Public Meetings - Kirkland, Washington

The Kirkland Planning Commission held a study session on November 10, 2022, from 7:00 PM to 9:17 PM, to continue discussion on Phase 2 of the NE 85th Street Station Area Plan (SAP), focusing on form-based code elements including parking ratios, street standards, transitions, and incentive zoning. All seven commissioners were present. The session was primarily a working meeting to refine draft code language ahead of a public hearing scheduled for December 8, 2022. Public Comments & Testimony - Liz Hunt (Kirkland, Market neighborhood) requested that information provided to the public for the December 8 public hearing be presented in a way that is understandable to the community, rather than technical code language. Discussion Items - NE 85th Street Station Area Plan, File No. CAM20-00153 (Citywide): - Deputy Planning Director Allison Zike reviewed the agenda and workflow, noting the focus on Phase 2 form-based code. - Brad Barnett (Mithun) reviewed previous Planning Commission feedback, district standards (Neighborhood Mixed-Use, Urban Flex, Civic Mixed-Use), and street types. - Staff reported that the Lake Washington School District did not request additional height or development capacity for the school site; they indicated the current code draft provides ample flexibility. - Parking: Staff presented parking ratios recommended by the city’s transportation planners, which are generally lower than citywide requirements. The draft code also includes provisions for parking modifications, shared parking, and decoupled bike parking. Commissioners discussed the possibility of eliminating parking minimums, with Commissioner Rodney Rutherford advocating strongly for eliminating them to support sustainability and affordability. Commissioner Katya Allen suggested exploring lower parking minima for affordable housing units, citing Bellevue as an example. Commissioner Sandeep Singhal cautioned against creating a two-class system in mixed-income developments. Staff will explore lower parking minimums for affordable housing and bring back options. - 120th Avenue NE Corridor Study: Staff presented a baseline street standard (adopted in Phase 1) and an alternative design that adds dedicated bike lanes, wider sidewalks, and additional right-of-way dedication. The Transportation Commission preferred the alternative. Commissioners raised concerns about piecemeal bike lanes, crosswalk safety, and the impact on development capacity. Staff will provide more information on potential gaps in bike lane continuity. - Incentive Zoning: Staff reviewed the five community benefit categories (affordable housing, mobility, parks, sustainability, schools) and noted that performance-based measures for affordable housing in Phase 2 are still being developed. Commissioner John Tymczyszyn expressed concern about the potential loss of the existing Safeway grocery store and urged exploration of incentives to preserve grocery stores. Other commissioners noted that the market may naturally provide a grocery store given the planned density, and that the form-based code could enable such uses. Staff recommended not adding a separate grocery incentive category at this time but will discuss further. - Transitions: Staff presented three transition types: Type A (25-degree angle for height differences of 30–50 feet), Type B (30-degree angle for differences over 50 feet), and Type C (45-degree angle as an alternative). Commissioners expressed a preference for exploring angles between 30 and 45 degrees for areas with the largest height differences, to balance transition relief with development capacity needed to achieve community benefits. Staff will bring back additional visualizations and options. Key Outcomes - Parking: Staff will include the proposed parking minimums in the draft form-based code for the public hearing, but will explore and bring back a lower parking minimum for affordable housing units, informed by models like Bellevue’s. - Transitions: Staff will develop additional intermediate transition angle options (between 30 and 45 degrees) for parcels where the height difference exceeds 50 feet, and provide more visual comparisons. - Grocery Store Incentive: No new incentive category will be added at this time, but the discussion will continue; staff will provide more information on the Safeway parcel and potential mechanisms to preserve grocery uses. - 120th Avenue Corridor: Staff will provide additional analysis on the feasibility of the alternative bike-lane design, including potential gaps and impacts on development. - Next Steps: The draft planned action ordinance will go to City Council on November 15, 2022. The Planning Commission public hearing on the Phase 2 form-based code is scheduled for December 8, 2022, with potential council adoption in January 2023. The November 24 meeting is canceled due to Thanksgiving.

The Kirkland City Council met on November 1, 2022, for a study session (5:30 p.m.) and regular meeting (7:30 p.m.) to discuss the preliminary 2023-2024 budget, updates to flag and banner policies, a regional crisis response agency interlocal agreement, business license code amendments, 2023 state legislative priorities, the 2023 Surface Water Master Plan, and other routine business. The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss potential litigation and adjourned at 11:00 p.m. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of October 18, 2022 (two sets). - Approved audit of accounts (payroll $4,544,054.78; bills $4,004,567.45). - Acknowledged claims for damages from five individuals. - Accepted David E. Brink Park Shoreline Renovation Project completed by Wyser Construction, establishing the statutory lien period and returning remaining fund balance. - Approved Resolution R-5561 (NORCOM budget allocation). - Approved Resolution R-5564 (relinquishing right-of-way to abutting property owners Peter and Paula Christiansen). - Approved staff recommendation on resident flag display request. - Acknowledged Information Technology Operations and Stabilization update. - Acknowledged 3rd Quarter Planning Implementation Report. - Acknowledged September 2022 Sales Tax Report. - Acknowledged Procurement Report. - Motion carried 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Barbara Hughes and Kim Dare (Bridal Trails residents) expressed strong support for retaining the Snyder's Corner pop-up dog park through winter, offering volunteer labor and fundraising. They noted the city removed the park earlier that day without response to their prior offer. - Lydia Rapida (adjacent to 132nd Square Park) raised concerns about construction noise before 7 a.m. and questioned the stated height of a berm (allegedly over 4 feet) near her property. - Yi Zhao (new Executive Director of Imagine Housing) introduced himself and highlighted the need for more affordable housing units in Kirkland. - Barry Swanson (Kirkland resident and developer) supported the dog park and criticized the city for not mitigating dust with straw or seed during the summer, and for removing the park abruptly. - Johanna Palmer (adjacent to 132nd Square Park) showed photos of large dirt mounds she believed resulted from design changes without notice; she expressed disappointment and safety concerns. - Alex Tsimerman (Stand Up America) criticized Comcast franchise renewal as overpriced and broadly condemned city policies he viewed as restricting free speech, calling for internet service at $10/month. - Phil Megenhardt (event coordinator, Kirkland Uncorked) corrected the Parks Department's estimated tourism draw (35,000) used to project event fees, stating actual paid attendance was 4,054; he urged a fairer fee structure. - Colleen Clement (People for Climate Action) thanked the council for prioritizing sustainability in the 2023 legislative agenda and supported the language protecting natural environment and clean energy. - Celestina Hendrickson (Kirkland Downtown Association) requested approximately $60,000 for indoor and outdoor visitor center technology kiosks to enhance multilingual services, wayfinding, and data