08/28/2001 City CouncilEDMONDS CITY COUNCIL APPROVED MINUTES
August 28, 2001
The Edmonds City Council meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Pro Tem Earling in the
Council Chambers, 250 5d' Avenue North, Edmonds, followed by the flag salute.
ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT
Dave Earling, Mayor Pro Tem
Michael Plunkett, Council President Pro Tem
(arrived 7:05 p.m.)
Thomas A. Miller, Councilmember
Lora Petso, Councilmember
Dave Orvis, Councilmember
Richard Marin, Councilmember
ELECTED OFFICIALS ABSENT
Gary Haakenson, Mayor
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
STAFF PRESENT
Al Compaan, Assistant Police Chief
Duane Bowman, Development Serv. Director
Stephen Clifton, Community Services Director
Peggy Hetzler, Administrative Services Director
Noel Miller, Public Works Director
Rob Chave, Planning Manager
Dave Gebert, City Engineer
Steve Bullock, Senior Planner
Scott Snyder, City Attorney
Sandy Chase, City Clerk
Jana Spellman, Senior Executive Council Asst.
Jeannie Dines, Recorder
Change to COUNCILMEMBER MILLER MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER ORVIS, TO ADD
Agenda "NOTICE AND CONSENT TO ASSIGNMENT OF LEASE NO. 22-002684" AS AGENDA ITEM
3A. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. (Council President Pro Tem Plunkett was not present
for the vote.)
COUNCILMEMBER MILLER MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER ORVIS, FOR
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA AS AMENDED. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
(Council President Pro Tem Plunkett was not present for the vote.)
2. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
COUNCILMEMBER MARIN MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MILLER, FOR
APPROVAL OF THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. (Council
President Pro Tem Plunkett was not present for the vote.) The agenda items approved are as
follows:
(A) ROLL CALL
Approve
8/21/01 (B) APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF AUGUST 21, 2001.
Minutes
(C) APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS #50190 THROUGH 950303 FOR THE WEEK OF
Claim AUGUST 20, 2001, IN THE AMOUNT OF $285,835.50. APPROVAL OF PAYROLL
Checks DIRECT DEPOSITS AND CHECKS #2828 THROUGH #2996 FOR THE PERIOD
AUGUST 1 THROUGH AUGUST 15, 2001, IN THE AMOUNT OF $826,381.63.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 1
J
Res# 1007
A oint
nt to (D) RESOLUTION NO. 1007 APPOINTING AN AGENT OF THE CITY TO RECEIVE
eive CLAIMS FOR DAMAGES MADE PURSUANT TO RCW 4.96.020
ms for
ages
3A. NOTICE AND CONSENT TO ASSIGNMENT OF LEASE NO. 22-002684
Approve City Attorney Scott Snyder explained that due to a miscommunication, this item was not included in the
Notice and Council packet. This action was part of the purchase of the Marina Beach and was the City's assumption
Consent to of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) lease of tidelands that provides the City with control of
Assignment
o the tidelands adjacent to Marina Beach as art of the purchase. There are no financial obligations
of Lease No. � p p g
2-002684 attached to the lease short term but all State DNR leases include an indemnification clause, which holds
the State harmless. Although this is a standard provision, because it extends beyond the current budget
year, Council approval is required.
COUNCILMEMBER MARIN MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER ORVIS, TO
APPROVE THE ASSIGNMENT OF LEASE NO. 22-00264. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
Surplus 3. INFORMATION REGARDING CITY SURPLUS PROPERTY FILL LOCATED ON MAIN
Property Fill STREET NEAR 86TH AVENUE WEST
n Main St.
Near 86 h
Ave. west Public Works Director Noel Miller explained Mayor Haakenson requested staff provide information
regarding the use of this property which was declared surplus earlier this month. The property, located
along Main Street near 86th Avenue West, is Site #2 as presented to the Council on August 7. Mr. Miller
explained for at least 25 years, the Public Works Department has utilized this property for storage of
clean fill for various projects. Research of City records indicates a Conditional Use Permit was granted
by the City's Hearing Examiner on September 18, 1981, to temporarily store up to 10,000 cubic yards of
fill material on this site. At the present time, the Public Works Department has a need to stockpile this
fill for backfill on utility or street projects, particularly in the slight event of emergency repairs for
roadway washouts and unexpected pipeline failures.
Mr. Miller explained the City has had less and less use of the site and determined the property was too
valuable for use as a stockpile site. He explained all the material on the site was acquired from private
developers and a Port of Edmonds project at no cost to the City. The material on the site is clean,
granular fill; developers with too much material on their sites were allowed to dump clean fill on the
City's site. Mr. Miller inquired with current and former staff members regarding any dumping of
irregular materials, street sweeping debris, or other waste material and there was no indication this had
occurred. The amount of fill currently on the site is estimated to be 6,000 — 8,000 yards; some of the
material could be used to extend the Pioneer right-of-way to provide emergency access from Shell Valley
as well as a bikeway route.
Council President Pro Tem Plunkett recalled it was suggested at a previous Council meeting that the City
had a responsibility to perform an inspection of the property in preparation for listing it for sale. He
asked whether there was any reason a buyer could not perform the due diligence prior to purchasing the
property. City Attorney Scott Snyder answered a buyer could perform the due diligence. He explained
the City received a claim approximately a year ago regarding street sweepings and at that time an
investigation began regarding where street sweepings had been dumped in the past. The practice of
dumping street sweepings ceased in 1991 and they are now sent to a regional landfill. The City's
investigation indicates street sweepings have been below the level that would trigger any contamination
claim; a no action letter from the Department of Ecology has been issued regarding one site. The testing
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 2
done on that site cost approximately $5,000 — $7,000. As there is no indication there are any street
sweepings or any other problematic dumpings on the site, it appears to be an inappropriate expenditure
for the City and any purchaser could conduct an investigation themselves.
