Sitka, AK

City and Borough Assembly

The Sitka City and Borough Assembly is holding a special meeting to interview two finalists for the position of Municipal Administrator: Jeremy Marshall and Gerri Cotter. After the interviews, the Assembly will discuss, direct, and decide on the candidates, possibly in an executive session. Public comment is also scheduled.

• Interview of Jeremy Marshall for Municipal Administrator (via Zoom at 5:00 p.m.)
• Interview of Gerri Cotter for Municipal Administrator (via Zoom at 6:10 p.m.)
• Discussion, direction, and decision on the interviews, with possible executive session
• Public participation on any agenda or off-agenda item (3-minute limit per person)

Planning Commission

The Sitka Planning Commission will hold public hearings on a conditional use permit for a food truck lot at 328 Lincoln Street, two variances and a preliminary plat for a three-lot subdivision at 1306 Halibut Point Road, and discuss zoning code changes for accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The commission will also consider approving the August 5, 2026 meeting minutes.

• Conditional use permit for food truck lot at 328 Lincoln Street (Lot 1, Columbia Bar Subdivision), filed by Drew Wilson
• Major zoning variance to reduce required parking from two spaces to zero at 1306 Halibut Point Road, filed by Randy Hughey for Sitka Community Land Trust
• Platting variance to reduce minimum lot width from 80 to 43 feet and lot size from 6,000 to 4,000 sq ft at 1306 Halibut Point Road
• Preliminary plat for minor subdivision into three lots at 1306 Halibut Point Road
• Discussion of zoning code changes for accessory dwelling units (ADUs)

City and Borough Assembly

The Sitka Assembly will hold a first reading of an ordinance that repeals the current taxicab chapter and replaces it with new commercial passenger vehicle regulations, also amending parking rules for buses and taxicabs. The agenda also includes a supplemental appropriation for a fee waiver at Harrigan Centennial Hall, an amendment to a parks and recreation master plan agreement, and several routine items such as minutes approval, marijuana license renewals, and a planning commission reappointment. The meeting will also include a presentation on cruise activity and economic impacts, and an executive session to screen municipal administrator applicants.

• First reading of ORD 26-20 replacing taxicab regulations with commercial passenger vehicle rules
• Supplemental appropriation for FY2027 for Harrigan Centennial Hall fee waiver (ORD 26-19)
• Approve retail marijuana license renewals for The Joint (327 Seward St) and Weed Dudes (1321 Sawmill Creek Rd)
• Reappoint Darrell Windsor to Planning Commission for three-year term
• Approve First Amendment to MOA with Sitka Recreation Foundation for Parks and Recreation Master Plan

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings to consider a zoning variance and two property subdivision or merger requests. These decisions affect how land is divided and used at specific addresses in the city.

• Public hearing for a zoning variance to reduce front setback from 14 to 8 feet at 414 Marine Street
• Public hearing for a lot merger and property line adjustment at 1515, 1533, 1535, 1537, 1545, and 1547 Sawmill Creek Road
• Public hearing for a preliminary plat for a minor subdivision to create two lots at 1211 Sawmill Creek

Planning Commission

The Sitka Planning Commission will hold public hearings on three land-use requests: a front setback variance at 414 Marine Street, a lot merger and property line adjustment on Sawmill Creek Road, and a preliminary plat for a minor subdivision on Sawmill Creek Road. The commission will also consider approving the July 1, 2026 meeting minutes and hear public comment on non-agenda items.

• VAR 26-04: Request to reduce front setback from 14 to 8 feet at 414 Marine Street (R-2 district), filed by Michael Davidson
• P 26-05: Lot merger and property line adjustment to create four lots at 1515-1547 Sawmill Creek Road (C-1 district), filed by Trevor Harang for Harang AK Properties, LLC
• P 26-06: Preliminary plat for a minor subdivision to create two lots at 1211 Sawmill Creek Road (C-2 district), filed by Werner Macedo for Bell & Associates, owner Carr-Gottstein Foods Co.
• Approval of July 1, 2026 meeting minutes (PM 26-12)

Planning Commission

The Sitka Planning Commission will convene a routine meeting with no substantive agenda items. The body will consider the agenda, minutes, and public comments, but no decisions or discussions on zoning, contracts, or ordinances are listed.

