Ordinance 37660006.900000
WSS /gjz
12/3/09
ORDINANCE NO. 3766
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF EDMONDS,
WASHINGTON, ADOPTING A NEW COMMUNITY
SUSTAINABILITY ELEMENT AND FIXING A TIME WHEN
THE SAME SHALL BECOME EFFECTIVE.
WHEREAS, public participation programs were adopted for the 2009
Comprehensive Plan amendments by:
• Adoption of a public participation plan for the transportation plan as a part
of the City Council's approval of consultant contracts and scope of work;
• By Resolution 1206 adopting a public participation program for the
Sustainability and Capital Facilities Elements.
WHEREAS, hearings were held regarding the Community Sustainability Plan
before the Planning Board on October 14, 2009 and before the Edmonds City Council on
November 17, 2009; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that both individually and collectively, the
proposed amendments to the Comprehensive Plan (including the adoption of the Community
Sustainability element as a new element to the Plan):
• Are consistent with the provisions of the Comprehensive Plan and are in
the public interest.
• Would not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety or welfare of
the City;
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• Would not impact or do not affect the appropriate balance of land uses
within the City.
• The City Council further finds that because the amendments do not amend
the map, the findings required by ECDC 20.01.001(D) are not applicable;
NOW, THEREFORE,
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EDMONDS, WASHINGTON, DO
ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. The Edmonds Comprehensive Plan is hereby amended by the
adoption of a new Community Sustainability Element.
Section 2. A copy of the amendment is attached hereto as Exhibit A and
incorporated by this reference as fully as if herein set forth.
Section 3. Effective Date. This ordinance, being an exercise of a power specifi-
cally delegated to the City legislative body, is not subject to referendum, and shall take effect
five (5) days after passage and publication of an approved summary thereof consisting of the
title.
APPROVIWD:
MAYOR GAMY HAAKENSON
ATTEST /AUTHENTICATED:
CITY CLERK, SANDRA S. CHASE
{WSS752573. DOC; 1 \00006.900000\ } - 2 -
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
OFFICE OF TH Cj.TY ATTORNEY:
BY 5! 7C5- --,&
W. SCOTT SNYDER
FILED WITH THE CITY CLERK: 12 -11 -09
PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL: 12 -15 -09
PUBLISHED: 12 -21 -09
EFFECTIVE DATE: 12 -26 -09
ORDINANCE NO. 3766
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SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE NO. 3766
of the City of Edmonds, Washington
On the 15th day of December, 2009, the City Council of the City of Edmonds,
passed Ordinance No. 3766. A summary of the content of said ordinance, consisting of the title,
provides as follows:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF EDMONDS, WASHINGTON, ADOPTING A NEW
COMMUNITY SUSTAINABILITY ELEMENT AND FIXING A TIME WHEN THE SAME
SHALL BECOME EFFECTIVE.
The full text of this Ordinance will be mailed upon request.
DATED this 16th day of December, 2009.
CITY CLERK, SANDRA S. CHASE
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Exhibit A
Comprehensive Plan
Community Sustainability Element
Background: Climate Change, Community Health,
and Environmental Quality
Introduction. A relatively recent term, "sustainability" has many definitions. A commonly
cited definition is one put forward by the Brundtland Commission' in a report of the World
Commission on Environment and Development (December 11, 1987). The Commission
defined sustainable development as development that "meets the needs of the present without
compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs." Not focused solely
on environmental sustainability, the Commission's report emphasized the inter - related nature
of environmental, economic, and social factors in sustainability. One of the keys to success in
sustainability is recognizing that decision - making must be based on an integration of
economic with environmental and social factors.
The City of Edmonds Comprehensive Plan contains a number of different elements, some
mandated by the Growth Management Act, and others included because they are important to
the Edmonds community. A requirement of the Growth Management Act is that the various
comprehensive plan elements be consistent with one another. This Community Sustainability
Element is intended to provide a framework tying the other plan elements together,
illustrating how the overall plan direction supports sustainability within the Edmonds
community. A key aspect of this approach is also to provide more direct linkages between
long term planning and shorter -term strategic planning and policy review which guide the use
of city resources and programs, especially budgeting. For example, a new emphasis on life
cycle efficiency may take precedence over simple least -cost analytical methods.
