance 21-22: $27,000 each from Sewer and Water funds for Hurly Circle utility extensions engineering
• Resolution 21-25: $3,600 transfer for City Hall remodel project
• Proclamations honoring Veterans Day and Lung Cancer Awareness Month

City Council Regular

The Wasilla City Council will hold a public hearing on an ordinance appropriating $2,616,209 in federal COVID relief funds for water and sewer infrastructure, including a new booster station. The council will also consider expanding approval requirements for all city land disposals and approve several routine items on the consent agenda.

• Ordinance 21-17: Appropriates $2,616,209 in ARPA funds for water and sewer projects, including $2,000,000 for the Richmond Hills Booster Station
• Ordinance 21-18: Expands council approval requirements to all disposals of city-owned land and repeals redundant public notice requirements
• Resolution 21-23: Authorizes $7,500 one-year lease with Wasilla Youth Soccer Association for office space at Curtis D. Menard Memorial Sports Center
• Resolution 21-24: Authorizes $9,000 one-year lease with Mat-Su YMCA for office space at Curtis D. Menard Memorial Sports Center
• Ordinance 21-19: Accepts $820 from United Way Mat-Su for Youth Court conference attendance

Airport Advisory Commission

The Wasilla Airport Advisory Commission is holding a regular meeting with a standard agenda: call to order, roll call, approval of the April 22, 2021 minutes, staff reports, public comments, and new business. No specific action items, proposals, or public hearings are listed on the agenda, so the meeting appears to be largely procedural unless items arise during the session.

• Approval of April 22, 2021 regular meeting minutes
• Public comments limited to three minutes per person
• Meeting at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers, Wasilla City Hall, 290 E Herning Avenue

Planning Commission Regular

The Wasilla Planning Commission will hold public hearings on two conditional use requests tied to the Chepo's restaurant project at 3001 E. Sun Mountain Avenue. One seeks after-the-fact approval to leave 87 feet of vegetation cleared without city approval, replacing it with a grassed slope and berm; staff recommends denial. The other requests a one-year extension for required landscaping at the Shoppes at Sun Mountain. The commission will also consider resolutions supporting new softball fields at Bumpus Ballfields, a revised fee schedule, and landscape code amendments.

• Conditional Use #21-07: after-the-fact approval to clear 87± feet of screening/buffer at 3001 E. Sun Mountain Avenue; staff recommends denial
• Conditional Use #21-08: one-year extension to Summer 2022 for perimeter landscaping at Shoppes at Sun Mountain (19.61± acres)
• Resolution 21-12: support for two additional softball fields and parking at Bumpus Ballfields Complex
• Resolution 21-13: amended fee schedule for Title 16 applications, including mobile food vendors and temporary use permits
• Resolution 21-14: landscape code amendments adding definitions, parking changes, and fines for violations

City Council Regular

The Wasilla City Council is meeting to consider several items, including a public hearing on an ordinance to appropriate $74,904 in FAA grant funding for airport pavement maintenance, and introductions of ordinances for water and sewer funding and land disposal rules. The council will also vote on a resolution to certify the October 5 election results and consider a vehicle purchase authorization up to $290,000.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 21-16: $74,904 FAA grant for airport pavement maintenance
• Ordinance 21-17: $2,616,209 in COVID relief funds for water and sewer enterprise funds
• Ordinance 21-18: Expand council approval for all city-owned land disposals
• Resolution 21-21: One-year lease agreement with State of Alaska for AMCO investigator in police department
• Action Memo 21-45: Authorize vehicle purchases up to $290,000

City Council Regular

The Wasilla City Council will consider consent agenda items including an ordinance to appropriate $74,904 in Federal Aviation Administration grant funding for the Wasilla Municipal Airport Pavement Maintenance Project, a resolution authorizing participation in Alaska opioid settlements, and two contract awards. The council will also receive a COVID-19 update from administration and hear a mayoral proclamation recognizing October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