collection. - Ron Snell (People for Climate Action) urged the council to expand the Energy Smart program into a comprehensive residential energy efficiency and electrification program to leverage new federal incentives. - Anna Carroll (Campaign Manager, Together Center) endorsed capital funding for the Together Center expansion, noting that 15% of its clients (about 4,500) are Kirkland residents. Discussion Items - Preliminary 2023-2024 Budget (Study Session): Financial Planning Manager George Dugdale reviewed follow-up items, including transportation fund naming, human services per-capita impact, ARPA remaining funds ($2.2M), potential reprioritization of K-TAP and youth council allocations, and a list of potential amendments (e.g., neighborhood traffic calming, special events staffing, teen programs, lifeguard hours, Snow Removal Incentive Program). Council provided direction: they declined to reprioritize K-TAP or youth council funding; expressed willingness to use the 1% general fund placeholder for some items; removed the vacant lot appraisal ($52,000) from consideration; and asked staff to return with refined options on November 15. - Proposed Updates to Flag Policy and Banner Code (Study Session): Deputy Director of Parks John Lloyd presented changes to the banner code to focus restrictions on content rather than applicant. Key changes: remove constraints that applicants be Kirkland-based nonprofits, non-religious, non-political; instead restrict messages to public service announcements or event promotion in Kirkland, and prohibit commercial advertising. Council gave feedback on clarity (e.g., applicability to banners on bridges, private fences in right-of-way; definition of "non-political"). The flag policy discussion was deferred to a future meeting. - Regional Crisis Response Agency Interlocal Agreement (Item 9a): Management Analyst Carly Joerger presented Resolution R-5562 authorizing execution of an interlocal agreement with Shoreline, Kenmore, Lake Forest Park, and Bothell to create the Regional Crisis Response Agency (RCRA). Changes from September draft included a new name, revised governance (principal assembly meets at least three times/yr first biennium), clarified goals, and an amendment process. Council passed an amendment (4-3) to strike the word "solo" from goal b ("significantly reduce police response to behavioral health calls by providing alternatives..."). The main motion passed 7-0. The agency will begin operations January 1, 2023, pending adoption by all five cities. - Business License Code Amendments (Item 9b): Director of Finance Michael Olson presented Ordinance O-4821, which provides clarity, reduces redundancy, and extends business license relief to long-term rentals of single-family residences including ADUs, cottages, and two-/three-unit homes. Ordinance passed 7-0. - 2023 State Legislative Priorities (Item 9c): Carly Joerger presented Resolution R-5563. Council adopted two amendments: (1) inserting "Sustainability" into the environmental goal (passed 7-0); (2) narrowing capital budget funding request from "Permanent Supportive Housing Projects in Kirkland" to "The Current Health Through Housing Permanent Supportive Housing Project in the 48th Legislative District" (passed 7-0). The amended resolution was adopted 6-1 (Councilmember Nixon opposed). - Draft 2023 Surface Water Master Plan and Level of Service (Item 9d): Surface Water Program Supervisor Kelli Jones presented programmatic action rankings and three future levels of service (minimum, moderate, enhanced). Council discussed options for funding replacement of three extreme-risk pipes (unfunded, estimated $3M). Staff will revise the plan and return for final adoption. - Selection of Interview Selection Committee Members (Item 9e): City Clerk Kathi Anderson drew names: Councilmembers Black, Curtis, and Nixon will serve on the interview committees for Human Services Advisory Committee and Transportation Commission appointments. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved 7-0. - Regional Crisis Response Agency Interlocal Agreement (Resolution R-5562) approved 7-0 as amended (with "solo" struck). - Business License Code Amendments (Ordinance O-4821) approved 7-0. - 2023 State Legislative Priorities (Resolution R-5563) approved 6-1 as amended. - Draft Surface Water Master Plan will return for final adoption after staff revisions. - Interview selection committee members: Councilmembers Black, Curtis, Nixon. - Council entered executive session to discuss potential litigation and adjourned at 11:00 p.m.

The Kirkland Planning Commission met on October 27, 2022, from 7:00 to approximately 9:20 p.m. in the Council Chamber. All seven commissioners were present: Chair Angela Rozmyn, Vice Chair Scott Reusser, John Tymczyszyn, Sandeep Singhal, Rodney Rutherford, Katya Allen, and Bria Heiser. The agenda included a study session on the NE 85th Street Station Area Plan, a public hearing on the 2022 Annual Comprehensive Plan Amendments, approval of updated Planning Commission Policies & Procedures, and administrative reports. All votes were unanimous 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - No audience comments were taken at the start of the meeting; one attendee deferred to the end of the meeting. - There was no public testimony during the public hearing on the comprehensive plan amendments. - James Hoff, a Kirkland resident since 1962 living on NE 73rd Street, commented at the end of the meeting. He expressed concern about the lack of transitions and the missed opportunity for additional upzoning to concentrate residential density along commercial corridors such as NE 85th, noting that single-family home lots in South Rose Hill are being demolished and replaced with multiple units. He voiced support for the NE 85th Street Station Area Plan, including the main street concept, and suggested linking it to the 70th Street park-and-ride with an electric bus system. Study Session: NE 85th Street Station Area Plan - Deputy Planning Director Allison Zike reviewed completed Phase 1 items and remaining Phase 2 work, including a Planned Action Ordinance, Phase 2 form-based code, and parcel rezones. A community open house and Q&A were held October 24; staff also attended an eastside subcommittee meeting with NAIOPWA and shared a summary with commissioners. - Staff announced that the Neighborhood Residential District will not get a new form-based code at this time; street standards will still be applied, and a broader citywide review of low-density residential zoning may occur during the comprehensive plan update. - Mithun consultants Brad Barnett and Sandra Gingis reviewed form-based code elements, the sustainability/green factor framework, transition strategies, and the Civic Mixed-Use District. - Transitions: A transition is required where adjacent zoning districts differ in maximum allowed height by 30 feet or more. Staff tested 25-degree and 30-degree sky-exposure plane angles. Commissioners discussed concerns about elevation differences, using the midpoint of the common property line as the starting point, and whether facade-to-facade relationships should be regulated. No final angle was chosen; staff will explore simpler, more site-responsive alternatives. - Civic Mixed-Use: The district is centered on Lake Washington High School with proposed 45-foot and 75-foot subdistricts. The school district has expressed support for the draft code. Commissioners asked staff to ask the school district about its desired future uses, discussed maximizing school capacity, and requested green factor examples and the freeway noise/echo analysis from the environmental review. - Active ground-floor uses and Urban Flex upper-floor-only residential language were discussed. Commissioners asked for tighter definitions of active space and lobby limits, suggested changing 'blank walls' to 'opaque walls,' and noted that visible kitchen prep/cooking areas can be an active use. Some commissioners cautioned against overly strict retail requirements that could leave storefronts vacant. - Incentive zoning: Staff previewed performance-based affordable