Planning commission approves deck variance at 370 Adams Street over neighbor access objections
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Summary
The Ketchikan Gateway Borough Planning Commission approved a variance allowing an upper-story deck to encroach on a 5-foot side-yard setback at 370 Adams Street after a split discussion about safety and access; the decision followed public testimony from a nearby property owner who said the deck could block future alley access.
The Ketchikan Gateway Borough Planning Commission approved a variance on a 5–1 vote to allow an attached second-story deck to encroach into the required 5-foot side-yard setback at 370 Adams Street (case 25065).
Ms. Johnson, planning staff, told the commission the house predates the zoning code and that the proposed 4-foot deck would encroach up to the property boundary at one corner. Staff recommended approval, saying there is no practical alternative that would provide outdoor living space adjacent to the second-story living area.
Commissioner Trevor Shaw expressed safety concerns. "Setbacks exist for a reason," Shaw said, noting the deck could sit immediately adjacent to what might someday become a narrow road and supporting posts could be struck by vehicles. He told colleagues he could not support approving a structure that might later create a hazard.
During public testimony, Katrina Jones, who owns the downhill lot that provides potential alley access, said the property has been difficult to access while the uphill house is under construction and warned that a deck "all the way up to the alleyway" would constrain heavy equipment and could force relocation of a power pole. "My only access is through that part," Jones said, asking the commission to consider future access for development on her parcel.
The applicant, who identified herself as Kimberly, said the house is being rebuilt to code and that the proposed deck "isn't gonna stick out" beyond the property line. "It's just enough to go out and see the outdoors," she said, and asked the commission for patience while construction continues.
Members debated whether public works and the city building official had adequate opportunity to review the proposal. Ms. Johnson said public works received notice and that a building official would check clearances and permit merits prior to issuing a building permit.
After deliberation, the commission moved and seconded a resolution to grant the variance; the clerk recorded the roll call and the motion passed (recorded in the transcript as "motion passes" with five yes votes). The commission noted that appeals of planning board decisions may be filed within 15 days and that building permits and any required utility relocations remain subject to city review.
The variance allows the owner to construct the upper-story deck as proposed; any subsequent building permits or right-of-way work (including power pole relocation) would require separate review and approvals.
