Assembly gives final approval to accessory dwelling units

After a yearlong effort spanning two economic development directors, accessory dwelling units are now permissible under borough municipal code.

At its Dec. 12 meeting, the assembly unanimously approved a code change that will allow self-contained, smaller apartments or rentals to be built on the same piece of property as a single-family home.

The goal, wrote Economic Development Director Kate Thomas, is to “expand industry, bolster our economy and ensure that interested persons and residents can build their lives here.”

Wrangell’s housing shortage is an oft-discussed issue at municipal meeting...