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Planning Commission approves ground‑floor residential use at 607 10th Avenue, 9–0
Summary
The Planning Commission approved Conditional Use Permit CU2026‑003 to allow a ground‑floor 2‑bedroom dwelling at 607 10th Avenue (Truck Street LLC) with two conditions and three findings of fact. Staff said the proposal conforms to Ordinance 2025‑05 and the regional comprehensive plan; the vote was 9–0 and the decision may be appealed within 15 days.
The Fairbanks North Star Borough Planning Commission approved Conditional Use Permit CU2026‑003 on April 14, permitting a ground‑floor 2‑bedroom residence in the Central Business District at 607 10th Avenue.
Jimmy Dixon, staff, said Ordinance 2025‑05 (adopted June 6, 2025) amended the borough code to add residential use on the ground floor in the Central Business District as a conditional use, and that the property is designated Mixed Use Preferred Residential in the regional comprehensive plan. Dixon said utilities and emergency services are available for the site: power is present, water and sewer by Golden Heart Utilities, and City of Fairbanks police and fire provide emergency services. He said the applicant will obtain all necessary City of Fairbanks permits and any expansion beyond the approved scope will require additional borough review.
Applicant Michael Repasky (Truck Street LLC) described owning and managing the building and said the intent is initially to rent the ground-floor unit and eventually occupy it. Repasky acknowledged building safety issues — notably exterior stairs and handrails that do not meet code — and said the stairs and rails will be replaced or relocated to eliminate snow/ice hazards.
Commissioners asked whether backing onto 10th Avenue was acceptable and whether utility and heating systems were adequate. Staff and the applicant confirmed backing onto 10th Avenue was reasonable for the site (Cowell Street, a major collector, would not be permitted for backing) and that the heating system is hot‑water service from Aurora Energy. Staff noted posted public notices and agency outreach produced two interested persons with no objections.
Commissioner Fisher moved to approve CU2026‑003 with two conditions and three findings of fact; the motion was seconded and carried on a 9–0 roll call. Dixon noted the decision may be appealed to the Board of Adjustment by filing a notice of appeal and paying the appeal fee and cost bond no later than 15 days after notification of decision.
Why it matters: The decision implements a statutory change the Assembly adopted in 2025 to encourage compatible residential uses downtown. Staff said the proposal supports comprehensive plan goals to provide a variety of residential land‑use types and transition between intense commercial uses and residential areas.
What’s next: Staff will issue a notice of final determination and the applicant will take that notice to the City of Fairbanks permit office to secure building permits.
