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2022-12-14 Planning Board Packet1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. o Agenda Edmonds Planning Board V SPECIAL MEETING BRACKETT ROOM 121 5TH AVE N, CITY HALL - 3RD FLOOR, EDMONDS, WA 98020 DECEMBER 14, 2022, 7:00 PM MEETING INFORMATION Persons wishing to join this meeting virtually in lieu of in -person attendance for the purpose of providing audience comments can click on or paste the following Zoom meeting link into a web browser using a computer or smart phone Zoom Information: https://edmondswa- gov.zoom.us/j/82563310743?pwd=VVRlUkdzSXFISOZpMkFDZUxmSVgxdzO9&from=addon Or comment by phone: US: +1 253 215 8782 Meeting ID: 825 63310743 Passcode: 010838 Those commenting using a computer or smart phone are instructed to raise a virtual hand to be recognized. Persons wishing to provide audience comments by dial -up phone are instructed to press *9 to raise a hand. When prompted, press *6 to unmute LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FOR INDIGENOUS PEOPLES We acknowledge the original inhabitants of this place, the Sdohobsh (Snohomish) people and their successors the Tulalip Tribes, who since time immemorial have hunted, fished, gathered, and taken care of these lands. We respect their sovereignty, their right to self-determination, and we honor their sacred spiritual connection with the land and water. CALL TO ORDER APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. Approval of Minutes ANNOUNCEMENT OF AGENDA AUDIENCE COMMENTS ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS A. Planning Board Handbook PUBLIC HEARINGS UNFINISHED BUSINESS A. Tree Code Amendments, ADM 2022-0004 NEW BUSINESS PLANNING BOARD EXTENDED AGENDA A. Extended Agenda Edmonds Planning Board Agenda December 14, 2022 Page 1 10. PLANNING BOARD CHAIR COMMENTS 11. PLANNING BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS 12. ADJOURNMENT Edmonds Planning Board Agenda December 14, 2022 Page 2 2.A Planning Board Agenda Item Meeting Date: 12/14/2022 Approval of Minutes Staff Lead: Michael Clugston Department: Planning Division Prepared By: Michael Clugston Background/History N/A Staff Recommendation Planning Board to approve meeting minutes from November 9th. Narrative Draft meeting minutes attached. Attachments: Draft 11.09.22 Planning Board Minutes Packet Pg. 3 2.A.a CITY OF EDMONDS PLANNING BOARD Minutes of Meeting November 9, 2022 Chair Pence called the meeting of the Edmonds Planning Board to order at 7:00 p.m. in Council Chambers. He noted it was the first time they have met in person in 32 months. LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FOR INDIGENOUS PEOPLES Board Member Kuehn read the Land Acknowledgement. Board Members Present Roger Pence, Chair Richard Kuehn Mike Rosen Beth Tragus-Campbell Lily Distelhorst (student rep)' Board Members Absent Judi Gladstone, Vice Chair (excused) Todd Cloutier (excused) Staff Present Mike Clugston, Senior Planner Angie Feser, Parks, Recreation, & Human Services Director Mr. Clugston reported that Matt Cheung had resigned and that Board Members Gladstone, Cloutier, and Distelhorst had indicated they would not be attending. READING/APPROVAL OF MINUTES MOTION MADE BY BOARD MEMBER ROSEN, SECONDED BY BOARD MEMBER CAMPBELL, TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE OCTOBER 26 MEETING AS PRESENTED. MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY WITH BOARD MEMBER KUEHN ABSTAINING. ANNOUNCEMENT OF AGENDA THERE WAS UNANIMOUS CONSENT TO APPROVE THE AGENDA AS PRESENTED. AUDIENCE COMMENTS Dan O'Brien stated he lives directly east of Civic Park on 7 h Avenue. He thanked the City for the park; he thinks it will be great when it is done. He emphasized that the park is very unique with the noise of the pickleball and the skate park. He expressed concern about the noise, especially after hours. He brought up concerns about ' Student Representative Distelhorst arrived at approximately 7:17 p.m. N c 0 0 L a 0. g Planning Board Meeting Minutes November 9, 2022 Page 1 of 7 Packet Pg. 4 2.A.a the dawn -to -dusk hours and about allowing wheeled sports. He thinks the lighting will be subtle enough so he doesn't have concerns about that. He is fine with it being on during open hours. He hopes they can continue the conversation after the park has been open for a while. Jim Okanowski, Edmonds resident, spoke regarding the visioning statement. He thanked Director McLaughlin for the input she did with the community to gain input. He attended many of the chat sessions for each of the elements. There were a lot of good comments and modest participation from the community at each of those events. He applauded her for going out to various areas of the community. He expressed disappointment in the draft vision statement and stated he thinks it should be much more forward -looking than it is. He thinks the draft is looking more at the present and the past, as opposed to looking at the future. It is more of a values statement than a vision statement. He referred to what he thinks are well -written examples of vision statements such as Dr. Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech and President Kennedy's vision to the nation for achieving the goal before the decade was out of landing a man on the moon and returning him safely to earth. Each of these lay out clear ideas, goals, timelines, and reasons for their achievement which are the foundational elements of a good vision statement. A vision statement should be inspirational, forward -looking, and reflect our core c values. He referred to the Land Acknowledgement read at the beginning of the meeting for other inspirational ideas to include in the vision statement. He urged the City to take another look at the draft vision statement. ° a a a Tara Ashton, resident, stated she lives near the old tennis courts at the park. She also expressed concern about the noise from the pickleball courts. They have always been able to hear the sound from the tennis courts, and she is sure they will be able to hear the noise from the pickleball courts. She did a search for pickleball noise c issues online and found many results of problems people are having with the noise. The noise has driven people to putting up fences as sound barriers and requirements for players to use sound -reducing paddles and balls. Other areas have reduced the hours that people can play from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. She noted that the neighbors m° near Civic Park have already had problems with the dawn -to -dusk park usage hours. They also know that pickleball noise complaints are a big issue in the United States. She would like to see signage to give people guidance about the hours and make them aware of the noise concerns and ways to dampen the sounds. Barry Ehrlich, 628 DaleX, stated that his residence of 20 years overlooks the park. He also is concerned about the evening hours, especially in the summertime. There are a few people who abuse the hours, and the neighbors have to listen to the wheels on the concrete and the loud, offensive language at night. He supports having limited, specified hours, not dawn -to -dusk. He hopes they will read Pat Woodall's letters to the Parks Department and to Chair Pence and seriously consider putting in specific hours for the Civic Center Playfield. NEW BUSINESS C. Civic Center Playfield / Civic Center Playfield Rules Request Parks, Recreation, & Human Services Director Angie Feser discussed the rules request that had been submitted. She stated she was bringing it forward to the Planning Board in the form of a recommendation for City Council. She noted that Civic Park is a very important park for the community, and there are some challenges with its use. She reviewed the Master Plan and PROS Plan goals and Edmonds City Code sections regarding park hours. She discussed the project background, construction timeline, and project design. The rules request by park neighbors is as follows: Planning Board Meeting Minutes November 9, 2022 Page 2 of 7 Packet Pg. 5 2.A.a 1. Change the "Dawn to Dusk" hours to fixed hours of operation including the general park hours being 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. and restricted hours of use for the skate park, tennis/pickleball court, basketball, soccer (multipurpose lighted athletic fields) and exercise stations to 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. 2. Prohibit wheeled sports on the walkways and promenade. 3. Limit hours of lighting of the east -west promenade to posted hours of use. Director Feser discussed her recommendations in response to the rules request: 1. Park Hours: • Park Hours — Dawn to Dusk (Sunrise to Sunset) • Skate Park — 9 a.m. to Dusk (previous rules) • Tennis/pickleball court, basketball — Dawn to Dusk • Multipurpose athletic fields — lighted to 10:15 p.m. • Exercise stations — Dawn to Dusk 2. Wheeled Sports: Director Feser recommended not prohibiting the use of wheeled sports within the park G other than the possible restriction of some types of wheels activity which could damage the rubberized c track. The wide sidewalks and paved paths provide for multiple uses including bicycles, tricycles, strider Q. bikes, scooters, rollerblades, and the like. Currently, there are no prohibitions of wheeled sports in any 0. a City of Edmonds parks nor any city code that allows prohibition of this use. V) 3. Promenade Lighting Hours: Director Feser recommended allowing for pedestrian lighting after dusk. City practice is to have pedestrian lighting through dark hours for safety and expanded opportunity of use by park users especially in the fall and winter months (Hickman Park). Edmonds Police Department supports the lighting. This enables pedestrian movement through the park rather than alleyways. There will be limited lighting within the park, with most of it being the east -west promenade, one side of the concrete path, and a 30' lighting radius. Director Feser recommended allowing a year of usage before making any significant changes. She reviewed enforcement challenges. She requested consideration of a recommendation to Council by the Planning Board. Board Member Kuehn agreed that a lot of thoughtfulness has been put into the park, and it is hard to make a recommendation to change when they don't really know how it will work out. As of right now he is comfortable with her recommendations. Board Member Rosen asked about exceptions beyond the dawn -to -dusk limits. Director Feser explained that 4th of July is an example of one of those times. Exceptions are developed with conditions surrounding special events agreements. Board Member Rosen noted that the pickleball demand is very high. He is wondering if there might be some public -private partnership opportunities that could relieve some of the burden from the Parks Department while meeting the need. He also asked if they have explored any of the noise -mitigating technology associated with the sport. Director Feser acknowledged there are ways to go about requiring equipment that can help with the noise — both the paddle and the ball. There are also sound -reducing baffling walls that can be put up in the courts to help absorb the sound. This is staff s least favorite method because of the lack of visibility in and out of the courts as well as the expense and maintenance required. Staff is more supportive of using the noise -mitigating equipment and controlling the hours around using the court. She stated she would support looking at reduced hours for the pickleball on the tennis court because of the noise. Planning Board Meeting Minutes November 9, 2022 Page 3 of 7 Packet Pg. 6 2.A.a Board Member Campbell echoed comments thanking the audience members for their comments and letters. She thanked Director Feser for putting together information, especially regarding the lighting. In general, she is supportive with moving forward with this. She agrees with the audience comment that says we need to re- evaluate this. She is also supportive of coming back to this in a year after they have had some time to see how it works out. Board Member Campbell provided more detailed feedback on staff's recommendations: • She asked about putting up something on the west side of the skate park which might absorb sound rather than reflect it. Director Feser noted this is a possibility they could explore. There is an existing Boys and Girls Club and possibly a new Boys and Girls Club in the future. This could be something they consider as they look at plans for the new building. Board Member Campbell encouraged this. • She asked about the circumstances surrounding having playfields lit until 10:15. Director Feser explained the lights are turned on in conjunction with scheduled activities. This could be city programs or other users. The irrigation and lighting are all handled remotely. If there is something 2 scheduled, the playfield lights will go off at 10:15. If there is nothing scheduled, the lights never go 0 on. Board Member Campbell asked about historical complaints about the lighting use at the > playfields in the past. Director Feser explained she didn't have any history with that because she a started with the City in April of 2020. The use of Civic Park was prior to that. Also, prior to a construction of the Civic Park programming was diminished significantly because of COVID. She noted she could check with staff about complaints they had received. She commented that W discussions with night police staff revealed that there had not been many serious issues with the fields. There have been some calls about skaters after dark, but the police are right across the street. She added that the field lighting is much improved to the old lighting. The new lights are very c precise on the field without a lot of spillover. m • She is in support of the dawn -to -dusk park hours because of the clarity of this; however, she agrees c with the concerns about the pickleball courts. She agreed with the recommendation about trying to do some signage and education about respectful use of the areas. She did not recommend changing a the ending time until they have more information about how the space if being used. She thought N the previous skate park rules of 9 am to dusk seemed acceptable. She doesn't feel like early morning o use of the exercise stations is going to cause any sort of noise issues. She did not feel like the playfield lighting would be a problem as long as the lights are oriented as described with the new lighting. c` • She agreed with the City's recommendation to not limit wheeled sports on the promenade but stressed that people need to know