Councilmember Petso asked whether the permit for temporary storage would require that the City remove
the material. Mr. Miller answered the purchase offer was for an as -is offer on the site and the City would
not be required to remove the material.
Res# 1008 4. RESOLUTION NO. 1008 WHICH SPONSORS THE EMPLOYEES OF THE SNOHOMISH
Sponsor COUNTY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION BENEFIT AREA CORPORATION (COMMUNITY
Community TRANSIT) TO PARTICIPATE IN THE AWC EMPLOYEES BENEFIT TRUST
Transit
Employees
to Partici- Mayor Pro Tem Earling explained the City received a letter from Community Transit requesting the City
pate in AWC act as their sponsor so that their employees could participate in the Association of Washington Cities
EmployBenefit ees (AWC) Employees Benefit Trust. Mayor Pro Tem Earling said this would be a good thing for the City to
rust do as the City has eight regional routes, eight local routes and several vanpools serving the City as well
as other transportation improvements in the City. Mayor Pro Tem Earling indicated there was no
financial impact to the City; it was simply a sponsor.
Jim Turpie, Community Transit Director of Administration, thanked the City for considering the
resolution. He reiterated there was no financial obligation other than stating the services Community
Transit provides are services that would otherwise be provided by the City (a requirement for
membership in the AWC Employees Benefit Trust). He said it was mutually beneficial — the more
employees in the Benefit Trust, the more leverage the Trust had for gaining the best health insurance
rates for employees. He urged the Council to consider sponsoring Community Transit.
COUNCILMEMBER MARIN MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MILLER, FOR
APPROVAL OF RESOLUTION NO. 1008, SPONSORING THE EMPLOYEES OF THE
SNOHOMISH COUNTY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION BENEFIT AREA CORPORATION
(COMMUNITY TRANSIT) TO PARTICIPATE IN THE ASSOCIATION OF WASHINGTON
CITIES (AWC) EMPLOYEES BENEFIT TRUST. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Planned 5. PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PLANNING BOARD'S RECOMMENDATION TO AMEND
Residential EDMONDS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CODE CHAPTER 20.35 (PLANNED
Develop-
ments RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT) AND TITLE 21 (DEFINITIONS), PROVIDING FOR NEW
PURPOSES, STANDARDS, CRITERIA, AND A REVISED REVIEW PROCESS FOR
APPROVING PLANNED RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS (File No. CDC-2000-132)
Mayor Pro Tem Earling described the process for the public hearing and explained the Council did not
have to take action on the ordinance tonight other than holding the public hearing.
Development Services Director Duane Bowman recognized the work done by the Planning Board and
Planning Staff to develop the proposed revision to the Planned Residential Development (PRD)
regulations, particularly Senior Planner Steve Bullock. Mr. Bowman explained the proposed revisions to
the PRD regulations have been under review for over 3'/2 years. There have been 22 work sessions with
the Planning Board and two public hearings. All work sessions and public hearings were advertised
according to City codes and a display ad was purchased for the June Planning Board public hearing to
encourage more public participation.
Mr. Bowman explained with the adoption of the Growth Management Act, the State mandated that cities
plan for and take on additional population growth and focus development in established urban areas. For
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 3
Edmonds, this has meant more infill type development. The proposed PRD regulations are a good start at
addressing the needed changes in PRD regulations as good- PRD, regulations give the City a tool for
addressing infill development as well as addressing environmentally sensitive properties.
Senior Planner Steve Bullock directed the Council's attention to Section 20.35.010 Purposes, explaining
the ideas/concepts discussed in this section have driven all other provisions/standards throughout the
ordinance. If the Council was in agreement with the concepts in the Purposes section, no major rewrite
would be required other than minor fine-tuning. If the Council had concerns with the Purposes, there
may need to be additional review and revision to the proposed ordinance.
Mr. Bullock referred to Purpose M, which implements policies of the Comprehensive Plan, explaining
the City's adoption of the Comprehensive Plan followed a process from 1991 through 1995 that included
numerous public workshops and public hearings. The Comprehensive Plan was the framework for the
development regulations in the City Code. Three alternatives were considered in the development of the
Comprehensive Plan: 1) existing trends — how the City would accommodate population growth, 2)
expanded capacity — potentially increasing zoning densities in some areas to accommodate the largest
amount of growth possible, and 3) designed infill — anticipate population increases that would occur and
allow it to occur in a manner that fit the community (this was the approach ultimately adopted in the
Comprehensive Plan). There were numerous goals and policies identified in the Comprehensive Plan
such as State goals, residential development goals, housing goals, etc., that discusses the City providing a
range of housing types, provide a range of housing values and specifically identifies PRDs as a method of
requiring infill development be designed into the character of the community.
Mr. Bullock referred to Purposes A, H, and J that address flexible design. He explained one of the goals
of the PRD chapter was to give applicants the ability to compress their development, to have smaller lot
sizes, reduced setbacks, reduced street standards, and potentially attached units in certain circumstances,
with the desired result being a reduction in impervious surface, more open space, potentially smaller
homes, and potentially more affordable housing.
Mr. Bullock explained another major propose of PRDs is development of open space. He displayed an
aerial photograph identifying a PRD approved in the late 1970/1980's, Eagles Nest, and identified the
significant area of vegetation on the northeast side. The homes in Eagles Nest were located close to the
top of the hill, close to the roadway and close together. By compressing the houses, the developer was
able to provide the large native growth protection area, a significant benefit to the community.
