HomeMy WebLinkAboutITEM V CPA10-0002
GI7Y ~E~
wASHINCronr AGEIVDA BILL APPROVAL FORM
Agenda Subject Date: September 24, 2010
CPA10-0002, 2010 Comprehensive Plan Amendments - City Initiated
Policy/Text Amendments
Departrnent: Planning and Attachments: P/T # 6 and P!T # 7- Budget Impact: N/A
Development See separate section within
Com rehensive Plan binder
Adminisfrative Recommendation: Planning Commission recommends to City Council approval of
2010 City-Initiated Comprehensive Plan Amendments, Group 2.
Background' Summary:
The City of Aubum adopted amendments to its Comprehensive Plan in 1995 in response to the
Washington State Growth Management Act (GMA) requirements, as amended. Since then the Aubum
Comprehensive Plan has been amended annually.
~ Comprehensive plan amendments can be initiated by the City ofAuburn (city-initiated) and by private
citizens (privately-initiated). This year the city is initiating one set of map amendments and a few policy
ancl text amendments. In addition, this year the city received no privately-initiated plan map amendments
and one privately-initiated policy/text amendment. The City initiated map amendments and five city
initiated policy and text amendments were considered by the Planning Commission at their September
hearing mee6ng. The privately initiated policy/text amendments will be reviewed under separate agenda
" bills and will be heard by the Planning Commission attheir October meeting.
This staff report and recommendation addresses Comprehensive Plan Policy/Text (P/T) Amendments P/T
#6and#7.
. Comprehensive plan amendments are initially reviewed during a public hearing process before the City of
Aubum Planning Commission, who then provides a recommendation to the City,Council for final action.
City Council consideration and action on fhe amendments will occur prior to the end of this year.
Reviewed by Council 8 Committees: Reviewed by Departrnents 8 Divisions:
❑ Arts Commission COUNCIL COMMITTEES: ❑ Building ❑ M&0
❑ Airport ❑ Finance ❑ Cemetery ❑ Mayor
❑ Hearing Examiner ❑ Municipal Services ❑ Finance ❑ Parks
❑ Human Services J@ Planning & Dev. ❑ Fire Z Planning
❑ Park Board ❑ Public Works ❑ Legal ❑ Police
❑ Planning Comm. ❑ Other Z Public Works ❑ Human Resources
Action:
Committee Approval: ❑Yes ❑No
Counal Approval: ❑Yes ❑No Call for Public Hearing
Referred to Until / / -
Tabled Until
Councilmember: Staff: Dixon
Meetin Date: October 5, 2010 Item Number.
Page 1 of 4
AUBuRN 'k .MOIZE THAN YC?U IMAGINED
Agenda Subject: CPA10-0002, 2010 Gomprehensive Plan Date: September 24, 2010
Amendments - City Initiated Policy/Text Amendments
A. Findings
1. RCW 36.70A.130 (Washington State Growth Management Act (GMA)) provides for
amendmentsto locally adopted GMA comprehensive plans. Except in limitetl circumstances
provided for in State law, comprehensive plan amendments shall be considered by the city
or county legislative body no more frequently than once per year. The annual limitation and
exceptions are also resfated in city code at ACC 14.22.060.
2. The City of Auburn established a June 10, 2010 deadline for the submittal of priyately-
initiated comprehensive plan applications (map or policy/text). Notice to the pablic of the
filing deadline was provided on the City,s website, the Seattle Times, the Aubum Reporter,
and senf fo a compiled notification list. The City received no privately initiated
comprehensive plan map amendments and one policy/text amendment by the submittal
deadline.
3. A combined Determination of Non-Significance (DNS) and Adoption of Existing
Environmental Document was issued for the City-initiated Comprehensive Plan
Amendments on September 18, 2010 under City file # SEP10-0028.