• Ordinance 21-16: Appropriating $74,904 in FAA grant funding for airport pavement maintenance
• Resolution 21-20: Authorizing city participation in Alaska opioid settlements
• AM 21-43: Contract award to Bob's Services, LLC for $43,360 for a 2,500 gallon skid mounted water tank
• AM 21-44: Contract award to Alaska Permanent Capital Management for $45,000 for investment management services
• Mayoral proclamation recognizing October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month

City Council Regular

The Wasilla City Council will consider consent agenda items including a five-year contract for Rave 911 Suite licensing and a software purchase to update the city's Emergency Operations Plan. The meeting also includes a mayoral proclamation for Recovery Month, reports from commissions and agencies, and an update on COVID-19 emergency response efforts.

• AM No. 21-40: Award 5-year contract to Rave Mobile Safety for $172,805 for Rave 911 Suite licensing
• AM No. 21-41: Award contract to BOLDplanning for $24,920 for emergency operations plan software
• AM No. 21-42: Approve 2022 City Council regular meeting schedule
• Mayoral proclamation recognizing September as Recovery Month
• Update from administration on COVID-19 emergency response efforts

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Wasilla Parks and Recreation Commission will consider Resolution 21-03, which supports the Mat-Su Softball Association's proposal to develop two additional softball fields and additional parking at Bumpus Ballfields Complex. The meeting also includes approval of the July 14, 2021 minutes, staff reports, and public comments. The commission will decide whether to formally endorse the project.

• Resolution 21-03: Support for two additional softball fields and additional parking at Bumpus Ballfields Complex
• Approval of minutes from July 14, 2021
• Public comments from Matsu Softball Association
• Staff reports on parks and recreation activities

City Council Regular

The Wasilla City Council will consider consent agenda items including a $272,450 contract for a 2021 Cat 140 motor grader, a $98,560 amendment for airport pavement maintenance, and a $42,075 amendment for sales tax software. The agenda also includes proclamations for Patriot Day and Suicide Prevention Week, a presentation on the Youth 360 program, and an update on COVID-19 emergency response. No public hearings are scheduled.

• Contract award to NC Machinery for $272,450 for a 2021 Cat 140 motor grader
• Contract amendment to North Star Excavation & Asphalt for $98,560 for airport pavement maintenance
• Contract amendment to MUNIRevs for $42,075 for sales tax software change orders
• Proclamations recognizing September 11 as Patriot Day and National Suicide Prevention Week
• Youth 360 project overview presentation

Planning Commission Regular

The Wasilla Planning Commission will hold public hearings on three conditional use permits for new commercial buildings, including a restaurant, a market with a gas station, and a retail building with outdoor dining. The commission will also discuss revisions to landscape regulations for industrially zoned lots and consider a resolution supporting an archery range at Lake Lucile Park.

• Conditional Use #21-04: 5,000 sq ft commercial building with outdoor dining at 1080 E. Steam Commons Avenue (applicant Greg Persinger, PWH Ridge Retail LLC)
• Conditional Use #21-05: 5,748 sq ft Three Bears market with 10-pump gas station at 1150 E. Steam Commons Avenue (applicant Pat Eder, The Design Company)
• Conditional Use #21-06: 10,500 sq ft restaurant with outdoor dining and entertainment area at 3001 E. Sun Mountain Avenue (applicant Tim Alley, The Boutet Company)
• Resolution 21-09: Supporting recommendation for a static archery range at Lake Lucile Park by Alaska Bowhunter's Association
• Continued discussion on revisions to landscape regulations for industrially zoned lots

City Council Regular

The Wasilla City Council will hold public hearings on two budget amendments: one appropriating $27,000 for a salary survey study and another appropriating $70,200 to buy Lot 10, Block 2 of the Wasilla Townsite for future downtown parking. The council will also vote on consent agenda items including contracts for railroad crossing inspections, road salt, and a trail project, and receive an update on COVID-19 emergency response efforts.