housing options, including units above the required 10%, three-plus-bedroom family units, and deeper affordability levels. Commissioners asked about weighting by number of bedrooms and raised concern about losing the Safeway grocery site; staff said they would consider grocery preservation in future incentive discussions. - Transportation: Staff reviewed the station area transportation analysis, mode split goals, environmental review alternatives, and recommended transportation improvement projects. A corridor study on 120th Avenue NE is still in progress. Public Hearing: 2022 Annual Comprehensive Plan Amendments - Senior Planner Scott Guter presented amendments required for consistency with the Capital Facilities Plan and annual budget, two park acquisitions requiring Zoning Map amendments, an Urban Center land use designation amendment to Policy LU-5.5, and a Community Character Element amendment adding the Barth House to Table CC-1, List B as a historic building. - There was no public testimony. - The commission unanimously recommended the Comprehensive Plan amendments, including staff's amended language to Policy LU-5.5 and Table CC-1, List B, and unanimously recommended the Zoning Map amendments for the park acquisitions. New Business: Planning Commission Policies & Procedures - Allison Zike reviewed revisions previously discussed on October 13: removal of the Houghton Community Council reference, a new Section 8.D on attendance expectations, and allowances for personal/public health concerns and telephone participation. - The commission unanimously approved the updated Policies & Procedures 7-0. Administrative Reports & Calendar - Planning Director Adam Weinstein reported on City Council actions. On October 18, council discussed legislative priorities including protecting state shared revenue, supporting affordable housing, funding critical city services, a property tax exemption for ADUs rented to low- or moderate-income households, and allowing a real estate excise tax increment for affordable housing. On October 25, council held a study session on the 2023-2024 budget; a public hearing is scheduled for November 1 and final adoption on November 15. The proposed two-year budget is the city's first $1 billion budget. Key themes include not adding new services, protecting key services, and responding to the pandemic and the 'great reshuffle.' - Staff highlighted remaining meetings: November 10 for continued Station Area Plan form-based code and incentive zoning discussion, and a December meeting for the Station Area Plan public hearing plus a comprehensive plan update briefing. Commissioner Tymczyszyn encouraged staff to promote the December hearing and the option to attend in person or by Zoom. Commissioners also discussed planning a holiday social event. Key Outcomes - 7-0 vote to open the public hearing. - 7-0 vote to recommend the 2022 Comprehensive Plan amendments to City Council. - 7-0 vote to recommend the Zoning Map amendments for the city's park acquisitions to City Council. - 7-0 vote to approve updated Planning Commission Policies & Procedures. - Station Area Plan discussion will continue November 10, with a scheduled December public hearing and tentative January 2023 adoption.

The Kirkland City Council met in a hybrid special study session on October 25, 2022, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:15 p.m., to review the proposed 2023-2024 preliminary budget. Mayor Penny Sweet presided; all seven council members were present. City Manager Kurt Triplett and finance staff presented a balanced biennial budget built around the theme Sustaining Services and Building a Community Where Everyone Belongs, and the council discussed revenue and expenditure trends, major issue papers, service packages by council goal area, and roughly $547,556 in remaining unprogrammed one-time general fund resources. Budget Overview and Financial Outlook - City Manager Kurt Triplett thanked staff, council, and the community, noting the budget was balanced without service reductions and fully funds community safety and DEIB investments as ongoing programs while following financial policies and maintaining the city's triple-A credit rating. - Finance Director Michael Olson said Kirkland has received the Government Finance Officers Association Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for 17 consecutive budgets. - The preliminary budget is the first citywide budget over $1 billion; staff explained the true size of new expenditures is closer to $560 million because the total includes transfers, reserves, and internal service funds. The overall budget change is 4.82%. - The 2023-2024 general fund is balanced. The May 2022 forecast of a $14.8 million deficit was closed through council actions, proposed service-package choices, higher revenue estimates, and removal of some one-time costs. The forecast shows small out-year deficits and a projected $8 million deficit by 2027-28. - Property tax levy growth is 1% plus 1.54% from new construction. The 7.2% budget-to-budget change reflects biennial mechanics and higher 2022 estimated revenue. Councilmember Nixon asked clarifying questions; staff said if all property values rose equally, an existing homeowner's city property tax bill would rise about 1%. - Sales tax is budgeted with a two-year lag, meaning zero growth is assumed for 2023 and 2024. Utility tax revenue assumes 9.5% electric/gas growth in 2023 and large public utility rate increases. The RGRL business tax increases to $130 with a $20,000 threshold, generating about $1.76 million net for the biennium. - The street fund faces higher material costs, with some supply prices up 25-77%. Proposed fixes include increasing the business-tax transfer to $770,000/year and adding a $20 vehicle license fee starting January 1, 2024. - General fund reserve contributions include $603,000 to contingency, $1.3 million to the rainy-day reserve, and about $1 million to revenue stabilization. The three general-purpose reserves equal about 12.4% of 2024 general fund expenditures. Councilmember Pascal requested a later calculation adding the sales-tax lag to show the full conservative-budgeting cushion. Human Services Funding - Human Services Manager Jen Boone presented. The base city human services grant investment has been flat at about $969,000/year since 2019, supplemented by HB 1406, MFTE, Prop One, and one-time funds. The proposed 2023-2024 budget activates $253,000/year in HB 1406 and about $350,000/year in ARPA funds, raising proposed total investment to $2.3 million/year with about $275,000/year still unallocated in commission options B and C. - Councilmember Curtis expressed strong support for funding human services as much as possible and for the street outreach coordinator position. She also raised concern about pay inequity for behavioral health and community responder staff. City Manager Triplett said in-house community responder pay is set at $87,000-$102,000 and was intended to be competitive. - The Human Services Commission will meet the following Tuesday to rank Option B programs. Staff will also incorporate a $160,000 human services reserve and return with a list of unfunded recommendations for council consideration. Development Services Fund - A new development services fund captures building, planning, development engineering, and fire prevention activities. The total fund is $53 million, including $30.7 million in revenue and about $16 million in reserves. Transfers from the general fund pay for non-development work such as long-range planning. - Fee study changes produce roughly a 50% revenue increase. Reserves are designated for technology replacement, liability for work paid but not completed, and staffing stability to weather short-term market changes. - Staff said the separate fund makes the general fund subsidy and full cost of development services more transparent. Smart Parking Implementation - Public Works Deputy Director John Starboard reviewed a multi-year plan: 2023 would install technology to show real-time occupancy without charging more for parking; 2024 would introduce