The City of Edmonds is gifted with unique environmental assets, such as the shoreline on
Puget Sound, urban forests, diverse streams and wetlands, Lake Ballinger and a range of
parks and open spaces. In addition, the city has the benefit of an established, walkable
downtown served by transit, a framework of neighborhood commercial centers providing
local access to business services, and the potential to see significant economic development
in the Highway 99 activity center. Recently, the City has also experienced the beginnings of
new economic initiatives, such as a new fiber -optic infrastructure and locally -based
businesses and organizations supporting local sustainability and greenhouse gas (GHG)
reduction approaches. Combined with local government initiatives, such as the Mayor's
Citizens Committee on U.S. Mayors' Climate Protection Agreement and a series of
resolutions adopted by the Edmonds City Council, there is a growing recognition and
harnessing of the power of citizen knowledge to encourage and support changes in City
policies and operations which are making the City a leader in environmental stewardship.
Given this combination of assets and knowledge, the City of Edmonds has a compelling
responsibility to utilize these capabilities to address the challenges of climate change,
community health and environmental quality.
Community Sustainability Element 1 Adopted 12.15.2010
Sustainability Framework
This section describes the general goals and principles underlying the City's approach to
community sustainability. Three important guiding principles central to a successful approach
are:
Flexible — In an environment where what we understand and can predict is still
developing and will be uncertain for some time to come, providing ways to monitor,
assess, adapt, and to be flexible in our responses will be critical. Climate change is
but one example; the uncertainties acknowledged in that subject area should be
instructive in helping us understand that a flexible approach is necessary when
addressing all areas of sustainability.
Holistic — The components of sustainability — in terms of both its inputs and outputs
—are complex and synergistic. No single action will result in a sustainable result, and
sustainable initiatives taken in one area don't necessarily lead to sustainability in
another. For example, sustainable land use practices don't necessarily result in a
sustainable transportation or health system. A holistic approach is required that
includes all levels of governance and encompasses planning, funding, evaluation,
monitoring, and implementation.
Long -term — Focusing on short-term, expedient solutions will only make actions
necessary to support sustainability more difficult to take in the future. For example,
in the areas of environmental issues and climate change, deferred action now will
only make the cumulative effects more difficult to resolve in the future. The familiar
GMA -based 20 -year planning timeframe will not be sufficient — planning for
sustainability must take an even longer view.
Sustainability Goal A. Develop land use policies, programs, and regulations designed to
support and promote sustainability. Encourage a mix and location of land uses designed
to increase accessibility of Edmonds residents to services, recreation, jobs, and housing.
A.1 Adopt a system of codes, standards and incentives to promote development
that achieves growth management goals while maintaining Edmonds'
community character and charm in a sustainable way. Holistic solutions
should be developed that employ such techniques as Low Impact
Development (LID), transit - oriented development, "complete streets" that
support multiple modes of travel, and other techniques to assure that future
development and redevelopment enhances Edmonds' character and charm
for future generations to enjoy.
A.2 Include urban form and design as critical components of sustainable land
use planning. New tools, such as form -based zoning and context- sensitive
design standards should be used to support a flexible land use system
which seeks to provide accessible, compatible and synergistic land use
patterns which encourage economic and social interaction while retaining
privacy and a unique community character.
Community Sustainability Element 2 Adopted 12.15.2010
A.3 Integrate land use plans and implementation tools with transportation,
housing, cultural and recreational, and economic development planning so
as to form a cohesive and mutually- supporting whole.
A.4 Use both long -term and strategic planning tools to tie short term actions
and land use decisions to long -term sustainability goals. City land use
policies and decision criteria should reflect and support sustainability goals
and priorities.
Sustainability Goal B. Develop transportation policies, programs, and regulations
designed to support and promote sustainability. Take actions to reduce the use of fuel and
energy in transportation, and encourage various modes of transportation that reduce
reliance on automobiles and are supported by transportation facilities and accessibility
throughout the community.
B.1 Undertake a multi -modal approach to transportation planning that
promotes an integrated system of auto, transit, biking, walking and other
forms of transportation designed to effectively support mobility and access.
B.2 Actively work with transit providers to maximize and promote transit
opportunities within the Edmonds community while providing links to
other communities both within and outside the region.
B.3 Explore and support the use of alternative fuels and transportation
operations that reduce GHG emissions.
B.4 When undertaking transportation planning and service decisions, evaluate
and encourage land use patterns and policies that support a sustainable
transportation system.
B.5 Strategically plan and budget for transportation priorities that balances
ongoing facility and service needs with long -term improvements that
support a sustainable, multi -modal transportation system.
