Public Meetings - Shoreline, Washington

The Shoreline Planning Commission met on June 6, 2024, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:20 p.m. to discuss the 2024 Comprehensive Plan Update, focusing on the Land Use, Housing, and Economic Development elements. Staff presented draft goals and policies, and commissioners provided feedback and direction for further refinement. Consent Calendar - The agenda and the draft minutes of the May 16, 2024 regular meeting were approved as presented. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak. Discussion Items Housing Element - Commissioner Povick raised concerns about low-income apartment buildings using third-party utility management companies, which prevent residents from qualifying for utility discounts (e.g., from City Light or PSE). She recommended the city discourage such practices. Vice Chair Brinson clarified this relates to master metering vs. individual meters. - Povick also criticized high late fees charged to low-income seniors on fixed incomes, suggesting a city cap (e.g., $10) similar to other cities. - Vice Chair Brinson discussed short-term rentals, supporting analysis before regulation, as evidence elsewhere does not show banning them increases housing affordability. She noted some regulations (e.g., parking) could improve neighborhood compatibility. Chair Mosier shared personal experience, expressing concern about impacts on residential character and that the city receives little lodging tax due to high B&O tax thresholds. - Chair Mosier expressed concern that focusing growth near transit reinforces the idea that change will only occur in areas people "generally don't like" (Aurora, light rail stations). Commissioner Povick disagreed, noting developers (e.g., Kinect) build at stations because people want to live there. Commissioner Hadley supported choice. Vice Chair Brinson emphasized middle housing to provide choices for different family types. - Commissioner Lin asked about transitions between tall buildings and open spaces. Planning Manager Keim reviewed existing transition regulations. Chair Mosier suggested proactively changing zoning near future park sites. Economic Development Element - Chair Mosier recommended reviewing B&O tax thresholds, noting they are high enough that many short-term rentals pay no lodging tax. - Staff reported that public outreach showed residents want more retail, dining, and "third places," with strong support for commercial nodes like Ridgecrest and North City, and a desire for a downtown. Land Use Element - Vice Chair Brinson questioned the terms "house scale" and "block scale" in land use designations, feeling they were imprecise. Chair Mosier agreed, noting inconsistency with building code terminology. Planning Director Bauer offered to bring revised draft language to the next meeting. - Chair Mosier raised concerns about drive-through businesses, arguing they conflict with goals for pedestrian-friendly environments and transit (e.g., slowing the E-line on Aurora). He suggested considering making them a conditional use. Commissioner Fry cautioned against hamstringing businesses, as drive-throughs often help developments pencil out. Commissioner Hadley emphasized the need for balance, including accessible parking. Commissioner Povick noted drive-throughs are valuable for families with children. Commissioner Brinson suggested crafting language around pedestrian compatibility rather than prohibition. Commissioner Lin noted Aurora's high traffic volume supports large drive-throughs. - Commissioner Cabe asked about HOA bylaws vs. zoning. Keim explained HOAs can be more restrictive but cannot override city zoning; new state law prevents new covenants from banning ADUs or middle housing. - Chair Mosier recommended consistency in tree terminology across documents (e.g., "native trees" vs. "substantial trees"). - Commissioner Povick criticized the frequent use of "encourage" in goals, arguing for SMART goals with accountability. Keim and Bauer explained the comprehensive plan is a high-level policy document, with details in functional plans and implementation measures. - Commissioner Povick suggested exploring microtransit options to provide data for Metro. - Commissioner Lin asked whether city policy on drive-throughs needs updating. Bauer asked for direction: staff could propose policy language to limit or prohibit drive-throughs. The commission leaned toward drafting a policy on pedestrian compatibility rather than outright prohibition. - Commissioner Cabe suggested encouraging affordable condos to help low-income residents build wealth. Chair Mosier noted developer liability concerns. - Vice Chair Brinson recommended further developing language on utilities' impact on housing costs. Key Outcomes - Staff will bring revised draft language on land use zone descriptors/terminology to the June 20, 2024 meeting. - Staff will develop draft policy language addressing drive-throughs from a pedestrian compatibility perspective, rather than prohibition. - Staff will review and consider microtransit policies for the comprehensive plan. - The commission will continue refining the Housing, Economic Development, and Land Use elements, with the next meeting on June 20 focusing on land use maps and middle housing options. - No formal votes were taken; direction was provided informally during discussion.