and use the rules of the road. E Regarding promenade lighting, she thanked the City for the light orientation consideration. She agreed with the Police Department that the lighting should be on during dark hours for safety reasons. She requested that they do not put in any overhead lighting at the skate park as this would encourage nighttime use. Student Representative Distelhorst agreed with staff recommendations. She was in support of allowing wheeled sports inside the park because this the park is a great resource for everyone in the city to use. She thinks the 10:15 playfield light turnoff time makes sense for athletes. She agreed that lighting on the walkway at night is very important for safety. Chair Pence asked about the recommendation for dawn -to -dusk park hours except for areas that are lighted. He asked how this would get communicated and noted it could be confusing for users. Director Feser suggested Planning Board Meeting Minutes November 9, 2022 Page 4 of 7 Packet Pg. 7 2.A.a signage that would explain that the park is closed at dusk, but the promenade is still available to walk through the park. Chair Pence noted there is a fabric material that has great sound absorbing qualities and is frequently applied to fences along highways. This may be something to explore for the pickleball area even though it would block some views. He agreed with the recommendation to have a minimum set of clear rules to start with and give it a year to see how they are working before making changes. Vice Chair Rosen also thought that waiting a year was good unless something important comes up sooner. He was a little troubled by the lack of ordinance on wheeled sports. He suggested isolating that issue and getting a recommendation from staff at some point in the future. Board Member Campbell agreed that the promenade through the park needs to have careful signage to avoid confusion. She supported using Authority of the Resource type signage. Director Feser thanked the Planning Board and the members of the public for their input. She indicated staff would make some changes and bring this back. A. Debrief. November lst Joint Meeting with City Council Chair Pence reviewed the topics of the joint meeting held with the City Council on November 1. At the meeting he had reviewed the rules that guide the Planning Board and the main substantive issues that they are addressing (Comprehensive Plan Update and the Development Code revision). He stated that Mike Clugston will be the lead person for the Development code rewrite. He commented that there was a lot of emphasis by council members at the meeting about issues on Highway 99 such as the infrastructure improvements and a planning study the City has undertaken. This was emphasized as an area of priority by the Council. Vice Chair Rosen agreed and stated that the Board has been given direction by the Council's priorities as stated at the meeting. Board Member Campbell noted that there was mention of a certain Planning Board's member's attendance at other meetings in the city. She would like help in knowing what events are coming up so she and others have an opportunity to participate in that way. Student Representative Distelhorst commented that when people talk about housing and development in Edmonds, they also talk about keeping the "charm" of Edmonds. She thinks they are referring to single-family residential housing, but she stressed that they can keep a charming city while focusing on other things like bike lanes, transit, and multifamily housing. Board Member Kuehn agreed it would be nice to have a simple reminder about events that board members might want to attend. Chair Pence commented that the Planning Board made a formal request to Council, sponsored by Councilmember Teitzel, for a budget amendment to support hybrid meetings by the Planning Board as is done by the Council. He indicated he would investigate providing some sort of calendar of events for the Board. N as c 0 0 a 0. a Planning Board Meeting Minutes November 9, 2022 Page 5 of 7 Packet Pg. 8 2.A.a Board Member Campbell said she went to the City of Edmonds website to search for a calendar of events. She got one, but it appears to be blank. Chair Pence acknowledged that this is an issue, and he will add this to his topics to address with staff. B. Review Draft: Comprehensive Plan Vision Statement Chair Pence noted that at least three board members were present for the unveiling of the vision statement at Porchfest over the weekend. He solicited feedback on the vision statement by Board. The City of Edmonds Vision Statement.- Edmonds is a welcoming city offering outstanding quality of life for all. We value environmental stewardship, vibrant and diverse neighborhoods, safe and healthy streets, and a thriving arts scene. We are engaged residents who take pride in shaping our resilient future. Chair Pence commented that this seems more like a values statement than a statement pointing the planning c process one way or another. He feels like it is too broad to be useful in planning. 0 L Board Member Campbell agreed with Chair Pence. It is a values statement and reflects values the City has, but a there is no action. It needs to be distilled into additional direction in order to help guide. Board Member Kuehn agreed that this is a statement of values. This is not necessarily bad, but he is not sure if it does what it is intended to do. Vice Chair Rosen said he is a big fan of vision statements. He applauds the City for heading in that direction. He wondered about the process for evaluating whether this truly encapsulates what they heard from the community outreach. He also wondered how this will be used. If it is used appropriately, it should be the filter through which all other things must pass. He agrees that it is more of a values statement. Vision statements should be inspirational and aspirational and invoke emotion. This does not do that. He thinks the City needs to make sure that everybody understands what a vision statement is in the same way. Having a common language would help. In his opinion a vision statement states the desired destination — where they are going. It would also be helpful for the community to be aware of the schedule for developing this. He noted that a high priority in the community outreach was housing, and this does not mention that. Should it? He also expressed concern that this does not even nod at the business community. Student Representative Distelhorst agreed that it doesn't address multifamily residences or businesses, but she felt it was inspiring and evoked positive images of how they want the City to be. She thinks it is a great vision statement. Chair Pence asked about next steps. Mr. Clugston was not sure. Vice Chair Rosen suggested asking the Council how they would like the Planning Board to be involved. Chair Pence concurred and indicated he would bring it up. D. Discuss Attendance Policies for Planning Board Chair Pence brought up concerns about low attendance in the past few months. He noted that the alternate position has been advertised. There is now another member vacancy upon the resignation of Matt Cheung. Chair Planning Board Meeting Minutes November 9, 2022 Page 6 of 7 Packet Pg. 9 2.A.a Pence brought up concerns about the way this had played out and stated that Mr. Cheung was offended by the process. Mr. Clugston explained that there had been a misunderstanding, and it was an unfortunate situation, but there was no intent to offend Mr. Cheung. Vice Chair Rosen reviewed the existing attendance rules. He wondered if they have been overly gracious in the way they have/have not been enforced. Chair Pence agreed. Board Member Campbell recommended going through the rules with new board members to make sure everyone understands. She also cautioned against being overly strict because of the challenges they are having finding people to fill the positions. Chair Pence concurred. He stated he prefers to handle this in a casual, personal way. N Chair Pence asked staff about the status of a Planning Board member manual that Kemen Lien had discussed. Mr. Clugston said he didn't know but indicated he would look into it. He noted that Director McLaughlin wanted to have one of these for each board. He will try to bring something to the Board next month. c PLANNING BOARD EXTENDED AGENDA a a Mr. Clugston reviewed the extended agenda. There were comments and questions about the schedule. a PLANNING BOARD CHAIR COMMENTS None PLANNING BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS Board Member Kuehn said he would be sending an email to City Council to request a speedy adoption of the budget amendment to allow for hybrid meetings. He encouraged other board members to do the same. Vice Chair Rosen thanked Matt Cheung for his service and stated he was sorry to see him go. He was disappointed about the way this was handled and noted it didn't seem to be unique to this board. He encouraged better protocols by staff. He recommended that in the recruitment process they follow up with people who have applied for other boards and commissions to see if they are interested. He also recommended very specific training about roles and responsibilities with board members. It would also be nice to thank and recognize people when they leave. Student Representative Distelhorst said she really enjoyed the announcement of the vision statement at Porchfest. It was a great opportunity to see a lot of people in the city who were interested in the Comprehensive Plan and to talk to fellow Planning Board members, the Council, the Mayor, and staff. She hopes to see more events like this where they can interact with people with other positions in the City. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 9:07 p.m. Planning Board Meeting Minutes November 9, 2022 Page 7 of 7 Packet Pg. 10 5.A Planning Board Agenda Item Meeting Date: 12/14/2022 Planning Board Handbook Staff Lead: Mike Clugston Department: Planning Division Prepared By: Michael Clugston Background/History This is a new topic. Staff Recommendation Review the attached draft handbook. Discuss at the meeting and provide any comments or corrections to staff using your City email account after the meeting. Narrative The intent of the handbook is to provide members, particularly new members, with onboarding and context about the Planning Board. Also, the Board's enabling legislation in ECC 10.40 indicates that the Board must adopt internal rules of procedure and rules governing election and duties of officers of the board. It's unknown whether such rules were ever agreed upon in the past but it's likely some were since the board has been functioning for many years. Now would be a good opportunity to discuss the rules again and include them in the Board's handbook. Some draft language is included in the handbook for review and discussion. Attachments: DRAFT PB Handbook v1 - 12.7.22 Packet Pg. 11 DRAFT Planning Board Handbook J„—��o This handbook was organized to provide an overview of the Planning Board and its processes and to gather useful references useful in one place. It is not exhaustive but touches on many of the aspects of the Board's organization and work. Rules of procedure and rules governing the election and duties of officers are included. Two important documents are referenced in the handbook and are available on the City's website - the City's Comprehensive Plan and the Edmonds City Codes (ECC) and the Edmonds Community Development Code (ECDC). Welcome History Powers and Duties Orientation Meetings Administration, Membership, Officers, Quorum Conduct Appendices N Welcome from the Planning and Development Director N Hello! The City of Edmonds boards and commissions play an important role in serving our r community. Each provides advice and recommendations to the Mayor and City Council > regarding programs, activities, and issues unique to their mission and purpose. Edmonds Planning and Development Department oversees the Architectural Design, Planning and Tree Boards in addition to the Historical Preservation Commission. I am generally responsible for handling board budgets, staffing, and any legal or policy issues that may arise. Thank you for your volunteer service to the City of Edmonds. Susan McLaughlin [(signature]] Planning Board History The Planning Board was created by Edmonds City Council in 1980 (Ordinance 2170). The Board combined the activities of the Park and Recreation Advisory Board, the Parking Commission, the City Planning Commission and Shorelines Management Citizens Advisory Committee. The Board has an official webpage which summarizes a variety of information about Board activities. Planning Board Powers and Duties All City boards and commissions have powers and duties codified in Title 10 of the Edmonds City Code (ECC). According to the Planning Board's codes in Section 10.40.020 ECC: DRAFT PB Handbook vl - 12.7.22 Paj- I, 1� Packet Pg. 12 5.A.a C. Powers and Duties. The planning board shall serve in an advisory capacity to the mayor and the city council in the following matters: 1. The board shall advise on all amendments to the comprehensive plan. This includes reviewing all elements of the plan on a periodic basis and reporting to the mayor and city council on the need for changes in the plan. It also includes holding public hearings and making recommendations to the mayor and city council on proposed changes to the plan, to the text of the development regulations, and also to the zoning map in the case of rezones, as provided in ECDC Title 20. Review of and recommendations for the plan may be prepared as a whole or in successive parts. 2. The board shall advise the mayor and city council on all parking matters that involve an amendment or other modification to any city ordinance or code section within the jurisdiction of the board. 3. The board shall serve as an ongoing park board and advise the mayor and city council on all matters relating to the acquisition and development of all city parks and recreation facilities. 