B.6 Strategically design transportation options — including bike routes,
pedestrian trails and other non - motorized solutions — to support and
anticipate land use and economic development priorities.
Sustainability Goal C. Promote seamless transportation linkages between the Edmonds
community and the rest of the Puget Sound region.
C.1 Take an active role in supporting and advocating regional solutions to
transportation and land use challenges.
C.2 Local transportation options should be designed to be coordinated with and
support inter -city and regional transportation programs and solutions.
C.3 Advocate for local priorities and connections and the promotion of system-
wide flexibility and ease of use in regional transportation decisions.
Community Sustainability Element 3 Adopted 12.15.2010
Sustainability Goal D. Develop utility policies, programs, and maintenance measures
designed to support and promote sustainability. Maintain existing utility systems while
seeking to expand the use of alternative energy and sustainable maintenance and building
practices in city facilities.
D.1 Balance and prioritize strategic and short-term priorities for maintenance
and ongoing infrastructure needs with long -term economic development
and sustainability goals.
D.2 Strategically program utility and infrastructure improvements to support
and anticipate land use and economic development priorities.
D.3 Explore and employ alternative systems and techniques, such as life -cycle
cost analysis, designed to maximize investments and/or reduce ongoing
maintenance and facilities costs.
DA Include sustainability considerations, such as environmental impact and
GHG reduction, in the design and maintenance of facilities and
infrastructure.
Sustainability Goal E. Develop economic development policies and programs designed
to support and promote sustainability. Encourage the co- location of jobs with housing in
the community, seeking to expand residents' ability to work in close proximity to their
homes. Encourage and support infrastructure initiatives and land use policies that
encourage and support home -based work and business activities that supplement
traditional business and employment concentrations.
E. I Economic development should support and encourage the expansion of
locally -based business and employment opportunities.
E.2 Land use policies and implementation tools should be designed to provide
for mixed use development and local access to jobs, housing, and services.
E.3 Regulatory and economic initiatives should emphasize flexibility and the
ability to anticipate and meet evolving employment, technological, and
economic patterns.
EA Land use and regulatory schemes should be designed to encourage and
support the ability of local residents to work, shop, and obtain services
locally.
E.5 Land use and economic development programs should provide for
appropriate scale and design integration of economic activities with
neighborhoods while promoting patterns that provide accessibility and
efficient transportation options.
Sustainability Goal F. Develop cultural and recreational programs designed to support
and promote sustainability. Networks of parks, walkways, public art and cultural facilities
Community Sustainability Element 4 Adopted 12.15.2010
and events should be woven into the community's fabric to encourage sense of place and
the overall health and well being of the community.
F.1 Cultural and arts programs should be supported and nourished as an
essential part of the City's social, economic, and health infrastructure.
F.2 Recreational opportunities and programming should be integrated
holistically into the City's infrastructure and planning process.
F.3 Cultural, arts, and recreational programming should be an integral part of
City design and facilities standards, and should be integrated into all
planning, promotion, and economic development initiatives.
Sustainability Goal G. Develop housing policies, programs, and regulations designed to
support and promote sustainability. Support and encourage a mix of housing types and
styles which provide people with affordable housing choices geared to changes in life
style. Seek to form public and private partnerships to retain and promote affordable
housing options.
G.1 Land use and housing programs should be designed to provide for existing
housing needs while providing flexibility to adapt to evolving housing
needs and choices.
G.2 Housing should be viewed as a community resource, providing
opportunities for residents to choose to stay in the community as their
needs and resources evolve and change over time.
G.3 Support the development of housing tools, such as inclusionary zoning
incentives and affordable housing programs, that promote a variety of
housing types and affordability levels into all developments.
1 Report of the World Commission on Environment and Development: Our Common Future, U.N. General
Assembly Plenary Meeting, December 11, 1987.
Community Sustainability Element 5 Adopted 12.15.2010
Climate Change
Introduction. The quality of the environment we live in is a critical part of what people often
describe as the "character" of Edmonds. Even if it is not something we overtly think about, it
is an intrinsic part of our everyday experience, whether at work, at rest or at play. Until
relatively recently, environmental quality has often been thought of in terms of obvious,
easily observable characteristics — such as the visible landscape, the quality of the air, the
presence and variety of wildlife, or the availability and character of water in its various forms.
However, recent evidence on climate change points to the potential fragility of our
assumptions about the environment and the need to integrate and heighten the awareness of
environmental issues as they are inter - related with all community policies and activities.
