Wrangell Borough’s New Auction Strategy and Proposed Fee Changes Ignite Discussion

Wrangell City Hall on June 26, 2024. (Colette Czarnecki/KSTK)
Wrangell City Hall on June 26, 2024. (Colette Czarnecki/KSTK)

Alder Top Subdivision Development in Wrangell, Alaska

In Wrangell, Alaska, a significant development unfolds as the first phase of a borough-owned subdivision nears completion at mile 5 of Zimovia Highway. The Alder Top Subdivision is set to expand Wrangell’s housing market by about two dozen homes. However, some changes in the sales strategy have stirred conversations in the local community.

The Borough Assembly, in its upcoming meeting, is set to discuss the transition from an originally planned lottery sale of nine lots to a public auction format, occurring from July 1 to September 29 this year. This change, according to borough officials, is a response to the high costs associated with subdivision development, which have been supported by public tax dollars.

Auction Strategy Details

  • Public auction deemed crucial to replenish Borough funds
  • Flexible terms proposed for cash and borough-financed sales
  • Minimum 20% down payment requirement for lot purchases
  • Lot values vary between $2.71 and $3.31 per square foot, complete with gravel streets and adjacent utilities

Memorandum of Understanding: Schools vs. Borough Responsibilities

Also on the assembly’s agenda is a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Wrangell Public School District and the City and Borough of Wrangell. This document outlines the division of responsibilities in maintaining school facilities.

  • School district handles routine maintenance, custodial work, tasks under $25,000, drawing from its Capital Improvement Plan
  • Borough takes charge of major repairs exceeding $25,000, as well as rehabilitation projects and construction

Proposed Fee and Rate Adjustments

The assembly will hold a public hearing regarding proposed changes to Wrangell’s municipal code, specifically the fees and rates schedule. Among the suggested changes is an increase in the application fee for purchasing or leasing borough-owned land, from $250 to $500 per lot.

Meeting Details

Wrangell Assembly’s meeting begins at 7 p.m. on Tuesday. A work session focused on the Alder Top Village sale precedes the main event at 6 p.m.

Residents can access the full agenda packet for the upcoming meeting online and tune in live at 7 p.m. on 101.7 FM or via KSTK.org. For those wishing to voice their opinions, signup is available on the “Persons to be Heard” sheet at City Hall.

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