The NAB Planning Department is responsible for updating the Borough’s Comprehensive Plan in coordination with NAB communities, the Planning Commission, mayor and assembly. The Department also supports and assists NAB communities by updating village/community comprehensive plans, including grants to village planning committees.
The Borough Planning Commission acts as the platting authority and may adopt and publish rules and regulations regarding platting administration. The BPC staff reviews requests for plats, subdivisions, and streets (except for the City of Kotzebue) according to Title 8 of the NAB Code.
Permitting
The Planning Department implements land use regulation according to Title 9 of NAB Code (except for the City of Kotzebue). See Zoning Map. Permits include commercial transporters (e.g. hunting, camping, rafting), resource development (e.g. mining, natural gas), community infrastructure (e.g. utilities, schools, public buildings, roads, multi-family housing units), temporary-use airstrips, and archaeological exploration/assessment. Title 9 permit application.
Easements, Rights-of-Way and Historical Preservation
The NAB Planning Department and Borough Planning Commission review requests for easements and rights-of-way involving NAB property according to Title 2.48 of the NAB Code.
The Planning Commission serves as the NAB’s historical preservation commission for identification, protection, preservation, perpetuation and use of historical resources, districts and sites within NAB boundaries. The Commission also encourages public knowledge, understanding, appreciation and use of the borough unique past and present culture.
Global Warming/Climate Change
The Planning Department facilitates the exchange of information regarding climate change & erosion planning issues, including participating with State/Federal agencies in planning, community outreach and information sharing.
Land Coordination and Mapping
The Planning Department manages NAB lands and works with State/Federal agencies to manage and map lands. This oversight includes soliciting and documenting public comments on resource management, inter-agency permitting and preparation/updating of plans and maps.
Coastal Management and Flood Prevention
The Planning Department participates in the Alaska Coastal Zone Management Program to maintain a coastal zone management plan for the region and review proposed developments to protect coastal and wetland areas. The Department also implements flood prevention code in Title 9, in order for NAB communities to participate in the National Flood Insurance Program and protect land and property from flooding and flood areas.