Mr. Bullock referred to Purposes D, E, and F that address how a PRD can be sensitive to its surroundings
including architecturally. He explained via the PRD process, the City could ensure the buildings were
consistent with the neighborhood whether it was multifamily or single family. He explained even if
attached units were considered in a single family zone, the City could require the attached units have the
character, flavor, and look of single family development. Another method of being sensitive to the
surroundings was via the proposed uses; ensuring the yards, access points, open spaces, playgrounds, etc.
proposed as part of the development were not in conflict with existing neighbors or public improvements.
Mr. Bullock referred to Purposes C and K which address efficient development including encouraging
different elements of the development to serve multiple functions. This will result in lower development
and maintenance costs and can ultimately result in more affordable housing and reduction in impervious
surface. This addresses not only the ESA but also State, County and City goals addressed in the
Comprehensive Plan for housing and affordable housing.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 4
Mr. Bullock referred to Purpose B, which addresses multiple housing types. He displayed a photograph
of different housing types that exist in the City, from large homes on large lots to smaller lots including
single family homes with grounds maintained by the homeowner's association to multiunit buildings in a
multifamily zone. He pointed out a PRD could occur in single family or multifamily zones. Mr. Bullock
explained purposes G and K address affordable housing and the range of housing types.
Mr. Bullock stated another reason for considering a rewrite of the current PRD ordinance was that the
current ordinance required staff to refer to various sections to articulate to an applicant what a PRD can
be used for, what standards can be modified, the criteria to obtain approval for a PRD, etc.. This process
is often confusing for the applicant as well as staff and may lead to applicants questioning whether the
process would be beneficial to pursue. The proposed ordinance is a more rational and sequential
approach; the ordinance begins with purposes and intent, applicability, standards that can be proposed to
be modified, what criteria must be met to modify standards, and what criteria must be met to get a PRD
approved. The proposed ordinance attempts to clarify on what type of projects the PRD can be used —
for any multiunit or multi -lot project. Standards that can be modified include setbacks, lot area, lot
coverage, etc.
Mr. Bullock explained the process was the second biggest issue that prevents the PRD from being used in
its current form. An applicant must go to the Architectural Design Board, the City's Hearing Examiner
who holds a public hearing and makes a recommendation and forwards the application to the City
Council who makes a decision on the preliminary PRD approval. Then the applicant must go through the
process for obtaining final approval.
Mr. Bullock explained the proposed ordinance attempts to make the PRD a straightforward process and is
consistent with other applications an applicant will submit along with the PRD. He explained a PRD
typically would be applied for along with a subdivision (formal plat or short plat) or applied for in
conjunction with design review for a multifamily project. For preliminary PRD approval, the Hearing
Examiner would hold a public hearing and issue a decision. When the applicant returns for final
approval (essentially a compliance check to ensure the project complies with the conditions outlined in
the preliminary approval), it would be reviewed under the final approval process required by the
underlying consolidated permit application. For example, if the PRD was applied for along with a formal
plat, final approval would be considered by the City Council. In the case of a short plat, City staff
approves the final short plat and would also approve the final PRD.
Mr. Bullock recalled one of the concerns raised during the August 7 Council work session was density.
He explained under the current ordinance, an applicant develops a potential site plan, determines the
amount of property dedicated to roads and subtracts that area from the gross area to determine a net lot
area. The net lot area is then divided by the underlying minimum lot size. He displayed a sketch of two
examples of site plans for the same parcel, the first with a roadway serving seven lots; by subtracting the
amount of property dedicated to the roadway and dividing by the minimum lot size, the developer was
able to create seven lots. The second example did not have a single roadway and the lots were accessed
by surrounding streets or shared driveways. Although the shared driveway would be subtracted from the
gross lot area, this is a smaller amount and the developer would be able to create eight lots resulting in a
design that is less desirable than the first example. The proposed ordinance would "level the playing
field" regardless of the design by allowing the developer to divide the gross lot area by the minimum lot
size to determine the number of potential lots. He noted an applicant would still be required to meet the
PRD criteria and may be required to reduce the number of lots to demonstrate public benefit, etc.
Mr. Bullock addressed the second concern expressed by the Council, attached units for lots with
significant amounts of critical area. He displayed a photograph of an undesirable duplex design
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 5
(rectangular building with no interesting features), explaining the only situation where attached units
were proposed to be allowed were on lots significantly impacted by critical areas (wetlands, steep slopes,
streams, etc.). On lots with 25% or more dedicated to critical areas, in order to prevent the applicant
from experiencing diminished lot value, the applicant may be allowed to have attached units if the units
could be designed to fit into the neighborhood. He displayed a photograph of a desirable duplex design,
explaining staff was confident design standards/criteria could be developed that would ensure attached
units in single family areas fit into the neighborhood.
Mr. Bullock explained special needs housing has also been addressed in the proposed ordinance. He
explained special needs housing was specific to seniors, disabled and low income and did not include
potential uses that could damage/destroy a neighborhood. He explained there was a great deal of criteria
to be met to do special needs housing and obtain the additional density. He noted special needs housing
has been addressed in Statewide goals as well as Countywide planning policies.
Mr. Bullock reviewed the criteria for modifying standards, noting that to obtain relief from the standards
in the current ordinance, an applicant must go through the variance process. The variance process was
related to hardship; an applicant must demonstrate hardship to obtain approval for a variance. The
Planning Board and staff preferred the criteria for modifying standards be design -based rather than
hardship -based.
