Economic Development is the sustained, concerted actions of policy makers and communities that promote the standard of living and economic health of a specific area. The Borough first adopted nonarea-wide economic development powers in 1986 through the adoption of Ordinance 575. In 1990 the voters approved the adoption of area-wide economic development powers by the Borough via Ordinance 772 A, and in 1999 the Assembly adopted Ordinance 1106, establishing an economic development assistance program.
Ketchikan Gateway Borough is actively working on easing the housing shortage in Ketchikan. At its August 15, 2022 meeting the Borough Assembly took action to reduce development barriers and help open up the market - starting with potential subdivisions at North Tongass Mile 17/18, Cedarwood, and Fawn Mountain.
For remote workers and other tech-based entrepreneurs, the community of Ketchikan represents a unique opportunity to live a connected lifestyle. The Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce has more information available.