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will meet to conduct regular business. The agenda contains placeholder text and does not list specific decisions or discussion topics.

• ZA 26-02 TEST

City and Borough Assembly

The Sitka Assembly will hold a regular meeting on July 28, 2026, with several new business items including supplemental appropriations for the Parks and Recreation Master Plan and a fee waiver for Harrigan Centennial Hall, as well as authorizing a lease to Northern Southeast Regional Aquaculture Association at Gary Paxton Industrial Park. The assembly will also discuss requests for proposals for long-term leases of two lots at the industrial park for private sector development, and provide direction on next steps for recruiting a new municipal administrator. Consent agenda includes approval of previous meeting minutes.

• ORD 26-17: Supplemental appropriations for FY2027 (Additional Sitka Recreation Foundation Support – Parks and Recreation Master Plan)
• ORD 26-18: Authorizing lease of Block 4, Lot 1 of Gary Paxton Industrial Park to Northern Southeast Regional Aquaculture Association
• ORD 26-19: Supplemental appropriations for FY2027 (Harrigan Centennial Hall Fee Waiver)
• 26-127: Approve Request for Proposal for long-term lease of Lot 16B at Gary Paxton Industrial Park for private sector development
• 26-128: Approve Request for Proposal for long-term lease of a portion of Lot 6 at Gary Paxton Industrial Park for marine vessel and marine services

The Assembly approved Ordinance 26-17 on second reading, adding supplemental appropriations for FY2027 to support the Sitka Recreation Foundation's Parks and Recreation Master Plan, with an amendment clarifying the city won't assume liability for the foundation's contracts. They also approved leases for two Gary Paxton Industrial Park lots and selected the Lincoln Street project for a FY2027 legislative grant.

• Approved ORD 26-17 supplemental appropriations for recreation master plan (7-0)
• Amended MOA to state city won't assume liability for foundation contracts (7-0)
• Approved ORD 26-18 lease of Block 4, Lot 1 to Northern Southeast Regional Aquaculture Association (6-0, Ystad recused)
• Approved ORD 26-19 first reading for Harrigan Centennial Hall fee waiver (7-0)
• Approved RFP for long-term lease of Lot 16B at Gary Paxton Industrial Park (7-0)
• Approved RFP for long-term lease of portion of Lot 6 at Gary Paxton Industrial Park (7-0)
• Selected Lincoln Street project for FY2027 Designated Legislative Grant
• Approved consent agenda including July 14 meeting minutes (7-0)

City and Borough Assembly

The City and Borough of Sitka Assembly held a work session on child care. Members will review a memo from Assembly members Mosher and Christianson, the 2026 Sitka Child Care Report, an executive brief on the child care system, the ECC survey, and career pathway cost information. The discussion focuses on the current child care system and related costs.

• Memo from Assembly Members Mosher and Christianson
• Sitka Child Care Report 2026
• Sitka Child Care System Executive Brief
• Sitka ECC Survey
• Career Pathway Costs sent to Assembly

City and Borough Assembly

The Assembly will consider several ordinances including a lease for the Gary Paxton Industrial Park and supplemental appropriations for the Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Discussion also includes a resolution regarding a legal services contract for microplastics contamination claims and filling an Assembly vacancy.

• ORD 26-18: Lease of Block 4, Lot 1 of Gary Paxton Industrial Park to Northern Southeast Regional Aquaculture Association, Inc.
• RES 26-06: Legal services contract with David Grossman & Associates PLLC regarding microplastics and PFAS contamination
• ORD 26-17: Supplemental appropriations for Sitka Recreation Foundation support
• ORD 26-16: Amendment to Title 4 Sales Tax regarding security and bonds
• 26-116: Liquor license endorsements for Cold Water Bar & Grill at 330 Seward Street

The Assembly addressed several administrative items including liquor license endorsements and board appointments. New business included a supplemental appropriation for the Parks and Recreation Master Plan and an industrial park lease authorization.

• Approved June 23 meeting minutes (26-115)
• Approved two liquor license endorsement applications for Cold Water Bar & Grill (26-116)
• Appointed Maria Capezio Crookes to the Library Commission (26-117)
• Reappointed Scott Wagner to the Gary Paxton Industrial Park Board (26-117)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider a minor zoning variance requested by James Penny. The request involves reducing two side setbacks from 15 feet to 10 feet for a boundary line adjustment at 2013 and 2015 Sawmill Creek Road.