Recognizing the importance of addressing the issues surrounding the environment and
climate change, in September 2006, the City of Edmonds formally expressed support for the
Kyoto Protoco13 and adopted the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement' by Resolution
No. 1129, and joined the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI)'
by Resolution No. 1130.
Scientific evidence and consensus continues to strengthen the idea that climate change is an
urgent threat to the environmental and economic health of our communities. Many cities, in
this country and abroad, already have strong local policies and programs in place to reduce
global warming pollution, but more action is needed at the local, state, and federal levels to
meet the challenge. On February 16, 2005 the Kyoto Protocol, the international agreement to
address climate change, became law for the 141 countries that have ratified it to date. On that
day, Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels launched an initiative to advance the goals of the Kyoto
Protocol through leadership and action by at least 141 American cities.
The State of Washington has also been taking steps to address the issues surrounding climate
change. For example, in March, 2008, the state legislature passed ESSHB 2815, which
included monitoring and reporting mandates for state agencies along with the following
emission reduction targets:
Sec. 3. (1)(a) The state shall limit emissions of greenhouse gases to achieve the
following emission reductions for Washington state:
(i) By 2020, reduce overall emissions of greenhouse gases in the state to
1990 levels;
(ii) By 2035, reduce overall emissions of greenhouse gases in the state to
twenty -five percent below 1990 levels;
(iii) By 2050, the state will do its part to reach global climate stabilization
levels by reducing overall emissions to fifty percent below 1990 levels, or
seventy percent below the state's expected emissions that year.
The City of Edmonds has formally approved the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement
which was endorsed by the 73rd Annual U.S. Conference of Mayors meeting, Chicago, 2005.
Under the Agreement, participating cities committed to take three sets of actions:
Community Sustainability Element 6 Adopted 12.15.2010
1. Urge the federal government and state governments to enact policies and programs to
meet or beat the target of reducing global warming pollution levels to 7 percent below
1990 levels by 2012, including efforts to: reduce the United States' dependence on fossil
fuels and accelerate the development of clean, economical energy resources and fuel -
efficient technologies such as conservation, methane recovery for energy generation,
waste to energy, wind and solar energy, fuel cells, efficient motor vehicles, and biofuels.
2. Urge the U.S. Congress to pass bipartisan greenhouse gas reduction legislation that 1)
includes clear timetables and emissions limits and 2) a flexible, market -based system of
tradable allowances among emitting industries
3. Strive to meet or exceed Kyoto Protocol targets for reducing global warming pollution
by taking actions in our own operations and community.
Given this background, the City of Edmonds recognizes that global climate change brings
significant risks to our community as a shoreline city. At the same time, the City understands
that we have a responsibility to play a leadership role both within our own community as well
as the larger Puget Sound region. To that end, the City establishes the following goals and
policies addressing climate change.
Climate Change Goal A. Inventory and monitor community greenhouse gas emissions,
establishing carbon footprint baselines and monitoring programs to measure future
progress and program needs.
A.1 Establish baselines for greenhouse gas emissions and carbon footprint for
both Edmonds city government and the broader Edmonds community.
A.2 Establish a monitoring program for consistently updating estimates on City
and community greenhouse gas emissions. The monitoring program should
be designed so as to enable a comparison between measurement periods.
A.3 The monitoring program should include assessment measures which (1)
measure progress toward greenhouse gas reduction goals and (2) evaluate
the effectiveness of or need for programs to work toward these goals.
Climate Change Goal B. Establish targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and
promoting sustainability for both city government and the Edmonds community.
Regularly assess progress and program needs, identifying opportunities and obstacles for
meeting greenhouse gas emission targets and sustainability.
B.1 City government should take the lead in developing and promoting GHG
emissions reduction for the Edmonds community.
B.2 Establish and evaluate targets for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions
for both Edmonds city government and the broader Edmonds community.
Targets should be set for both short- and long -range evaluation.
Community Sustainability Element 7 Adopted 12.15.2010
B.2.a. By 2020, reduce overall emissions of greenhouse gases to 1990
levels;
B.2.b. By 2035, reduce overall emissions of greenhouse gases to twenty-
five percent below 1990 levels;
B.2.c. By 2050, Edmonds will do its part to reach global climate
stabilization levels by reducing overall emissions to fifty percent
below 1990 levels, or seventy percent below the expected
emissions that year.