market-based fees in the municipal garage and city-owned surface lots; 2025 would extend paid parking to city streets and waterfront park lots. - The proposed budget includes $500,000 for 2023-2024 implementation, less than the $1.2 million early estimate. Revenue would be general fund revenue, with a proposal to reinvest it in maintenance of parking facilities, waterfront parks, sidewalks, and streets. - Council asked about real-time data collection and the vendor RFP; staff confirmed the technology would support parking utilization data and public wayfinding. Outside Agency, Tourism, and Special Events - Staff noted the city has not formally decided to take over the July 4th parade. The budget proposes one dedicated events position, while the parks department had requested four positions to continue community events and operate a special events division. City Manager Triplett said the city would need to discuss how much to spend. - Mayor Sweet said the city should take over the July 4th parade; she opposed returning to fireworks and suggested a drone show or other replacement, with sponsorship revenue and vendor fees possible. - Tourism funding included $50,000/year for Kirkland Performance Center operating support, $144,000 for community programs, $60,000 in 2023 lodging-tax grants through the Tourism Development Committee, and a one-time match toward KPC theatrical rigging and electrical controls. Councilmember Nixon noted KPC's overall capital needs are about $3.5 million. Review by Council Goal Area - Inclusive and Equitable Community: funding for outreach and engagement, public safety recruitment, DEIB training and roadmap implementation, speed limit policy review, transportation master plan update, mobile integrated health, and GIS. Councilmember Falcone asked about diverse art and events funding, noting only unspent carryover remained; she advocated continued or increased investment. Mayor Sweet suggested partnering with Kirkland Performance Center to market existing culturally diverse performances to a broader audience. - Vibrant Neighborhoods: funds for the 2024 community survey, neighborhood matching grants, neighborhood safety CIP, planner and development engineer positions, ongoing community court, and a web and multimedia specialist. Councilmember Falcone requested replacing the word citizens with community members in the budget and challenged returning to pre-pandemic participation as the success benchmark. Staff explained full hybrid meeting support for boards and commissions was not funded, but IT will support initial meetings during training. - Community Safety: funding for the regional crisis response agency, NORCOM mental health professional, court security, body-worn cameras, five final Prop One firefighter EMTs, a $2.7 million training prop at Fire Station 24, snow and ice equipment storage, and other public safety investments. Staff noted conversion of two school resource officers to ProAct and Neighborhood Resource Officer roles. Deputy Mayor Arnold asked about future reuse of the old Fire Station 27; City Manager said it may be considered in a mid-biennium proposal. - Support of Human Services: continuing discussed grant increases, a homeless outreach coordinator, expansion of the low-income senior and disabled utility discount program to all low-income customers, and development of a low-income car-tab reimbursement program. - Balanced Transportation: funding for TBD project managers, the regional transportation model, parking technology replacement, and CIP projects. Councilmember Pascal called for revamping the neighborhood traffic calming program and using the speed-limit study to target safety improvements. City Manager said the former dedicated 0.5 FTE position was eliminated, and public works staff will return in early 2023 with an updated approach. Deputy Mayor Arnold requested adding a $38,551 Kirkland share for East Trail Regional Advisory Committee outreach, metrics, and a 2024 event. - Abundant Parks, Open Spaces, and Recreation: $10 million for Houghton Park and Ride, parks ballot measure exploration, pop-up off-leash dog areas, summer action plan wages, tree maintenance equipment, Colocla preliminary design, and more than $8 million in park CIP. Councilmember Curtis advocated for teen programming and mobile education and for more lifeguard funding; City Manager said these were not funded but could be discussed with a potential parks ballot measure. Councilmember Falcone asked staff to explore purchase and environmental remediation costs for the lot near Fire Station 24 and Goodwill. - Attainable Housing: housing trust fund parity, an additional $500,000 to ARCH for a total of $1.3 million, $800,000 for the La Quinta site, CDBG funding, an online permit fee estimator, and reclassification of temporary construction inspectors to ongoing senior inspectors. - Financial Stability: reserve replenishment, employee health and safety investments, telecom franchise analyst, CIP consultant, finance staffing conversions, business analyst, administrative services manager, and Springbrook utility billing upgrade support. Councilmember Black asked how FTE costs are calculated; staff explained one-time costs are for equipment and ongoing totals include salaries, benefits, and IT. - Sustainable Environment: $500,000 in ARPA funds for the electric leaf blower program, median and tree maintenance, ORCA passes, facilities condition assessment, Clean Buildings Act compliance, and sewer and surface water CIPs. Councilmember Curtis raised reclaimed-water purple pipe; staff and Mayor Sweet cited county pricing and PFOS complications. Councilmember Falcone asked for sustainability master plan implementation funding. - Thriving Economy: KPC operating support, community event grants, Port of Seattle and 4Culture grants, permit-processing staffing, tourism grants, surface water development fund, and KPC rigging match. Building and planning staff acknowledged turnover and permit workload pressures; Councilmember Black cautioned against relying on overtime and noted public-to-private retention risks. - Public Works and Fleet: street, water, IT, and facility CIPs; capital project management software; street sweepers; utility equipment; electric vehicle planning; snow and ice equipment; and facility safety upgrades. Fleet staff said an EV master plan is being developed, with two Ford F-150 Lightnings on order as pilots. Councilmember Falcone requested a resident snow-shoveling incentive program; City Manager said funding could be considered. Unprogrammed Resources and Next Steps - After known uses and before reserve replenishment, about $8 million in general fund resources remained; about $3 million is needed for reserves, leaving about $5 million. Staff recommended holding $2 million as a possible higher Houghton Park and Ride appraisal and setting aside 1% of revenues as a recession hedge, leaving $547,556 in unprogrammed one-time resources. - Council discussed using the remaining funds for unfunded human services grants, diverse arts, a sustainability master plan, snow removal incentives, short-term rental enforcement software, the East Trail share, and community how-to videos in multiple languages. Staff will send council a costed list of requests and possible non-general-fund sources before the next meeting. - No formal votes were taken; the meeting was a study session. Key Outcomes - Staff to return on November 1 with a list of council-requested items, options for the $547,556, and possible funding sources outside the general fund. - Staff to provide Councilmember Pascal's requested combined reserve and conservative-budgeting calculation, plus Human Services Commission ranking and prioritization after its next meeting. - Next scheduled steps: November 1, 2022 study session and public hearings on the budget and CIP; November 15, 2022 study session and public hearings on the budget and preliminary property tax; December 13, 2022 final deliberations and adoption of the 2023-2024 budget, 2023-2028 CIP, and property tax levy ordinance. - The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 p.m.