The Shoreline Planning Commission met on May 16, 2024, to discuss development code amendments related to middle housing (House Bill 1110), including whether to adopt Tier 1 or Tier 2 standards and how to apply alternative compliance options. Commissioners expressed divergent views on the appropriate tier, with a majority favoring Tier 1 to proactively address housing needs. No final decision was made; staff will conduct further analysis and return with recommendations. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda as presented. - Approved the minutes of April 18, 2024, as presented. Public Comments & Testimony - Jonathan Lounds, Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties: Expressed strong support for developing regulations aligned with Tier 1 cities under House Bill 1110, stating it will significantly increase housing capacity in Shoreline and position the city as a regional leader. Also supported form-based codes to eliminate restrictive zoning. Discussion Items Study Item: Code Updates and Middle Housing Alternative Compliance - Senior Planner Steve Szafran and Planning Manager Elise Keim presented an overview of upcoming Development Code Amendments, including form-based codes, new zoning classifications, neighborhood-serving businesses, ADU updates, racially disparate impacts, and critical areas. - Planning Manager Keim explained that Shoreline (population 61,120) is currently a Tier 2 city under the Middle Housing Bill (cities 25,000–74,999). Tier 2 requires two dwelling units per lot citywide, four near transit or with affordable units. Tier 1 would require four units per lot, six near transit or with affordable units. Staff requested feedback on whether to pursue Tier 1 proactively, given the city may reach the 75,000 threshold in 12–18 years (based on 1.2%–1.8% annual growth). - Emily Larson from Otak reviewed alternative compliance options: risk of displacement (temporary exemption), critical areas/environmental hazards (permanent exemption), infrastructure capacity, airport proximity (not applicable), and sea-level rise/flooding/wildfire/geologic hazards. Exemptions are capped at 25% of eligible lots. Initial analysis focused on displacement risk, critical areas, and environmental hazards. - Commissioners discussed the trade-offs: - Commissioner Lin questioned whether Tier 1 with exemptions would make it harder to meet housing targets; Keim clarified it is about allowed units, not required units, and critical areas regulations remain. - Commissioner Cabe asked if Tier 1 could be applied in some areas and Tier 2 in others; Keim noted the bill sets minimums – the city can exceed but not fall below Tier 2. - Commissioner Povick supported Tier 2, citing need for infrastructure and community values like tree preservation. - Commissioner Fry favored Tier 1 to address the housing crisis proactively, noting the upcoming threshold. - Vice Chair Brinson supported Tier 1 for proactive planning and offering more housing choices; agreed gradual implementation and developer certainty. - Chair Mosier supported Tier 1, noting large HOA-governed areas reduce buildable land, making Tier 1 more important; form-based codes can compensate. - Commissioner Cabe agreed with Tier 1 to increase affordability but suggested if Tier 2 is chosen, identify areas for higher density. - Commissioner Lin supported Tier 2 for organic growth, preserving Shoreline's character and tree canopy. - On alternative compliance, commissioners requested: - Overlay maps of exclusions (critical areas, displacement risk, racial covenants) for clarity. - Analysis of lots subject to HOA restrictions (large known HOAs and plat restrictions). - More information on displacement – definitions, scenarios, and potential anti-displacement policies (e.g., right-to-return, relocation fees) – to inform decisions. - Chair Mosier also requested visual examples of development standards for different densities. Key Outcomes - No formal decision was made on whether to pursue Tier 1 or Tier 2; staff will incorporate feedback and conduct additional analysis. - Staff will overlay maps of alternative compliance criteria, analyze HOA-restricted lots, and explore anti-displacement strategies. - The Commission will receive an update on the analysis and a recommendation at a future meeting (likely within the next couple of months). - The next regular meeting is scheduled for June 6, 2024, with discussion of land use, housing, and economic development elements.