• Zoning variance (VAR 26-03) for 2013 and 2015 Sawmill Creek Road
• Reduction of side setbacks from 15 feet to 10 feet

Planning Commission

The Sitka Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and consider a minor zoning variance request to reduce two side setbacks from 15 feet to 10 feet for a proposed boundary line adjustment at 2013 and 2015 Sawmill Creek Road. The agenda also includes routine items such as approving the June 17, 2026 meeting minutes, public comments, and the planning director's report.

• Public hearing on VAR 26-03: minor zoning variance to reduce side setbacks from 15 to 10 feet at 2013 and 2015 Sawmill Creek Road (Lot 2A and Lot 2B, U.S. Survey 3302), filed by James Penny
• Approve June 17, 2026 meeting minutes (PM 26-11)

The Sitka Planning Commission approved a minor zoning variance allowing reduced side setbacks from 15 to 10 feet at 2013 and 2015 Sawmill Creek Road, facilitating a boundary line adjustment. The motion passed 4-0, and the required findings were also adopted. The meeting also included approval of the June 17, 2026 minutes and a note that the July 15 meeting was canceled.

• Approved minor zoning variance VAR 26-03 to reduce side setbacks from 15 to 10 feet at 2013/2015 Sawmill Creek Road (4-0)
• Adopted required findings for minor variance VAR 26-03 (4-0)
• Approved June 17, 2026 meeting minutes (4-0)

City and Borough Assembly

The Sitka Assembly will review quarterly financial and police reports, approve a supplemental budget for Secure Rural Schools, and consider zoning and tax code amendments. The body will also reappoint a member to the Investment Committee, screen candidates for Municipal Administrator in executive session, and recognize a service award.

• ORD 26-14: Supplemental appropriations for Secure Rural Schools
• ORD 26-15: Zoning amendment for the Gary Paxton special zone
• ORD 26-16: First reading on personal guaranty requirements for tax payments
• Reappointment of Bert Stedman to the Investment Committee
• Executive session to screen Municipal Administrator applicants

The Assembly approved several ordinances, including supplemental appropriations for FY 2026 Secure Rural Schools, a zoning amendment for the Gary Paxton special zone, and a finance code update. It also reappointed Bert Stedman to the Investment Committee and approved the consent agenda items. The body entered executive session to review municipal administrator applications before adjourning.

• Approved consent agenda, including minutes of June 9 meeting (unanimous 7-0)
• Reappointed Bert Stedman to a three‑year term on the Investment Committee (unanimous 7-0)
• Approved Ordinance 26-14: supplemental appropriations for FY 2026 Secure Rural Schools (unanimous 7-0)
• Approved Ordinance 26-15: amendment to Title 22 zoning for the Gary Paxton special zone (unanimous 7-0)
• Approved Ordinance 26-16: amendment to Title 4 revenue and finance code, Chapter 4.25.330 (unanimous 7-0)
• Entered executive session to screen Municipal Administrator applicants (unanimous 7-0)
• Re‑convened from executive session to regular session (unanimous consent)
• Adjourned the meeting (no objection)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on two major items: a lot merger at 135/137 Knutson Drive and a zoning map amendment to rezone six properties on Halibut Point Road and Kimsham Street from R-1 residential to C-2 general commercial mobile home district. The commission will also consider approving meeting minutes from previous sessions.

• Public hearing on lot merger of Lots 7 and 8, Block 3, Knutson Subdivision (135/137 Knutson Drive) in R-2 district
• Public hearing on zoning map amendment to rezone 1004, 1006, 1008, 1100, 1104 Halibut Point Road and 205 Kimsham Street from R-1 to C-2
• Approval of minutes from May 6, May 20, and June 3, 2026 meetings

The Planning Commission held a public hearing on a zoning map amendment to rezone six properties from R-1 to C-2. After staff raised concerns about spot zoning and several neighbors opposed, all applicants withdrew their requests before any vote. The commission also approved a lot merger at 135/137 Knutson Drive.