• Ordinance 21-14: $27,000 from general fund for a salary survey study by Northern Economics
• Ordinance 21-15: $70,200 from land bank for purchase of Lot 10, Block 2, Wasilla Townsite ($67,200 purchase + $3,000 closing)
• AM 21-34: $62,250 to Alaska Railroad for signal crossing inspections/maintenance (FY2022)
• AM 21-35: $40,950 to Bering Marine Corp for 210 tons of road salt
• AM 21-36: $49,900 contract to K&H Civil Constructors for Maureen McCombs Trail Project

City Council Special - 29 Jul 2021 - RS No. 21-19 - Opposing MSB's Sales Tax Initiative

The Wasilla City Council will consider adopting Resolution Serial No. 21-19, which opposes the Matanuska-Susitna Borough's proposed 1.5% areawide sales tax and $73,685,000 bond package for transportation projects. The resolution argues the tax would burden city residents and businesses, provide only 7.4% of funds for projects within Wasilla, and conflict with the city's own sales tax structure. The council is deciding whether to formally oppose the borough's ballot measure for the November 2, 2021 election.

• Resolution opposing MSB Ordinance 21-077 (1.5% sales tax) and 21-076 ($73,685,000 bonds)
• Only two of 22 projects are within Wasilla, totaling $5.5 million (7.4% of bond package)
• City derives 76% of General Fund revenue from sales tax; additional tax may force property tax re-imposition
• Proposed tax would add to Wasilla's existing 2.5% sales tax, totaling 4%
• Public participation and audience comments are on the agenda

City Council Regular

The Wasilla City Council will consider two ordinances amending the FY2022 budget: one appropriating $27,000 for a salary survey study and another appropriating $70,200 to purchase Lot 10, Block 2 of the Wasilla Townsite. The council will also vote on a consent agenda that includes awarding a $40,653 contract for sewer effluent pumps and confirming election officials for the October 5, 2021 election. An update on COVID-19 emergency response efforts is scheduled as new business.

• Ordinance 21-14: $27,000 for salary survey study (Northern Economics proposal)
• Ordinance 21-15: $70,200 for purchase of Lot 10, Block 2, Wasilla Townsite
• AM 21-33: $40,653 contract to Frontier Supply Company for sewer effluent pumps
• AM 21-32: Confirmation of election officials for October 5, 2021 regular election
• COVID-19 emergency response update (Committee of the Whole)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Wasilla Parks and Recreation Commission will consider Resolution 21-02, which expresses support for the Alaskan Bowhunter's Association building a static archery range in the eastern corner of Lake Lucile Park. The commission will also approve the May 12, 2021 minutes and review the action log. The meeting includes public comment periods.

• Resolution 21-02: supporting development of a static archery range at Lake Lucile Park
• Range to be built at Alaskan Bowhunter's Association expense, with maintenance by the association
• Range use limited to members, with free use for schools, churches, and youth groups
• Approval of May 12, 2021 meeting minutes
• Review of Parks and Recreation action log

CANCELLED - Planning Commission Regular

The Wasilla Planning Commission's regular meeting scheduled for July 13, 2021, has been cancelled. The next regular meeting is set for August 10, 2021. No agenda items were discussed or decided.

• Meeting cancelled; next regular meeting August 10, 2021

City Council Regular

The Wasilla City Council will consider two consent resolutions: one transferring $11,699 within an accounting fund for a motorized window blind system at the new Police Department building, and another accepting Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (estimated at $2.6 million) from the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development. The council will also discuss road construction design and development standards and receive an update on COVID-19 emergency response efforts.

• Resolution 21-17: Transfer $11,699 for motorized window blinds at new Police Department building
• Resolution 21-18: Accept ARPA Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (estimated $2.6M) from State of Alaska
• Discussion on road construction design and development standards (requested by Council Members Johnson and Rausa)
• Update from administration on COVID-19 emergency response efforts
• Consent agenda includes approval of June 28, 2021 meeting minutes

City Council Regular

The Wasilla City Council will consider accepting a $300,000 Federal Aviation Administration grant for the Wasilla Municipal Airport Pavement Maintenance Project, along with related contracts for construction and engineering services. The agenda also includes a proclamation honoring Independence Day, an update on COVID-19 emergency response, and routine consent items such as meeting minutes and financial reports.