4. The board shall do research and investigation on specific projects assigned to it N by the mayor and city council. The board will analyze data collected, arrange for Cli public participation, and organize its findings. The board will then present its r findings to the mayor and city council detailing a summary of pertinent data, public contribution, alternatives available, and may, if appropriate, recommend a ,> course of action, giving reasons for such recommendation. °o_ 5. The board shall have such other powers and duties as contained in Chapter 35A.63 RCW, as may be amended from time to time, that are not otherwise specifically delegated to the hearing examiner or other specific staff or agency of the city. Chapter 10.40 is included in its entirety as Appendix 1. Orientation Once a member's appointment has been confirmed by Council, a city email address is assigned for their use. All Board -related correspondence and meeting agendas from the city will be sent to that email. Do not use your personal email for City or Board business as it is subject to public records requests. Staff Roles & Responsibilities Mike Clugston is staff liaison to the Planning Board. Mike has subject matter expertise related to Board business. He provides guidance in developing the Board's extended agendas, coordinates with the Board Chair on meeting agenda items, and facilitates/records Board meetings. Pal--), I � Packet Pg. 13 5.A.a Michelle Martin is the Administrative Assistant to the Planning Division. She is primarily responsible for distributing meeting agendas and posting minutes once they are transcribed. Carolyn LaFave is the Executive Assistant to the Mayor. Carolyn manages personnel on City boards and commissions, advertises for vacancies, and maintains the Planning Board position list. If your personal information changes during your tenure or should you need to resign your position during your term for any reason, contact Carolyn. [[ ]] is the Planning Division Manager and oversees daily operations of the Planning Division and the Boards they support. If Mike is unavailable, [[ ]] is the City staff contact for any Planning Board business or issues. [[ ]] should be contacted initially and included in any correspondence for any Planning Board projects or events that involve Planning staffing resources. Contact Information Mike Clugston michael.clugston@edmondswa.gov Michelle Martin michelle.martin@edmondswa.gov Carolyn LaFave carolyn.lafave@edmondswa.gov [Planning Manager] [email address] Susan McLaughlin susan.mclaughlin@edmondswa.gov The Planning and Development Department is located on the second floor of City Hall (121 5tn Ave. N) and can be reached at 425-771-0220. Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA) training The Washington State Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA) RCW 42.30.020 and Edmonds ECC 10.02 codes strive for greater government transparency by requiring all board/commission business be conducted in open public meetings. All new board members are required to take OPMA training within 90 days of appointment and to retake the training every 4 years. The City Attorney typically provides this training at a regular board meeting early in the year but there are online options available as well. If using the online option, provide Mike a copy of your training certificate so he can notify the City Clerk that you have completed the training. OPMA and communicating via email, social media, phone, etc. Violations of OPMA laws can result in penalties, as well as a breakdown in confidence in government. The city but also individuals can be held liable for OPMA violations. For that reason, board and commission members are advised to conduct business in regular or special meetings and retreats, but not engage in emails and other electronic communication between members outside of meetings. Even seemingly innocuous email discussions can unknowingly become 'rolling quorums' in violation of OPMA rules. Urgent information that must be conveyed to all board members prior to the next meeting can be sent to staff for distribution via 'BCC' with 'no reply' expressly stated at the top of informational emails. This handout from the Municipal Research Services Center (MRSC) helps explain electronic communications under OPMA rules. N N ti N r Pal- 2 , I � Packet Pg. 14 5.A.a Meetings "Regular meetings" are held in person the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month at 7 PM in Council Chambers, at the Public Safety Complex located at 205 5t" Avenue N in Edmonds. Planning Board meetings are scheduled for 2 hours but may run under or over time, depending on the agenda. During COVID, meetings were held virtually using the Zoom platform. As of November 1, 2022, all board meetings became in -person only. If meetings are held remotely again in the future (or if "hybrid" meetings become possible), members may join meetings and participate on the Zoom webinar platform when admitted as a "panelist" versus joining the meeting as an "attendee." Please allow sufficient time to join the webinar and notify staff if you are having technical difficulties. "Special meetings" are any meetings that take place outside the regularly scheduled date, time and/or place. Public notice is required at least 24 hours in advance. The special meeting agenda must be posted online and physically at 3 locations: in City Hall, at the Edmonds Public Library and in the entrance to the Public Safety Building, outside Council Chambers. Once a special meeting agenda is posted, the board cannot consider any subject or issue that is not listed on the agenda per OPMA rules. Members may remove items but not add new items. Special meetings are typically called for emergencies or for a focused topic or topics. "Joint meetings" involving the Planning Board occur periodically. The Board may join another C, group's meeting (as with City Council) or may host another board or commission to discuss IN certain topics of common interest (Tree Board, Economic Development Commission, r Architectural Design Board, etc.). The Board "retreat" occurs during the first quarter of each year. The Board's work plan for the year is established at the retreat. Meeting Agendas The purpose of an agenda is to organize Board business, set and achieve goals, plan events, and work on projects efficiently. Meeting agendas are a coordinated effort: • Members contact Chair/Vice Chair with clearly stated agenda topics. Chair may ask member(s) how much time the topic may need and who will be leading the discussion The Chair may suggest to members certain topics be placed on a subsequent meeting agenda. • The Chair and staff discuss the upcoming meeting agenda to further clarify and prioritize topics. A final meeting agenda is due to staff by 5pm on the Friday prior to the upcoming meeting. Although agendas can be posted up to 24 hours before the meeting, out of courtesy to members, staff posts upcoming meeting agendas the Friday prior to the next meeting. That allows members sufficient time to review the upcoming meeting agenda, read the previous meeting minutes and complete any action items prior to the next meeting. Pa Packet Pg. 15 5.A.a • Agendas (including special meeting agendas) must be posted at least 24 hours before the meeting, or the meeting cannot be held. Posting the meeting agenda constitutes public noticing. Extended Agenda The Planning Board maintains an extended agenda, which is a forward -looking schedule containing several months of meeting dates. Ever evolving, this agenda is intended for longer term meeting schedules and maintaining a list of quarterly and annual agenda items as well as topics of Board concern for future work. Meetine Attendance Your attendance at Planning Board meetings is important! If something arises that prevents your attending a regular meeting, please notify the Planning Board Chair (or Vice Chair, as needed). Excused absences must be noted by the chairperson in the meeting minutes during roll call. Members of all boards/commissions must attend at least 70% of = the regular meetings in any one calendar year and cannot miss more than 3 consecutive meetings, excused absences notwithstanding, per the code requirements set forth in ECDC m° 1.05. Any board member that does not meet attendance requirements may be removed from that position by the mayor, per ECDC 1.05.020 and 1.05.030 (Appendix 2). ca Meeting Notes a N Planning Board meetings are recorded by audio (and video as available) then professionally transcribed as draft meeting minutes. Draft minutes are attached to the agenda of the r following meeting for approval. Board members should review the draft minutes and discuss any changes to them that are needed. Once approved (or approved as corrected), meeting c minutes are posted on the Planning Board meeting webpage. �° Board Administration, Membership, Officers, and Quorum m By code, the Planning Board consists of seven members plus one alternate. The Board may also a - have a non -voting student representative. All Board members must be Edmonds residents a and ideally be from different areas of the city. No planning experience is required; the goal 0 is to have a board of members with varied occupational and professional experience. a� Officer Positions E Officers are normally selected the last meeting of the year or the first meeting of a new year. If volunteering for an officer position, carefully consider your personal schedule, your comfort level with electronic communication and availability outside of meetings for tasks such as coordinating meeting agendas. While not essential to have an in-depth knowledge, the Chair should be familiar with rules of order to facilitate meetings. When nominating someone, consider the same. The Chair runs board meetings and is the primary liaison with staff. The Vice Chair operates in the same capacity when the Chair is not available. The Chair/Vice Chair positions are typically rotated each year, with the Vice Chair moving to Chair when the previous Chair's year is up. Pa Packet Pg. 16 5.A.a Quorum All board members share an equal right and obligation to participate in Planning Board decisions. This handout from Jurassic Parliament is helpful in making a shift from discussing affairs in a conversational manner to conducting board business in a democratic manner. Board business is conducted by consensus agreement (vote) by a minimum number of members (quorum). Per ECDC 10.40.020, four Planning Board members constitute a quorum for transaction of business and at least three members are needed to take action on any particular item before the Board (i.e., if two out of four members abstained from voting on an item, no action could be taken on that item). The Alternate position generally abstains from voting except if needed for a quorum. In the event a regular member is absent or disqualified for any reason, the alternate has all the powers of a regular member, including the right to vote on board decisions. The alternate is subject to the same attendance requirements as regular board members. If a regular position on the board becomes vacant, the alternate becomes a regular member and fills that vacancy for the remainder of the unexpired term. Budget The Council provides money annually for professional services used by staff to support the Planning Board including the professional minute transcriber, printing, noticing, and the like Document Storage N IT has set up accounts for boards and commissions in the City's File Transfer Protocol server, r WingFTP for document and photo storage. Due to public records laws, Board members should not use personal or other external file storage. Your staff liaison can provide the FTP server password and account login information. You can log on to WingFTP to upload new documents to share with the Board. You can also download documents from the server to make changes, then upload the edited documents. If certain documents should be archived, let your staff liaison know so they can be moved to the City/Planning shared drive. Member Conduct At meetings, please respect fellow board members' time by considering new topics (that are not on the agenda) for the following/next month's meeting agenda and limit personal commentary. The Chair and members must always insist on courtesy and respect. No personal remarks, no insulting language, no attacks, no interrupting, no sidebar conversations, no disrespectful body language. If this happens, the Chair or any member should gently but firmly put a stop to it. Outside of meetings, all communication with City staff should be through the contacts referenced previously. Pal-< f I � Packet Pg. 17 5.A.a Appendices 1. Planning Board code (ECC 10.40) 2. Public Meeting attendance (ECC 1.05) 3. City email password/sign-in procedure Pa Packet Pg. 18 5.A.a 1. Planning Board enabling language (Chapter 10.40 of the Edmonds City Code) 10.40.010 Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to provide for the creation of a planning board pursuant to Chapter 35A.63 RCW, and provide for its membership, organization, operation, and expenses. The planning board shall generally serve in an advisory capacity to the city in regional and local planning and specifically assist in the development of the comprehensive plan and development regulations and their successive review and amendment from time to time. The board shall have the additional duties specifically set forth in this chapter and such ad hoc duties as the city council may from time to time assign to it. [Ord. 4222 § 1 (Att. A), 2021; Ord. 2342, 1983; Ord. 2170 § 2, 1980]. 10.40.020 Planning board. A. Appointment. There is created the planning board, consisting of seven members. Each member shall be appointed by the mayor, subject to confirmation by the city council. 1. Members of the board must be residents of the city of Edmonds. 2. Although the city of Edmonds is not divided into political or geographical wards, it is the intent of this section that said board membership shall maintain a reasonable balance of geographical distribution throughout the city of Edmonds. 3. It is the intent of this section to maintain a diversified representation of occupations and experience on the planning board. To this end each appointee shall be considered Cl for board membership according to his/her field of experience, among other factors. N r 4. An alternative member shall be appointed to serve in the event any regular member is absent or disqualified for any reason. In the event a regular member is absent or c disqualified for any reason, the alternate shall have all the powers of a regular member, �° including the right to vote on board decisions. The alternate shall be subject to the some attendance requirements as regular board members. In the event that a regular position = on the board shall be declared vacant, the alternate shall be deemed to fill such vacancy a for the remainder of the unexpired term. LL B. Term. In order to provide for continuity of membership, members shall be assigned a position number. Except as provided below, two positions shall expire each year. The term of each position shall be four years, provided, that the current term for each position shall expire, and a new term shall begin, at the end of the years shown, respectively, below, and further provided, that the current term for Position 1 will be a short term ending at the end of 202Z to be followed by a four-year term: Position One - 2022 Position Five - 2024 Position Two - 2022 Position Six - 2024 Position - 2023 Position - 2021 Three Seven Position - 2023 Alternate - 2021 Four Pal-V, 1� Packet Pg. 19 5.A.a C. Powers and Duties. The planning board shall serve in an advisory capacity to the mayor and the city council in the following matters: 1. The board shall advise on all amendments to the comprehensive plan. This includes reviewing all elements of the plan on a periodic basis and reporting to the mayor and city council on the need for changes in the plan. It also includes holding public hearings and making recommendations to the mayor and city council on proposed changes to the plan, to the text of the development regulations, and also to the zoning map in the case of rezones, as provided in ECDC Title 20. Review of and recommendations for the plan may be prepared as a whole or in successive parts. 