• Approved final plat for lot merger at 135/137 Knutson Drive (5-0)
• Adopted findings for lot merger (5-0)
• Rezoning applications for Halibut Point Road and Kimsham Street withdrawn by applicants

Planning Commission

The Sitka Planning Commission will hold public hearings on two items: a final plat for a lot merger at 135/137 Knutson Drive and a zoning map amendment for properties on Halibut Point Road and Kimsham Street. The commission will also consider approving minutes from three prior meetings and hear public comment on non-agenda items.

• Final plat for lot merger at 135/137 Knutson Drive (Lots 7 and 8, Block 3, Knutson Subdivision) in R-2 multifamily residential district
• Zoning map amendment to rezone 1004, 1006, 1008, 1100, 1104 Halibut Point Road and 205 Kimsham Street from R-1 to C-2 general commercial mobile home district
• Approval of minutes for May 6, May 20, and June 3, 2026 meetings
• Public comment period for non-agenda items

The Sitka Planning Commission approved a final plat for a lot merger at 135/137 Knutson Drive, resolving an encroachment, and adopted the associated findings. A proposed zoning map amendment to rezone properties on Halibut Point Road and Kimsham Street from R-1 to C-2 was withdrawn by all applicants after public hearing and deliberation, with no vote taken. The commission also approved minutes from three prior meetings and discussed livestreaming future meetings and a site visit for a cannabis conditional use permit.

• Approved final plat for lot merger at 135/137 Knutson Drive (5-0)
• Adopted findings for lot merger at 135/137 Knutson Drive (5-0)
• Approved minutes for May 6, May 20, and June 3, 2026 meetings (5-0)
• Rezoning application for Halibut Point Road and Kimsham Street withdrawn by applicants

City and Borough Assembly

The Assembly holds a work session to review the Sitka Child Care Report 2026, a system executive brief, and a community survey on child care needs. No formal votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Discussion of Sitka Child Care Report 2026
• Review of Sitka Child Care System Executive Brief
• Presentation of Sitka ECC Survey results

City and Borough Assembly

The Assembly will hold first readings on two ordinances: supplemental appropriations for Secure Rural Schools and amending Title 22 zoning for the Gary Paxton Industrial Park. They will also consider awarding Fisheries Enhancement Fund grants and approving the 2026-2029 PSEA collective bargaining agreement. Consent items include approving minutes and a liquor license renewal for Cold Water Bar & Grill.

• ORD 26-14: Supplemental appropriations for fiscal year 2026 (Secure Rural Schools)
• ORD 26-15: Amending Title 22 zoning for the Gary Paxton special zone
• Award of Fisheries Enhancement Fund request for proposals
• Approve 2026-2029 Public Safety Employees Association collective bargaining agreement
• Liquor license renewal for JL Sitka dba Cold Water Bar & Grill at 330 Seward Street

The Assembly approved the 2026-2029 Public Safety Employees Association (PSEA) Collective Bargaining Agreement (6-0, Mosher absent). They also approved first readings of ordinances for supplemental appropriations from Secure Rural Schools funding and zoning amendments for the Gary Paxton special zone. Additionally, the Assembly awarded $15,631 each to three organizations from the Fisheries Enhancement Fund.

• Approved PSEA Collective Bargaining Agreement 2026-2029 (6-0)
• Approved first reading of supplemental appropriations for Secure Rural Schools (7-0)
• Approved first reading of Gary Paxton special zone zoning amendment (6-0)
• Awarded $15,631 each to Alaska Longline Fishermen's Assn, Sitka Sound Science Center, Sitka Tribe of Alaska from Fisheries Enhancement Fund (6-0)
• Approved liquor license renewal for Cold Water Bar & Grill (consent agenda)
• Approved meeting minutes of May 26 (consent agenda)

Planning Commission

The Sitka Planning Commission will hold public hearings on two conditional use permit applications: one for an accessory dwelling unit at 2011 Sawmill Creek Road and one for an assembly use at the Smokestack building at 801 Lincoln Street. The commission will decide whether to approve these permits after hearing public testimony.

• CUP 26-13: Conditional use permit for an ADU at 2011 Sawmill Creek Road (Lot 1B, Hansen-Ness Subdivision), applicant Casey Finn, owner Finn's Excavation, LLC.
• CUP 26-14: Conditional use permit for assembly use at 801 Lincoln Street (Lot 1-A, Sitka Fine Arts Campus Subdivision), applicant Roger Schmidt, owner Alaska Arts Southeast, Inc.