B.3 Establish measures for evaluating the degree of sustainability of Edmonds
city government and the broader Edmonds community.
BA Annually assess the status and progress toward emissions reduction goals.
Climate Change Goal C. Assess the risks and potential impacts on both city government
operations and on the larger Edmonds community due to climate change. The assessment
of risk and potential responses — both in terms of mitigation and adaptation — should
evaluate the full range of issues, paying particular attention to those arising from the
city's location on Puget Sound.
C.1 Develop a climate change risk assessment and impact analysis for city
government facilities and operations.
C.2 Develop a climate change risk assessment and impact analysis for the
Edmonds community which considers the potential long -term impacts to
economic, land use, and other community patterns as well as the risks
associated with periodic weather or climate events.
Climate Change Goal D. Work with public and private partners to develop strategies
and programs to prepare for and mitigate the potential impacts of climate change, both on
city government operations and on the general Edmonds community.
D.1 Develop a strategic plan that will help guide and focus City resources and
program initiatives to (1) reduce greenhouse gas production and the carbon
footprint of City government and the Edmonds community, and, (2) reduce
and minimize the potential risks of climate change. The strategic plan
should be coordinated with and leverage state and regional goals and
initiatives, but Edmonds should look for and take the lead where we see
opportunities unique to the Edmonds community.
D.2 Build on and expand the strategic action plan to include programs that can
involve both public and private partners.
D.3 Undertake a policy review of City comprehensive, strategic and specific
plans to assure that City policies are appropriately targeted to prepare for
and mitigate potential impacts of climate change. These reviews may be
done to correspond with scheduled plan updates, or accelerated where
Community Sustainability Element 8 Adopted 12,15.2010
either a higher priority is identified or the next update is not specifically
scheduled.
Climate Change Goal E. Develop mitigation strategies that can be used by both the
public and private sectors to help mitigate the potential impacts of new and ongoing
development and operations. Develop programs and strategies that will encourage the
retrofitting of existing development and infrastructure to mitigate and adapt to the effects
of climate change.
E.1 Develop policies and strategies for land use and development that result in
reduced greenhouse gas emissions for new development as well as
redevelopment activities.
E.2 Develop mitigation programs and incentives that both public and private
development entities can use to reduce or offset potential greenhouse gas
emissions associated with both new development and redevelopment.
E.3 Develop programs and incentives that encourage existing land use,
buildings, and infrastructure to reduce their carbon footprint.
Demonstration programs and other cost - efficient efforts that do not rely on
long -term government subsidies are preferred, unless dedicated funding
sources can be found to sustain these efforts over time.
2 For example, see the Fourth Assessment Report; Climate Change 2007: Synthesis Report, by the
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, February 2007.
3 The Kyoto Protocol was adopted at the third Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Kyoto, Japan, on 11, December 1997, and established
potentially binding targets and timetables for cutting the greenhouse -gas emissions of industrialized
countries. The Kyoto Protocol has not been ratified by the U.S, government.
4 The U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement is as amended by the 73rd Annual U.S. Conference of
Mayors meeting in Chicago in 2005.
5 ICLEI was founded in 1990 as the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives following the
World. Congress of Local Governments for a Sustainable Future, held at the United Nations in New York.
Community Sustainability Element 9 Adopted 12.15.2010
Community Health
Introduction. Community health as it is used here means the overall aspects of public
facilities and actions that can have an effect on the health and welfare of the community's
citizens. The focus here is on the public realm, understanding that public actions and policies
can have an impact on the well -being of Edmonds citizens. The idea is that whenever
possible, government should be an enabler, supporting the expansion of opportunities for
people so that they can be as self - sustaining as possible, thereby reducing the potential need
for intervention from government, community -based or privately- derived services — services
which are becoming increasingly costly and difficult to provide.
Community health is closely linked to land use, transportation, public service delivery, and
environmental quality. Clean water and clean air are a basic necessity when seeking to keep
people healthy. In addition, there are certain land use and other actions that Edmonds can take
to help foster healthy lifestyles throughout the community. Government also has a role in
providing basic services, such as police and fire protection, while encouraging access to
affordable housing and opportunities to live, work, and shop close to home.
Community Health Goal A. Develop a reporting and monitoring system of indicators
designed to assess Edmonds' progress toward sustainable community health.
A.1 Develop community indicators designed to measure the City's progress
toward a sustainable community.
A.2 Use these community indicators to inform long -term, mid -term (strategic),
and budgetary decision - making.