Mr. Bullock reviewed the decision criteria for approving a PRD, 1) design criteria, 2) adequate public
facilities, 3) perimeter design, 4) open space and recreation, and 5) streets and sidewalks. Regarding
design criteria, there are eight additional criteria identified in the subparagraphs; an applicant must meet
the first criteria, which addresses architectural design of the site and the buildings, and must meet two of
the remaining criteria such as providing housing types. that serve affordable housing, improving
circulation patterns, minimizing the use of impervious surface materials, increasing open space or
recreational facilities on site, landscaping/buffering/screening in or around the PRD, preserving/
enhancing/rehabilitating natural features of the subject property, and incorporating energy efficient site
design or building features.
In response to a specific concern raised at the work session regarding the possibility of higher density
than would occur under a short plat process, Mr. Bullock displayed a map of the Westgate area
identifying properties 2.5 — 3 times the minimum lot size or 3.5 — 4 times the minimum lot size to
indicate properties that would round up when proposing a PRD. He noted there were no properties 3.5 —
4 times the minimum lot size (8,000 square feet) in this area. He identified approximately 10 lots that
were 2.5 — 3 times the minimum lot size. He explained if one of these parcels proposed a PRD, it could
be proposed at a maximum density of 3. Whether it would be approved would be determined via the
PRD process.
Mr. Bullock displayed a map of the Seaview area identifying properties 2.5 — 3 times the minimum lot
size and 3.5 — 4 times the minimum lot size. Staff s opinion was there were not a great number of parcels
and there was no guarantee that development would occur via a PRD process. If development occurred
via a short plat process, no public hearing was required as was required by the PRD process.
Mr. Bullock advised another concern was zero lot lines and whether this would allow attached units in
areas where it was not anticipated. He explained zero lot lines and attached units were two separate
issues. He displayed examples of zero lot line development, building constructed along a property line
with setbacks around the remaining sides of the buildings. He referred to the Eagles Nest PRD, which
has zero lot line on all four sides with common space between the lots that prevented attached units. He
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 6
reiterated attached units in the PRD ordinance would only occur if there were critical areas on the site
and the proposed development met the design criteria.
Regarding whether accessory dwelling units would be permitted in a PRD, Mr. Bullock explained that
because ADUs were allowed in all single-family zones, they would be allowed in a PRD under a separate
permit process. He noted the Council may wish to consider prohibiting ADUs in an attached unit PRD.
Mr. Bullock reviewed potential revisions to further strengthen the proposed ordinance such as 1)
including design standards for attached and detached units in a PRD, and 2) criteria for external setback
reductions. Mr. Bullock referred to a letter submitted by William Vlcek, a resident in Eagles Nest, that
addressed this issue. Based on testimony during the Planning Board's public hearing, they determined
any reduction in the exterior setback should demonstrate it met the variance criteria and if not, the impact
should be limited to the interior of the PRD. Mr. Vlcek also raised the issue of modifications to
approved PRDs. Staff agrees there should be further clarification of Section 20.35.100, modifications to
approved PRDs, to articulate what modifications could be approved administratively and which would
require reopening the PRD to a public hearing process. Staff also recommends the difference between
usable open space and critical areas open space be further defined in the ordinance.
Mr. Bullock reviewed the recommended action: review the draft ordinance, take public testimony,
identify issues for possible revision, direct staff to draft amendments for a future public hearing.
Council President Pro Tem Plunkett noted the proposed revisions indicated staff and the Planning Board
had not completed their review of the PRD ordinance. Mr. Bullock advised there were issues raised at
the Council work session as well as in letters submitted by the public indicating there were revisions that
could strengthen the ordinance. He said the ordinance could be remanded to the Planning Board if the
Council wished.
Council President Pro Tern Plunkett noted there was no information regarding the potential revisions in
the Council packet. He preferred the Planning Board review the potential revisions. Mr. Bullock
explained the suggested revisions did not substantively change the ordinance as proposed. Council
President Pro Tern Plunkett inquired whether the Council could pass the draft ordinance as proposed and
have the Planning Board review the additional revisions in the near future as subsequent amendments.
Mr. Bullock answered yes, that could be done.
Council President Pro Tern Plunkett noted the approximately ten properties in Westgate area and
approximately ten properties in the Seaview area represented designed infill. Mr. Bullock agreed, noting
the intent was to provide a designed infill tool to properties that previously did not have an opportunity to
use such a tool. Council President Pro Tern Plunkett commented this may allow the City to meet GMA
requirements and perhaps provide more affordable housing without changing the character of
neighborhoods.
Councilmember Petso noted special needs housing included allowing increased density for providing
senior housing. Mr. Bullock explained the current code allows for affordable housing, elderly housing
(separate from PRD) and allows density bonuses significantly greater than are proposed in the PRD
ordinance. Councilmember Petso noted the PRD ordinance did not specify that senior housing needed to
be affordable. Mr. Bullock agreed, noting density bonuses were provided for senior housing as well as
for low-income housing.
Councilmember Petso commented there was a great deal of senior housing in neighborhoods and
dedicated senior group housing and although there was a demand economically, she questioned whether
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 7
the City needed to make an effort to provide more senior housing. She questioned which goal the
provision for increased density for senior housing attempted to meet. Mr. Bullock answered there was
not a specific goal related to increased density for senior housing but there were goals related to
providing a broad number of housing types and housing values.
Councilmember Petso referred to Section 20.35.050(A) Design Criteria, noting an applicant must meet
the first criteria as well as two of the remaining criteria. However criteria 5 and 6 refer to open space and
perimeter buffer, which are also required by the main criteria, Items C and D. She was concerned an
applicant would not provide the amenities requested in the main criteria.