The Shoreline Planning Commission met on Thursday, April 18, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. (agenda listed 7:30 p.m.; minutes state 7:00 p.m.) in the Council Chamber at Shoreline City Hall. The meeting included a detailed update on the Lynnwood Link Light Rail Extension, the Director’s Report covering recent council actions, development activity, and a recommendation to cancel the May 2 meeting. No public comment was received. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda – Accepted as presented. - Approval of Minutes (April 4, 2024 Regular Meeting) – Accepted as presented. Public Comments & Testimony - None. Study Items - Lynnwood Link Light Rail Extension Project Update – Sound Transit Project Manager Juniper Nammi presented an extensive update. Key points: - Project scope: 8.5 miles of new track from Northgate to Lynnwood Center, with four stations (two in Shoreline: Shoreline North/185th and Shoreline South/148th). - Opening date: August 30, 2024 (slightly delayed to coordinate with East Link starter line). - Each Shoreline station includes a 500-stall parking garage (1,000 total). - Construction began April 2019; train testing started early 2024; system handover to King County Metro scheduled for May. - Public restrooms at both stations (code requirement, push-button access). - Mitigation projects completed: wetland restoration near 155th, Ridgecrest Park improvements, new parking lot, noise wall, and trail segments. - Trail Along the Rail: about 20 blocks built by Sound Transit; city seeks funding for remaining 30 blocks from 145th to 195th. - Artwork and stormwater features at 148th Station. - Pedestrian improvements: 195th street end hammerhead, ADA-compliant sidewalks, 148th pedestrian bridge (funded by RAISE grant). - Future development: Alexan project (185th Station area) permit issued; Evergreen Point North (8-story, 360 units, 3,000 sq ft commercial) application filed. - Commissioners expressed appreciation for the presentation. Director’s Report - Planning Director Andrew Bauer provided a quarterly update covering: - Council Activity (April 8): Adopted Human Services Strategic Plan; adopted local building code amendments (emergency access for larger developments). Seattle Energy Code still in effect; commercial energy code pending Seattle action. - Permit Activity Statistics (2023) : - 83% of civil permits issued within 120-day state timeline; for building permits, vast majority issued within 120 days. - Total declared value of all permit applications by year: 2022 saw a large spike; 2023 reflected higher-value projects from earlier filings. - Multifamily/mixed-use: 4 new projects, 906 units, over $200 million declared value; 4,900 inspections conducted in 2023. - Specific Project Updates: - Evergreen Point North – 8-story, 360-unit mixed-use, filed new application. - Alexan (across from 185th Station) – permit issued. - FurCrest Master Development Plan – hearing examiner held March 6, awaiting decision; includes 120-bed skilled nursing, behavioral health facility, pedestrian connections to Hamlin Park, tree mitigation. - Parks Bond Projects: Shoreview Park (on hold due to agreement with college), Ridgecrest Park (under construction), Richmond Highland Sensory Concept, James Q. Bruegersbog playground concept. 145th Street interchange closure (full closure through fall). - Landmarks Commission Recruitment: Vacancy for special commissioner; application deadline May 10; Planning Commissioners eligible. Example landmark: old naval chapel on Fircrest campus. - Commissioner Q&A: - Commissioner Povick asked about parking around stations. Director Bauer explained each station has 500-stall garage; new developments average about 1.2–1.4 stalls per unit; city developing a parking enforcement program before August 30. - Commissioner Fry asked about commercial requirements. Bauer noted ground-floor non-residential space is now required for multifamily (passed within last four months); Alexan was not subject to this requirement. - Commissioner Fry asked about energy code adoption. Bauer replied Shoreline follows Seattle Energy Code; waiting on Seattle action and court rulings; council will decide. Key Outcomes - Decisions: Agenda and minutes approved unanimously. May 2, 2024 meeting cancelled with no objections. - Next Meeting: An April 29 dinner meeting with City Council was announced as a substitute for the cancelled May 2 meeting. - Adjournment: 7:56 p.m.

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Acting Chair Hoekzema. New commissioners were sworn in by Mayor Chris Roberts, and the commission elected officers for the year. The agenda and minutes from March 7, 2024 were approved without amendments. The primary study items were the introduction of the 2024 Comprehensive Plan Update elements (Land Use, Housing, and Economic Development) and a discussion of the Transportation Element, including public comments and docket requests. No general public comments were made, but written comments were submitted. Consent Calendar - Approval of the agenda as presented. - Approval of the Regular Meeting Draft Minutes of March 7, 2024 as presented. - Election of Chair: Commissioner Christopher Mosier was unanimously elected. - Election of Vice Chair: Commissioner Leslie Brinson was unanimously elected. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak. Written public comments were received for the study items, including comments from Jonelle Kemmerling, Boni Biery, Susanne Tsoming, Tom McCormick, and Catherine Weibridge. Discussion Items - 2024 Comprehensive Plan Update - Introduction of Land Use, Housing, and Economic Development Elements: Consultants Cara Donovan (Otak) and David Fiske (Leland Consulting Group) presented the requirements, data sources, and public feedback. Key points included: planning for housing by income bracket (with the largest need below 50% AMI), land capacity constraints for higher-income housing, the role of middle housing and form-based code, and the need for permanent supportive housing partnerships. Commissioners asked about financing, tree canopy impacts, and interjurisdictional coordination. The commission will receive draft Land Use and Housing elements for review by May 12, with Economic Development to follow. - 2024 Comprehensive Plan Update - Discussion of Transportation Element: Planning Manager Elise Keim reviewed staff responses to prior commission comments on