2. The board shall advise the mayor and city council on all parking matters that involve an amendment or other modification to any city ordinance or code section within the jurisdiction of the board. 3. The board shall serve as an ongoing park board and advise the mayor and city council on all matters relating to the acquisition and development of all city parks and recreation facilities. 4. The board shall do research and investigation on specific projects assigned to it by the °0 a mayor and city council. The board will analyze data collected, arrange for public participation, and organize its findings. The board will then present its findings to the mayor and city council detailing a summary of pertinent data, public contribution, a alternatives available, and may, if appropriate, recommend a course of action, giving N reasons for such recommendation. N r 5. The board shall have such other powers and duties as contained in Chapter 35A.63 RCW, as may be amended from time to time, that are not otherwise specifically delegated to the hearing examiner or other specific staff or agency of the city. D. Operation. 1. The city planning division shall provide regular staff services to the planning board. Other city departments shall provide staff services as requested by the planning board. 2. The city council shall establish an annual budget for planning board operations for services in addition to regular staff services. Should the planning board and planning staff determine that a particular project requires services in addition to those normally provided by the city staff, then an estimate of needs detailing the type of assistance and funding required shall be presented to the city council for approval before that project is undertaken. 3. Four members of the board shall be the minimum number necessary to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, provided, that the vote of not less than three members shall be necessary to take action on any particular item before it. 4. The board shall hold regular meetings on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at 7:00 p.m. at the Edmonds city council chambers. Cancellation of a regular meeting, or a different location for a regular meeting, shall be announced at the last regular meeting preceding the affected meeting, if possible, otherwise the change will be advertised in the regular manner. Pa Packet Pg. 20 5.A.a 5. The city council shall meet periodically with the planning board at a city council meeting in order to review and update planning board agendas. The intent of this section is to stimulate continuing communication between mayor, city council and the planning board in an effort to identify and solve the problems facing the city of Edmonds. Nothing herein shall be construed to limit the manner in which items are placed on a planning board agenda nor the topics that may be considered by the planning board. 6. The board shall adopt rules of procedure and rules governing election and duties of officers of the board; provided, however, said rules shall pertain only to the internal procedures of the members and said rules and procedures may be questioned only by members of the board and do not give standing to question said procedures to nonmembers or other parties. [Ord. 4222 § 1 (Att. A), 2021; Ord. 3421 § 1, 2002; Ord. 3094 § 1, 1996; Ord. 2659, 1988; Ord. 2656 § 4, 1988; Ord. 2433, 1984; Ord. 2342, 1983; Ord. 2196 § 1, 1981; Ord. 2170 § 3, 1980]. N N ti N r Page, Packet Pg. 21 5.A.a 2. Public Meeting Attendance (Chapter 1.05 of the Edmonds City Code) 1.05.010 Attendance required — Remote participation allowed. A. In addition to being subject to removal for other particularized grounds as set forth in applicable provisions of the Edmonds City Code and violations of the city of Edmonds Code of Ethics for Board and Commission Members, members of all city boards, commissions and committees (hereinafter "members"), except as set forth herein, shall be removed from office, and the position deemed vacant as set forth in ECC 1.05.020(C) if such member attends less than 70 percent of the regular meetings in any one calendar year, and/or is not in attendance at three or more consecutive regular meetings. Members may participate in board and commission meetings remotely (by telephone, video conference, etc.) and such participation shall be considered attendance for the purposes of this subsection; provided, that any such participation must allow for all other o members of the board or commission and any public in attendance to hear the member on the remote device; and provided further, that any member participating remotely must commence participation at the beginning of the meeting and must declare an intention to participate until the end of the meeting. Remote participation is not a right. c Reasonable efforts should be made to facilitate remote participation within the limits of 00 a the city's personnel and fiscal resources, but technical disruption may still occur. After resuming a remote connection after any technical disruption of said connection, the a chair shall determine, subject to appeal, whether a remote member may participate in a any action on a matter that may have been discussed during the disconnection, based on Cl the duration of the disconnection, nature of the discussion, etc. N r B. The chairperson of the particular board, commission or committee may excuse, subject to appeal, any member from attendance at any particular meeting or meetings for reasons that are (1) work related, (2) due to illness or death in the family, (3) extended vacations in excess of two weeks in length, or (4) technical disruption; provided, however, each such excused absence shall be so noted by the chairperson at the meeting from which the member is being excused and such fact shall be recorded in the minutes along with the reason given for the excused absence by the member. Excused absences shall not be counted for purposes of removal from office, but only if so noted in the minutes as set forth herein. In the absence of the chairperson, the member acting in the chairperson's behalf, such as vice -chairperson or pro tem, shall make the determination, subject to appeal, of whether the absence is excused, and announce the same for recording in the minutes of the meeting from which the member is excused. [Ord. 4266 § 1, 2022, Ord. 4098 § 1, 2018, Ord. 2556, 1986; Ord. 2033 § 2, 1978; Ord. 2156 § 1, 1980]. 1.05.020 Attendance records. A. The city clerk shall keep a record of attendance of all board, commission and committee meetings. Upon any member failing to attend three or more consecutive regular meetings without the chairperson's excuse being noted in the minutes, the city clerk shall certify said member's name in writing to the mayor and shall notify in writing the members, the chairperson, and the appropriate city department head. Page, Packet Pg. 22 5.A.a B. On or before January 15th of each calendar year, commencing in 1980, the city clerk shall compile a list of members, if any, who have attended less than 70 percent of the regular meetings in the past calendar year without the chairperson's excuses being noted in the minutes, and shall certify this list to the mayor. The city clerk shall also notify in writing the members, the applicable chairperson and the appropriate city department head. C. The member shall be automatically removed from office and the position deemed vacant as of the date of the city clerk's written notification as set forth in subsections (A) and (8) of this section. [Ord. 2033 § 3, 1978; Ord. 2156 § 2, 1980]. 1.05.030 New nominees appointment/ confirmations. Upon receipt from the city clerk of the names of members failing to maintain attendance as provided herein, the mayor shall, within 90 days thereof, submit new nominations to the city council for confirmation. The city council shall confirm or reject the nominations within 30 days after the mayor submits the nominations to the council for consideration. A member removed for failing to maintain attendance as provided by this chapter may not be renominated or reappointed to a position on that or other city of Edmonds' board, committee or commission for at least one year after removal. [Ord. 2033 § 4, 1978]. 1.05.040 Exemptions. N The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to members of the following boards, Cli commissions and committees: N r A. Edmonds city council; and Y B. Edmonds civil service commission. [Ord. 2033 § 5, 1978]. 0 0 1.05.050 Quorum requirements. �a A. Notwithstanding any other provision of the Edmonds City Code, if the number of m members of any city board, commission or committee having seven positions and subject a to this chapter should be reduced to six or less for any reason, including a member's a removal for failure to maintain attendance, three members shall constitute a quorum. o B. Members participating in a board or commission meeting remotely, as provided for in = a� ECC 1.05.010, shall be counted towards the number of members required to constitute a E quorum by the regulations pertaining to each board or commission, provided in ECC Title 10. [Ord. 4098 § 2, 2018, Ord. 2033 § 6, 1978]. a Page, Packet Pg. 23 5.A.a 3. Instructions for accessing City Email: Please click here to access outlook. office3 65. com You will then be directed to the below paged where you may enter your email (Firstname.Lastnamegedmondswa. gov) If need to reset your password click into "Can't access your account?" to reset. Outlook MM Microsoft Sign in to continue to Outlook mail, phone, or Skype No account? Create one! Can't access your account? Click into Work or school account Outlook so Microsoft Which type of account do you need help with? Work or school account A Created by your IT department RPersonal account Created by you Then answer the following questions provided in the next screen which should look like this. Microsoft Get back into your account Who are you? Ta recover your account, begin by entering your email or username and the characters in the picture or audio below. Email or Username: ^ Example: user®contoso.onmiaosok.com or user®con[osocom O Enter the characters in the picture or the vrords in the audio. ^ ® Cancel a Pag Packet Pg. 24 7.A Planning Board Agenda Item Meeting Date: 12/14/2022 Tree Code Amendments, ADM 2022-0004 Staff Lead: Deb Powers Department: Planning Division Prepared By: Deb Powers Background/History The City Council and Planning Board (PB) requested that property owner tree removal regulations be considered after the development -related tree regulations were adopted in 2021. Regulating property owner tree removals is a substantial, new code requirement and as such, is a major amendment to the existing code. Prior to initiating the "Phase 2" tree code amendments, staff, permit applicants and property owners were experiencing difficulties applying the newly adopted code. In response to these emerging issues, the Council and PB affirmed that the scope of the Phase 2 code updates should include minor amendments to the existing code. Staff Recommendation Provide a consensus decision on which specific minor code amendments should be pulled from the list, so that the remaining minor code amendments may be considered for adoption (pending approval of the Minor Code Amendment Process). Affirm the direction to consider property owner tree removals, as scoped, in January 2023. Narrative The Planning Board (PB) requested a joint meeting with the Tree Board to check in at this stage in the tree code amendment process and asked staff to present the following three items: 1. Status on public engagement plan. Based on their subject matter expertise and experience working with local communities, the City has selected a consultant to develop and implement a public engagement plan related to Edmonds' tree code amendments (currently under contract negotiations). Staff anticipates that a Public Outreach and Engagement Strategy will be ready to share with the Planning Board in mid -late January. 