The Sitka Planning Commission approved two conditional use permits at its June 3, 2026 meeting. The first permit allows an accessory dwelling unit at 2011 Sawmill Creek Road, with waivers for three ADU requirements. The second permit allows assembly use in the Smokestack building at 801 Lincoln Street, with a waiver of additional parking requirements. Both motions passed 4-0 by voice vote.

• Approved conditional use permit for ADU at 2011 Sawmill Creek Road (4-0)
• Adopted findings for ADU conditional use permit (4-0)
• Waived additional parking requirements for assembly use at 801 Lincoln Street (4-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for assembly use at 801 Lincoln Street (4-0)
• Adopted findings for assembly use conditional use permit (4-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings and vote on two conditional use permits: an accessory dwelling unit at 2011 Sawmill Creek Road and an assembly use at 801 Lincoln Street (Smokestack building) for the Sitka Fine Arts Campus.

• CUP 26-13: ADU at 2011 Sawmill Creek Road (R-1 LDMH zone)
• CUP 26-14: Assembly use at 801 Lincoln Street (R-2 zone)
• Public hearings for both permits

The Planning Commission unanimously approved two conditional use permits. The first allowed an accessory dwelling unit at 2011 Sawmill Creek Road with waivers for being the first structure, not matching the future home, and exceeding the 800 square-foot size limit by 10 square feet. The second permit allowed assembly use in the Smokestack building at 801 Lincoln Street on the Sitka Fine Arts Campus, waiving additional parking requirements. Both permits passed 4-0.

• Approved CUP for ADU with three waivers (4-0)
• Adopted findings for ADU CUP (4-0)
• Approved CUP for assembly use at Smokestack building (4-0)
• Waived additional parking requirements for assembly use (4-0)
• Adopted findings for assembly CUP (4-0)

City and Borough Assembly

The City and Borough Assembly will hold a regular meeting to adopt final budgets for fiscal year 2027, including the General Fund, Enterprise Funds, and capital improvement plans. They will also set property tax millage rates for the upcoming year and vote on a charter amendment regarding initiative and referendum to be placed on the October 2026 ballot. Additionally, the assembly will accept the resignation of Assembly Member Timothy Pike and appoint a new member to the Local Emergency Planning Committee.

• Adopt FY2027 budgets for General Fund, Internal Service Funds, Special Revenue Funds, and Enterprise Funds
• Set millage rates for property taxes for FY2027 via RES 26-05
• Propose charter amendment on initiative and referendum (ORD 26-13) for voter approval in October 2026
• Accept resignation of Assembly Member Timothy Pike and determine procedure for filling the vacant seat
• Appoint William Spivey to a three-year term on the Local Emergency Planning Committee

The Assembly approved the FY2027 budgets for both the General Fund and Enterprise Funds, including rate increases for utilities and harbor fees. It also passed a charter amendment placing initiative and referendum changes on the October ballot by a 4-2 vote. Assembly Member Timothy Pike's resignation was accepted effective June 30, with a process for filling the vacancy set.

• Approved consent agenda (minutes, millage rates, liquor license) (6-0)
• Appointed William Spivey to Local Emergency Planning Committee (6-0)
• Approved FY2027 General Fund budget (ORD 26-11) (6-0)
• Approved FY2027 Enterprise Fund budget with rate and moorage fee increases (ORD 26-12) (6-0)
• Approved charter amendment to modify initiative/referendum section, placed on October ballot (ORD 26-13) (4-2)
• Accepted resignation of Assembly Member Timothy Pike effective June 30 (6-0)
• Set vacancy-filling procedure: advertise for letters May 29–July 8, appoint on July 14 (6-0)

Planning Commission

The Sitka Planning Commission will hold public hearings on four items: a plat note amendment for a height restriction, a conceptual minor subdivision, and two conditional use permits for food trucks/trailers. All items are open for public comment.

• Plat note amendment to change build height restriction for Lot 9 at 1415 Davidoff Street (R-2 district)
• Conceptual plat for a 3-lot minor subdivision at 1306 Halibut Point Road (R-2 district)
• Conditional use permit for a food trailer at 330 Seward Street (CBD)
• Conditional use permit for a food truck at 331 Lincoln Street (CBD)

The Sitka Planning Commission approved a plat note amendment for 1415 Davidoff Street, clarifying a height restriction while keeping its intent. It also approved conditional use permits for a food trailer at 330 Seward Street and a food truck at 331 Lincoln Street. A conceptual subdivision at 1306 Halibut Point Road was discussed but no motion was made.