pedestrian access to schools, traffic calming, pedestrian prioritization at intersections, and curb management. Staff recommended against adding new specific language, citing existing policies. Three docket requests were discussed: (1) treating wide/unopened rights-of-way as Green Streets – staff recommended not including due to specificity; (2) a map correction for a path blocked by a fence – staff recommended approval; (3) a bicycle/pedestrian bridge over 205th to link the Interurban Trail – staff recommended not including, noting existing policies for interjurisdictional connections. Traffic Engineer Kendra Dedinsky reported no serious or fatal collisions at that intersection since 2015. Commissioner Povick raised concerns about the transportation survey's framing regarding disabilities and the omission of micro-transit. Chair Mosier suggested reaching out to the docket applicant (Tom McCormick) to discuss advocacy strategies. Key Outcomes - The Planning Commission unanimously elected Christopher Mosier as Chair and Leslie Brinson as Vice Chair for the upcoming year. - The agenda and March 7, 2024 minutes were approved. - Staff will deliver draft Land Use and Housing elements to commissioners for review by May 12, with Economic Development to follow within a week or two. - On the Transportation Element: - The map correction docket request will move forward. - Staff will reach out to Tom McCormick, the applicant for the bicycle/pedestrian bridge docket, to discuss ways to advance the project through the Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) and Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) process. - Staff will provide additional data on how the bridge project is prioritized in existing metrics (equity, safety, connectivity). - The commission will continue discussions on middle housing and development regulations in May, and a full review of the Land Use, Housing, and Economic Development goals and policies in June. - The meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m.

The Shoreline Planning Commission held a regular meeting on March 7, 2024, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting focused on the 2024 Comprehensive Plan Update, including an introduction to the Transportation Element and a discussion of the Natural Environment and Shoreline Master Program elements. The Commission also heard public comments, approved the agenda and minutes, and received farewell remarks from outgoing commissioners. The meeting was adjourned at 7:57 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of the agenda: Accepted as presented. - Approval of the regular meeting minutes of February 1, 2024: Accepted as presented. Public Comments & Testimony - Christine Gildow, Shoreline resident, expressed appreciation for staff assistance and reiterated the importance of preserving views of west-facing mountains and water from public places (e.g., Richmond Beach Saltwater Park). She also provided a handout on issues related to closing park gates and potential solutions. - Suzanne Tsoming, Shoreline resident on behalf of Save Shoreline Trees, spoke during the Natural Environment discussion. She proposed three incentives for tree preservation on private property: (1) reduce stormwater fees for property owners maintaining significant trees, or apply a fee based on impervious surface percentage; (2) continue and expand Shoreline's community tree program, comparing it with Seattle's Trees for Neighborhoods; (3) subsidize hiring licensed ISA-certified arborists by private property owners. She also proposed a definition of "established trees" as those growing in the same place for five years or more with healthy annual growth. Discussion Items - 2024 Comprehensive Plan Update – Introduction of Transportation Element: Staff reviewed the Transportation Element's purpose, regulatory requirements (Growth Management Act, concurrency, multi-county policies), data sources (demographics, travel demand modeling), existing public outreach (2022 adoption), and docket requests (green streets, bicycle/pedestrian bridge, map revisions). The Commission was asked to review the goals and policies via a spreadsheet from March 8–17, with comments due by March 17. Staff will consolidate feedback for the April 7 meeting. Commissioner Rwamashongye suggested writing the Comp Plan to align with FEMA and FTA funding requirements to facilitate grant access. - 2024 Comprehensive Plan Update – Discussion of Natural Environment and Shoreline Master Program (SMP): Staff presented a summary of feedback received from the Commission and Save Shoreline Trees. Key points included support for draft goals/policies, requests to promote equity, resilience, and best available science, and suggestions for new content: urban heat island reduction, reducing auto-dependent development patterns, waste reduction, tree-utility conflicts, privately owned tree programs, and terminology changes (e.g., "established trees"). The Commission discussed street tree policies (Commissioner Galuska advocated for phased replacement rather than mass removal; Commissioner Mosier asked about flexible siting of street trees; Chair Sager suggested planting trees in right-of-way without sidewalks). The SMP discussion covered landslide hazards, sea level rise alignment with HB 1181, and coordination with Army Corps regulations. Staff confirmed that docket requests were incorporated and that the next full draft of the Comp Plan will be presented in late summer. Key Outcomes - The Commission expressed general support for staff's analysis of docket items and proposed language for both the Natural Environment and SMP elements. - Staff will coordinate with Public Works, Environmental Services, and other departments on the suggested new content (e.g., urban heat islands, waste reduction, street trees) and will incorporate feedback into the next draft. - The March 21, 2024 Planning Commission meeting was cancelled due to lack of agenda items. - The Commission received updates on the Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) code amendment: City Council tabled the recommendation to explore financial incentives (e.g., LCLIP, tax increment financing). - Outgoing Commissioners (Callahan, Rwamashongye, Lin, Galuska) and Chair Sager thanked staff and fellow commissioners for their service. Staff and Planning Director Bauer expressed appreciation for the commissioners' contributions.