2. Draft minor code amendments. To understand the context of minor code amendments within the entire Chapter 23.10 ECDC, the PB requested staff prepare draft code showing markups/strikeouts. Draft code markups are shown in the "sample code rewrite" column in Attachment 1. Comprehensive list of all known potential code amendments. The PB requested staff consolidate all known tree code changes into one list so that all potential code changes can be viewed simultaneously. Attachment 1 has been organized by color accordingly: Pale yellow - minor code amendments to the existing code that do not change the intent of the code and are within the project scope. Orange - new property owner tree removal codes that are major code amendments within Packet Pg. 25 7.A the project scope. Since initiating the Phase 2 project, the City Council, PB and Tree Board have suggested changes to the existing code that fall outside the project scope. For example, the PB expressed interest in considering significant changes to building/zoning standards that would be considered with Comprehensive Plan and other ECDC updates. In another example, the Tree Board has discussed alternative solutions to some code issues that have moderate or major policy impacts (rather than the scoped minor code change). These are shown as: Light gray - moderate or major code amendments listed for later discussion and consensus decisions. These are not within the project scope. Dark gray -. involve broader policy or zoning/building code changes outside of ECDC 23.10 and/or do not necessarily involve urban forestry expertise. These are changes outside the project scope but may be added to future Planning Work Plan and/or Comprehensive Plan updates. Staff expects that additional code amendments will be identified from public and stakeholder feedback and at subsequent Planning/Tree Board and City Council meetings. Recognizing the importance of the community's input, the PB asked staff to refrain from developing draft code language for moderate and major code amendments. Only general considerations are shown in the "sample code rewrite" column in Attachment 1 under property owner tree removals. Next Steps Pending the approval of the Minor Code Amendment Process in early 2023, staff anticipates the final list of minor tree code amendments will proceed to adoption under that process. In moving forward with next steps, staff has two questions for the PB: 1. Which minor code amendments should be pulled from the "minor list"? The PB has indicated a few clarifications were needed but that generally, the preliminary minor amendments to the existing code would achieve the scope and direction of the Phase 2 tree code amendments. The Tree Board has expressed the same, apart from recommending that Minor-9 (identify incentives to retain trees) be pulled from the minor amendment list and considered under moderate or major code changes. Staff recommends that the following minor code amendments be pulled and considered under moderate or major code changes, due to: Minor-12 to allow the degree of restructuring needed to clarify the existing code, which "bumps" this minor code update into the "moderate" category. Minor-13 to establish an actual numerical threshold instead of the ambiguous "greater tree retention" incentive. This increase in requirements would "bump" Minor-13 to a major code amendment. Minor-15-18 pertain to tree replanting and fee in lieu requirements. Although clarifying these existing codes would be helpful in applying the code now, these requirements may relate to property owner tree removals and should be considered at the same time, rather than duplicating efforts or reversing decisions. 2. Shall staff proceed with the Phase 2 property owner tree removal code provisions as scoped, assuming the strategies established in a Public Engagement Plan are in place? Staff realizes that there may be a desire to work on the non-scoped, development -related moderate and major tree code amendments next. Staff recommends the PB consider working on property owner tree removal codes, as scoped, in January 2023 and reserve discussions on remaining development -related moderate/major code amendments thereafter, due to: Timing: property owner tree removal requirements are somewhat prescriptive (for example, x number of trees can be removed over x time) enough that obtaining community feedback on options is typically straightforward. Complexity: in contrast, the existing development -related tree codes are more complex, Packet Pg. 26 7.A involving greater levels of outreach/education, multiple stakeholder meetings/events, survey development and distillation of community input. A relatively new PB may want to schedule a special meeting or retreat to review how the development -related tree code works, prior to considering its alteration. Priority: the primary scope of the Phase 2 code amendments is property owner tree removals; focusing on changing the existing code next implies that the enormous work and public engagement involved in adopting ECDC 23.10 is unheeded. Logistics: if addressed next, it's likely that certain changes to the existing code will need to be reconsidered when eventually addressing property owner tree removal codes (for example replacement and fee in lieu options). Attachments: Attach 1 Code Amend List Packet Pg. 27 7.A.a ATTACHMENT 1 Revised 11121122 Comprehensive Tree Code Issues & Preliminary Amendment List POLICY ECDC CURRENT CODE WHAT'S THE ISSUE? SAMPLE CODE REWRITE Applies Development i or Property Owner? The current definition implies any tree with a minor defect is a Hazard tree - dear,, dying, diseased damaged, eY StFUGtUF211y def ^tive hazard, resulting in excessive tree removals in critical areas. as determined by a r„asfied tree ,,,-„f ss a tree/tree part with an Extreme or High overall risk rating using the most current version of the Hazard tree definition Development permit applicants claim healthy trees are "hazardous" ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) method, with the Minor-1 020.H Dead, dying, diseased, damaged, or structurally defective to justify removals or to avoid replanting/paying fees in lieu following: Both as determined by a qualified tree professional. associated with development. 1. A combination of structural defects and/or disease that makes it subject to a high probability of failure, Recommendation: define per industry standard. 2. In proximity to high -frequency use targets, persons, or property; and 3. The hazard condition cannot be reduced with reasonable and proper 'TO CONSIDER EXPANDING HAZARD TREE DEFINITION, SEE MODERATE #11 arboricultural practices, nor can the target be moved. Vaguely defines tree protection fence locations that are required to Lim.its--n-.f distu rhanne _ the boundary hot1e1oon the area of minimum teG n tie are,und- ' tree and- the alIP- abie site disturh�noe be shown on development site plans. Is often confused with other Tree Protection Zone (TPZ) - a defined area as determined by a Limits of disturbance definition limits of disturbance on site plans, ultimately resulting in trees qualified professional applicable to tree trunks, roots, and soil. TPZ is Minor-2 020.E The boundary between the area of minimum protection damaged during development. measured in feet from the face of the trunk to an outer boundary, where Development around a tree and the allowable site disturbance. tree protection fence is located. May be determined using critical root zone formula, dripline, air spade excavations and is variable depending Recommendation: define per industry standard. on species, age and health of the tree, soil conditions and existing infrastructure. "Significant" damage is too subjective, results in frequent code Nuisance tree ...is causing significant physical damage that is obvious in Nuisance tree definition interpretation issues. Remediation measures are not considered, aphotograph to a nvate or public structure and/or infrastructure, p� Is causing significant physical damage to a private or public implying that tree removal is the sole manner to address nuisance including but not limited to: sidewalk, curb, road, water or sewer or Minor-3 020.N structure and/or infrastructure, including but not limited to issues. stormwater utilities, driveway, parking lot, building foundation, or roof. Property Owner sidewalk, curb, road, water or sewer or stormwater utilities, The problems associated with a nuisance tree must be such that they driveway, parking lot, building foundation, or roof. Recommendation: include corrective actions. Allow over -the - cannot be corrected by reasonable practices, including, but not limited to counter approvals for situations that clearly don't need an arborist's branch or root pruning, bracing, or cabling. expertise. Qualified Professional definition Qualified professional ...[has] relevant education and training in ...[has] relevant education and training in arboriculture or The current list of professional credentials is outdated. The arboriculture or urban forestry, having 2 or more of the following Minor-4 020.Q urban forestry, having 2 or more of the following definition does not consider other qualifications. credentials (or equivalent): Both credentials: 1. ISA Certified Arborist 1. ISA Certified Arborist Recommendation: Add BCMA credential and "or equivalent." 2-4. Additional professional standards (TRAQ, ASCA, SAF) 2-4. Additional professional standards (TRAQ, ASCA, SAF) 5. Board Certified Master Arborist Terms such as "or other land use approval" and "in conjunction Development types that require a tree retention plan with" are ambiguous, allows the City greater authority to require 030.0 030.0 - Tree removal associated with building permit, tree retention plans for any development. Minor-5 subdivision, or other land use approval... Recommendation: clarify which specific development types require List, use a chart format or provide examples of specific "other land use approval" permit types, such as demolition, clearing and grading permits Development p 060.A 060.A ...the city requires approval of a tree retention and tree retention plans. protection plan in conjunction with... *TO CONSIDER TREE RETENTION REQUIREMENTS WITH OTHER DEVELOPMENT TYPES (OFFICE, MIXED USE, COMMERCIAL, SEE MAJOR #10. 'POLICY IMPACT Minor - Amendments that in no way change the meaning of the current code. They clarify/simplify or further define something already in the code, address typos and redundancies, and/or result in simple reformatting or removal of outdated references, including industry standards, Best Available Science, Best Management Practices, etc. that do not result in changes to code intent or an increase in requirements. Moderate - Relatively uncontroversial restructuring of code sections, and any amendments above that result in new, increased or eliminated requirements without additional cost to permit applicants or procedural changes that require additional resources. Major - Adds extensive new requirements or substantially prohibits/bans something currently allowed; amendments resulting in significant changes to procedures or significant additional cost to permit applicants, and/or change the intent of the code. Packet Pg. 28 7.A.a ATTACHMENT 1 Revised 11121122 Comprehensive Tree Code Issues & Preliminary Amendment List POLICY ECDC CURRENT CODE WHAT'S THE ISSUE? SAMPLE CODE REWRITE Applies Development i or Property Owner? Without an understanding of the development review process, some permit applicants "downgrade" tree condition to avoid tree Tree condition related to development review process replacement and/or fees in lieu, resulting in code interpretation Viable tree - significant tree that a qualified professional issues and prolonged review times. Viable tree - significant tree that a qualified professional has determined Minor-6 020.X has determined to be in good health, with a low risk of to be in good health, with a low risk of failure due to structural defects, is Development failure due to structural defects, is windfirm if isolated or Recommendation: Add "subject to review" windfirm if isolated or remains as part of a grove and is a species that is remains as part of a grove and is a species that is suitable suitable for its location, subject to City review/approval. for its location. *To CONSIDER TREE CONDITION DEFINITIONS (BASED ON INDUSTRY STANDARDS) FOR TREES RETAINED WITH DEVELOPMENT, SEE MODERATE #2 Which existing trees count towards retention goals or Without "viable," some applicants interpret the code to include require mitigation? dead, dying or poor condition trees towards meeting required tree 060.C: 30% [retention is required] of all s@nifiGant viable trees... 060. C: 30% [retention is required] of all significant trees... retention thresholds. 060.0 060.F.3:... existing viable priority one trees not impacted by the Minor-7 060.F.3, 060.F.3:... existing priority one trees not impacted by the Recommendation: Replace "significant" with or add "viable" where installation of said improvements must be retained... Development 060.G, etc. installation of said improvements must be retained. needed. G. Tree Retention Incentive. If a development retains 50% of the G. If a development retains 50% of the significant trees on *TO CONSIDER SPECIFIC TREE CONDITION DEFINITIONS APPLICABLE TO signifiGant viable trees on a site, the fee -in -lieu provisions... do not apply a site, fee -in -lieu provisions... do not apply TREE RETENTION WITH DEVELOPMENT, SEE MODERATE #2. Tree protection fence shown on site plans Various terminology is confusing to applicants, resulting in tree iv. [Show] location of tree protection mea'suFes fence at the proposed 060.B.2.b.iv iv. [Show] location of tree protection measures... protection fence locations incorrectly shown on proposals and/or TPZs, with distances from the face of trunks to fence noted on the site Minor-8 060.B.2.b.v, 060.B.2.c.ii inadequate on -site tree protection. plan, v. lnd,�G to fi itS Of „iStU baRGe drawn to scale around all trees Development 060.B.2.c.iii V. Indicate limits of disturbance drawn to scale around all impacted by site disturbances resulting from grading, demolition, or etc. trees impacted by site disturbances resulting from grading, Recommendation: Use "TPZ" industry standard. Clarify that silt construction activities. Silt fence per TESC requirements may satisfy tree demolition, or construction activities. fence may be allowed if TPZs are observed. protection fence requirements if TPZs are observed. Incentives to retain trees on development sites are not prominent Clearly identify incentives enough in the code. Applicants interpret the 50% retention incentive "cap" If a development retains 50% of the significant trees on a as a versus striving for greater than 50% retention rates, G. Tree Retention Incentive. If a development retains at least 50% of the Minor-9 060.G site, the fee -in -lieu provisions of ECDC 23.10.080(E) do not inadvertently resulting in greater tree removals than what's feasible. signifiGan viable trees on a site, the fee -in -lieu provisions of ECDC Development apply "at 23.10.080(E) do not apply. Recommendation: Clearly identify tree retention incentives, add least" to numerical thresholds. Fee in lieu/appraised value process The appraisal requirement does not reflect the development review ...After providing clear documentation to development process and presents a conflict of interest as currently shown in the .After providing clear documentation to Gfeve apmept eA4Ges the City services that all replacement options have been considered code. Inconsistent references to City and applicant. that all replacement options have been considered... the developer Minor-10 080.E ..the developer shall pay a fee -in -lieu for each Recommendation: Replace "developer" with applicant Replace " applicant shall pay a fee -in -lieu for each replacement tree... into the Development p replacement tree... (1) into the city's tree fund. For each "City," "Director," "development services," "Planning Official," "city City's Tree Fund. For each significant tree greater than 24" DBH significant tree greater than 24" DBH removed, a fee based tree protection professional," etc. with appropriate terms consistent removed, a fee based on an appraisal of the tree value by the , , on an appraisal of the tree value by the city tree protection with Chapter. Clarify that appraisals are to be submitted by applicant's arborist shall be required... professional shall be required... applicant, subject to City review. 