• Resolution 21-16: Accept $300,000 FAA grant for airport pavement maintenance (crack repair/sealing on runway and taxiways)
• AM 21-28: Award $166,530 contract to North Star Excavation & Asphalt for airport pavement maintenance
• AM 21-29: Amend HDL Engineering Consultants contract by $34,910 for construction administration services
• AM 21-30: Award $971,273 base bid to Big Dipper Construction for Road Paving Program 2021-2022
• AM 21-31: Extend Big Dipper Construction contract by $879,250 for FY2022 equipment rental with operator

RESCHEDULED from June 15, 2021, Planning Commission Special

The Wasilla Planning Commission is holding a special meeting rescheduled from June 15 to June 22, 2021. The main item is continued discussion on revisions to landscaping regulations for industrially zoned lots and other minor amendments. The agenda also includes consent items, reports, and public comment periods.

• Continued discussion on landscape regulation revisions for industrially zoned lots
• Approval of May 25, 2021 special meeting minutes
• Permit and enforcement logs for review
• Matanuska-Susitna Borough Planning Commission agenda for June 21, 2021

City Council Regular

The Wasilla City Council will hold a public hearing on Ordinance 21-13 to align local sales tax rules with the Alaska Uniform Remote Seller Sales Tax Code, including new definitions for services and filing options. The council will also consider consent agenda items, including a $413,017.11 DHSS grant for COVID-19 testing and vaccination, a $62,500 annual naming rights agreement for the Curtis D. Menard Memorial Sports Center Turf Arena, and contracts for parking lot improvements and banking services. An update on COVID-19 emergency response efforts is scheduled.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 21-13 to amend sales tax code for remote seller alignment
• Resolution 21-14: Accept $413,017.11 DHSS grant for COVID-19 testing/vaccination, transfer to Mat-Su Health Foundation
• Resolution 21-15: Authorize 3-year renewal of $62,500/year naming rights agreement with Matanuska Telephone Association for Curtis D. Menard Memorial Sports Center Turf Arena
• AM 21-26: $129,200 contract amendment to Big Dipper Construction for Townsite Parking Lot Improvements FY2022
• AM 21-27: Award 3-year $83,730 banking services contract to First National Bank Alaska

Planning Commission Special - 25 May 2021 - RESCHEDULED FROM MAY 11, 2021

The Wasilla Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a conditional use permit for a 12,571-square-foot office building at 800 E. Railroad Avenue, including a requested height of 40.5 feet (5.5 feet above the 35-foot limit). The commission will also continue discussions on landscape regulations for industrially zoned lots. The agenda includes routine items like minutes approval and reports.

• Conditional Use #21-03: 12,571 sq ft office building, 40.5-ft max height (5.5 ft over limit), 800 E. Railroad Avenue, 1.74 acres, Commercial zoning
• Continued Committee of the Whole discussion on landscape regulations for industrially zoned lots
• Consent agenda: approval of April 27, 2021 special meeting minutes
• Permit log and enforcement log communications

City Council Regular

The Wasilla City Council will hold public hearings on three ordinances: one amending election procedures for ballot questions, absentee voting, write-in tallies, and recounts; one accepting a $50,000 grant for Maureen McCombs Trail improvements; and one appropriating $72,200 for City Hall remodel professional services. The council will also consider consent agenda items including a sales tax ordinance introduction, resolutions on COVID-19 alcohol license support, salary structures, a code of ethics, and a soccer field land use agreement, plus contracts for lab testing and the remodel. A presentation on Alaska redistricting is scheduled.