The Shoreline Planning Commission held a regular meeting on Thursday, February 1, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. to begin reviewing the Natural Environment and Shoreline Master Program elements of the 2024 Comprehensive Plan update. Staff and consultants presented an overview of the elements, including state, regional, and county requirements, supporting data, public participation findings, and the review process. Commissioners were invited to individually edit draft goals and policies using tracked changes for submission by February 18, with combined comments to be discussed at the March 7 meeting. The meeting included two oral public comments and numerous written comments. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved as presented. - The minutes of the January 18, 2024 regular meeting were approved as presented. Public Comments & Testimony - Chrissey Gildow, Shoreline resident, expressed strong support for protecting west-facing views of mountains and saltwater, noting that Richmond Beach Saltwater Park has been recognized as one of the best sunset viewing locations in Washington. She urged the Commission to treat these views as a protected asset. - Kathleen Russell, speaking on behalf of Save Shoreline Trees, requested that the phrase "established trees" be explicitly included in the Comprehensive Plan goals and policies. She referenced statements from two City Council members prioritizing tree preservation and the findings from the 2023 Urban Canopy Assessment that Shoreline's urban forest provides millions of dollars in avoided infrastructure costs, pollution reduction, and stored carbon. She argued that the word "nature" is too broad and does not capture the importance of mature trees. - Written public comment was submitted by multiple individuals, including Jonelle Kemmerling, Susanne Tsoming, Claudia Turner, Carla Carroll, Nancy Morris, Boni Biery, Trisha Woollcott, Jean Hilde, Kathleen Russell (two submissions), and Sigrid Strom (two submissions). The content was not detailed in the minutes, but they are listed as PDFs. Discussion Items - 2024 Comprehensive Plan Update – Introduction of Natural Environment and Shoreline Master Program Elements: Senior Planner Steve Szafran, Acting Planning Director Andrew Bauer, consultants Mandi Roberts and Cara Donovan (Otak), and Acting Planning Manager Elise Keim provided a detailed presentation. They explained the purpose of each element, their alignment with the Growth Management Act (GMA), Shoreline Management Act, Multi-County Planning Policies (MPPs), and Countywide Planning Policies (CPPs). They discussed supporting data such as critical areas, tree canopy, water resources, and greenhouse gas emissions. Public participation results showed strong support for nature parks, open space, mature tree preservation, and public waterfront access. The three lenses of climate, housing, and equity and social justice were applied to evaluate goals and policies. Commissioners were asked to individually review the draft goals and policies using a Word document with tracked changes and submit comments by February 18. The process will continue with combined feedback presented at the March 7 meeting and eventually to the City Council. - Process and Timeline: The review will proceed in phases: each element will be introduced, commissioners will have three weeks to submit individual comments, then staff will combine comments and bring them back for discussion at the next meeting. The natural environment and SMP elements are the first of several to be reviewed throughout the year. The final comprehensive plan will be recommended to the City Council. Key Outcomes - The Planning Commission will individually review draft goals and policies for the Natural Environment and Shoreline Master Program elements, using tracked changes in a Word document, and submit comments by February 18, 2024. - Staff will compile commissioner comments and present them at the March 7, 2024 Planning Commission meeting, which will include public opportunity to hear feedback. - The Commission reached consensus to cancel the February 15, 2024 meeting due to no agenda items. - The meeting was adjourned at 7:35 p.m.