Community Health Goal B. Develop and maintain ongoing City programs and
infrastructure designed to support sustainable community health.
B.I Promote a healthy community by encouraging and supporting diversity in
culture and the arts.
B.2 Promote a healthy community by encouraging and supporting access to
recreation and physical activity.
B.3 Promote a healthy community by planning for and implementing a
connected system of walkways and bikeways which will provide
alternative forms of transportation while also encouraging recreation,
physical activity and exposure to the natural environment.
B.4 Promote a healthy community by seeking to protect and enhance the
natural environment through a balanced program of education, regulation,
and incentives. Environmental programs in Edmonds should be tailored to
and reflect the unique opportunities and challenges embodied in a mature,
sea -side community with a history of environmental protection and
awareness.
Community Sustainability Element 10 Adopted 12.15.2010
B.5 Develop and encourage volunteer opportunities in community projects that
promote community health. Examples of such programs include beach
clean -ups, walk -to- school groups, and helpers for the elderly or disabled.
B.6 Increase access to health - promoting foods and beverages in the
community. Form partnerships with organizations or worksites, such as
health care facilities and schools, to encourage healthy foods and
beverages.
Community Health Goal C. Promote a healthy community by encouraging and
supporting a diverse and creative education system, providing educational opportunities
for people of all ages and all stages of personal development, including those with special
needs or disabilities.
C.I City regulatory and planning activities should be supported by education
programs which seek to explain and encourage progress toward desired
outcomes rather then relying solely on rules and penalties.
C.2 The City should partner with educational and governmental organizations
to encourage community access to information and education. Examples
include the Edmonds School District, Edmonds Community College, Sno-
Isle Library, the State of Washington (including the Departments of
Ecology and Fish and Wildlife), and the various private and public
educational programs available to the Edmonds community.
C.3 Encourage and support broad and flexible educational opportunities,
including both traditional and new or emerging initiatives, such as
technology -based solutions. Education should be flexible in both content
and delivery.
Community Health Goal D. Promote a healthy community through supporting and
encouraging the development of economic opportunities for all Edmonds' citizens.
DA Sustainable economic health should be based on encouraging abroad range
of economic activity, with an emphasis on locally -based businesses and
economic initiatives which provide family- supporting wages and incomes.
D.2 Encourage the provision of a variety of types and styles of housing that
will support and accommodate different citizens' needs and life styles. The
diversity of people living in Edmonds should be supported by a diversity of
housing so that all citizens can find suitable housing now and as they
progress through changes in their households and life stages.
D.3 Encourage the development and preservation of affordable housing.
D,4 Develop programs and activities that promote and support a diverse
population and culture, encouraging a mix of ages and backgrounds.
Community Sustainability Element 11 Adopted 12.15.2010
Community Health Goal E. Support a healthy community by providing a full range of
public services, infrastructure, and support systems.
E.1 Recognize the importance of City services to local community character
and sustainability by planning for and integrating public safety and health
services into both short- and long -term planning and budgeting. Strategic
planning should be a regular part of the decision - making process
underlying the provision of these services to the community.
E.2 Reduce energy consumption and maximize energy efficiency by promoting
programs and educational initiatives aimed at a goal to "reduce, re -use, and
recycle" at an individual and community -wide level.
E.3 Future planning and budgeting should be based on full life -cycle cost
analysis and facility maintenance needs, as well as standards of service that
best fit clearly articulated and supported community needs.
Community Health Goal F. Support a healthy community by providing for community
health care and disaster preparedness.
F.I Plan for and prepare disaster preparedness plans which can be
implemented as necessary to respond effectively to the impacts of natural
or man - induced disasters on Edmonds residents.
F.2 Prepare and implement hazard mitigation plans to reduce and minimize, to
the extent feasible, the exposure of Edmonds citizens to future disasters or
hazards.
F.3 Promote food security and public health by encouraging locally -based food
production, distribution, and choice through the support of home and
community gardens, farmers or public markets, and other small - scale,
collaborative initiatives.
F.4 Support food assistance programs and promote economic security for low
income families and individuals.
F.5 Promote and support community health by supporting national, state and
local health programs and the local provision of health services.
Community Sustainability Element 12 Adopted 12.15.2010
Environmental Quality
Introduction. The environmental quality and beauty of the City of Edmonds is largely
reflected through its natural resources, and especially its location on the shores of Puget
Sound. The city's watersheds — including Lake Ballinger, a well -known landmark — and
streams that flow into the Sound provide a rich and diverse water resource. The beaches,
wetlands, and streams provide habitat for diverse wildlife including many species of
migrating and resident birds which adds to the aesthetic and pleasing quality of the
environment.
