Wrangell Borough Nears Completion of Alder Top Subdivision Phase
In a strategic move to bolster housing and financial resources, the Wrangell borough is nearing the completion of the first phase of the Alder Top Subdivision, located at mile 5 of Zimovia Highway. This development aims to increase Wrangell’s housing availability with approximately two dozen homes in the pipeline.
However, an intriguing alteration in the land sale approach will be under discussion at tonight’s Borough Assembly meeting. The initial plan of selling nine lots via a lottery has transitioned to selling all lots through a public auction, spanning from July 1 to September 29 of this year. This change stems from the substantial cost involved in developing the subdivision, funded by public tax dollars.
Financial Strategy Behind the Auction
The agenda packet states a clear intent behind this shift, with the public auction deemed “necessary to replenish Borough funds.” The terms outlined for the auction include options for both cash and borough-financed sales, alongside a mandatory 20% down payment. The lots, equipped with gravel streets and adjacent utilities, vary in value between $2.71 to $3.31 per square foot.
Educational Infrastructure: School and Borough in Agreement
Adding another layer of public interest, the meeting agenda features a proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Wrangell Public School District and the City and Borough of Wrangell. This MOU delineates responsibilities concerning school facility maintenance, indicating that the school district will handle routine maintenance and custodial services for costs under $25,000, typically managed through the district’s Capital Improvement Plan. Conversely, the borough will undertake major repairs exceeding $25,000, including rehabilitation and construction projects.
Adjustments in Municipal Fees and Rates
The assembly is slated to conduct a public hearing regarding proposed amendments to the municipal code’s fees and rates schedule. Notably, an increase is being considered for the application fee to purchase or lease borough-owned land, with the suggestion to raise it from $250 to $500, applied “per lot.”
Meeting Details and Public Engagement
The Wrangell Assembly meeting is scheduled to commence at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, following a preliminary work session focused on the Alder Top Village sale at 6 p.m. Interested individuals can view the complete agenda packet at
this link and listen live at 101.7 FM or online at KSTK.org.
Public participation is encouraged, with a “Persons to be Heard” sign-up sheet available at City Hall for those wishing to voice their opinions during the meeting.
Stay informed with such vital updates and more by visiting fintechfilter.com. Your engagement ensures that local journalism continues to thrive and serve its community effectively.