• Public hearing: Ordinance 21-10 amending election code (ballot question deadlines, absentee drop box, write-in tally, recount rules)
• Public hearing: Ordinance 21-11 accepting $50,000 Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation grant for Maureen McCombs Trail
• Public hearing: Ordinance 21-12 appropriating $72,200 from General Fund for City Hall remodel professional services
• Consent: Resolution 21-09 supporting waiver of alcohol license petition requirements due to COVID-19
• Consent: AM 21-22 awarding $78,795 three-year contract to ARS Aleut Analytical for water/wastewater lab testing

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Wasilla Parks and Recreation Commission will hold a regular meeting to consider Resolution 21-02, which supports a proposed $13.2 million general obligation bond for the Fairbanks to Seward Multi-Use Trail (Alaska Long Trail). The agenda also includes unfinished business on the Arbor Day Run and approval of the March 10, 2021 minutes. The meeting is scheduled for May 12, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. at the Menard Sports Center.

• Resolution 21-02: Support for $13.2M general obligation bond for the Fairbanks to Seward Multi-Use Trail (Alaska Long Trail)
• Unfinished business: Arbor Day Run planning
• Approval of March 10, 2021 meeting minutes
• Public comments (3 minutes per person)
• Next meeting date: July 14, 2021

City Council Regular

The Wasilla City Council will hold public hearings on two ordinances: one to amend street improvement cost allocation rules, and another to appropriate $265,000 from the water fund for the Richmond Hills Booster Station Upgrade project. The council will also receive a presentation from Matanuska Electric Association on a power improvement study, and consider consent agenda items including contracts and budget amendments.

• Ordinance 21-08: Amends WMC 5.20.050 to allow flexibility in forming Limited Improvement Districts for street improvements
• Ordinance 21-09: Appropriates $265,000 from Water Fund for Richmond Hills Booster Station Upgrade design
• Resolution 21-07: Authorizes agreement with EmJays Mobile Food Vending for concessions at Menard Center, receiving $5,448 for one year
• Resolution 21-08: Authorizes 10-year lease of Wasilla Train Depot to Greater Wasilla Chamber of Commerce
• AM 21-24: Awards $256,540 contract to CRW Engineering for Richmond Hills Booster Station engineering

City Council Special - 28 Apr 2021 (SECOND BUDGET PUBLIC HEARING, DELIBERATIONS, AND POSSIBLE ADOPTION OF FY22 BUDGET)

The Wasilla City Council is holding the second public hearing on Ordinance Serial No. 21-21, which would adopt the annual budget for Fiscal Year 2022 and appropriate $34,122,004. The council will deliberate and may adopt the budget. The ordinance sets the property tax levy at 0.0 mills and would take effect July 1, 2021.

• Ordinance 21-21: FY2022 budget of $34,122,004, including $4,106,966 in transfers between funds
• Property tax levy fixed at 0.0 mills
• General Fund total: $24,674,141
• Public Safety (Police) budget: $11,522,758
• Public hearing continued from April 26, 2021

Planning Commission Regular - 27 Apr 2021 - RESCHEDULED from April 13, 2021

The Wasilla Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a conditional use permit for an 18,189-square-foot auto repair facility at 2861 E. Sun Mountain Avenue and 2860 E. Mountain Village Circle. They will also consider a resolution supporting the development of additional soccer fields at Bumpus Recreational Area. The meeting includes continued discussion on landscape regulation revisions for industrially zoned lots.

• Conditional Use #21-02: 18,189 sq ft auto repair facility at 2861 E. Sun Mountain Avenue and 2860 E. Mountain Village Circle
• Resolution #21-04: Support for additional soccer fields at Bumpus Recreational Area by Wasilla Youth Soccer Association
• Continued discussion on landscape regulations for industrially zoned lots
• Public testimony options due to COVID-19: in-person, written, or telephonic

City Council Regular

The Wasilla City Council is meeting to consider several ordinances, including a public hearing on the FY2022 budget and an appropriation for the 2021 airshow. They will also discuss a COVID-19 update and receive reports from advisory committees. The agenda includes consent items for minutes and introductions of ordinances for future hearings.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 21-07: Appropriating $11,793 from General Fund balance for the 2021 Airshow
• Public hearing on Ordinance 21-21: Adopting the FY2022 annual budget (second hearing on April 28)
• Introduction of Ordinance 21-08: Amending municipal code on street improvement cost allocation
• Introduction of Ordinance 21-09: Appropriating $265,000 from Water Fund for Richmond Hills Booster Upgrade Project
• Update from administration on COVID-19 emergency response efforts