The January 18, 2024 regular meeting of the Shoreline Planning Commission focused on the Shoreline 2044 Comprehensive Plan update. Key topics included the presentation of outreach results from Phase 2 engagement, a final proposed draft vision for the plan, the plan outline and timeline, community demographic analysis, growth targets, and the process for reviewing existing goals and policies. Commissioners and public comment offered feedback on language, engagement strategies, and future work. No unfinished or new business was considered. Consent Calendar - Agenda approved as presented. - Minutes from the January 4, 2024 regular meeting approved as presented. Public Comments & Testimony - Kathleen Russell, Shoreline resident representing Save Shoreline Trees, requested that the Planning Commission take action to replace the word "nature" with "urban forest" (which is defined in Shoreline Municipal Code 20.20.050) throughout the Comprehensive Plan draft. She also submitted a revision to the vision statement's second bullet ("A Model for Sustainability") to explicitly include retention and increase of the existing tree canopy. Discussion Items - Phase 2 Outreach Summary (Elise Keim, Planning Manager): Staff conducted tabling events, interviews, focus groups, educational presentations, an Economic Development workshop, an in-person open house, and an online open house with survey. Top themes from outreach included: increasing safety and infrastructure; investing in nature, parks, and open space; expanding community services and recreational opportunities; prioritizing affordable housing and local employment; and creating more "third places." Staff noted that partnering with community-based organizations and community consultants was valuable, and that online outreach was effective for broad engagement while in-person events yielded deeper feedback on specific topics. - Vision Alternatives and Final Draft Vision (Steve Szafran, Senior Planner): Staff presented a final proposed draft vision based on input from the Planning Commission and City Council. The draft begins with a tagline: "In 2044, Shoreline is a welcoming, safe, and inclusive home to people from a diverse set of cultures and economic backgrounds. The city is a place made for people and one that fosters connections to community, making the city even better for future generations." It then lists five bullet points: a leader in anti-racism, a model for sustainability, an economic and employment innovator, a city of walkable well-connected neighborhoods, and a caring and informed community. The vision closes with "The people of Shoreline are committed to making the city even better for the next generation." - Comprehensive Plan Outline, Timeline, and Lenses (Mandy Roberts, Principal Planner at Otak): Ms. Roberts reviewed the high-level schedule, noting that engagement will continue throughout. The plan outline includes an introduction, community profile, plan elements (natural environment, shoreline master program, transportation, land use, housing, economic development, community development, parks/recreation/open space/arts, utilities, capital facilities), and an implementation and monitoring section. Three lenses—Climate, Equity and Social Justice, and Housing—will be applied across all elements. The community profile data included population growth, increasing diversity, an aging population (20% age 65+ vs. 13% regionally), cost burden analysis, income distribution, commute patterns (majority drive alone, but work-from-home higher than region), and growth targets (13,330 new housing units and 10,000 new jobs by 2044, with income-band requirements per House Bill 1220). - Goal and Policy Review Process (Mandy Roberts): For each element, existing goals and policies will be evaluated against the three lenses and compliance with state, regional, and county requirements. A matrix format will be used, with proposed new language. Commissioners will review and comment over a two- to three-week period per module, with discussion at the next meeting. - Commissioner Discussion: - Commissioner Brinson and Vice Chair Rwamashongye expressed appreciation for the vision draft, noting that their feedback was incorporated. - Vice Chair Rwamashongye highlighted the need for senior housing based on demographic data and praised staff for addressing low-hanging safety improvements during the planning process. He also commended staff's public engagement efforts. - Commissioner Callahan asked about coordination with school district enrollment projections; Ms. Roberts confirmed they will coordinate. - Commissioner Lin asked if the schedule was too aggressive given new commissioners joining; staff explained the state deadline necessitated the timeline but that new commissioner orientation will include comp plan training and that less complex elements will be addressed first. - Commissioner Mosier inquired about aligning the Housing element with new middle housing requirements; Ms. Keim noted they plan to have goals, policies, and implementing code amendments in alignment. Mr. Bauer added that the intention is for the commission to review both the final comp plan and a set of development code amendments for middle housing at the same time. Commissioner Mosier also asked about ensuring enough public comment on middle housing; staff noted a separate grant for outreach on middle housing regulations and that additional outreach on draft goals and policies will occur. Commissioner Mosier recommended providing examples contextual to Shoreline's lot configurations. - Commissioner Brinson clarified the timeline for ordinance language after the comp plan; Director Bauer confirmed that middle housing code amendments would be taken concurrently or right after adoption of the Comprehensive Plan. Key Outcomes - The Planning Commission expressed support for the final proposed draft vision statement and will forward it to City Council for review. - Staff will incorporate the public comment from Save Shoreline Trees into the vision and plan language for further consideration. - The Commission will begin reviewing specific plan elements in February, starting with the Natural Environment and Shoreline Master Program elements at the next meeting on February 1, 2024. - The goal-and-policy review process will use a two-touch approach (introduction at one meeting, discussion at the next) with opportunity for flexibility if needed, especially on complex topics like middle housing. - No formal votes were taken; all actions were consensus-based and procedural.