'POLICY IMPACT Minor - Amendments that in no way change the meaning of the current code. They clarify/simplify or further define something already in the code, address typos and redundancies, and/or result in simple reformatting or removal of outdated references, including industry standards, Best Available Science, Best Management Practices, etc. that do not result in changes to code intent or an increase in requirements. Moderate - Relatively uncontroversial restructuring of code sections, and any amendments above that result in new, increased or eliminated requirements without additional cost to permit applicants or procedural changes that require additional resources. Major - Adds extensive new requirements or substantially prohibits/bans something currently allowed; amendments resulting in significant changes to procedures or significant additional cost to permit applicants, and/or change the intent of the code. Packet Pg. 29 7.A.a ATTACHMENT 1 Revised 11121122 Comprehensive Tree Code Issues & Preliminary Amendment List POLICY ECDC CURRENT CODE WHAT'S THE ISSUE? SAMPLE CODE REWRITE Applies Development i or Property Owner? When an arborist report is required Current code is unclear that an arborist report, although not ...After providing clear documentation, which may include the applicant's Minor-11 080.E ..After providing clear documentationthat all ... required, may be needed to document infeasibility of replanting. g. arborist recommendations ...that all replacement options have been replacement options have been considered and are considered... iRG!U inn aFbeFi t Fe eds as neGessa „ infeasible, including arborist reports as necessary... Recommendation: Restructure sentence, add "may." When a tree removal permit is required 030.8: Tree removal not specifically exempted will be processed as a Type 1 permit... Too many exemptions, followed by "exceptions to exemptions" and other double negatives are confusing. Omission of clear code 040: ... activities exempt from the provisions of this chapter requirements has resulted in code interpretation issues and that do not require a ermit...exce t for... [that] q p p lowered code compliance. Combining property owner tree removal Exemption 23.10.040 Tree Removal Not Associated with Development permit requirements with development permit requirements is A : Type 1 or Landscape Modification permit is required for 040.F: ... trees that do not meet the exemptions... may be confusing. 0 Trees proposed for removal in critical areas that do not fit removed... hazard/nuisance criteria Minor-12 030-060 Recommendation: Clarify when a Type 1 permit or Landscape Tree removal on commercial and multi -family -zoned Y- properties Both 050.A: Removal of protected trees is prohibited, except as Modification is required. Clearly define the condition or criteria for 0 Tree removal on vacant lots and/or subdividable properties provided for in... tree removal in critical areas, vacant lots, subdividable properties, etc. using a list or chart. Add examples in code. For hazard/nuisance tree removals, a permit is not required, however 050.B: ... removal of trees... is prohibited except as documentation is required... provided for in... *TO CONSIDER RESTRUCTURING CODE TO REPLACE "EXEMPTIONS" WITH "ALLOWANCES" AND OTHER DOUBLE NEGATIVES TO DEFINE WHAT IS 060.A.5: ... the city requires approval of a tree retention ALLOWED, VERSUS WHAT'S NOT, SEE MODERATE #1. plan in conjunction with... for... any tree removal on developed sites not exempted by... The one tree retention incentive within the tree code (23.10.060.G — the 50% tree retention threshold) is not very prominent or identified Restructure 23.10.060 as follows: as an incentive. ECDC 20.75.048 (an incentive for "greater tree A. Introduction "...incentives and variations to development retention" using variations to development standards) is not located B. Tree Retention and Protection Plan 060.A, last standards" Specific tree retention and protection plan review standards in the tree code. C. Tree Retention Requirements Minor-13 sentence provided in this section establish tree retention priorities, D. Priority of Tree Retention Requirements Development incentives, and variations to development standards ... to Recommendation: Move 20.75.048 to 23.10 (see Minor #14 below). E. ...+.eon that w,a„ he a fou haxa (move to D, replace with) Tree facilitate preservation of viable trees... Clearly identify incentives and variations to development standards Retention Incentives (insert 20.75.048 and 23.10.060.G) as such or strike the last sentence in 23.10.060.A if superfluous. F. Tree Retention Procedures G. If a deveiepn9ent retains 5�� (move to E) *TO CONSIDER A SPECIFIC TREE RETENTION THRESHOLD VERSUS THE AMBIGUOUS "GREATER" TREE RETENTION, SEE MAJOR #8. "Phased" short plat/subdivision review process Phased review/tree removal typically results in lower successful ...If during the short [plat] or subdivision review process the tree retention, gives the public the initial perception of greater tree location of all proposed improvements... have not yet been retention and incurs higher costs for tree removal. Restructure 23.10.060 as shown above in Minor #13, or 060.B.3.a established, the applicant may submit a tree retention Minor-14 060.F.2 [plan] that addresses the current phase of development and limits removal to the impacted areas....A new tree Recommendation: Promote early planning for successful tree Move ECDC 20.75.048, the Tree Conservation Subdivision Design 9 Development retention... plan shall be required at each subsequent retention with short plat/subdivision development by showing tree incentive to 23.10.060.G, with the 50% tree retention incentive. phase of the project as more information about the location retention incentives and variations to development standards more of the proposed improvements is known. prominently in the code. 'POLICY IMPACT Minor - Amendments that in no way change the meaning of the current code. They clarify/simplify or further define something already in the code, address typos and redundancies, and/or result in simple reformatting or removal of outdated references, including industry standards, Best Available Science, Best Management Practices, etc. that do not result in changes to code intent or an increase in requirements. Moderate - Relatively uncontroversial restructuring of code sections, and any amendments above that result in new, increased or eliminated requirements without additional cost to permit applicants or procedural changes that require additional resources. Major - Adds extensive new requirements or substantially prohibits/bans something currently allowed; amendments resulting in significant changes to procedures or significant additional cost to permit applicants, and/or change the intent of the code. Packet Pg. 30 7.A.a ATTACHMENT 1 Revised 11121122 Comprehensive Tree Code Issues & Preliminary Amendment List POLICY ECDC CURRENT CODE WHAT'S THE ISSUE? SAMPLE CODE REWRITE Applies Development i or Property Owner? Tree replacement requirements — general Multiple tree replacement requirements that apply to both ...Tree replacement is required for tree cutting permits development scenarios and property owner tree removals, when Reformat 080.A as shown in the chart below under Minor #16. Clarify the 080.A .. •and/or for tree removal associated with development. spread over different code sections, are confusing. order of priority for tree replanting. Recommendation: Differentiate between property owner and Note that new property owner tree removal requirements will likely Both development tree removal replacement requirements. warrant creating a new code section, so that 23.10.080 may be Tree replacement requirement (1) consolidated into 23.10.060. In addition to the [30%] tree retention requirements... every CONSIDER FURTHER STREAMLINING TREE REPLACEMENT 060.C.4 significant tree that is removed under this chapter must be REQUIREMENTS SEE #3 Minor-15 replaced consistent with the requirements of "Several new trees" indicates a certain number of trees need to be ECDC 23.10.080. planted to meet the deficiency, while 23.10.080 refers to replacing 1-3 trees according to the size (DBH) of each removed tree, which Tree replacement requirement (II) is confusing and causes code interpretation issues. If there are not enough existing trees... to satisfy [the 30% retention If there are not enough existing trees... to satisfy [the 30% threshold], the applicant shall be required to make up the deficiency by 060.F.4.a-b retention threshold], the applicant shall be required to make Recommendation: Strike reference to 080 to clarify that a planting several new trees that would be sufficient, in po mina several Development P up the deficiency by planting several new trees ocertain number of trees are required to be planted to meet the 30% with the number of trees actually retained, to satisfy the Y Y per 23.10.080 that would be sufficient, in combination with retention threshold. o 30% tree retention threshold] ... the number of trees actually retained, to satisfy [30% tree retention threshold] ... *TO CONSIDER STREAMLINING TREE REPLACEMENT REQUIREMENTS, SEE MODERATE #3 Tree replacement requirement (III) Numerical requirements in a narrative format appear overly ..each significant tree to be removed shall be replaced as complicated. 080.A.1-3 follows: 1. For each significant tree between 6-10" DBH removed, Recommendation: Reformat 080 to chart form. one replacement tree is required. 2. For each significant tree between 10.1-14" DBH removed, two replacement trees are required. Minor-16 3. For each significant tree greater than 14" and less than Each signifisapt viable tree to be removed shall be replaced as follows: 24" DBH removed, three replacement trees are required. Note the code lacks any replanting options to replace removed 080.E.3 Tree replacement requirement (IV) viable trees >24" DBH. ...For each significant tree greater than 24" DBH removed, a fee based on an appraisal of the tree value by the city *TO CONSIDER REPLANTING OPTIONS TO REPLACE REMOVED VIABLE tree protection professional using trunk formula method in TREES >24" DBH, SEE MODERATE #4. the current edition of the Guide for Plant Appraisal shall be *TO RECONSIDER FEE IN LIEU OPTIONS TO MITIGATE REMOVED VIABLE required. TREES >24" DBH, SEE MAJOR #7. Both Multiple tree replacement requirements spread over different code Tree replacement requirement (V) sections are confusing. For developing properties... that have fewer than three Minor-17 060.C.5 significant trees, trees shall be retained and/or planted that Recommendation: consolidate tree removal replacement will result in the site having at least three trees, which will requirements into one section. be significant at maturity, per 8,000 square feet of lot area *TO CONSIDER STREAMLINING THE TREE REPLACEMENT REQUIREMENTS, SEE MODERATE #3 'POLICY IMPACT Removed Tree DBH Required Replacements 6-10" 1 10.1-14" 2 14.1 - 24" 3 >241, Appraised Value Less than 3 existing trees on site 3 trees per 8,000 sq. ft. lot area Minor - Amendments that in no way change the meaning of the current code. They clarify/simplify or further define something already in the code, address typos and redundancies, and/or result in simple reformatting or removal of outdated references, including industry standards, Best Available Science, Best Management Practices, etc. that do not result in changes to code intent or an increase in requirements. Moderate - Relatively uncontroversial restructuring of code sections, and any amendments above that result in new, increased or eliminated requirements without additional cost to permit applicants or procedural changes that require additional resources. Major - Adds extensive new requirements or substantially prohibits/bans something currently allowed; amendments resulting in significant changes to procedures or significant additional cost to permit applicants, and/or change the intent of the code. Packet Pg. 31 7.A.a ATTACHMENT 1 Revised 11121122 Comprehensive Tree Code Issues & Preliminary Amendment List Applies to POLICY ECDC CURRENT CODE WHAT'S THE ISSUE? SAMPLE CODE REWRITE Development i or Property Owner?A[ IL A?Mlil Multiple fees -in -lieu in different code sections are confusing. The difference between the $1,000/$2,500 fee is unclear, or if applicable to >24" DBH trees. Current fee in lieu structure does not reflect order of priority to retain and replant first and may be marginally effective in achieving offsite tree planting. Fees in lieu of replanting — general 060-080 $1,000 per tree fee in lieu relates to the number of trees required to meet the 30% tree retention threshold per 23.10.060.C, however, "of this section" relates to the number of replacement trees (1-3) based on the size of removed trees per 23.10.080. Fees in lieu of replanting (1) 080.E.1 ... the [applicant] shall pay a fee -in -lieu for each $2,500 per tree also relates to the number of trees required to meet replacement tree required but not replaced [in] the amount the 30% tree retention threshold per 23.10.060.C. Where $1,000 of ... $1,000 multiplied by the number of trees necessary to per tree is an average standard cost of planting a new tree, $2,500 satisfy the tree replacement requirements of this section... is an arbitrary and seemingly inflated cost. Fees in lieu of replanting (11) Viable trees >24" DBH removed with development are not replaced Minor-18 060.F.4.b If it is not feasible for planting under this subsection to with trees replanted on site, which does not support priorities to achieve the required number of trees, the applicant shall retain, then replant before assessing fees in lieu (see Minor #16). make a fee -in -lieu payment of $2,500 for every tree not May be challenged as denying reasonable use of private property planted pursuant to this subsection. (RCW 82.02.020). 