The Kirkland City Council held a regular meeting on October 18, 2022, beginning with a study session on the Parks Special Event Policy at 5:30 p.m., followed by the regular meeting at 7:30 p.m. Deputy Mayor Jay Arnold presided in the absence of Mayor Penny Sweet. The meeting included a special presentation by a local student inventor, a COVID-19 update, approval of consent calendar items and several ordinances, discussion on business license amendments, utility rates, 2023 state legislative priorities, and a fiscal note for a Park Lane study. Public comment was heard on various topics including Imagine Housing concerns and opposition to the Park Lane study. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of October 3 and 4, 2022. - Acknowledged a claim for damages from Jorge Sanchez-Perez. - Awarded a construction contract for the 126th Avenue NE Watermain Improvement project to R.W. Scott Construction Co. ($1,429,377). - Awarded a construction contract for the 120th Avenue NE School and Transit Connector Sidewalk project to Kamins Construction Inc. ($130,937.66). - Accepted the Rose Point Lift Station Improvements project and established the lien period, returning $196,373.33 to Water Sewer Reserves. - Acknowledged the resignation of Rod Lapasin from the Tourism Development Committee. - Acknowledged the August 2022 Financial Dashboard Report and Procurement Report. - Item 8.h.(1) (Park Lane Study Fiscal Note) was pulled for separate consideration. - Motion to approve the consent calendar carried 6-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Anne Hess (Kirkland Downtown Association): Opposed fee increases for free community events, stating they would prohibit continuation. - Pamela Bivens: Testified about unmet reasonable accommodation requests at Francis Village (Imagine Housing), including inaccessible trash and laundry facilities, and reported a hostile interaction with management. - Donald Chin: Allege that Imagine Housing's residential support specialist violates privacy by sharing issues with the property manager, and that trash rooms are unsanitary. He also stated that extra funding requested by Imagine Housing does not benefit residents. - Fred Ritchie: Expressed concern over proposed increases in utility rates and headcount, warning of a recession and urging fiscal restraint. - Allen Freeman: Criticized Imagine Housing's case management, claiming donations are withheld from tenants and staff take items home. Called for accountability and audits of Imagine Housing. - Ida Porter: Spoke in support of unvaccinated firefighters, arguing against vaccine mandates and citing lack of informed consent for EUA vaccines. - Cindy Charlebois: Raised parking issues at Imagine Housing's Francis Village, suggesting creative solutions like renting nearby commercial space for staff parking. Recommended that Imagine Housing develop policies before receiving further funding, and proposed tenant-led facilitation for behavioral health. - Alex Tsimerman: Criticized rules against signs in council chambers as a violation of free speech, and accused Seattle-area governments of fascism. - Taylor Oiness (Business on Park Lane): Opposed the Park Lane study and permanent closure, citing deferred maintenance, lost parking (17 stalls), and negative impacts on businesses. Stated that business owners and landlords were not consulted. Discussion Items - Parks Special Event Policy Update (Study Session): Staff presented proposed changes including reducing event types, revising event limits, and introducing park rental fees. Council discussed balancing equity, flexibility, impacts on businesses and residents, and the need for stakeholder input from event sponsors. Council directed staff to bring forward more refined options, including a potential application period for multi-day events, and to consider differential fees for public vs. ticketed events. - Business License Revenue Generating Regulatory Fee (Ordinance O-4816): Approved an amendment increasing the gross receipts threshold from $12,000 to $20,000 and the fee from $105 to $130 per employee. A technical amendment was made to correct language. Ordinance passed 6-0. - Proposed Amendments to Business License Code (Chapter 7.02): Discussion on several changes including a new single license for multiple single-family rental properties. Council requested further refinement to include missing middle housing (ADUs, duplexes, triplexes) and consider caps. Staff will bring an ordinance on November 1. - Proposed 2023-2024 Utility Rates: Approved four ordinances setting solid waste, water, sewer, and surface water rates for 2023 and 2024. Passed 6-0. - 2023 Draft State Legislative Priorities: Council reviewed and provided feedback on general principles and priorities including housing (ADU tax exemption, new REET tier), behavioral health, climate, gun safety, and capital funding requests. Agreed to refine language to include both constitutional amendments and state legislation on reproductive rights. A motion to proceed with the agenda as amended passed unanimously. - Park Lane Study Fiscal Note (Item 9.e): Approved $75,000 from the Council Special Projects Reserve for a consultant study on future options for Park Lane. Vote: 5-1 (Councilmember Nixon opposed, citing business opposition and alternative uses for funds). Key Outcomes - Ordinance O-4816 (Business License Fee) adopted as amended (6-0). - Ordinances O-4817, O-4818, O-4819, O-4820 (Utility Rates for 2023-2024) adopted (6-0). - 2023 State Legislative Priorities approved in concept with direction to incorporate state-level reproductive rights language. - Park Lane Study Fiscal Note approved (5-1). - Proclamation Process Change: Council directed staff to bring back options for a tiered proclamation system (live, video, website) and a calendar of cultural/religious holidays, with a default to video for recurring proclamations and extraordinary cases for live readings. - COVID-19 Update: City Manager reported that due to an ongoing King County vaccination mandate for contractors, unvaccinated firefighters will not be reinstated. The COVID-19 update will be removed as a standing agenda item after November 1, 2022. - The meeting adjourned at 10:25 p.m. after a closed session on collective bargaining.