As Edmonds has grown and developed, what were once abundant native forest and wetland
habitats have now become increasingly scarce. Nonetheless, our parks, open spaces, and the
landscaped areas of our neighborhoods integrate pleasing vistas and differentiation necessary
to provide relief in a highly developed landscape. Throughout the city, woodlands, streams,
wetlands and marine areas contain native vegetation that provide food and cover for a diverse
population of fish and wildlife. Preserving and restoring these natural resources through
environmental stewardship remains a high priority for the Edmonds community. Healthy
ecosystems are the source of many less tangible benefits that humans derive from a
relationship with nature such as providing a sense of well -being and sites for nature trails and
other educational and recreational opportunities. Some ecological services that native plants
and trees provide are stabilizing slopes and reducing erosion, replenishing the soil with
nutrients and water, providing barriers to wind and sound, filtering pollutants from the air and
soil, and generating oxygen and absorbing carbon dioxide. Our city beaches and the near -
shore environment also represent unique habitats for marine organisms.
So interconnected are the benefits of a functioning ecosystem, that non - sustainable
approaches to land development and management practices can have effects that ripple
throughout the system. The combination of marine, estuarine, and upland environments
should be seen as an integrated and inter - dependent ecosystem supporting a variety of
wildlife valuable to the entire Edmonds community.
Environmental Quality Goal A. Protect environmental quality within the Edmonds
community through the enforcement of community -based environmental regulations that
reinforce and are integrated with relevant regional, state and national environmental
standards.
A.1 Ensure that the city's natural vegetation associated with its urban forests,
wetlands, and wildlife habitat areas are protected and enhanced for future
generations.
A.2 City regulations and incentives should be designed to support and require
sustainable land use and development practices, including the retention of
urban forest land, native vegetation, and wildlife habitat areas. Techniques
such as tree retention and low impact development methods should be
integrated into land use and development codes.
Community Sustainability Element 13 Adopted 12.15.2010
A.3 Provide for clean air and water quality through the support of state and
regional initiatives and regulations.
A.4 Coordinate land use and transportation plans and implementation actions to
support clean air an water.
Environmental Quality Goal B. Promote the improvement of environmental quality
within the Edmonds community by designing and implementing programs based on a
system of incentives and public education.
B.1 The City should promote and increase public awareness and pride in its
natural areas and wildlife heritage. Special emphasis should be directed
toward preserving natural areas and habitats (forests, wetlands, streams and
beaches) that support a diversity of wildlife.
B.2 Education and recreation programs should be designed and made available
for all ages.
13.3 Environmental education should be coordinated and integrated with other
cultural, arts, and tourism programs.
B.4 To encourage adherence to community values and goals, education
programs should be designed to help promote understanding and explain
the reasons behind environmental programs and regulations.
Environmental Quality Goal C. Develop, monitor, and enforce critical areas regulations
designed to enhance and protect environmentally sensitive areas within the city consistent
with the best available science.
C.1 Critical areas will be designated and protected using the best available
science pursuant to RCW 36.70A.172.
C.2 In addition to regulations, provide incentives that encourage environmental
stewardship, resource conservation, and environmental enhancement
during development activities.
Environmental Quality Goal D. Develop, implement, and monitor a shoreline master
program, consistent with state law, to enhance and protect the quality of the shoreline
environment consistent with the best available science.
D.1 Adopt a Shoreline Master Program that meets the requirements of state law
and is consistent with community goals while being based on the best
available science
Community Sustainability Element 14 Adopted 12.15.2010
Implementing Sustainability
Introduction. One of the reasons for adopting this Community Sustainability Element as part
of the City's Comprehensive Plan is to provide a positive conceptual framework for
coordinating and assessing the community's progress toward sustainability. For that to
happen, there must be a tie between long -range comprehensive planning, mid -range strategic
planning, and short-term implementation decisions embodied in budgeting and operations.
There are a number of important principles to keep in mind when linking these sets of plans
and actions.
Engage and educate. Connect with the community and provide ways to access and share
information and ideas.
Integrate. Be holistic in approach, recognizing linkages and seeking to expand problem -
solving and solutions beyond traditional or institutional boundaries.
Innovate. Go beyond conventional approaches; be experimental.