4. Aubum City Code Chapter 14.22 outlines the process for submittal of Comprehensive Plan
amendments and the processing of comprehensive plan amendments as follows:
Section 14.22.100
A. The planning commissionshall hold at least one public hearing on.all proposed
amendments to the comprehensive plan. Notice of such public hearing shall be given
pursuant to Chapter 1.27 ACC and, at a minimum, include the following:
1. For site-specific plan map amendments:
a. Notice shall be published once in the official newspaper ofithe city not less
than 10 calendar days prior to the date of public hearing;
b. Notice shall be mailed by first class mail to all property owners of record
within a radius of 300 feet of the proposed map amendment request, not less
than 10 calendar days prior to the public hearing;
2. For area-wide plan map amendments:
a. Notice shall be published once in the official newspaper of the city not less
than 10 calendar days prior to the date of public hearing;
b. Notice shall be mailed by first class mail to all property owners of record
within the area subject to the proposed amendment;
c. Notice shall be posted in at least two conspicuous locations in the area
subject to the proposed amendment not less than 10 calendar days prior to
the date of the public hearing.
B. Notwithstandin9 the above, the director maY exPand the minimum noticin9 Provisions
noted above as deemed necessary.
C. Planning Commission Recommendation. The planning commission shall conduct a
public hearing on all potential comprehensive plan amendments and shall make and
forward a recommendation on each to the city council. The planning commission shall
adopt written findings and make a recommendation consistent with those findings to the '
city council.
D. The city conncil, if it elects to amend the comprehensive plan, shall adopt written
findings and adopt said amendments by ordinance.
Page 2 of 4
AUBURN *MORE THAN YC}U IMAGINED
Agenda Subject: CPA10-0002, 2010 Comprehensive Plan Date: September 24, 2010
Amendments - City Initiated Policy/Text Amendments
E. State Review. All comprehensive plan amendments considered by the planning ~ commission shall be forwarded for state agency review consistent with RCW
36.70A.106.
F. Any appeal of an amendment to the comprehensive plan shall be made in accordance
with Chapter 36.70A RCW. (Ord. 6172 § 1, 2008.)
5. Pursuant fo RCW 36.70A.106, the proposed comprehensive plan amendments outlined in
this agenda bill were sent to the Washington State Office of Commerce, formerly the
Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development (CTED) and other state
- agencies as required for the 60-day state review. No comments were received from
Commerce or other state agencies as of the writing of this report.
6. Due to the minor nature of the city-initiated map amendments and the city-initiated policy/text changes and receipt of only one privately-initiated policy/text change, the optional
process of a public open house was not conducted.
7. The public hearing notice was published on September 22, 2010 in the Seattle Times at
least 10-days prior to the Planning Commission public hearing seheduled for October 5,
2010.
8. The foflowing report identifies Comprehensive Plan Policy/Text (P/T) amendments
scheduled for the Planning Commission's October 5, 2010 public hearing with a staff
recommendation.
CPAA #6 Incorporate the City of Auburn's 6-year Capital Facilities Plan 2011-2016, into the City
Comprehensive Plan.
Discussion
A Capital Facilities Plan is one of the comprehensiye plan elements required by the
Washington Stafe Growth Management Act (GMA) (RCW 36.70A). The GMA requires that a
capital facilities plan include an inventory of existing capital facilities (showing locations and
capacities), a forecast of future needs for such capital facilities, proposed locations and
capacities of new or expanded capital facilities, and a minimum of a six-year plan to finance
capital facilities with identifed sources of funding. The proposed City of Aubum 6-year Capital
Facilities Plan 2011-2016 satisfies the GMA requirements for a capital facilities element as part
of the Comprehensive Plan.
Each comprehensive plan prepared under the GMA must include a capital facilities plan
element. RCW 36.70A.070(3) of the GMA states the following:
A capital facilities plan element consisting of: •
(a) An inventory of existing capital facilities owned by public entities, showing the
locations and capacities of the capital facilities;
(b) a forecast of the future needs of such capital facilities;
(c) the proposed loeations and capacities of expanded or new capital facilities;
(d) at least a six-year plan that will finance such capital facilities within projected funding
capacities and clearly identifies sources of public money for such purposes; and
(e) a requirement to reassess the land use elemenf if probable funding falls short of
meeting existing needs and to ensure that the land use element, capital facilities plan
Page 3 of 4
AuBjJRN'!r MQRE THAN `YC3U IMAGINED
Agenda Subject: CPA10-0002, 2010 Comprehensive Plan Date: September 24; 2010
Amendments - City initiated Policy/Text Amendments
element, and financing plan within the capital facilities plan element are coordinafed and
consistent. Park and recreation facilities shall be included in the capital facilities plan
element.