Airport Advisory Commission

The Wasilla Airport Advisory Commission is holding a regular meeting with a light agenda. The main action is nominating a vice chairman, a position tabled at the July 2020 meeting. The commission will also approve the July 2020 minutes and hear staff reports and public comments. No new business items are listed on the agenda.

• Nomination of Vice Chairman (tabled from July 16, 2020 meeting)
• Approval of July 16, 2020 regular meeting minutes
• Public comments (three minutes per person)
• Staff reports from Public Works Director

City Council Special - 19 Apr 2021 - (FY22 Budget Discussion to include Departmental Presentations)

The Wasilla City Council is holding a special meeting to discuss the proposed Fiscal Year 2022 budget, including departmental presentations. The budget ordinance (Serial No. 21-21) appropriates $34,122,004 for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2021, with a tax levy of 0.0 mills. Discussions may continue to a subsequent special meeting on April 21.

• FY2022 budget appropriation of $34,122,004
• Police department budget $11,522,758
• Dispatch (Mat-Com) budget $5,094,718
• Library budget $1,443,535
• Curtis D. Menard Memorial Sports Center fund $1,714,569

City Council Special - 14 Apr 2021 - (FY22 Budget Discussion to include Departmental Presentations)

The Wasilla City Council is holding a special meeting to discuss the proposed Fiscal Year 2022 budget, including departmental presentations. The budget ordinance (Serial No. 21-21) appropriates $34,122,004 and sets the property tax levy at 0.0 mills. The meeting is part of a series, with further discussion scheduled for April 19, 2021.

• Proposed FY2022 budget totals $34,122,004, including $4,106,966 in transfers between funds.
• Property tax levy set at 0.0 mills for FY2022.
• Departmental presentations cover MIS, Planning, Administration, HR, Finance, Code Compliance, Public Works, and more.
• Police Department budget proposed at $11,522,758, a 0.12% increase from FY2021 amended budget.
• Operating revenue projected at $28,537,590, a 1.29% increase from FY2021 amended budget.

City Council Regular

The Wasilla City Council will hear a presentation on the proposed Fiscal Year 2022 budget, which totals $28.78 million in sources and $25.22 million in uses, and will hold a public hearing on a resolution approving up to $7 million in revenue bonds for a Goodwill Industries project. The council will also consider consent agenda items including budget amendments and contract extensions for the Spruce Avenue Well House upgrades.

• FY2022 budget presentation (Ordinance 21-21) with $28.78M total sources and $25.22M uses
• Resolution 21-06: Approve up to $7,000,000 in revenue bonds for Goodwill Industries project
• Ordinance 21-07: Appropriate $11,793 for FY2021 Airshow
• Contract extension to TECPRO for $99,043 (Spruce Avenue Well House electrical)
• Contract extension to Wheaton Wells for $50,157 (Spruce Avenue Well House well services)

City Council Regular

The Wasilla City Council will hold public hearings on two budget amendments: one appropriating $315,000 from the water fund for the Spruce Avenue Well House upgrade, and another appropriating $20,500 for Planning Department legal services. The council will also consider consent agenda items including a $43,160 contract amendment for engineering services on the well project, authorizing the mayor as a pre-MPO policy board member, and approving the FY2022 road paving program. An update on COVID-19 emergency response efforts is scheduled.

• Ordinance 21-05: $315,000 from Water Fund for Spruce Avenue Well House upgrade
• Ordinance 21-06: $20,500 from General Fund for Planning legal services
• AM 21-16: $43,160 contract amendment to HDL Engineering for well house engineering
• AM 21-18: Authorizing FY2022 road paving program
• Proclamation recognizing Education and Sharing Day on March 24, 2021

City Council Special - 18 Mar (Policing in the 21st Century: The City’s Public Safety Model.)

