Matanuska-Susitna Borough Planning Commission approves new homeless shelter permit process

The Matanuska-Susitna Borough Planning Commission convened on May 5, 2025, to discuss significant updates to the borough's conditional use permit process, particularly concerning the establishment of homeless shelters. The meeting focused on integrating new regulations into the existing conditional uses code, MSB 17 60, which currently governs various facilities, including junkyards and marijuana establishments.

The proposed changes aim to ensure that any new homeless shelter outside city limits must undergo a conditional use permit process. This process will allow the Planning Commission to evaluate the suitability of the proposed location based on surrounding land uses and potential traffic impacts. Key regulations include maintaining separation distances from schools, recreational centers, childcare facilities, and alcohol-related establishments. Additional requirements encompass increased setbacks, minimum parking standards, security plans, adequate lighting, landscaping, and proper wastewater management, along with fire marshal approval.

The commission emphasized the importance of these regulations to mitigate potential negative impacts associated with homeless shelters, drawing from lessons learned in other regions of the state. The proposed ordinance has been referred to the assembly for a 60-day review, with hopes for a recommendation by the next meeting.

Following the discussion, the commission opened the floor for public testimony on Resolution 25-06, which pertains to the new conditional use permit process. However, no public comments were received, leading to the closure of the public hearing. The resolution was subsequently moved by Commissioner McCabe and seconded by Commissioner Scoggin, receiving unanimous approval without further discussion.

The meeting also addressed Resolution 25-07, which supports the assembly's adoption of the 2025 Bogard Selden Corridor Access Management Plan. Planning Director Alex Straun presented this item, indicating ongoing efforts to enhance infrastructure and access management within the borough.

Overall, the meeting underscored the Planning Commission's proactive approach to managing land use and addressing community needs while ensuring regulatory compliance and public safety. Further developments on these resolutions are anticipated in the coming weeks.