Assembly approves rezone of two Commercial Boulevard parcels to light commercial after debate over industrial preservation

The Juneau Assembly voted to change the zoning of two parcels on Commercial Boulevard from Industrial to Light Commercial on Feb. 9, approving Ordinance 2026-05 by roll call (7 yeas, 2 nays).

Applicants including Jeff Larson and Charles Dunard presented maps and eligibility arguments, saying the two parcels sit on the periphery of an industrial area and that most existing businesses in the Lemon Creek industrial zone do not require heavy industrial zoning. Charles Dunard told the Assembly his development concept would deliver 114–120 studio and one‑bedroom units and cited Lemon Creek area plan policies encouraging mixed-use, transit-oriented development. “Our proposed development is for 114 to 120 units of studio and 1 bedroom apartments,” Dunard said during testimony (applicant presentation).

City staff and the Planning Commission had recommended denial, arguing the comprehensive plan and adopted area plans prioritize preserving industrial land for uses that may not be compatible with housing. Director Lawhorn warned about potential conflicts when housing is placed adjacent to heavy industrial uses and emphasized the need for additional code tools and enforcement to ensure compatibility. “While I think housing could work with industrial ... I do think it would conflict under today's code with the tools that we have,” Lawhorn told the Assembly during Q&A (director response).

Councilmember Kelly proposed an amendment conditioning the rezone on the applicant including a pedestrian-safety plan as part of any residential development; that amendment failed by roll call (5 nays, 4 yeas). The Assembly ultimately adopted the ordinance as introduced, with proponents arguing the site is a good candidate for housing near existing commercial amenities and transit and opponents stressing the value of preserving scarce industrial land.

Ordinance 2026-05 will change the official zoning map for the HDK LT 2 A and SSG IV TRB lots at Commercial Boulevard to Light Commercial; the ordinance passed on a 7–2 vote. Director Lawhorn said future development proposals would still be subject to agency review (streets, engineering) and required permits, and that some types of housing may be eligible for director-level approval if they meet density thresholds.