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Planning Board approves Kang Estates subdivision with access variance despite neighbor objections
Summary
The Matanuska-Susitna Borough Planning Board approved the Kang Estates preliminary plat and a variance from borough access rules, despite written and in-person objections from nearby residents about creek, wildlife and trail impacts.
The Matanuska-Susitna Borough Planning Board on June 18 approved the preliminary plat for Kang Estates, including a variance from borough legal and physical access requirements, contingent on staff recommendations.
Board staff summarized the proposal as a two-lot subdivision of roughly 28.7 acres that requires variances because existing legal access does not meet borough code. Staff noted soils and topographic reports were supplied, that one lot would need railroad crossing permits and that the Alaska Railroad and DOT&PF requested a single shared access to Jonesville Mine Road. Platting staff recommended approval with seven findings of fact and 11 conditions.
Resident Barrett Wall, who identified himself as living at 11455 Eska Creek Street, testified in opposition. He said the proposed subdivision was “very close to the creek,” would “impact the wildlife” and fish, and would interfere with local access routes. “We strongly object to this being put in,” Wall said.
Staff responded that the pathway referenced in the comment appears to be a traveled way within a power-line easement rather than an official borough trail. After board discussion, Planning member Leaving moved to approve the variance and preliminary plat subject to staff recommendations; the motion was seconded and passed without recorded objection.
The board’s approval requires the applicant to satisfy the listed conditions, including verification of easements, continuation of required railroad and DOT&PF permits, and compliance with soils and topographic requirements. Staff noted the Matanuska Telephone Association requested a 15-foot easement over existing overhead utilities and that multiple technical exhibits (soils reports, surveyor notes, and railroad permit documents) accompany the file.
The item was approved by voice vote with no roll-call tallies provided on the record. The applicant must complete the conditions in staff’s recommendation before the final plat may be recorded.
The board moved on to subsequent agenda items after the vote.
