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Local Boundary Commission Completes City of Gustavus’s Petition Process with Commissioner Bell’s Signature

(Juneau, AK) – Commissioner Susan Bell of the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development, signed the City of Gustavus’s Amended Certificate of Boundaries, completing the Local Boundary Commission annexation process begun in 2010.

Gustavus, a second–class city in the unorganized borough, incorporated in 2004. In late 2010, the City of Gustavus submitted a petition to the Local Boundary Commission to annex approximately 16 unpopulated square miles of land and water, including the new hydroelectric plant at Falls Creek. The waters consisted of Icy Passage, the site of a small boat moorage, and a new dock owned by the Alaska Marine Highway System.

The annexation brings two major benefits to the residents. First, by bringing the hydro plant and a future water supply within the city, and this will allow the city to have greater influence concerning future development near Falls Creek.

Secondly, the annexation of Icy Passage gives the city direct control of its harbor. As traffic in Icy Passage increases with the new dock facilities and the commencement of ferry service, demand for moorage space will increase. Icy Passage also has potential for the development of tidal energy, which now will fall within city boundaries.

Thanks to the work of the city and the Local Boundary Commission, Gustavus residents now have better control over local activities affecting their community.

The new boundary certificate for the city will be available on the Local Boundary Commission website, at the City of Gustavus City Hall, and the Juneau Recording District office.