The Kirkland Planning Commission held a study session on October 13, 2022, from 7:01 PM to 9:42 PM, focusing on Phase 2 of the NE 85th Street Station Area Plan. Key discussion topics included form-based code standards (transition policies, neighborhood mixed-use and urban flex districts, and parking rates) and amendments to the Planning Commission’s policies and procedures to support hybrid meetings. No formal decisions were made on the Station Area Plan; the commission provided feedback for further refinement. The commission did vote unanimously (7-0) to approve revised policies and procedures, with a final version to be reviewed and adopted at the next meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Chris Kagen, a Kirkland resident, made a brief, non-substantive comment about staff member Adam Weinstein’s child. - Yin Lu, a Kirkland resident of the Highland neighborhood, expressed concerns on behalf of Highland residents about the proposed 5-foot setback from their residential community (currently 20–25 feet) and the potential for 65-foot tall buildings abutting their 20-foot tall houses. She requested that the current setback be maintained and asked for further discussion. Discussion Items - NE 85th Street Station Area Plan – Phase 2 Form-Based Code - Staff and consultants (Mithun) presented updates on form-based code components, including transition policies, neighborhood mixed-use district standards, urban flex district standards, and recommended parking rates. - Transitions: Commissioners raised concerns about the adequacy of the 15-foot setback and 25-degree sky exposure plane, especially where height differences exceed 30 feet. Some called for more aggressive transition strategies for larger height disparities (e.g., 85–150 feet adjacent to 30-foot zones) and requested analysis of topographic variations that could affect perceived building height. Staff agreed to bring back refined options. - Neighborhood Mixed-Use District: Commissioners discussed specific parcel heights (e.g., 75-foot zone at the former PETCO site) and expressed concern about 85-foot zoning adjacent to low-density residential neighborhoods without adequate buffering. Some supported preserving the existing height at the top of Rose Hill (124th–128th) and urged caution around the Cross Kirkland Corridor (CKC), favoring 30-foot limits there. Staff noted that transition strategies and incentive zoning could temper actual built heights. - Urban Flex District: Commissioners emphasized preserving light industrial and manufacturing uses, as directed by City Council. Vice Chair Reusser strongly discouraged ground-floor residential to maintain walkability and retail activity. Commissioner Heiser highlighted the need to retain public works maintenance space within the district. - Parking Rates: Staff recommended reduced parking minimums (e.g., 0.5 stalls per unit for residential, 1 stall per 1,000 sq ft for commercial). Several commissioners advocated for even lower minimums or zero parking requirements, citing climate and affordability goals. Others urged caution about convenience, disabled access, ride-share staging, and EV readiness. Commissioner Singhal proposed that 100% of new parking be EV-ready. Commissioner Tymczyszyn suggested forming a parking subcommittee to avoid lengthy debate. Staff noted that bike parking requirements have been increased and decoupled from vehicle parking. - Planning Commission Policies and Procedures - Deputy Director Allison Zike presented draft amendments to enable hybrid meetings, based on City Council’s framework. - Commissioners discussed language around attendance expectations. Chair Rozmyn requested explicit recognition of health concerns and comfort levels, including public or personal health reasons, to avoid pressuring commissioners to attend in person. The commission agreed to remove the phrase “from time to time” and add “public or personal health concerns” and “including telephone connections” to the attendance clause. - Commissioner Singhal proposed that the commission explicitly encourage public participation both in person and virtually, and that this message be added to the commission’s webpage. The commission concurred. - A motion was made and carried 7-0 to approve the amendments as edited, with final language to be presented for formal approval at the October 27 meeting. Key Outcomes - Approval of Policies and Procedures Amendments (7-0): The commission voted to adopt the revised policies and procedures as amended during the discussion. A final version (including the “public or personal health concerns” and “including telephone connections” additions) will be brought to the October 27 meeting for signature and formal adoption. - Approval of Meeting Minutes (7-0): The minutes from June 14, 2022, and July 28, 2022, were approved unanimously. - Next Steps for Station Area Plan: Staff will refine transition policies (including topographic considerations and more aggressive options for large height differences), study parking standards, and present updated form-based code topics at the October 27 meeting. A community open house is scheduled for October 24. Staff will also engage with developers (including NAIOP) to gather feedback. - Future Agenda: The October 27 meeting will include further discussion on the Station Area form-based code, approval of the final policies and procedures, and a public hearing on Comprehensive Plan amendments (annual updates, park rezones, and language updates).