Councilmember Petso asked whether the Council would review a PRD proposal. Mr. Bullock answered
under the current ordinance, the Council reviewed a PRD twice — once for preliminary PFD approval and
once for final PRD approval. Under the proposed ordinance, the Council would only review a PRD for
final approval of a formal plat. Councilmember Petso concluded that under the proposed ordinance there
would be PRDs that would not be reviewed by the Council. Mr. Bullock agreed.
For Councilmember Petso, Mr. Bullock explained the ADB would do a preliminary review of proposed
PRDs and the Hearing Examiner would hold a public hearing and issue a decision on the preliminary
PRD. Councilmember Petso asked whether the Hearing Examiner's review standard would be in
compliance with the PRD ordinance, not whether the neighbors liked it, etc. Mr. Bullock said neighbors'
concerns with the PRD should be raised based on the criteria in the PRD ordinance as the Hearing
Examiner would make his decision based on the criteria in the PRD ordinance.
Councilmember Petso questioned the inclusion of Section 20.35.010(L), "integration of permitted uses
and activities on properties which have split zoning." Mr. Bullock advised this was part of the Planned
Unit Development (PUD) ordinance, where there could potentially be split zones. He recommended this
section be deleted.
Councilmember Petso inquired about "improved circulation patterns." Mr. Bullock answered Shell
Valley was an example of a roadway where it would have been better to continue the road to Main Street.
Councilmember Petso asked whether this policy was intended to open cul-de-sacs, etc. Mr. Bullock
answered it was intended to provide through roads where needed and warranted.
At Councilmember Petso's request, Mr. Bullock reviewed a sketch of a parcel where a 7-unit PRD was
discussed but was eventually developed with four lots. He described surrounding properties, ridges,
steep slopes, forested wetlands, a stream on the property, and the portion of the site conducive to
development. He explained the lot was large enough for the applicant to propose a PRD, however, the
applicant proposed a 4-lot short plat with each lot containing critical areas and a buildable area. He
noted this short plat took 11/2 - 2 years where normally a short plat takes 3-4 months and included an
Environmental Impact Statement which is rarely required for a short plat.
Councilmember Petso asked what the zoning would effectively be if a 7-lot PRD were approved for this
parcel. Mr. Bullock clarified Councilmember Petso's question was what the density would be if a 7-unit
PRD were approved, noting that was not what planning staff considered the density of the entire project.
He estimated the buildable portion of the lot was approximately 50,000 — 60,000 square feet but the
entire lot would be included in the density calculation. Councilmember Petso said the policy question for
the Council was whether they liked the three houses on the top of the hill plus one that was too close to
the stream or whether they liked seven houses on top and the stream left alone. Mr. Bullock said a 7-lot
PRD may not have met the PRD criteria. He said the applicant had the opportunity to apply for 7-lot
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 8
PRD, but chose not to, possibly because they did not believe they could get approval for seven lots
through a PRD process and opted for a 4-lot short plat.
Councilmember Petso referred to minutes from the January 18, 2000 Council meeting where the
applicant indicated seven homes was too much for the property; they wanted to live on the property and
not develop it to make money. She apologized for not providing Mr. Bullock this information.
Mayor Pro Tem Earling noted in this example, there was 50,000 — 60,000 square feet that could be
developed with 6-7 building sites under a PRD. He said this would be similar to Eagles Nest and Eagles
Crest on a smaller scale. Mr. Bullock advised the homes would have been clustered similar to the 28-32
homes in Eagles Nest. Mayor Pro Tem Earling noted Eagles Nest and Eagles Crest were within a few
blocks of this site and therefore it would not be uncharacteristic in this neighborhood.
In response to Councilmember Petso's previous inquiry regarding the Council's approval process, City
Attorney Scott Snyder explained under the current ordinance, the Council only reviews a PRD in
conjunction with final plat approval, a non -discretionary process. The Council merely determines
whether the conditions of preliminary plat approval have been met. He summarized at the current time,
the Council in effect had no discretionary approval over a PRD.
Council President Pro Tem Plunkett inquired whether the slope to Meadowdale Beach Road would be
retained regardless of whether four or seven homes were built. Mr. Bullock answered yes. Council
President Pro Tem Plunkett pointed out most of the public was unaware there was a large housing
development (Eagles Crest) on the hill when driving up Meadowdale Beach Road and all they saw was
wooded wetlands. He noted this was wooded wetlands because of the PRD. He asked whether the
houses on the lot in the example would be visible. Mr. Bullock answered no.
Councilmember Orvis noted environmental regulations reduced the capacity of the land from seven to
four lots. He inquired about the consequences if the City did not meet its Growth Management goals.
Mr. Bullock answered if the City did not meet its projected population, the Growth Management
Hearings Board could compel the City to review its regulations to ensure the projections could be met in
the future. The intent of the proposed ordinance was to take preemptive action to ensure regulations
were in compliance with Comprehensive Plan goals.
Planning Manager Rob Chave added that under GMA, if the City was not in compliance, federal and
state funding could be jeopardized, the City's ability to obtain grants could be diminished, the Growth
Management Hearings Board could overrule the City on development of specific projects, the City's
development regulations could be invalidated, and other penalties could apply.
Councilmember Orvis asked whether the City's current zoning capacity was adequate to meet the City's
goals. Mr. Bullock answered yes. Councilmember Orvis asked whether the City could be faced with
zoning changes if it were unable to utilize creative methods of reaching the capacity. Mr. Bullock
answered yes.