The Shoreline Planning Commission met on Thursday, January 4, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber at Shoreline City Hall. The primary agenda item was the consideration of the Draft 2024 Comprehensive Plan Docket, which included staff-initiated and privately-proposed amendments to the Comprehensive Plan. After receiving public testimony and deliberation, the Commission voted to forward a modified docket to the City Council. Meeting Administration - The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Chair Pam Sager. - Roll call: Present: Chair Sager, Vice Chair Julius Rwamashongye, Commissioners Leslie Brinson, Janelle Callahan, Mei-shiou Lin, and Christopher Mosier. Absent: Commissioner Andy Galuska (excused). - The agenda and the minutes of the November 16, 2023, regular meeting were approved without changes. Public Comments & Testimony No general public comments were made. Three individuals provided oral testimony during the study item on the Draft Comprehensive Plan Docket, all speaking in support of privately-initiated Amendment 14 (proposing a bicycle/pedestrian bridge over SR 104 to connect the Interurban Trail): - Gordon Black, an Edmonds resident and member of the Edmonds Bicycle Advocacy Group, described the barrier that SR 104 poses to the Interurban Trail and urged the Commission to support Amendment 14 as a separate docket item. - Margaret Elwood, also an Edmonds resident and member of the Edmonds Bicycle Advocacy Group, shared personal experiences of dangerous crossings at SR 104 and strongly supported studying a bridge for safe pedestrian and bicycle passage. - Tom McCormick, a Shoreline resident and sponsor of Amendment 14, argued that the City Council intended to allow individually-docketed items and that the amendment is flexible; he urged the Commission to include it as a standalone item on the docket rather than rolling it into the major Comprehensive Plan update. Discussion Items Draft 2024 Comprehensive Plan Docket Senior Planner Steve Szafran presented the proposed amendments: - Staff-Initiated: - 1: Adopt the Major Update of the 2024 Comprehensive Plan. - 2: Amend the Parks, Recreation, Open Space, and Arts Element. - 3: Change the land use designation of the DNR-owned portion of the Fircrest Campus from Campus to Mixed-Use 2. - Privately-Initiated: - 4: Add a new policy for “Green Streets” on residential rights-of-way over 60 feet. - 5: Correct an error on the Existing Sidewalks map (Figure 7). - 6–8: Revise maps in the Transportation Element (staff recommended against these as the maps are accurate for future plans). - 9–13: Multiple amendments related to scenic views and solar access (staff recommended not adding to the docket). - 14: Add a policy to study a shared bicycle/pedestrian bridge over N. 205th Street (SR 104) connecting the Interurban Trail between Shoreline and Edmonds. Staff recommended: - Include 1–3 on the docket as individual items. - Incorporate 4, 5, and 14 into the major Comprehensive Plan update (Amendment 1) rather than as standalone docket items. - Not add 6–13 to the docket. Commissioners discussed several amendments: - On Amendment 3, Commissioner Brinson noted that specifying “Mixed-Use 2” might be too limiting and suggested the language should be more open to study. Acting Planning Director Andrew Bauer agreed that the designation could be reconsidered during the study. - On Amendment 14, Commissioner Callahan asked why it should be rolled into the major update rather than listed separately. Senior Planner Szafran explained that it would duplicate effort and could be addressed within the overall Comprehensive Plan update and Environmental Impact Statement. Vice Chair Rwamashongye noted that inclusion in the Comprehensive Plan would make it a long-term goal and support future capital projects. Commissioner Brinson synthesized that putting it in the major update made sense for environmental review and still demonstrated a commitment to study the issue. Commissioner Lin suggested broader language to address multiple trail connections. Key Outcomes - The Commission voted unanimously to amend the main motion to revise Amendment 3 to read: “Amend the Comprehensive Plan Land Use Map Designation of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) owned portion of the Fircrest Campus from Campus to another designation as appropriate when studied.” (Motion by Commissioner Brinson, seconded by Commissioner Callahan; passed 6–0.) - The main motion, as amended, passed unanimously (6–0) to forward the draft Comprehensive Plan Docket to the City Council as recommended by staff in the January 4, 2024, staff report. This means Amendments 1–3 will be placed on the docket as individual items; Amendments 4, 5, and 14 will be incorporated into the major Comprehensive Plan update; and Amendments 6–13 will not be added to the docket. Reports and Announcements - Commissioners Callahan, Rwamashongye, and Sager each announced they would not be reapplying for their positions on the Planning Commission, expressing gratitude and appreciation for their service. - Acting Planning Director Bauer announced that the application deadline for Planning Commission recruitment would be extended to January 19, 2024, to allow for more applicants. - The next meeting is scheduled for January 18, 2024, to discuss the Comprehensive Plan update. The meeting was adjourned at 8:01 p.m.