The Kirkland City Council met on October 4, 2022, in a hybrid format. A study session began at 5:30 p.m. on the 2023–2028 Preliminary Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and street/median maintenance improvements. The regular meeting convened at 7:30 p.m. and included proclamations, a public hearing on 2023–2024 budget revenue sources, a COVID-19 update, consideration of 2023–2024 utility rates, and other business. The meeting adjourned at 10:10 p.m. following an executive session on real estate acquisition. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: September 20, 2022. - Audit of Accounts: Payroll $4,735,759.71; bills $5,747,287.23. - Acceptance of Public Improvements: Cross Kirkland Corridor Lighting Project (120th Ave NE to NE 124th St) completed by Colvico, Inc.; $11,017 transferred to Totem Lake Connector project and $274,346 returned to REET reserves. - Resolution R-5559: Approved participation in an interlocal cooperative purchasing agreement with the City of Tacoma. - Resolution R-5560: Reallocated the City’s portion of Community Development Block Grant (CV-3/CDBG) funds. - Ordinance O-4814: Established salary for Municipal Court Judge, effective January 1, 2023. - Ordinance O-4815: Amended Chapter 14.36 of the Kirkland Municipal Code relating to city floats, moorages, and tour boat facilities. - Proclamations: Indigenous Peoples' Day and Arbor Day acknowledged. - Procurement Report: Acknowledged. - Motion carried 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Items from the Audience (regular meeting): Katherine Freire read a letter from Mayor Penny Sweet to firefighters regarding vaccination requirements, criticizing coercion. Alex Tsimerman denounced the city government as “Nazi Gestapo democracy fascism,” criticized inflation, and warned against potential atomic war. - Public Hearing on 2023–2024 Budget Revenue Sources: - Lynda Larsen (Velocity Apartments) supported funding for affordable housing case management but alleged lack of accountability, including undelivered gift cards and retaliatory behavior by staff. - Vincent Bembry (Athena Apartments) echoed accountability concerns regarding Imagine Housing. - Edward Radcliffe (Kirkland resident) opposed the 1% property tax increase, calling property valuations arbitrary, and criticized the proposed business license fee increase (RGRL) as regressive for small businesses. - Kevin Smoltz (Francis Village) requested better accountability, a pedestrian crosswalk near his building, and dust control from construction. Study Session Discussion Items 2023–2028 Preliminary Capital Improvement Program (CIP) - Financial Planning Supervisor Kevin Pelstring and Capital Projects Manager Rod Steitzer presented proposed changes: moving $150,000/year from street levy to neighborhood safety program (total $900,000 over six years), adding $360,000 in REET reserves for stormwater fixes at NE 132nd St/116th Way/I-405, and clarifying $300,000 from general fund for NE 85th Station area transportation plan. - 108th Ave NE Q-jumps project (two projects, $12 million total): Staff recommended continuing design but deferred obligating a $1.5 million federal design grant until more is known about King County’s K-line funding. Councilmember Pascal favored delaying a decision until spring 2023 after further county advocacy. Deputy Mayor Arnold supported exploring state/regional funding independent of the K-line. Councilmember Nixon preferred prioritizing safer routes to school projects. Council generally agreed to gather more information before committing. - Pavement Condition Index (PCI): The city maintains 650 lane miles. Current funding ($4.2M/year) is projected to push PCI below the levy goal of 70 by 2030 due to oil prices and inflation. - Off-leash dog parks: Staff noted capacity and funding constraints; a proposed 2023–2024 service package would fund four pop-up locations. - Capital delivery factors: Inflation, complex funding, permitting, and staffing challenges discussed; countermeasures include regular finance coordination, expanded recruitment, and partnering with utilities. Street and Median Maintenance Improvements and Potential New Funding Sources - Public Works Director Julie Underwood introduced new staff: Superintendent Chris Gavigan, Streets and Grounds Manager Ryan Fowler, and Supervisor Micah Stansberry. - 2022 Streets and Grounds Assessment (Consultant Glen Akramoff): Strengths included dedicated staff and senior leadership support. Challenges included post-annexation workload, lack of documented processes, and employee development gaps. Recent improvements: new leadership, reduced absenteeism, team mission/values, and a new supervisor position. The maintenance facility (designed for 35–40 people now houses 70) requires long-term upgrades. - Medians Replacement Project Update (KPG Psomas Senior Landscape Architect Coreen Schmidt): Four hardscape concepts were presented, incorporating stamped concrete, natural stone textures, and planting pockets. Two initial implementation options: Option 1 (Juanita Beach Park median, $142,000) and Option 2 (10 medians on Central Way/Market Street, $124,000). Council feedback favored concepts that retained low-maintenance plantings (options 3 and 4) and prioritized gateway corridors. Councilmember Curtis opposed removing medians with trees. Councilmember Nixon emphasized prioritizing ADA ramps over median aesthetics. Staff will incorporate feedback and bring forward a plan for 2022 implementation and future years. Proposed 2023–2024 Utility Rates - Policy and Community Relations Supervisor John MacGillivray and Financial Planning Supervisor Kevin Pelstring presented proposed rates: Solid waste (reflecting contractual changes and CPI cap at 5%), water (4% per year), sewer (6.5% per year), and surface water (5% per year). The average residential customer would see monthly increases of $15.75 in 2023 and $13.63 in 2024. A new Capital Facility Charge (CFC) methodology (“updated current”) was recommended as a middle ground. Council discussed a low-income utility discount program and noted the existing Kirkland Cares donation option on bills. Councilmember Falcone supported expanding outreach for donations. Council generally supported the proposed rates and the updated current CFC method. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved unanimously (7-0). - CIP direction: Staff will incorporate Council feedback and provide an updated CIP at the November 15, 2022 study session. A decision on the 108th Ave Q-jumps federal grant is deferred to spring 2023 pending further information from WSDOT and King County. - Median maintenance: Staff will proceed with design and implementation of the median replacement plan based on Council’s input; service packages for ongoing median maintenance and pop-up dog parks are included in the preliminary budget. - Budget Revenue Sources: The public hearing was held; Council will consider all testimony in the final budget process (December 13, 2022). - Utility Rates: Council directed staff to finalize ordinances for the proposed 2023–2024 rates with the updated current CFC methodology; adoption is scheduled for October 18, 2022. - Proclamations: October 2022 proclaimed Domestic Violence Awareness Month (accepted by LifeWire’s Kevin Tomlin) and Walk and Roll to School Month (accepted by Ben Franklin Elementary PTA board member Claire du Parc). - CERT Class 30 Graduation: Emergency Manager Heather Kelly recognized the 13 graduates, the first fully in-person class since 2019; next class is May 2023. - COVID-19 Update: City Manager Kurt Triplett announced the city’s emergency proclamation will end October 31, 2022. Rehiring of unvaccinated firefighters remains under review pending final decisions from medical directors and the city’s vaccination policy. - Executive Session: Held to discuss the acquisition of real estate by lease or purchase; meeting adjourned at 10:10 p.m.