080.E.3 Fees in lieu of replanting (III) Significantly reduces the total of the appraised values of removed For each significant tree greater than 24" DBH removed, a trees >24" DBH. fee based on an appraisal of the tree value... shall be required. Recommendation: Combine 060 and 080 fee in lieu requirements in sequence, according to retention, replanting and payment priorities Removed Required Fee in Lieu of Tree DBH Replacements Replanting 6-10" 1 $1,000 per 10.1-14" 2 required tree 14.1 - 24" 3 >24„ Appraised Appraised Value Value Less than 3 3 trees per $1,000 per existing trees 8,000 sq. ft. lot required tree on site area Both Fees in lieu of replanting (IV) using a chart format. Strike the arbitrary and redundant $2,500 fee 080.E.4 In no case shall the fee -in -lieu payments required by this in lieu. Examine effects of the $2 per square foot "cap." subsection exceed $2.00 per square feet of lot area. *TO CONSIDER A SINGLE RETENTION/REPLACEMENT SYSTEM USING A FORMULA APPROACH, SEE MODERATE #3, *TO CONSIDER ELIMINATING THE $2 PER SQUARE FOOT "CAP" SEE MAJOR #7. Code provisions for the Tree Fund are in a different Chapter (ECDC 3.95) and are not cross-referenced throughout 23.10, causing procedural confusion. Minor-19 080.E, et al How fees in lieu of replanting are paid .. deposited into the Cit 's Tree Fund per ECDC 3.95. Both ...fees shall be deposited into the city's tree fund. Recommendation: update Tree Fund references throughout ECDC p Y 23.10. *TO CONSIDER MOVING TREE FUND CODE PROVISIONS INTO ECDC 23.10, SEE MODERATE #12. 'POLICY IMPACT Minor - Amendments that in no way change the meaning of the current code. They clarify/simplify or further define something already in the code, address typos and redundancies, and/or result in simple reformatting or removal of outdated references, including industry standards, Best Available Science, Best Management Practices, etc. that do not result in changes to code intent or an increase in requirements. Moderate - Relatively uncontroversial restructuring of code sections, and any amendments above that result in new, increased or eliminated requirements without additional cost to permit applicants or procedural changes that require additional resources. Major - Adds extensive new requirements or substantially prohibits/bans something currently allowed; amendments resulting in significant changes to procedures or significant additional cost to permit applicants, and/or change the intent of the code. Packet Pg. 32 7.A.a ATTACHMENT 1 Revised 11121122 Comprehensive Tree Code Issues & Preliminary Amendment List POLICY ECDC CURRENT CODE WHAT'S THE ISSUE? SAMPLE CODE REWRITE Applies Development i or Property Owner? Redundant and incorrect code reference Incorrect code reference: (F)(3) refers to the same section, Significant trees on lots proposed for development or whereas (F)(4) describes requirements if there are not enough Significant trees on lots proposed for development or redevelopment, Minor-20 060.C.1 redevelopment, except as substituted under subsection existing significant trees. Use of term "substitute" is confusing. t ,,nde th;s be .tiGn (9() Development eXGe as substituted ubse of eGti„n shall (F)(3) of this section, shall be retained as follows... retained as follows... Recommendation: Strike "substitution" reference. Incorrect code reference ECDC 23.10.040.E does not refer to hazard/nuisance trees, it Trees... located within... critical areas and their associated buffers, or that Trees... located within... critical areas and their associated relates to routine landscaping and vegetation management. ECDC have otherwise been designated for protection shall not be removed Minor-21 060.C.2 buffers, or that have otherwise been designated for 23.10.040.E does relate to hazard/nuisance trees. except as provided for in ECDC 23.10.040(€F), hazard and nuisance Development protection shall not be removed except as provided for in trees... ECDC 23.10.040(E), hazard and nuisance trees... Recommendation: replace E with F. Overly complex code language is not user-friendly. Lack of code simplicity/clarity leads to lower quality permit applications and lower overall code compliance. Moderate-1 040 "Exemptions" Both Recommendation: Reorganize disparate sections, separate ADDRESSES MINOR #12, BUT WITH GREATER POLICY IMPACTS property owner tree removal requirements from development requirements. Restructure code to reduce "exemptions," add "allowances" to define what IS allowed, versus what's NOT. Code does not establish tree condition ratings to define trees Tree condition related to development review process worthy of retention and arborists' condition ratings vary widely, 020.H, 020.X1 Definitions for hazard, viable and specimen trees and resulting in code interpretation issues and prolonged reviews. Moderate-2 060.D-F "one" trees identified for retention with development. Develo p ent mpriority Recommendation: define tree condition applicable to trees retained ADDRESSES MINOR #6, 7, BUT WITH GREATER POLICY IMPACTS with development, based on industry standards, i.e., dead, poor, good, excellent, etc. The current code uses 5 different replanting methods and 3 fees in lieu methods to mitigate trees removed by property owners or with development. This combination of tree replacement systems is not equitable across varying existing site conditions, i.e., no trees 060.C.5, Tree replacement requirements versus heavily wooded sites (Tree Board 10/6/22). Moderate-3 0601, 080.A.1-3 ADDRESSES MINOR #15-18 BUT WITH GREATER POLICY IMPACTS Recommendation: Consider using one methodology/calculation to Both determine the minimum number of trees to be replanted. For example: x number of trees per area (or square feet), or x number of trunk diameter inches per area (also known as minimum required tree density). Appraised values are subjective and logistically problematic with phased development. Appraisal requirement for trees >24" DBH Moderate-4 080.E.3 Recommendation: Revise to require tree planting 1st, before Both ADDRESSES MINOR #16, BUT WITH GREATER POLICY IMPACTS assessing fees in lieu. 'POLICY IMPACT Minor - Amendments that in no way change the meaning of the current code. They clarify/simplify or further define something already in the code, address typos and redundancies, and/or result in simple reformatting or removal of outdated references, including industry standards, Best Available Science, Best Management Practices, etc. that do not result in changes to code intent or an increase in requirements. Moderate - Relatively uncontroversial restructuring of code sections, and any amendments above that result in new, increased or eliminated requirements without additional cost to permit applicants or procedural changes that require additional resources. Major - Adds extensive new requirements or substantially prohibits/bans something currently allowed; amendments resulting in significant changes to procedures or significant additional cost to permit applicants, and/or change the intent of the code. Packet Pg. 33 7.A.a ATTACHMENT 1 Revised 11121122 Comprehensive Tree Code Issues & Preliminary Amendment List POLICY ECDC CURRENT CODE WHAT'S THE ISSUE? SAMPLE CODE REWRITE Applies Development i or Property Owner? 'TO CONSIDER FEE IN LIEU OPTIONS WHEN PLANTING IS NOT FEASIBLE TO REPLACE REMOVED VIABLE TREES >24" DBH, SEE MAJOR #7. Location of trees required to be retained w/ Various terminology is confusing and does not establish clear development priorities for retained trees based on location. The code does not "Developable site" is defined as the gross site area of a lot, address sites entirely encumbered by critical areas. 020.D minus critical areas and buffers. Moderate-5 060.D.2.b Recommendation: Revise definition/language for consistency Development 060.F.4 Other code language: throughout Chapter. Clarify "outside of the improved area of the trees within the required yard setbacks or around the site..." Consider prioritizing tree retention by location (outside the perimeter... existing trees outside of the improved building envelope or within setbacks) or other defined location of areas ... trees in non -developable areas... high retention value trees. When calculating tree retention requirements, the code doesn't provide guidelines for fractions. Without guidelines, some Moderate-6 060.C.1 Tree retention threshold calculation - fractions applicants wish to interpret any fraction up to .99 less than a whole Development number as justification to round down. Recommendation: round up or down at .5 fractions Use of various terms (may, should, must, shall) can be confusing and result in code interpretation issues, although the intent of many 0, Code flexibility versus ambiguous language of these terms is to allow some flexibility in the code. Moderate-7 070.C.30C-F 080..D.2,, Director may... [allow, require, approve, consider, etc.] Both 090.A Recommendation: Consider areas of the code that require flexibility. Replace "must," "should" and "may" with uniform, intended code language. Code emphasizes assessing fees in lieu, versus tree planting to mitigate removed trees. Application of the "cap" significantly reduces opportunities to purchase/plant trees offsite. Moderate-8 080.E.4 Fee in lieu "cap" at $2 per square foot Recommendation: Adjust the code to prioritize tree planting to Development replace >24" DBH trees removed with development. TO CONSIDER ELIMINATING/REDUCING THE $2 PER SQUARE FOOT "CAP" SEE MAJOR #9 Performance and maintenance bonds SF property owners assume developers will maintain protected and C. A 2-year maintenance bond shall be required after the newly planted trees due to maintenance bonds. installation of required site improvements... to ensure Moderate-9 090.C-D adequate maintenance and protection of retained trees and Recommendation: Examine post -development tree mortality and Both? site improvements. effectiveness of performance bonds. Consider emphasizing property owner (not developer) maintenance responsibilities with a D. The director shall exempt individual single-family lots 3-5 Year Maintenance Agreement. Consider bonds for commercial from a maintenance bond... landscapes (MF) only. Moderate-10 020.1 Grove definition and retention priority Consider changes to the code in response to 2015-2019 canopy "forest Development study findings to slow the loss of patches" with development 'POLICY IMPACT Minor - Amendments that in no way change the meaning of the current code. They clarify/simplify or further define something already in the code, address typos and redundancies, and/or result in simple reformatting or removal of outdated references, including industry standards, Best Available Science, Best Management Practices, etc. that do not result in changes to code intent or an increase in requirements. Moderate - Relatively uncontroversial restructuring of code sections, and any amendments above that result in new, increased or eliminated requirements without additional cost to permit applicants or procedural changes that require additional resources. Major - Adds extensive new requirements or substantially prohibits/bans something currently allowed; amendments resulting in significant changes to procedures or significant additional cost to permit applicants, and/or change the intent of the code. Packet Pg. 34 7.A.a ATTACHMENT 1 Revised 11121122 Comprehensive Tree Code Issues & Preliminary Amendment List POLICY ECDC CURRENT CODE WHAT'S THE ISSUE? SAMPLE CODE REWRITE Applies Development i or Property Owner? 060.D Definition: a group of three or more significant trees with and protect ecological functions (City Council 6/21/22, Planning overlapping or touching crowns. Board 9/14/22). Significant trees to be retained should be retained in the Recommendation: Require that groves be identified on tree following order of priority... [groves are not specifically retention plans, assign a high priority retention status. identified] Without including noxious/invasive species language in the hazard Hazard tree definition tree definition, a permit or arborist report would be required to allow Dead, dying, diseased, damaged, or structurally defective as determined Dead, dying, diseased, damaged, or structurally defective their removal. On development sites, they would be required to be by a qualified tree professional and trees listed as noxious or invasive Moderate-11 020.H as determined by a qualified tree professional. retained or mitigated (Tree Board 11/3/22). species by WA State or Snohomish County Noxious Weed Control Both Boards. ADDRESSES MINOR #1, BUT WITH GREATER POLICY IMPACTS Recommendation: Refer to state/county noxious/invasive regulators. The code provisions for the Tree Fund are in a different Chapter How fees in lieu of replanting are paid (ECDC 3.95) and is not cross-referenced throughout 23.10, causing Moderate-12 080.E, et al ...shall be deposited into the city's tree fund. procedural confusion. ADDRESSES MINOR #19, BUT WITH GREATER POLICY IMPACTS Recommendation: move Tree Fund code provision from ECDC 3.95 into ECDC 23.10. New codes that: Address: • Limit the number of property owner tree removals within a • How many trees can be removed at one time? specific Is 12 months between allowed removals appropriate? • Don't require apame.ermit/fee, but tracks removals over time require What are appropriate replacement requirements? Major-1 - Property owner tree removals using it notification process that can check for conditions Should there be a minimum number of trees required to remain Property Not clearly identified in the current code like critical areas. on the property? Should a permit be required for their removal? Owner • Allow limited Landmark tree removal, with notification. Should their removal be prohibited unless they're hazard or nuisance? (City Council 2021 direction for Phase 2 tree code amendments) What resources are in place for tracking/processing permits? • How to define Landmark tree (see Major #3) Consider requiring permits for all property owner tree removals. Permit requirements for property owner tree removals Slow loss of "forest patches" on private property in response to Property Major-2 - Not clearly identified in the current code canopy study findings. Protect ecological functions. Should process involve a permit/fee? Or a notification process? Owner (City Council 6/21/22 direction for Phase 2 tree code amendments). Define Landmark trees to address incremental loss of canopy cover on private property in response to canopy study findings, protect Major-3 _ Landmark tree definition ecological functions. Do not define by location on development Is >24" DBH size appropriate? Both Not in current code sites (City Council 6/21/22 direction for Phase 2 tree code amendments). 