A capital facility is a structure, street or utility system improvement, or other long-lasting major
asset; including land. Gapital facilities are provided for public purposes. Capital facilities include,
but are not limited to, the following: streets, roads, highways, sidewalks; street and road lighting
systems, fraffic signals, domestic water systems, sform and sanitary sewer systems, parks and
recreation facilities, and police and fire protection facilities. These capital facilities include
necessary ancillary and support facilities.
The proposed City of Aubum 6-year Capital Facilities Plan 2011-2016 is incorporated by
reference in the Comprehensive Plan, Chapter 5, Capital Facilities.
Recommendation
Planning Commission to recommend approval to the City Council.
P/T #7
Add new policy EN-41.A to Objective 18.6 _(Wthin Chapter 9, The Environment) to provide
policy support for future change in development regulafions in response to House Bill 1481
adopted in April 2009, to encourage the transition to electric vehicle use.
Discussion
The Washington State Legislature approved House Bill (HB) 1481 in April 2009 with an effeetive
date of July 26, 2009. This HB 1481 encourages the transition to electrical vehicle use through
the establishment of requirements for electric vehicle infrastructure. Elecfrical vehicle
infrastructure is defined as the stnactures, machinery, and equipment necessary and integral to
support an electric vehicle, including battery charging stations, rapid cfiarging stations, and
battery exchange stations. HB 1481 specifies that counties, cities and towns throughout
Washington Stafe are required to amend their development regulations to allow electric vehicle
infrastructure as a permitted use in all zones except those zoned for residential, resource or
critical areas. In these areas, the statute does not prohibit local governments from allowing
electrical vehicle infrastrucfure; however, consideration of special conditions or limitations is
encouraged. The statute also established a timeframe for local govemmentsto comply with the
statute. For the City ofAuburn, this means that it must update its development regulations to
allow battery charging stations by July 1, 2011.
A new policy EN-41.A to Objective 18.6 within Chapter 9, The Environment, is proposed to
provide the policy basis for fufure development regulations to encourage the transition to electric
, vehicle use.
Recommendation
Planning Commission to recommend approval to the City Council.
Page 4 of 4 $URN* MORE THAN Y(JU iMAG1NED
CHAPTER 9
THE ENVIRONIVIEN'T " Introduction
One of the key attractions of Auburn and the Puget Sound Region has
always been the abundant natural resources found throughout the area.
T'he Green River Valley was once a major supplier of agricultural goods
for the region and farming remains in some parts of the valley. Thick
forests, wetlands, and wildlife. fiabitafs aze found throughout the area. As
the area develops, many of these features, which serve to make the area
attractive in the first place, are being lost. The strong emphasis placed on
the designation and protection of resource lands and critical areas in the
Growth Management Act, the Countywide Policies and this plan refleet
the important role that these areas play in maintaining the health, safety
and welfare of the area's citizens.
Issues
Environmental
Constraints
and Land Use The City's overall environmental policy should describe the kinds of
environmental information and factors that are important to the
community. This information can be used to decide if, where and how
certain kinds of development and other activities should be allowed.
City policy should recognize the natural constraints placed on
development by such factors as unstable slopes, flooding and wetlands. A
critical environmental concern is the proper management of gravel
extraction. This is an industcy which has been active in Auburn for many
years and which remains a viable industry. The City should establish clear
policies to guide the retention of valued aspects of the City's environment,
such as protection of the City's open space and significant wildlife
habitats. The policy should seek to ensure ample opportunity for the
City's residents to meet their recieational needs. Policies should be
esta.blished to protect the public health, safety and quality of life, and to
also protect the area's most unique, sensitive and productive
Page 9-1
Amended 2009
Environment
environmental resources. New development should be directed toward
areas where their adverse impacts can be minimized.
This Plan has increased the specificity of the City's policies relating to use
and protection of the natural environment: It also provides a set of general
policies which will be used to require the mitigation of significant adverse
impacts.
