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Planning commission approves variance to convert Longbury Court shop into residence
Summary
The Ketchikan Gateway Borough Planning Commission approved a major variance allowing an existing accessory structure at 215 Longbury Court to be converted to a residence despite a roughly 3-foot encroachment into the 15-foot side-yard setback. Staff cited lot shape and topography; the applicant agreed to the recommendation.
On Sept. 9, 2025, the Ketchikan Gateway Borough Planning Commission approved a request to allow an existing structure at 215 Longbury Court to remain and be converted in part to a residence despite encroaching into the required side-yard setback.
Alethia Johnson, planning staff, told the commission the structure was built and used as a shop without a zoning permit for the building itself; the property had site-development permits but no permit for the shop. A recent survey ordered by the current owner showed the building encroaches just under 3 feet into the 15-foot side-yard setback and that the lot is narrower than the typical 100-foot minimum — roughly 60 feet wide at the top and 73–75 feet near the encroachment. Johnson said those lot-shape and topographical constraints, along with prior site development, contributed to the nonconforming condition. Staff recommended approval of the variance.
Applicant Michael Malone (identified in the record as Mr. Malone) told the commission he had no additional comments beyond thanking staff; an applicant representative, Mr. Bolling, was also present online. Commissioners had no public comments and staff reported no neighborhood complaints on the matter.
Commissioner Dee Dispenza moved to adopt Resolution 4529a to approve the variance; Commissioner Gubitayo seconded. The roll call recorded Dispenza, Arnold, Gubitayo, Gage and Shaw voting yes; the motion carried (5–0). The commission noted the chair joined the meeting after the vote.
The planning director reminded the public that planning commission decisions on conditional use permits and variances may be appealed to the borough assembly (the board of adjustment) within 15 days of the decision. For more information the record cites planning staff phone contact given at the meeting.