The Wasilla City Council is holding a special meeting to discuss the city's public safety model, including use of force, policies and procedures, officer retention and recruitment, and public safety tools. The agenda includes public comments submitted about an alleged excessive-force incident involving an Alaska Native woman, and the council may take action after the committee-of-the-whole discussion.

• Discussion of community policing and the city's public safety model
• Review of use-of-force policies and procedures
• Officer retention and recruitment
• Public safety tools and resources
• Two public comments submitted about an alleged police use-of-force incident

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Wasilla Parks and Recreation Commission will consider Resolution 21-01 supporting the development of additional soccer fields at the Bumpus Ballfield Complex, and will discuss the Skate the Lake event, Arbor Day Run 2021, Clean up Days 2021, and a Recreational Trails Program grant. The agenda also includes approval of the January 13, 2021 minutes and a staff action log.

• Resolution 21-01: supporting additional soccer fields at Bumpus Ballfield Complex, tax parcel D4 south of Mystery Avenue
• Skate the Lake event (unfinished business)
• Arbor Day Run 2021 (new business)
• Clean up Days 2021 (new business)
• Recreational Trails Program Grant (new business)

Planning Commission Regular

The Wasilla Planning Commission will hold public hearings on two requests from The Boutet Company for the Shoppes at Sun Mountain: a conditional use permit to reduce retail space by 411,700 square feet to allow a 107-room hotel and a 3,000-square-foot bank, plus a height variance for the hotel (54 feet vs. 35-foot limit) and three wall-sign height variances. The commission will also discuss landscape regulation revisions for industrial lots in a Committee of the Whole. The agenda includes routine items like minutes approval and officer elections.

• Conditional Use #21-01: reduce retail space by 411,700 SF for 107-room hotel (Unit H) and 3,000 SF bank (Unit F)
• Hotel height variance: 54 feet, 19 feet above the 35-foot commercial limit
• Variance #21-01: three wall-sign height variances (51.5 ft west, 48 ft south, 48 ft east) vs. 30-foot limit
• Committee of the Whole: discuss revisions to landscape regulations for industrially zoned lots
• Consent agenda: approve minutes of December 8, 2020 regular meeting

City Council Regular

The Wasilla City Council will consider appropriating $315,000 from the water fund balance for the Spruce Avenue Well House Upgrade project, following a well pump failure on February 12, 2021. The agenda also includes contract awards for the MATCOM generator replacement and the Spruce Avenue well project, a ten-year lease agreement with the Iditarod Trail Committee, and discussion on future COVID-19 relief and recovery grant programs. The meeting includes a public hearing (none scheduled) and consent agenda items.

• Ordinance 21-05: $315,000 from Water Fund for Spruce Avenue Well House Upgrade
• Ordinance 21-06: $20,500 from General Fund for Planning Department legal services
• Resolution 21-05: Ten-year lease agreement with Iditarod Trail Committee for headquarters building
• AM 21-14: $86,352 contract to Nodak Electric for MATCOM generator replacement
• AM 21-15: $64,156 contract to TECPRO for Spruce Avenue Well House Upgrade

City Council Regular

The Wasilla City Council will hold a public hearing on an ordinance appropriating $245,000 from the Water Fund for a water quality investigation in the Ranch Subdivision, which has persistent brown-water complaints. The council will also consider several consent agenda items, including fuel contracts and extensions for the same investigation, plus discuss COVID-19 relief grant programs.

• Ordinance 21-04: $245,000 appropriation for Ranch Subdivision water quality investigation
• AM 21-10: $91,706 fuel contract to Holiday Stationstores for FY2021, $73,928 for FY2022
• AM 21-11: $174,200 contract extension to Stantec for water quality investigation
• AM 21-12: $70,200 extension to ARS Aleut Analytical for lab services
• AM 21-13: $62,000 extension to Big Dipper Construction for wastewater outfall improvements

City Council Special - 10 Feb 2021- (FY22 Budget Planning - Discussion on Clerk, Council, and Records Management Budgets)

The Wasilla City Council is holding a special meeting to discuss the proposed Fiscal Year 2022 budgets for the Clerk's Office, Records Management, and the Council itself. The budgets were prepared by the City Clerk's office, with some line items calculated by the Finance Director. The council may take action on these budgets after discussion.

