Palmer annexation study to present initial findings

PALMER — The city of Palmer in collaboration with Agnew Beck Consulting will hold an informational meeting on Feb 4 to present survey results on possible annexation of areas around Palmer.

Team Project Manager Heather Stewart issued a press release to inform Palmer residents of why the study is being conducted and how it could change Palmer in the long term. Stewart wrote that the study is being conducted to better understand the potential impacts of annexing new territory into city boundaries and examined existing lifestyles, land use and economic activity in Palmer and the surround areas as well as trends of growth into the next decade for understanding of how annexation extension could benefit the city, it’s businesses and residents. The last time Palmer successfully annexed areas was in 2002 with a similar study conducted between 2005 and 2006. In 2010, a city annexation strategy recommended policy changes, many of which have been implemented. The annexation strategy form 2010 said that the study was being done “To promote orderly, high quality development and the cost-effective extension of services, where and when warranted; to sustain a desirable quality of life in and around Palmer, and to ensure a sustainable tax base along with long term economic viability, fiscal health and natural environment in Palmer.”

Over 200 responses were entered into a survey on annexation that was online for 17 days in November and also reopened to respondents who wish to take the survey up until Feb. 19. The online public meeting on Feb 4 will present preliminary findings and offer opportunities for community discussion.

“The city is looking at annexation to make room for growth where residents and businesses can have city services and still maintain our quality of life. We recognize there are different lifestyles outside the city and inside the city. With this annexation study, we want people to tell us how we can bring these lifestyles together,” wrote Palmer Community Development Director Brad Hanson.

The timeline for possible action on annexation following the completion of the study would not occur until at least the next calendar year. Agnew Beck is scheduled to listen to community outreach sessions, and more information can be found at palmerannexstudy.org.