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Wrangell commission forwards Zarembo timber zoning, tables Thoms Place after notice concerns
Summary
The Planning & Zoning Commission on May 11 recommended Timber Management zoning for entitlement lands on Zarembo Island but unanimously approved an amendment to table the Thoms Place designation for additional public outreach after testimony and written correspondence raised concerns about notice and potential impacts to recreation, subsistence and neighborhood character.
The City and Borough of Wrangell Planning & Zoning Commission on May 11 opened a public hearing and considered an ordinance to amend the zoning map to establish a Timber Management designation for entitlement lands at Thoms Place and Zarembo Island.
Written correspondence received before the meeting included letters from Elizabeth, Joseph and Peter Whitmore and Bruce and Nancy McQueen expressing opposition to potential Timber Management zoning at Thoms Place, citing concerns about impacts on property values, recreational and subsistence uses, environmental character and the adequacy of public notice. During the public hearing, Peter Branson of Thoms Place asked that the Thoms Place designation be tabled until broader notice and engagement had occurred and requested mailed notice to all residents of the remote subdivision.
Staff outlined that Timber Management zoning is an initial land-use designation required before timber cruising, appraisals or contract development, but emphasized that zoning alone does not authorize timber harvest. Staff said additional public review, environmental review, contractual approvals and any necessary state or federal permits would be required before any harvest could occur.
Commissioners discussed public-notice limits under Borough code and the long-standing recreational and subsistence values of Thoms Place. Commissioner Gary Watkins moved, and Commissioner Jillian Privett seconded, an amendment to the original motion to table the Thoms Place portion of the request for further public engagement while proceeding with the Zarembo designation. The amendment was approved unanimously. The commission then approved the motion as amended to forward Zarembo Timber Management zoning to the Borough Assembly and to table Thoms Place for future review and outreach.
The action leaves the Zarembo designation moving forward in the assembly process while requiring staff and the commission to pursue additional public outreach and engagement on the Thoms Place entitlement lands before any zoning action is reconsidered.