'POLICY IMPACT Minor - Amendments that in no way change the meaning of the current code. They clarify/simplify or further define something already in the code, address typos and redundancies, and/or result in simple reformatting or removal of outdated references, including industry standards, Best Available Science, Best Management Practices, etc. that do not result in changes to code intent or an increase in requirements. Moderate - Relatively uncontroversial restructuring of code sections, and any amendments above that result in new, increased or eliminated requirements without additional cost to permit applicants or procedural changes that require additional resources. Major - Adds extensive new requirements or substantially prohibits/bans something currently allowed; amendments resulting in significant changes to procedures or significant additional cost to permit applicants, and/or change the intent of the code. Packet Pg. 35 7.A.a ATTACHMENT 1 Revised 11121122 Comprehensive Tree Code Issues & Preliminary Amendment List POLICY ECDC CURRENT CODE WHAT'S THE ISSUE? SAMPLE CODE REWRITE Applies Development i or Property • Do not allow paid "tree cutting permits" for the removal of Unclear and contradictory code provisions result in excessive healthy trees in critical areas unauthorized tree removals in critical areas, without adequate 0 Require a permit to remove hazard/nuisance trees in critical resources to enforce or require penalty fines. Current code does areas to address code enforcement issues and lack of penalty little to protect ecological functions and results in negative impacts fine collection. Major-4 040 & 050 Tree removal in critical areas 040.E ...`may" be removed with documentation... to water quality and landslide hazard areas. Leads to incremental Clarify that hazard/nuisance tree removals do not apply to Property loss of canopycover due to removal of "forest patches" per canopy p p pY vacant lots in critical areas unless targeting adjacentpropertyOwner ( 9 g 1 study findings. structures). • Add an appeals process. (City Council 6/21/22 direction for Phase 2 tree code amendments). Consider fee in lieu of replanting 2:1 in critical areas. • Strike "rectify" and replace with "remedy" or other. Tree topping in critical areas 020. V. Tree removal - direct or indirect removal of a tree(s) ... through actions including... clearing, cutting, girdling, topping... 050.D. In critical areas, critical area buffers, and in all native growth protection easements, tree removal is prohibited except as allowed per ECDC 23.40-23.90... Frequent, numerous, complex code enforcement cases resulting from tree removal/topping in critical areas resulting from 020.V 23.40.220.8.b. (Allowed activities in critical areas include...) contradictory and inconsistent code language in various code The removal of trees from critical areas and buffers that are sections. Difficulty in verifying previously approved topping in the 050.D hazardous, posing a threat to public safety, or posing an past 5 years. • Consider creation of wildlife snags for the removal of Property Major-5 23.40.220.8. imminent risk of damage to private property; provided, that: hazard/nuisance trees only in critical areas. Owner ii. Tree cutting shall be limited to pruning and crown thinning, unless otherwise justified by a qualified Protect and avoid negative impacts to critical areas. Slow the loss 23.40.005 professional. Where pruning or crown thinning is not of canopy cover due to large tree removal in critical areas and loss sufficient to address the hazard, trees should be removed of "forest patches" in response to canopy study findings, protect or converted to wildlife snags; ecological functions. 23.40.005 Critical area definitions "Normal maintenance of vegetation" means removal of shrubs/nonwoody vegetation and trees (less than four -inch diameter at breast height) that occurs at least every other year. Maintenance also may include tree topping that has been previously approved by the city in the past five years. 'POLICY IMPACT Minor - Amendments that in no way change the meaning of the current code. They clarify/simplify or further define something already in the code, address typos and redundancies, and/or result in simple reformatting or removal of outdated references, including industry standards, Best Available Science, Best Management Practices, etc. that do not result in changes to code intent or an increase in requirements. Moderate - Relatively uncontroversial restructuring of code sections, and any amendments above that result in new, increased or eliminated requirements without additional cost to permit applicants or procedural changes that require additional resources. Major - Adds extensive new requirements or substantially prohibits/bans something currently allowed; amendments resulting in significant changes to procedures or significant additional cost to permit applicants, and/or change the intent of the code. Packet Pg. 36 7.A.a ATTACHMENT 1 Revised 11121122 Comprehensive Tree Code Issues & Preliminary Amendment List POLICY ECDC CURRENT CODE WHAT'S THE ISSUE? SAMPLE CODE REWRITE Applies Development i or Property Owner? Emergency tree removals vi. Hazard trees determined to pose an imminent threat or The current code does not consider that emergency tree removals g Y fix]. Emergency Tree Removal. Any tree that requires City approval for danger to public health or safety, to public or private may be applicable to property owners, outside of critical areas. removal may be removed by the property owner if it is determined to 23.40.220.C. property, or of serious environmental degradation may be pose an imminent threat or danger to public health and safety, public or Property Major-6 8 b removed or pruned by the landowner prior to receiving written approval from the city; provided, that within 14 days Recommendation: Move applicable text from 23.40.22.C.8.b.vi (left) private property, or of serious environmental degradation; provided, that Owner following such action, the landowner shall submit a or use sample code provision (right) in 23.10.040 with new property within 14 days, the property owner notifies the City and demonstrates restoration plan that demonstrates compliance with the owner tree removal code provisions. compliance with the provisions of this title. provisions of this title; Under the current code, removed trees >24" DBH are not mitigated through planting, only through fees in lieu based on appraised Fees in lieu for removed trees >24" DBH values. Applicants typically opt for the $2 per square foot "cap," For each significant tree greater than 24 inches in DBH reducing the mitigation potential. removed, a fee based on an appraisal of the tree value... Major-7 080.E.3 using trunk formula method in the current edition of the Still, a fee in lieu option is needed if replanting is not feasible; Both Guide for Plant Appraisal shall be required. however, appraised value method is subjective and logistically Problematic with phased development (See Minor #16) WORKS IN TANDEM WITH MODERATE #4 (REPLANTING OPTION) WHEN REPLANTING IS NOT FEASIBLE. Recommendation: codify replanting options. Provide a simple formula or calculation ($ per inches DBH) versus appraised value. Consider changes to the Conservation Subdivision design standards, ECDC 20.75.048 (City Council 6/21/22). 20.75.048 & Conservation Subdivision Major-8 060, 0605.2 Recommendation: require a minimum tree retention threshold that Development ADDRESSES MINOR #13, BUT WITH GREATER POLICY IMPACTS is higher than the 50% fee in lieu exemption in addition to moving to 23.10 as described in Minor #13. Code requires payment of fees in lieu to replace >24" DBH trees Fee in lieu "cap" at $2 per square foot removed with development, versus tree planting. However, data In no case shall the fee -in -lieu payments required by this indicates the "cap" significantly reduces fees in lieu for trees Major-9 080.E.4 subsection exceed $2.00 per square feet of lot area. removed with development (Tree Board 11/3/22). Development ADDRESSES MODERATE #8 WITH GREATER POLICY IMPACTS Recommendation: Eliminate or reduce the cap. Emphasize on -site tree planting to replace trees >24" DBH removed with development. Consider other land use/development types that may have Tree retention with other development types opportunities for tree retention (Planning Board 9/14/22). Tree retention plan/review is required for single family, Major-10 030.C, 060.A multifamily, short plat and subdivision development only. Recommendation: Examine data on existing tree retention within Note: should be consistent with any new language in 060.A. Development ADDRESSES MINOR #5 WITH GREATER POLICY IMPACTS required buffers of COMM, Office, Mixed Use, etc. and consider tree retention requirements. MF zoning allows max build -out and greater impervious surface Major-11 060.C.1 MF/unit lot subdivision 25% retention requirements areas for fire lanes, parking lots, other structures. Tree planting is Development required per MF landscaping requirements/buffers already. Fees in lieu may be considered a takings challenge (RCW 82.02.020). 'POLICY IMPACT Minor - Amendments that in no way change the meaning of the current code. They clarify/simplify or further define something already in the code, address typos and redundancies, and/or result in simple reformatting or removal of outdated references, including industry standards, Best Available Science, Best Management Practices, etc. that do not result in changes to code intent or an increase in requirements. Moderate - Relatively uncontroversial restructuring of code sections, and any amendments above that result in new, increased or eliminated requirements without additional cost to permit applicants or procedural changes that require additional resources. Major - Adds extensive new requirements or substantially prohibits/bans something currently allowed; amendments resulting in significant changes to procedures or significant additional cost to permit applicants, and/or change the intent of the code. Packet Pg. 37 7.A.a ATTACHMENT 1 Revised 11121122 Comprehensive Tree Code Issues & Preliminary Amendment List POLICY ECDC CURRENT CODE WHAT'S THE ISSUE? SAMPLE CODE REWRITE Applies Development i or Property Owner? Recommendation: Examine MF 25% tree retention effectiveness versus time spent in review. If tree planting on MF sites through buffer/landscaping requirements is acceptable, strike MF retention requirements to simplify code and streamline review process. Code emphasizes "meeting a quota" instead of retaining trees of merit (quantitative vs qualitative). Adjust to respond to canopy study findings loss of "forest patches" in critical areas and protect ecological functions. Major-12 060.D., F Tree retention "priorities and procedures" Recommendation: Reformat to chart form, adjust priorities. Replace Development subjective Priority Ones with specific qualitative retention criteria. Strike "over 60 feet in height" and replace with (new) Landmark definition. Move "trees within required yard setbacks," groves and critical areas to Priority One. Revise "priorities and procedures" so focus is on high -value viable trees located in setbacks or other non - buildable areas (Planning Board 9/14/22). Revise general zoning/development codes' maximum allowed MULTIPLE setbacks, lot coverage, height limits, etc. for greater tree retention Outside OF ECDC, COMP Not in ECDC 23.10, not in UFMP beyond what's allowed with a Conservation Subdivision Design Development scope PLAN (20.75.048). [Major ECDC code amendments, possibly Comprehensive Plan updates] (Planning Board 9/14/22). Ensure Landmark trees/groves are protected in perpetuity to preserve canopy cover and protect ecological functions. Recommendation: Consider program that compensates property Outside OF New INCENTIVE Not in code, not in UFMP owners for large tree retention with development (Transfer of Development scope Development Rights program). Use funds collected from fees in lieu or create a new account [check with Finance]. See TDR state laws. City Legal to draft covenant template, property owner required to submit with site plan, (+maintenance plan?), recorded on title. Voluntary Tree Conservation Easement (Covenant?) to protect Outside OF New INCENTIVE Not in code, not in UFMP trees in perpetuity, preserve canopy cover and protect ecological Property Owner scope functions. City Legal to draft covenant template. No process, may be outcome of Equitable Engagement Outside OF Unknown Framework or Comp Plan process to analyze/revise City Build greater equity into the tree code (Planning Board 9/14/22) Both scope codes for diversity, equity and inclusion 'POLICY IMPACT Minor - Amendments that in no way change the meaning of the current code. They clarify/simplify or further define something already in the code, address typos and redundancies, and/or result in simple reformatting or removal of outdated references, including industry standards, Best Available Science, Best Management Practices, etc. that do not result in changes to code intent or an increase in requirements. Moderate - Relatively uncontroversial restructuring of code sections, and any amendments above that result in new, increased or eliminated requirements without additional cost to permit applicants or procedural changes that require additional resources. Major - Adds extensive new requirements or substantially prohibits/bans something currently allowed; amendments resulting in significant changes to procedures or significant additional cost to permit applicants, and/or change the intent of the code. Packet Pg. 38 7.A.a ATTACHMENT 1 Revised 11121122 'POLICY IMPACT Comprehensive Tree Code Issues & Preliminary Amendment List Minor - Amendments that in no way change the meaning of the current code. They clarify/simplify or further define something already in the code, address typos and redundancies, and/or result in simple reformatting or removal of outdated references, including industry standards, Best Available Science, Best Management Practices, etc. that do not result in changes to code intent or an increase in requirements. Moderate - Relatively uncontroversial restructuring of code sections, and any amendments above that result in new, increased or eliminated requirements without additional cost to permit applicants or procedural changes that require additional resources. Major - Adds extensive new requirements or substantially prohibits/bans something currently allowed; amendments resulting in significant changes to procedures or significant additional cost to permit applicants, and/or change the intent of the code. Packet Pg. 39 9.A Planning Board Agenda Item Meeting Date: 12/14/2022 Extended Agenda Staff Lead: Mike Clugston Department: Planning Division Prepared By: Michael Clugston Background/History N/A Staff Recommendation Review Extended Agenda Narrative Extended Agenda attached. Packet Pg. 40