Meeting Date: October 3, 2022, 6:30 - 7:38 PM Location: Virtual with public seating in Kirkland City Council Chamber This special meeting was convened to receive public comment on a proposed $20 vehicle license fee (car tab) to fund pedestrian and bicycle safety improvements and a dedicated tree and median maintenance team. The Council heard a presentation from City Manager Kurt Triplett and then listened to public testimony from 13 speakers. No formal votes were taken; the Council will use the feedback during the upcoming budget process. Introductions and Transportation Benefit District Overview City Manager Kurt Triplett presented the proposal. The city has identified $26 million in priority safety projects from the Safe Routes to School Action Plan and Active Transportation Plan, developed with over 2,000 community members. Current funding provides $800,000 per year ($5 million over six years). The proposal would: - Enact a $20 per vehicle fee, generating approximately $1.34 million annually. - Use $1 million per year to pay debt service on a $20 million bond to fund 45 high-priority projects (new sidewalks, filling gaps, flashing beacons, bike lanes, ADA ramps). - Use $340,000 per year to hire a dedicated two-person tree and median maintenance team. The remaining $340,000 would be used for debt service and median maintenance. The bond would be repaid over six years, accelerating project timelines from 30 years to six. Public Comments & Testimony Public commenters expressed a range of positions: Support (full or conditional): - Bhaj Townsend (bicyclist): Suggested taxing bicyclists instead of or in addition to cars, arguing for shared cost. - Hamilton Anderson (renter, business owner): Supported the car tab, opposed a bike tax, emphasized maintenance and safe bike lanes. - Kurt Dresner (parent of 11-year-old cyclist): Fully supported, willing to pay more than $20, noted safety from cars is the issue. - Kyle Butler (resident 9 years): Supported, provided specific project suggestions (NE 128th, NE 120th), opposed bike tax. - Faith DeBolt (resident 11 years): Supported, highlighted benefits for safe routes to school and reduced traffic congestion. - Chris Kagan (KCCC resident, Kirkland Greenways member): Supported but urged focus on protected bike lanes rather than painted lanes; suggested voluntary bike registration. - Matt N. (resident with young child): Strongly supported, emphasized risk to children from cars, favored higher density and connectivity. Opposition or concerns: - Ken MacKenzie: Opposed new tax, argued the city can fund projects from existing budget (1% trim), called the tax regressive. - Susan Davis (resident 22 years): Opposed, skeptical of city's financial priorities (citing parking lot purchase, connector bridge), worried about angering voters. - Brad Williamson (resident 10 years): Concerned about potential to increase fee to $40 without vote; questioned proximity of bike projects to Cross Kirkland Corridor. - Calvin (resident): Asked about impact on vulnerable communities, whether projects benefit non-residents, and comparison to other cities' TBDs. - Nicole MacKenzie (West of Market resident 13 years): Opposed adding new perpetual tax, urged city to live within means. - Tanya Dimpsey (resident 19 years): Requested data on actual safety incidents; perceived streets as safe. Discussion Items - Panel responses: City Manager Triplett and staff addressed questions about budget trade-offs, the Houghton Village inter-fund loan, and the flexibility of the fee (no future increase assumed). - Active Transportation Plan Manager Joel Pfundt clarified that projects were selected for connectivity and safety, not just geographic spread; the city is a Vision Zero city. - Public Works Deputy Director John Starbard noted that existing $800,000/year will continue. - Council members listened but did not question speakers; Deputy City Manager Lopez facilitated. Key Outcomes - No vote or action taken; meeting was for public input only. - Council will consider feedback during the budget process (October-December 2022). - Additional small-group meetings on the TBD are scheduled for October 12 and October 20, 2022. - Residents can engage via the city's budget simulation tool ("Balancing Act") and attend the revenue public hearing on October 4, 2022. - The recording of the meeting and further information are available at Kirklandwa.gov. - The meeting adjourned at 7:38 PM.

The Kirkland Planning Commission met on September 22, 2022, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chamber. Chair Angela Rozmyn presided, with Vice Chair Scott Reusser and Commissioners Katya Allen and Bria Heiser present. Commissioner John Tymczyszyn left at 7:08 PM due to a prior commitment; Commissioners Sandeep Singhal and Rodney Rutherford were absent. Staff present included Planning & Building Director Adam Weinstein, Deputy Director Allison Zike, Senior Planner Scott Guter, and others. Mayor Penny Sweet attended briefly to address Commission concerns and outline the Phase 2 process for the NE 85th Street Station Area Plan. Consent Calendar - Motion to amend the June 23, 2022 minutes to note Commissioner Tymczyszyn's dissenting vote on the Personal Delivery Devices item carried 4-0. - Motion to approve the minutes of June 9, 2022 and June 23, 2022 as amended carried 4-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Margaret Bull, a Kirkland resident, expressed that she shares her views with the Planning Commission but feels the City Council does not listen well. She questioned the inclusion of a gas station in the Station Area Plan due to its proximity to the freeway and suggested requiring electric vehicle charging stations and a sheltered place for people to smoke or vape. Discussion Items - Mayor Penny Sweet's Remarks: Mayor Sweet apologized for the Council's actions that felt dismissive to the Commission and assured them that the Council values their recommendations. She highlighted the importance of the Commission's work and proposed monthly check-ins between the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and Commission leadership during Phase 2. - NE 85th Street Station Area Plan Phase 2 Briefing: Deputy Director Allison Zike presented an overview of Phase 1 adopted items (vision, comprehensive plan chapter, rezoning, form-based code, incentive zoning program, design guidelines, and catalyst project implementation for Google at the Lee Johnson site). Phase 2 will include a planned action ordinance for the full station area and form-based code amendments for perimeter districts (civic mixed-use, urban flex, etc.). Key differences from Phase 1 include lower densities, allowance of residential uses, and a focus on affordable housing as a priority. Council directed staff to explore trade-offs in affordable housing requirements (e.g., deeper affordability, more units, higher bedroom counts) while maintaining mixed-use vibrancy. Commissioners discussed the need for detailed cost analysis of incentive zoning options to ensure developer feasibility, and the importance of preserving retail/services for 10-minute neighborhoods. They also emphasized addressing development standards (massing, setbacks, transitions) beyond the incentive program. Zike outlined the timeline: October study sessions, a community open house, a November 10 public hearing, and December Council adoption. - Administrative Reports: Chair Rozmyn and Vice Chair Reusser reported their quarterly meeting with the Mayor and Deputy Mayor focused on improving the Phase 2 process. Deputy Director Zike noted Council actions: adoption of the Planned Action Ordinance (September 6), Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan update, and Houghton Community Council zoning code amendments as recommended by the Commission. Zike also reviewed the upcoming public meeting calendar, including October 27 as the first hybrid meeting, and requested Commission input on potential policies for commissioner attendance and conduct during hybrid meetings. Commissioners expressed a preference for flexible, soft language regarding in-person attendance, emphasizing ongoing pandemic concerns and the need for equitable virtual participation options for the public and commissioners with health risks. Staff will draft a policy for consideration at the October 13 meeting. Key Outcomes - The Commission approved the June 9 and amended June 23 meeting minutes (4-0). - The Commission received the Phase 2 briefing and provided guidance to staff on study session topics (incentive zoning, affordable housing costs, community benefits, development standards). - Staff will release a full draft of Phase 2 form-based code before the October meeting and conduct two study sessions in October. - A public hearing on Phase 2 is tentatively scheduled for November 10, 2022. - Staff will draft hybrid meeting attendance policy language for Commission discussion at the October 13 meeting.