Councilmember Petso recalled last week the Council considered a rezone to RS-8 for a 10,000 square
foot property in an RS-20 zone. The Planning Board recommended denial of the rezone to prevent RS-8
zoning north of 174t" Street SW. She asked whether the property in the example and the other PRDs
were north of 174th Street SW. Mr. Bullock explained there were properties north of 174th Street SW that
are zoned RS-8. There was no intent to make 174th Street SW to be a line across the City; the intent was
in this area of 174th Street SW, due to topographic features on the north side of the street, not to have RS-
8 north of 174th Street SW.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 9
Council President Pro Tem Plunkett noted a contract rezone differed from a PRD as a contract rezone
was for a specific property and was required to meet a very high standard. Mr. Bullock explained a
rezone changed the density, however, a PRD did not change the density but utilized the underlying
density provisions.
Mayor Pro Tem Earling opened the public participation portion of the public hearing.
Tom Pinkham, 554 Seamont Lane, Edmonds, a builder in the City, referred to a property (8 h and Pine)
that was an example of a PRD situation. He displayed a map of eight lots that could be developed on the
property if approved via conventional platting process, noting this was not possible due to a large
wetland on the site that resulted in a small developable area. He explained under the current zoning, only
two lots would be allowed; a PRD would allow development of more lots. He displayed an example of
the footprint of three 2800 square foot level entry buildings that could possibly be built on the site. He
encouraged the Council to approve the PRD ordinance. He suggested consideration be given to allowing
not only side -by -side duplexes but also flats (two units, one on top of the other).
Mayor Pro Tem Earling advised the City received a letter from William Vlcek in support of the PRD
ordinance and offering three potential amendments. The City also received letters of support from the
Snohomish County-Camano Association of Realtors and Master Builders Association.
Roger Hertrich, 1020 Puget Drive, Edmonds, pointed out the example displayed by Mr. Pinkham and
the example described by staff had unusual circumstances and the current PRD ordinance could be used
to develop those sites. He said rather than amending the ordinance, bonuses that increased density,
duplexes, etc. had been added and the ordinance rewritten to reflect a new concept and philosophy — to
promote the use of PRD to get more units on the land. He acknowledged infill development would occur
but objected to using GMA as the threat. He asked how far the City was from reaching its GMA targets.
Betty Mueller, 209 Casper Street, Edmonds, requested the Council not pass the amended ordinance as
many residents need more time to review the proposed changes. She did not support clustering houses as
it would change the character of the neighborhoods. She urged the Council give the public more time to
review this issue and to provide more sketches.
Ron Johnson, 19601 23`d NW, Shoreline, an architect who worked on Eagles Nest and Lorain Woods
(existing PRDs), spoke in support of the proposed revisions, particularly modifications to approved
PRDs. He described difficulties that may occur with the siting of a home that may require modification
of an approved PRD. Currently no changes could be made without reopening the PRD process.
Al Rutledge, 7101 Lake Ballinger Way, Edmonds, suggested staff hold meetings in neighborhoods
throughout the City to gather input.
Colin Southcote-Want, 10616 237th Place SW, Edmonds, expressed concern with PRDs as they
appeared to be out of character with Edmonds and appeared to be too crowded. He expressed concern
with the application of open space and recreational facilities in the requirements for a PRD. He said the
retaining pond in the PRD on 1001h apparently fulfilled the requirement for open space and recreational
facilities for that development. He pointed out the general public did not understand how GMA applied,
yet it appeared to be the driving force behind decisions the Council made. He suggested the public be
educated regarding GMA as the public only saw sprawl being replaced with congestion.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 10
John Bissell, 8630 2171' Street SW, Edmonds, stated in comparing the existing ordinance to the revised
ordinance, the proposed revisions cleaned up the old ordinance. The criteria in the existing ordinance
were difficult to understand and applicants were required to have a hardship rather than design. With the
proposed amendment, process difficulties in the existing ordinance were addressed without harming the
public interest. He referred to the PRD on 100t" where the detention pond would fulfill the requirement
for the recreational space, noting this was not clear in the existing ordinance. He summarized the
proposed ordinance provided a great deal of benefit by allowing projects to be evaluated by design,
allowing better preservation of critical areas and resulting in better designed communities. Regarding
density, he pointed out the underlying density remained the same and the zoning was not changed.
Regarding the concern that the Council would not have the ability to review PRDs, he said the Council
did not review Conditional Use Permits, variances, plat modifications, etc.; therefore, it appeared the
proposed process was more consistent with the current City regulations. He said the proposed PRD
ordinance allowed for better design and for infill development to occur in a better manner.
Elaine Yard, 9209 Olympic View Drive, Edmonds, commended Mr. Bullock for his presentation as
well as his willingness to provide her with additional information. She requested more time to review the
proposed ordinance, noting it appeared to be something completely new. She referred to Section
20.35.090(A) regarding bonding and requested the Council ensure residents were safeguarded against
problems when the developer could not complete the project in a timely manner.
Hearing no further public comments, Mayor Pro Tem Earling closed the public participation portion of
the public hearing.
Mr. Bullock explained the proposed revisions were minor clarifications and were not major changes. If
the Council had concerns with the purposes that would require alteration in the direction of the
ordinance, it should be referred back to the Planning Board. However, if the Council was agreeable to
staff clarifying issues, it could be done at the Council level.
Mayor Pro Tern Earling preferred any modifications to the ordinance be presented to the Council so that
the revisions to the ordinance could move forward. He preferred ADUs not be allowed in PRDs and was
supportive of Mr. Vlcek's suggestion to allow some modification to approved PRDs. Mr. Bullock
explained Mr. Vlcek wanted to do a minor projection of a building requiring they add land to the lot.
