Waterbody Setback Ordinance Updates

In December of 2022, a proposal was introduced to the Mat-Su Borough Assembly seeking to repeal an existing 75-foot riparian buffer zone ordinance. This proposal garnered a great deal of attention from land use planners and those concerned with preserving habitat and neighborhood feel.
A setback ordinance requires landowners provide a buffer between buildings and waterbodies. These buffer zones exist to protect the property owner from flooding and other costly potential damage. In addition, setback laws help to preserve habitat and water quality.
After extensive public testimony during Borough public meetings, the Mat-Su Borough Assembly opted against repealing the ordinance. Instead, they decided to establish a Waterbody Setback Advisory Board consisting of experts representing various affected groups.
In 2023, the Waterbody Setback Advisory Board was created. This nine member group has been tasked with assessing and suggesting revisions to the Borough code concerning waterbody setbacks. It has been the job of the Board to propose potential solutions and pinpoint necessary resources for implementing and enforcing the solutions.
The Advisory Board has completed its meetings, and is ready to make recommendations to the Mat-Su Borough. We have asked Borough Planner, Alex Strawn, to present to us on the Advisory Boards' process and Changes.
Alex Strawn is a lifelong Alaskan and serves as the Planning Director for the Matanuska-Susitna Borough. Alex finds it is an honor and privilege to serve the community in which he was raised, and he takes pride in his contribution towards ensuring the Mat-Su Borough has access to parks, trails, clean air, clean water, schools, emergency services, free-flowing and safe transportation systems, and all the other services taxpayers come to expect from their local government
We are excited to host him and hear about all he has been working on with the Advisory Board!