GOAL 18. ENVI1tONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
To maintain and promote a safe and healthy environment and preserve the
quality of life, and to protect the area's most unique, sensitive and
productive natural resources. To encourage na.tural resource industries
within the city to operate in a manner which enhances, (rather than
detracts from), the orderly development of the City.
Objective 18.1. To continue to enhance and maintain the quality of surface water, ground
water, and shoreline resources in the City and Region.
Policies: EN-1 The City shall seek to ensure adequate and healthful supplies of
domestic water by protecting groundwater from degrada.tion, by
providing for surface water infiltration, by minimizing or
prohibiting unnecessary withdrawals of groundwater and by
preventing unintended groundwater discharges caused by
disturbance of water-bearing geological formations.
EN-2 Stormwater drainage improvement projects that are proposed to
discharge to groundwater, such as open water infiltration ponds;
shall provide for surface water pretreatment designed to
standards outlined in the Washington State Deparlment of
Ecology's Stormwater Management Manual for the Puget Se-
Basin-Western Washin t~on. Drainage improvement projects that
may potentially result in the exchange of surface and ground
waters, such as detention ponds, sha11 also incorporate these
standards.
EN-3 The City shall seek to minimize degrada.tion to surFace water
quality and aquatic habitat of creeks, slreams, rivers, ponds, lakes
and other water bodies; to preserve and enhance the suitability of
such water bodies for contact recreation and fishing and' to
preserve and enhance the aesthetic' quality of such waters by '
requiring the use of current Best Management Practices for
control of stormwater and nonpoint runoff.
Page 9-2
Amended 2009
Environment
EN-4 The City will regulate any new storm water discha.rges to creeks,
streams, rivers, ponds, lakes and other water bodies with the goal
of no degradation of the water quality or habitat of the receiving
waters, and where feasible seek opporhinities to enhance the
water quality and habitat of receiving waters.
EN-5 The City Shoreline Master Program, shall govem the
development of all designated Shorelines of the City (Map 9.1).
Lands adjacent to these areas should be managed in a manner
consistent with that program.
EN-6 Where possible, streams and river banks should be kept in a
natural condition, and degraded streambanks should be enhanced
or restored.
EN-7 Uses along the Green and White Rivers should be limited to
residential, agricultural, open space, recreational, mineral
resource extraction and public and quasi-public uses.
Commercial development shall only be allowed on the rivers, if
such development adds new public access to the shoreline area.
and is constructed in a manner that will protect the shoreline and
water quality of the rivers through the use of Best Management
Practices.
EN-8 Storm drainage structures and facilities located within the
. shoreline environment, parklands, or public open space shall
incorporate high standards of design to enhance the natural
appearance, protect signif cant cultural resources and appropriate
use of the site and surrounding area. Any such facilities located
within the shoreline environment sha11 be consistent with the
State Shoreline Management Act and the City's Shoreline
Management Program. If accessible to the general public, such
facilities should, whenever possible, be designed to preclude the
need for security fencing, and should use native vegetation and
be properly maintained,
EN-9 The City shall discourage the use of septic tanks except in those
areas wluch are desigriated for m~ol tises Residential
Conservancv and have suitable soils.
EN-10 The City's design standards shall ensure that the post
development peak stormwater runoff rates do not exceed the
predevelopment rates.
EN-I 1 The City will seek to ensure that the quality of water leaving the
City is of equivalent quality to the water entering. This will be
Page 9-3
Amended 2U09
' Environment
accomplished by emphasizing prevention of pollution to surface
and ground ' waters through education programs and
implementation and enforcement of Best Management Practices.
EN-12 The City shall continue to work with adjacent jurisdictions to
enhance and protect water quality in the region through
coordinated and consistent programs and regulations:
EN-13 The City shall consider the impacts of new development on water
quality as part of its environmental review process and require
any appropriate mitigating measures. Impacts on fish resources
shall be a priority concern in such reviews.
EN-14 The City shall require the use of Best Management Practices to
enhance and protect water quality as dictated by the City's Design
and Construction Standards and the Washington State
Department of Ecology's Stormwater Management Manual for
' the Western Washin on. In all new
development, approved water quality treatment measures that are
' applicable and represent the best available science or technology
shall be required prior to dischazging storm waters into the City
storm drainage system or into environmentally sensitive areas
~ e. . wetlands rivers and oundwater.