• Approved plat note 8 amendment for Su'S Heeni Shaak Subdivision, Lot 9 (4-0)
• Approved CUP for food trailer at 330 Seward Street (4-0)
• Adopted findings for CUP at 330 Seward Street (4-0)
• Approved CUP for food truck at 331 Lincoln Street (4-0)
• Adopted findings for CUP at 331 Lincoln Street (4-0)
• No motion on conceptual subdivision at 1306 Halibut Point Road

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings and vote on four items: amending a build height restriction on Lot 9 at 1415 Davidoff Street, approving a minor subdivision into three lots at 1306 Halibut Point Road for Sitka Community Land Trust, and issuing conditional use permits for a food trailer at 330 Seward Street and a food truck at 331 Lincoln Street.

• Amend plat note to change build height restriction on Lot 9 at 1415 Davidoff Street (R-2 district)
• Approve conceptual plat for 3-lot minor subdivision at 1306 Halibut Point Road (Sitka Community Land Trust)
• Conditional use permit for food trailer at 330 Seward Street (CBD)
• Conditional use permit for food truck at 331 Lincoln Street (CBD)

The Planning Commission approved an amendment to plat note 8 for the Su'S Heeni Shaak Subdivision, removing a retained setback and subjecting a portion of Lot 9 to a 133-foot height restriction at 1415 Davidoff Street. The commission also approved conditional use permits for a food trailer at 330 Seward Street and a food truck at 331 Lincoln Street, both by 4-0 votes. A conceptual plat for a minor subdivision at 1306 Halibut Point Road was discussed but no motion was made.

• Approved plat note amendment for height restriction at 1415 Davidoff Street (4-0)
• Approved CUP for food trailer at 330 Seward Street (4-0)
• Approved CUP for food truck at 331 Lincoln Street (4-0)

City and Borough Assembly

The Assembly will hold first reading of ordinances adopting the FY2027 operating and capital budgets for all funds, including rate increases for public utilities and harbor fees. They will also discuss a child care needs analysis report and consider a charter amendment on initiative and referendum. Consent items include approving minutes and appointing members to the Local Emergency Planning Committee.

• First reading of FY2027 budget ordinances (ORD 26-11 and 26-12) for General, Enterprise, and Special Revenue Funds
• Amendments to utility rates and harbor fees via ORD 26-12
• Acceptance and discussion of Sitka Child Care Needs Analysis Report (Item 26-093)
• Proposed charter amendment to modify initiative and referendum procedures (ORD 26-13)
• Appointment of Michael Hall and Brian McLaughlin to Local Emergency Planning Committee

The Assembly approved first readings of the FY2026-27 budgets for the General Fund, Internal Service Funds, Special Revenue Funds, and Enterprise Funds. They also accepted the Sitka Child Care Needs Analysis Report and agreed to hold a June work session. Two code amendments (donations and naming of public places) were approved on final reading, and a Home Rule Charter amendment on initiative and referendum was advanced to the October ballot. The Assembly held an executive session to discuss the municipal administrator recruitment.

• Approved April minutes (7-0)
• Appointed Michael Hall and Brian McLaughlin to Local Emergency Planning Committee (7-0)
• Approved Title 1 amendment on accepting donations (7-0)
• Approved Title 14 amendment on naming public places (7-0)
• Approved first reading of FY27 General Fund, Internal Service, Special Revenue budgets (7-0)
• Approved first reading of FY27 Enterprise Fund budgets and amended harbor fees (7-0)
• Approved first reading of Home Rule Charter amendment on initiative/referendum for October ballot (7-0)
• Accepted Sitka Child Care Needs Analysis Report (7-0)

Planning Commission

The Sitka Planning Commission holds public hearings on three conditional use permits: a short-term rental at 111 Wolff Drive, a bed and breakfast at 130 Anna Drive, and a concrete batch plant at 400 Granite Creek Road. The commission also considers a zoning text amendment for the Gary Paxton Industrial Park.