The Shoreline Planning Commission held a public hearing on Thursday, November 16, 2023, to consider proposed development code amendments for transit bus bases and individual transportation/taxi facilities. The hearing included a staff presentation, public testimony from two speakers, commissioner deliberation, and a vote to forward a recommendation to the City Council. The commission also received a director’s report on city projects and discussed upcoming commissioner recruitment. Consent Calendar - Roll call: Commissioners present – Hoxma (clerk), Brenson, Callahan, Galluska, Lynn, Mosier, Chair Sager. Vice Chair Wama Shonjay absent with notice. - Agenda approved without changes. - Minutes from November 2, 2023, approved without changes. - No general public comment. Public Comments & Testimony - Josh Freeman (representing the ownership of the Metro Access parcel, a joint venture of Alaska native corporations): Expressed opposition to the amendments, stating they are part of a broader effort to shut down the Metro Access site, risking harm to riders with disabilities, drivers, mechanics, and tribal beneficiaries. He urged the commission not to recommend the code amendments until effects on vulnerable community members are understood, and instead recommend staff propose development standards with meaningful consultation with Metro. He submitted a draft alternative recommendation. - Amanda Pleasant Brown (speaking for King County Metro): Requested the commission not recommend or endorse the draft regulations. She noted Metro’s Access service is federally required; 5,600 unique riders take trips deployed from the Shoreline Access Base and 2,200 riders live in Shoreline. She stated that moving the facility would require a multi-year capital planning process (next King County Council budget at end of 2024) and that other Metro access spaces are at capacity. She urged putting Metro Access riders first and allowing the facility to remain or securing an alternative location before adopting regulations. Discussion Items - Staff Presentation (Kate Lee, Planner): Provided background on the six-month moratorium (Ordinance 991, adopted July 17, 2023), public outreach, and responses to prior commission questions. Staff recommended using “state highway” rather than “principal arterial” to define where uses are allowed (CB zone properties fronting a state highway). Added odor mitigation language to decision criteria. Proposed definitions for “fleet base major” and “fleet base minor” based on vehicle storage/repair/dispatch size. Proposed to delete “transit bus base” and “individual transportation and taxi” from use charts. Staff recommended approval. - Commission Deliberation: Commissioner Mosier expressed support, noting other jurisdictions have industrial zones for such uses and Shoreline’s commercial zones do not meet needs. Commissioner Callahan proposed an amendment to add “impacts on safe walking routes to schools” to the decision criteria under mitigation measures. After discussion, the amendment was voted on and approved 6-0 (roll call: Callahan aye, Mosier aye, Sager aye, Galluska aye, Lin aye, Brinson aye). - Main Motion: Commissioner Brinson moved to forward the planning commission’s recommendation of approval of the proposed code amendments to the City Council at its regular meeting of December 11, 2023. The main motion as amended was voted on and approved 6-0 (roll call: Brinson aye, Lin aye, Galluska aye, Sager aye, Mosier aye, Callahan aye). The public hearing was then closed. - Director’s Report (Andrew Bauer): Covered recent City Council actions (transportation impact fee amendments adopting a person-trip methodology, 15% reduction for high activity areas near transit; building code updates delayed to March 15, 2024 due to state litigation; tenant protections review scheduled). Capital projects: Krukeberg Garden ADA ramp (construction December 2023), Ridgecrest Park construction underway (off-leash dog area, play area), Hillwood Park property acquisition authorized. Sound Transit light rail: 97% civil completion, revenue service expected Q3 2024. 145th St corridor and I-5 interchange project: six-month closure planned spring-fall 2024. Development activity: Modera (399 units under construction), Line apartments (241 units), Shea Properties (550 units), Alta North City (228 units broke ground), Ion at 5th (310 units under review), 236-unit senior living at Richmond Beach under review, FurCrest Master Development Plan (20-year plan including skilled nursing and behavioral health facility). Comprehensive plan update: online open house open until December 10, 2023. - New Business: Announcement of planning commissioner recruitment – four commissioners (Callahan, Galluska, Ramashanjay, Sager) with terms ending March 31, 2024, eligible to apply for second four-year term. Applications due to city clerk by 5 p.m. January 5, 2024. - Future Meetings: December 7, 2023 meeting may be replaced by a social gathering (decision needed by early next week). December 21, 2023 meeting will be a public hearing on the PROSA element of the comprehensive plan. Key Outcomes - The Planning Commission voted 6-0 to approve an amendment adding “impacts on safe walking routes to schools” to the decision criteria for fleet base uses. - The Commission voted 6-0 to forward a recommendation of approval of the proposed transit bus bases and individual transportation/taxi facilities development code amendments to the Shoreline City Council for its December 11, 2023 meeting. The six-month moratorium expires January 17, 2024, unless extended or resolved. - Staff will provide the presentation slides to commissioners. - The commission will decide by early next week whether to hold a social gathering on December 7, 2023 instead of a regular meeting.