~ g , ~ )
EN-15 The City recognizes that new development can have impacts
including; but not limited to, flooding, erosion and decreased
water quality on downstream communities and natural drainage
courses. T'he City shall continue to actively participate in
developing and implementing regional water quality planning
and flood hazazd :reduction efforts within the Green Riyer, Mill
Creek and White River :drainage basins. The findings and
recommendations of these regional efforts, including, but not
limited to, the "Draft" Special Area Management Plan (SAMP)
for the Mill Creek Basin, the "Draft" Mill Creek Flood Control
Plan, the Green River Basin Program Interlocal Agreement, and -
the Mill Creek Water Quality Management Plan, sha11 be
considered by the City as City programs and plans are developed
and updated.
EN-16 The City recognizes the value and efficiency of utilizing existing
natural systems (e.g., wetlands) for storm water conveyance and
stora.ge. However, these natural systems can be severely
impacted or destroyed by the uncontrolled release of
contaminated storm waters. Prior to utilizing naturaT systems for
storm drainage purposes, the City shall carefully consider the
potential for adverse impacts through the environmental review
Page 9-4
Amended 2009
Environment
process. Important natural systems shall not be used for storm
drainage storage or conveyance, unless it can be demonstrated
that adverse impacts can be adequately mitigated to a less than
significant level
EN-17 The City recognizes that stormwater treatment facilities do not
function efficiently unless maintained. The City sha11 strive to
ensure that public and private stormwater collection, detention
and treatment systems aze properly maintained and functioning as
designed.
EN-17A Encourage the use of low impact development techniques in
public and private development proposals in order to rrLnimize
impervious surfaces and improve water quality.
Objective 18.2. To continue to enhance and maintain the quality of air resources in the
City and Region.
Policies:
EN-18 The City shall seek to secure and maintain such levels of air
quality as will protect human health, prevent injury to plant and
animal life, prevent injury to property, foster the comfort and
eonvenience of area inhabitants, a.nd facilitate the enjoyment of
the natural attractions of the area.
EN-19 The City will continue to support and rely on the various Sta.te,
Federal and local programs to continue to protect and enhance air
quality.
EN-20 The City shall encourage the retention of vegetation and
encourage landscaping in order to provide filtering of suspended
particulates.
EN-21 The City shall support an increased role for public transportation
as a means to reduce locally generated air emissions.
EN-22 The City shall consider the impacts of new development on air
quality as a part of its environmental review process and require
any appropriate mitigating measures.
Objective 18.3. To continue to enhance and maintain the quality of land, wildlife and
vegetative resources in the City anci region.
Page 9-5
Amended 2009
Environment
• Policies:
EN-23 The City shall seek to protect any unique, rare or endangered
species of plants and animals found within the City by preventing
the indiscriminate and unnecessary removal of trees and
grou.ndcover; by promoting the design and development of
landscaped areas which provide food and cover for wildlife; and
by protecting and enhancing the quality of aquatic habitat.
EN-24 The City shall consider the impacts of new development on the
quality of land, known or suspected fish and wildlife ttabitats
(Map 9.2) and vegetative resources as a part of its environmental
review process and require any appropriate mitigating measures.
Such mitigation may involve the retention of significant habitats
and the use of native landscape vegetation.
EN-25 The preferred method of crossing a watercourse tha.t has habitat
suitable for anadromous fish use or that has the potential to be
rehabilitated for fish use in the future is a bridge. The use of
culverts sha11 be discouraged as a crossing method for such
watercourses. Culvert systems may be considered if streambeds
similar to natural channels can be provided, no loss of
anadromous fish habitat will occur or the cost of a bridge is
prohibitive as reasonable method of mitigation.
EN-26 T'he City shall work in collaboration with other agencies, the
development community and other affected or interested parties
to protect identified wildlife corridors and encourage the
clustering of significant or adjacent resources to maintain
connectivity of these systems.
Objective 18.4. To continue to enhance and maintain the quality of important wetland
resources in the City and region.