• Short-term rental at 111 Wolff Drive in R-1 district
• Bed and breakfast at 130 Anna Drive in R-2 district
• Concrete batch plant at 400 Granite Creek Road in I industrial district
• Zoning text amendment for GP Gary Paxton Special Zone

The Planning Commission approved conditional use permits for a short-term rental at 111 Wolff Drive, a bed and breakfast at 130 Anna Drive, and a concrete batch plant at 400 Granite Creek Road. It also voted to recommend approval of a zoning text amendment for the Gary Paxton Special Zone. All votes were 3-0 due to a bare quorum.

• Approved conditional use permit for short-term rental at 111 Wolff Drive (3-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for bed and breakfast at 130 Anna Drive (3-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for concrete batch plant at 400 Granite Creek Road (3-0)
• Recommended approval of zoning text amendment for Gary Paxton Special Zone (3-0)

City and Borough Assembly

The Sitka Assembly will consider a resolution authorizing a State Revolving Fund loan for a wastewater treatment plant effluent disinfection system. Other business includes first readings of ordinances on donations, naming public places, and postponing meetings. The assembly will also hear an appeal of a public records request denial and review a sustainability commission work plan.

• Approve liquor license renewals for Sea Mountain Restaurant, The Galley, Dove Island Lodge, and Beak Restaurant
• New liquor license for Wildflour Cafe & Bakery
• First reading of ordinance to add Chapter 14.35 'Naming of Public Places'
• Resolution for State Revolving Fund loan - WWTP Effluent Disinfection System
• Appeal of public records request denial by Austin Cranford

The Assembly approved a State Revolving Fund Loan for the WWTP effluent disinfection system (RES 26-04) on first and final reading. They also denied a public records request appeal, approved a new liquor license for Wildflour Cafe & Bakery, and passed ordinances on postponement of meetings, donation acceptance, and naming of public places. All votes were 7-0.

• Approved state loan for WWTP disinfection system (7-0)
• Denied public records appeal by Austin Cranford (7-0)
• Approved new liquor license for Wildflour Cafe & Bakery (7-0)
• Approved ordinance to allow postponement of meetings (7-0)
• Approved donation acceptance ordinance on first reading (7-0)
• Approved public place naming ordinance on first reading (7-0)
• Approved Sustainability Commission 2026-2027 goals (7-0)
• Appointed three assembly members to SCRES committee

City and Borough Assembly

The assembly will interview candidate Jenny Alber and discuss next steps for both Alber and a second applicant, Dahl, possibly in executive session. They will decide on the process moving forward.

• Interview of municipal administrator applicant Jenny Alber via Zoom
• Discussion of both Alber and Dahl candidates
• Decision on next steps for each applicant
• Possible executive session

The Assembly interviewed one candidate and held an executive session to discuss two finalists for municipal administrator. After reconvening, members decided to take additional time to consider the candidates individually before determining next steps. No formal decision or vote on hiring occurred.

• Approved executive session to discuss candidates Steven Dahl and Jenny Alber (7-0)
• Reconvened after executive session
• Tabled decision on municipal administrator hiring for further individual consideration

City and Borough Assembly

The Assembly is meeting to discuss and take action on the FY2027 Draft Administrator's Budget. This includes reviews of the General Fund, Enterprise and Special Revenue Funds, and the Capital Improvement Plan. The body will also consider a lease extension for an aquaculture association.

• FY2027 Draft Budget: General Fund
• FY2027 Draft Budget: Enterprise, Internal Service, and Special Revenue Funds
• FY2027 Capital Improvement Plan
• Lease extension for Northern Southeast Regional Aquaculture Association at Gary Paxton Industrial Park

The Assembly approved a $30,000 addition to the FY2027 General Fund budget for athletic field sand (7-0). They also voted to limit Assembly attendance at the Alaska Municipal League Annual Conference to five members (7-0 after amendment from three). A lease extension for the Northern Southeast Regional Aquaculture Association was approved (7-0). No final vote was taken on the overall FY2027 budget; further discussions are scheduled.

• Approved lease extension for NSRAA at Gary Paxton Industrial Park (7-0)
• Added $30,000 to General Fund for athletic field sand (7-0)
• Reversed seven-member AML conference attendance to five members (7-0)
• Discussed enterprise fund rate increases (electric, water, wastewater, solid waste, harbors) without formal vote

City and Borough Assembly

The Assembly will interview Steven Dahl, the sole applicant for the Municipal Administrator position, via Zoom. They may then hold an executive session to discuss the interview. Public comment will be heard on any matter.