• Clerk's Office proposed budget: $508,067, up 2.89% from FY2021 amended budget
• Records Management proposed budget: $14,425, up 0.35% from FY2021
• Council proposed budget: $206,473, up 3.41% from FY2021
• Council budget includes $75,594 for annual audit services and $33,750 for general legal services
• Clerk's Office budget includes $16,000 for publication of public notices and $8,000 for regular election ballot printing

Planning Commission Regular - CANCELLED

This regular meeting of the Wasilla Planning Commission, scheduled for February 9, 2021, was cancelled. No items were discussed or decided.

City Council Regular

The Wasilla City Council will consider appropriating $245,000 from the Water Fund for a water quality investigation in the Ranch Subdivision, which has persistent brown water issues. The consent agenda also includes transferring a portion of the water utility service area to Eagle Utilities, approving COVID-19 relief grants for PPE, and accepting the FY2020 financial audit. The council will also discuss future COVID-19 relief programs.

• Ordinance 21-04: $245,000 appropriation for Ranch Subdivision water quality investigation
• Resolution 21-03: Transfer of portion of city water utility service area to Eagle Utilities
• Resolution 21-04: COVID-19 Relief and Recovery Grants Program Phase V for PPE
• AM 21-08: Acceptance of FY2020 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report
• AM 21-09: Appointments to Wasilla Airshow Advisory Committee

City Council Regular

The Wasilla City Council will vote on a consent agenda item awarding a $9,444 contract to Guardian Security Systems, Inc. for a new security camera system at City Hall. The council will also discuss and possibly take action on developing Phase V of the city's COVID-19 Relief and Recovery Grants Program, following an update on emergency response efforts. The agenda includes routine items like meeting minutes and informational reports, with no public hearings scheduled.

• Contract award to Guardian Security Systems, Inc. for $9,444 for a security camera system at City Hall (AM No. 21-07)
• Discussion and possible action on COVID-19 Relief and Recovery Grants Program Phase V
• Update from administration on COVID-19 emergency response efforts
• Informational memo designating City Hall as early in-person voting location (IM No. 21-01)
• Monthly financial reports for period ending December 31, 2020 (IM No. 21-02)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Wasilla Parks and Recreation Commission is holding a regular meeting with a standard agenda including call to order, roll call, approval of agenda and minutes, staff reports, public comments, and new business. The only substantive item listed is approval of the November 4, 2020 minutes. The meeting is largely procedural with no major decisions or discussions listed.

• Approval of November 4, 2020 meeting minutes
• Public comments limited to 3 minutes per person
• Next meeting scheduled for March 10, 2021 at 6 p.m. at Menard Sports Center

City Council Regular

The Wasilla City Council is meeting to introduce three budget-amending ordinances and vote on consent agenda items. The ordinances cover a $500 donation for a Veterans Wall bench, $65,000 in state funding for Knik Goose Bay Road utility relocation engineering, and a $51,000 land purchase for storm water improvements. The consent agenda includes contract awards for police dispatch equipment and software, plus appointments and policy approvals.

• Ordinance 21-01: $500 AMVETS donation for Veterans Wall bench
• Ordinance 21-02: $65,000 ADOT&PF funding for Knik Goose Bay Road utility engineering
• Ordinance 21-03: $51,000 purchase of Lot 1, Block 2, Utopia Meadows for E. Beech Way storm water improvements
• AM 21-03: $213,150 five-year contract to Comtech Solacom for 911 software and licensing
• AM 21-05: $152,163 contract to ProComm Alaska for four Avtec dispatch consoles at new police department