The Hearing Examiner addressed the same situation in another PRD where the projection was
accommodated via an adjustment in the lot line on both sides. Mr. Bullock said staff supported
administrative approval for modifications that resulted in no net loss. Mr. Snyder clarified when a PRD
in conjunction with a subdivision establish lot lines, amending it required the written approval of all
owners in the subdivision. He said minor adjustments within a subdivision such as plantings or other
staff approved items that did not relate to boundary lines could be approved.
Mayor Pro Tern Earling referred to a statement in Mr. Vlcek's letter regarding Section 20.35.040 "I
suggest that there will be situations where it makes sense to allow a reduction in the setback
requirements, but the situation may not meet the strict definition of a variance. For example, one of two
adjacent PRDs may have larger than normal setbacks due to native growth protection area or
topographical restrictions. It would make sense to allow a smaller exterior setback for the adjacent
PRD." Mr. Bullock explained the Planning Board determined the perimeter setback should be retained
unless the applicant can demonstrate a hardship (via the variance process).
Mayor Pro Tern Earling referred to Mr. Vlcek's recommendation that "Open Space" be changed to
"native growth protection area." Mr. Bullock agreed with Mr. Vlcek's suggestion, adding that staff
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 11
would like to distinguish between "usable/active open space" and "critical areas open space." He said
staff wished to clarify that common open space could be maintained and utilized for recreation but the
critical areas open space must be left undisturbed.
COUNCILMEMBER MARIN MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MILLER, TO
EXTEND DISCUSSION OF THIS ITEM FOR 20 MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
Mayor Pro Tern Earling referred to the photograph examples staff provided of well designed duplexes
and the examples he has seen of poorly designed duplexes in unincorporated areas of Snohomish County.
He requested staff provide language that would ensure any attached development that occurred looked
like the good examples rather than the bad examples.
Mayor Pro Tern Earling referred to Section 20.35.050(A) noting several of the criteria in the
subparagraphs were addressed in the five main criteria and therefore may not be done. He asked how the
Planning Board developed these criteria. Mr. Bullock did not recall any prolonged discussion regarding
the criteria. Mr. Bowman pointed out Section 20.35.050(A)(5) referred to "increasing" open space or
recreational facilities onsite.
Councilmember Marin spoke in favor of the concept of attached structures, recalling his interest many
years ago in designing a duplex with entrances on different sides so that it had the appearance of a single
family dwelling. He suggested staff consider how to link the concept of affordability with attached
structures and provide language that required the front doors be separated to provide the appearance of a
single family dwelling.
Councilmember Miller was generally supportive of the concepts in the presentation. He agreed with
revisions being returned to the Council rather than remanding the ordinance to the Planning Board. He
referred to Section 20.35.030, which indicates those with special needs would have the ability to have a
PRD with greater density. He requested staff provide some examples of what could be developed and
why and under what circumstances the City would be required to meet those needs.
Councilmember Petso said the issues that had been lost in the redraft of the ordinance included limiting
PRDs to lots with unusual geographic/environmental constraints as well as the five lot minimum. She
preferred the Council remand the ordinance to the Planning Board as there had been little discussion of
options such as requiring either an environmental feature or five lots. She questioned the benefit to the
City from allowing development of 3 lots rather than 2 via a PRD on a parcel in Westgate. Other items
that might benefit from further review by the Planning Board include: 1) the need for density bonuses for
senior housing, 2) elimination of Section 20.35.010(L), 3) Section 20.35.010(C) improving circulation,
4) Section 20.35.050 decision criteria for PRDs, and 5) requiring 20.35.010(A)(7) — preserving,
enhancing or rehabilitating natural features such as significant woodlands, wildlife habitat or streams.
Councilmember Petso commented the Planning Board appeared to be agreeable to increased density and
clustering. She urged the Council to reconsider the concept of clustering.
Councilmember Orvis spoke in favor of the concept of PRDs as they allowed the City to meet its GMA
goals and encouraged the use of open space to stabilize hillsides or preserve wetlands. He preferred to
adopt the ordinance as proposed and make modifications in the future. He pointed out a PRD would
have ADB review which a plat did not. Regarding the concern expressed over density bonuses, he
pointed out the current code allowed density bonuses.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 12
Council President Pro Tem Plunkett observed Councilmember Petso appeared to be referring to major
changes to the draft ordinance. Mr. Bullock said applying the PRD to any multiunit/multi-lot
development versus it applying only to a five -lot minimum or to a lot with an environment was a
significant change. The remaining issues raised by Councilmember Petso were not 'major issues and
could be addressed by staff.
Mr. Bowman suggested staff address the issues raised by Council and schedule another work session.
Once consensus was reached on draft language, another public hearing could be scheduled. Council
President Pro Tem Plunkett urged the public to use the additional time to familiarize themselves with the
proposed ordinance.
Mayor Pro Tem Earling concluded review of the proposed ordinance would be conducted at the Council
level. He noted there were a number of quality PRDs in the City such as Orchard, Eagles Crest, Eagles
Nest, Elm Place, etc. Mayor Pro Tem Earling commended Mr. Bullock for his presentation and response
to Council concerns.
6. AUDIENCE COMMENTS
Police and
Al Rutledge, 7101 Lake Ballinger Way, Edmonds, commented on the participation of Police and Fire
Fire Dept.
Departments at service club meetings he attended in other cities while traveling recently. He commented
Funding
on funding for the Police and Fire Departments and urged the City to have adequate funds in the budget
for public safety. He encouraged the Police and Fire Departments to attend community service club
meetings.