• Interview Steven Dahl for Municipal Administrator via Zoom
• Possible executive session to discuss interview
• Public comment period

The Assembly interviewed Steven Dahl for the municipal administrator position, then voted unanimously to enter executive session to discuss his character. No final hiring decision was made; the next candidate interview is scheduled for April 24.

• Interviewed municipal administrator candidate Steven Dahl
• Approved motion to enter executive session (7-0)
• Reconvened in regular session without a decision

City and Borough Assembly

The Assembly will conduct annual evaluations for Municipal Administrator John Leach (requested public) and Municipal Attorney Rachel Jones (requested executive session). They will consider resolutions governing the evaluation processes.

• Annual evaluation for Municipal Administrator John Leach (public hearing requested)
• Annual evaluation for Municipal Attorney Rachel Jones (executive session requested)

The Assembly held a special meeting to evaluate the Municipal Administrator and Municipal Attorney. The Administrator received an exemplary evaluation with no pay increase, consistent with a prior agreement. The Attorney also received an exemplary evaluation, with future pay and benefits to be negotiated; that evaluation was conducted in executive session.

• Approved exemplary evaluation for Municipal Administrator John Leach (no pay increase)
• Approved exemplary evaluation for Municipal Attorney Rachel Jones (pay and benefits to be negotiated)
• Approved motion to enter executive session for attorney evaluation (7-0)

Planning Commission

The commission will hold public hearings on a lot merger at 338-344 Katlian Avenue and a major variance for the Sitka Tribe of Alaska at 200 Katlian Avenue. They will also discuss proposed zoning code changes for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).

• Lot merger of 338 and 344 Katlian Avenue in R-1 district
• Major variance for Sitka Tribe: increase lot coverage to 45.6%, reduce front setback to 2 ft, eliminate off-street parking at 200 Katlian Avenue
• Discussion of zoning code changes for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

The Planning Commission approved a major variance for the Sitka Tribe of Alaska to increase lot coverage to 45.6%, reduce front setback to 2 feet, and eliminate parking for a carving shed at 200 Katlian Avenue (4-0). Also approved a lot merger of two lots at 338 and 344 Katlian Avenue (4-0). A discussion on ADU code changes resulted in further staff direction but no motion.

• Approved major variance for Sitka Tribe carving shed: lot coverage 45.6%, front setback 2 ft, zero parking (4-0)
• Approved lot merger of 338 and 344 Katlian Avenue into one 4,261 sq ft lot (4-0)
• Discussed ADU code changes; no motion, directed staff to explore pre-approved designs and short-term rental limits

City and Borough Assembly

The Assembly will consider a supplemental appropriation for snow removal in fiscal year 2026, adopt the Sitka Historic Preservation Plan, and authorize a lease with Northern Southeast Regional Aquaculture Association at the Gary Paxton Industrial Park. Routine consent items include approving meeting minutes and liquor license renewals.

• Supplemental appropriation for snow removal (ORD 26-07)
• Adoption of Sitka Historic Preservation Plan (deferred from March 24)
• Lease agreement with NSRAA for Block 4, Lot 1 at Gary Paxton Industrial Park
• Appointment of Chad Goeden to Investment Committee
• Renewal of four liquor licenses (Nugget Restaurant, Harbor Mountain Brewing, Bayview Restaurant, Sitka Hotel)

The Assembly denied a lease agreement with Northern Southeast Regional Aquaculture Association for a lot at Gary Paxton Industrial Park. A supplemental appropriation for snow removal was approved on final reading. The Sitka Historic Preservation Plan was adopted with a sunset amendment to Appendix G. An ordinance allowing postponement of items to a specified date passed first reading.

• Approved consent agenda including meeting minutes and liquor license renewals (6-0)
• Appointed Chad Goeden to Investment Committee (6-0)
• Approved supplemental appropriations for snow removal, FY2026 (6-0)
• Adopted Sitka Historic Preservation Plan with sunset amendment to Appendix G (6-0)
• Approved ordinance to allow postponement to a certain time, first reading (6-0)
• Denied lease agreement with Northern Southeast Regional Aquaculture Association (4-2)