Be adaptive. Be flexible, discarding or modifying approaches that don't work and
shifting resources where or when needed. Rigid rules will not always work or result in the
most effective solution.
Be strategic. Target and prioritize actions to be effective and gain community support
and momentum. Acknowledge limitations, but be creative and persistent in seeking
solutions.
Be a leader. Lead by example, and by forming partnerships that effect decision- making
while providing ways to address differing views and perspectives.
Measure and assess. Set benchmarks to monitor progress and provide feedback to policy
development and decision- making.
A key to being successful in applying these principles to sustainability will be the need to
apply an adaptive management approach to planning and resource allocation. A passive
approach can emphasize predictive modeling and feedback, with program adjustments made
as more information is learned. A more active approach will emphasize experimentation —
actively trying different ideas or strategies and evaluating which produces the best results.
Important for both approaches is (a) basing plans and programs on multi- scenario uncertainty
and feedback, and (b) integrating risk into the analysis. Either of these approaches can be
used, as appropriate in the situation or problem being addressed.
Implementation Goal A. Develop benchmarks and indicators that will provide for
measurement of progress toward established sustainability goals.
Community Sustainability Element 15 Adopted 12.15.2010
A.l Benchmarks and indicators should be both understandable and obtainable
so that they can be easily explained and used.
A.2 Establish both short- and long -term benchmarks and indicators to tie long-
term success to interim actions and decisions.
A.3 Develop a reporting mechanism and assessment process so that
information can be gathered and made available to the relevant decision
process at the appropriate time.
Implementation Goal B. Provide mechanisms to link long- range, strategic, and short-
term planning and decision - making in making progress toward community sustainability.
A.l Schedule planning and budgeting decision processes to form a logical and
linked progression so that each process builds on and informs related
decisions.
A.2 Long- range, strategic, and short-term planning should acknowledge the
other time frames, decisions, and resources involved. For example, short-
term budgetary and regulatory decisions should be designed to effect
strategic and long -term goals.
Figure # #: Example of process coordination
Annual Plan Coordination Schedule
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TBD 11 ....... 004
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Preliminary Final Approval Prep / Development --pip- Input/Feedback
Community Sustainability Element 16 Adopted 12.15.2010
Affidavit of Publication
STATE OF WASHINGTON;
COUNTY OF SNOHOMISH } S.S.
V.
DEC 3 0 2009
Q¢Q¢ 9 5
Account Name: City of Edmonds
day of December, 2009
Notary Public in and for the of Washirig ~ 0>4i1ti,� `tylSno mish
County. f
N ty "TA x.
U)
Account Number: 101416 0007679283
!, ) _
The undersigned, being first duly sworn on oath deposes and says that she is Principal Clerk of
k,
THE HERALD, a daily newspaper printed and published in the City. of Everett, County of
Snohomish, and State of Washington; that said newspaper is a newspaper of general
circulation in said County and State; that said newspaper has been approved as a legal
newspaper by order of the Superior Court of Snohomish County and that the notice
OF ORDI
SUMMARY NANCE
NO. 3766
of the rtyL` o} Edmonds,
Washington
On the 15th day day .of t)ecem-
Summary of Ordinance No. 3766
ber, 2009, the City Council of
the City, of Edmonds, passed
Ordinance No. 3766: A summa-
Adopting a New Community Sustainability Element
ry of the content of said ordi-
nance, consisting of the title,
provides as follows:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY
OF EDMONDS, WASHING-
TON, ADOPTING A NEW
SUSTA NABILITY N ELEMENT
a printed copy of which is hereunto attached, was published in said newspaper proper and not
AND FIXING A TIME WHEN
in supplement form, in the regular and entire edition of said on the following days and
THE SAME SHALL BECOME
paper
times, namely:
y:
The full text of this-Ordinance
will be mailed upon request.
DATED this 16th day of De-
December 21, 2009
camber, 2009.
- CITY CLERK,
SANDRAS.CHASE
Published: December 21, 2009.
and that said newspaper was regularly distributed to its Aubscribers during all of said period.
!
gal—
__
Principal Clerk
61 0
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 21st
V.
DEC 3 0 2009
Q¢Q¢ 9 5
Account Name: City of Edmonds
day of December, 2009
Notary Public in and for the of Washirig ~ 0>4i1ti,� `tylSno mish
County. f
N ty "TA x.
U)
Account Number: 101416 0007679283
!, ) _