Planned
Residential
Develop_
Roger Hertrich, 1020 Puget Drive, Edmonds, said in April 2001 he expressed his surprise to the
Planning Board that staff had rewritten the PRD ordinance and not just revised a few items. He noted the
ents
advertising for the Planning Board public hearings did not indicate the proposed changes would allow
in single family zones. Next, Mr. Hertrich reiterated his request that the Council publicly
113rduplexes
realenter
reatment
announce the were against the BrightWater wastewater treatment plant. He said the Unocal site would
Y g g
Plant
continue to be considered until the Council expressed to King County that the City did not want
BrightWater. He assumed a quiet Council wanted the treatment plant.
BrightWater Betty Mueller, 209 Casper Street, Edmonds, expressed concern with the possible siting of
reatment BrightWater, noting petitions were being circulated. She questioned whether residents had been aware
Plant that the Unocal site was being considered for the wastewater treatment facility. She said Unocal was a
valuable piece of property and the City already had two treatment plants. She requested the Council
Medic 7 make a commitment. Next, Ms. Mueller requested the Council schedule consideration of the Medic 7
proposal on an upcoming agenda and discuss it publicly.
Elaine Yard, 9209 Olympic View Drive, Edmonds, encouraged the Council and the public to visit the
Unocal Site Deer Creek Hatchery (near the Unocal site), noting there was a fabulous view from the site. She
preferred the Unocal site be used for a hotel or convention center and advertising Edmonds as a beautiful
place to live.
BrightWater Mayor Pro Tem Earling reported the September 5 Council agenda included a 60 minute presentation
regarding BrightWater.
7. MAYOR'S COMMENTS
Snohomish
County Mayor Pro Tem Earling reported the Snohomish County Leadership Summit, originally scheduled for
Leadership September 15 has been postponed until January/February /Februa 2002.
Summit P � P P Y rY
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 13
8. INDIVIDUAL COUNCIL REPORTS/UPDATES ON OUTSIDE COMMITTEEBOARD
MEETINGS
ance for Council President Pro Tern Plunkett reported the. Edmonds Alliance for Economic Development (EAED)
nlop- is studying the economic impacts of the Unocal site without Bri htWater• the impact to the private sector
Develop- y g p g � p
men
t from residential development, a hotel, or a convention center as well as the economic impacts to the
City's revenue stream. He encouraged the public to contact the EAED office to obtain information. He
reported EAED is also working with the City on an overall downtown parking study to determine
whether it would be beneficial to the merchants if their employees did not park downtown. The EAED is
also studying the economic impacts of the design guidelines.
BrightWater Councilmember Petso clarified both Councilmember Miller and she have taken a position against
BrightWater and asked staff to convey this information to King County.
wC
Financial & Councilmember Petso reported on an AWC financial and budget seminar she attended. She reported
Budget among the materials provided was a financial planning model. She said the materials would soon be
Seminar available in the Council office.
Excused COUNCILMEMBER MILLER MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT PRO TEM
Absence PLUNKETT, TO EXCUSE COUNCILMEMBER MARIN FROM THE MEETINGS OF AUGUST 7
AND 14. MOTION CARRIED, COUNCILMEMBER MARIN ABSTAINED.
Port Councilmember Marin reported at the August 22 Port of Edmonds meeting, Commissioners approved a
draft lease with the Fine Arts Center of Edmonds (FACE). He noted this has the potential for becoming
a significant draw for the City as the public comes to watch artisans at work.
With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 9:45 p.m.
G Y VKENSON, MAYOR
J
fyGfG� �D• �..yClLa.�
SANDRA S. CHASE, CITY CLERK
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 28, 2001
Page 14
AGENDA
- EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL
Council Chambers, Public Safety Complex
250 5t" Avenue North
7:00 - 10:00 p.m.
AUGUST 28, 2001
7:00 p.m. - Call to Order
Flag Salute
1. Approval of Agenda
2. Consent Agenda Items
(A) Roll Call
(B) Approval of City Council Meeting Minutes of August 21, 2001
(C) Approval of claim checks #50190 through #50303 for the week of August 20,
2001, in the Amount of $285,836.50. Approval of payroll direct deposits and
checks #2828 through #2996 for the period August 1 through August 15, 2001,
in the amount of $826,381.63.
(D) Proposed Resolution appointing an agent of the City to receive Claims for
Damages made pursuant to RCW 4.96.020
3. ( 5 Min.) Information regarding City surplus property fill located on Main Street near 86tn
Avenue West
4. ( 5 Min.) Proposed Resolution which sponsors the employees of the Snohomish County
Public Transportation Benefit Area Corporation (Community Transit) to
participate in the AWC Employees Benefit Trust
5. (90 Min.) Public Hearing on the Planning Board's recommendation to amend Edmonds
Community Development Code Chapter 20.35 (Planned Residential
Development) and Title 21 (Definitions), providing for new purposes, standards,
criteria, and a revised review process for approving Planned Residential
Developments (File No. CDC-2000-132)
6. Audience Comments (3 Minute Limit Per Person)
Page 1 of 2
CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
1
August 28, 2001
page 2 of 2, : ;
7. ( 5 Min.) Mayor's Comments
8. (15 Min.) Individual Council reports/updates on outside Committee/Board meetings
Parking and meeting rooms are accessible for persons with disabilities.
Contact the City Clerk at (425) 771-0245 with 24 hours advance notice for special accommodations.
The Council Agenda as well as a delayed telecast of the meeting appears on AT&T Cable, Channel 21.