Frequently Asked Questions about the
Coastal Zone Management Program
Q: What is the Local Consistency Review Process?
A: Projects that in the professional judgment of the CMP Coordinator or Planning Director are not likely to have significant impacts on coastal resources, will be found consistent with the Coastal Management Plan and placed on the consent agenda of the next Borough Planning Commission meeting for approval. Projects that are likely to have a high potential to impact coastal resources will be evaluated in more detail. Written staff reports and a staff recommendation will be developed and the item will be placed on the discussion agenda of the next Borough Planning Commission meeting. A finding of "consistent," "consistent with alternative measures," or "not consistent" will be made by the Borough Planning Commission. In emergency situations, or instances where the review schedule and Planning Commission meeting schedule will not allow Commission review of a particular project, a consistency determination will be made by the River Center Director or CMP Coordinator staff. Commission input will be solicited by telephone for projects considered to be significant or controversial.
Q. Does the Coastal Management Program issue permits?
A: No. The program applies its enforceable policies in the review of projects and issues a Coastal Consistency Review. If the project or activity does not conflict with enforceable policy it is declared “consistent”.
Q. Why have a District Consistency Review process?
A: This is the means by which the Kenai Peninsula Borough has the opportunity to bring local concerns to the table in the discussion about projects and activities that require state or federal permits. The Program examines projects to insure that they are consistent with Borough policy. If a project or activity appears to be inconsistent with policy the Coordinator works with the applicant to find ways to bring it to consistency. Sometimes the process involves public hearings during which local residents can voice their concerns.