Policies:
EN-27 The City recognizes the important biological and hydrological
roles that wetlands play in providing plant and animal habitat,
protecting water quality, reducing the need for man-made flood
and storm drainage systems, maintaining water quality, and in
- providing recreational, open space, educational and cultural
opportunities. The City will consider these roles and functions in
all new development and will also pursue opportunities to
enhance the existing wetland system when these multiple benefits
can be achieved.
Page 9-6
Amended 2009
Environment
EN-28 The City recognizes that wetlands provide varying degrees of
biological and hydrological functions and values to the
community depending on the size, complexity and location of the
individual system, and that the overall degree of functions and
values should be considered when reviewing proposals which
impact wetlands. In a similar manner, the levels of protection
afforded to a wetland sha11 be consistent with its existing function
and values. The City shall continue to promote policies and
practices of enhancing the wetlands that aze hydraulically
connected to the river systems to improve fish resources and
aquatic ha.bitat.
EN-29 The City shall consider the impacts of new development on the
quality of wetland resources as part of its environmental review ,
process and shall require appropriate mitigation and monitoring
measures of important wetland azeas. Such mitigation ,may .
involve conservation, enhancement or restoration or replacement
of important wetlands, and provisions for appropriate buffering.
The goal of the mitigation should be no net loss of wetland .
functions and values. A permanent deed restriction shall be
placed on any wetlands created or enhanced to ensure that they
are preserved in perpetuity.
EN-30 Wetlands which are associated with a river or stream, or provide
significant plant and animal ha.bitat opportunities aze recognized
by the City as the most important wetland systems, and shall '
receive the highest degree of protection. and mitigation through
conservation, enhancement or relocation measures. Wetlands
which are limited in size, are isolated from major hydrological
systems or provide limited hydrological or plant and animal
habitat opportunities may be considered by the City for
development and displacement in conjunction with appropriate
mitigation.
EN-31 Speculative filling of wetlands shall only be permitted if in
compliance with the Special Area Management Plan for Mill
Creek, when it is adopted.
EN-32 It is the City's intent to pursue development of an area-wide
wetlands management program for the entire City to establish a
systems approach to wetlands management. The City sha11 work
with adjacent communities to adopt and implement the Special
Area Management Plan (SAMP) for the Mill Creek Basin, a draft
version of which has. been developed with the U. S. Army Corps
of Engineers. The purpose of the SAMP is to establish uniform
wetland definitions and methodology throughout the planning
Page 9-7
Amended 2009
Environment
area, to develop a regional consensus and preelictability by
identifying important wetlands which must be conserved and less
important wetlands which may be developed. The SAMP is
intended to ensure a balance of the City's commitment between
environmental and economic development interests. The City
shall strive to streamline the permitting process for development
in the areas covered by the SAMP.
Map 93: General Location of Wetlands
Map Note: This map provides an illustration of wetlands located within
Auburn. Prepared on an azea-wide basis, the inventory map provides a general delineation of known wetlands based on the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers definition and the 1989 Federal Manual Far Identifying and
Delineating Jurisdictional Wetlands field methodology. It is important to
note that this map is only a wetland inventory and not a wetland plan.
Over time wetlands develop, expand and contract in conjunction with
changing climatic, natural and artificial conditions.
The map does not imply that a pazcel covered by a wetland designation is
fully occupied by wetlands. It is an indicator, however, that an in depth
wetland delineation is required. Therefore, future site specific wetland
studies conducted by the property owner will identify the precise location,
delineation and functional characteristics of known wetlarid azeas, and
additional wetland areas not previously inventoried. The Auburn Planning
Department has wetland reports that can provide information regarding
soils, hydrology, vegetation and wildlife for these wetlands.
Objective 18.5. To recognize the aesthetic, environmental and use benefits of vegetation
and to promote its retention and propagation. Consideration shall be given
to promoting the use of native vegetation.
Policies:
EN-33 The City recognizes the important benefits of native vegetation
including its role in attracting native wildlife, preserving the
natural hydrology, and maintaining the natural character of the
Pacific Northwest region. Native vegetation can also reduce the
use of pesticides (thereby reducing the amount of contaminants
that may enter nearby water systems) and reduce watering
required of non-native species (thereby promoting conservation).
The City shall encourage the use of native vegeta.tion as an
integral part of public and private development plans through
strategies that include, but are not limited to, the following:
Page 9-8
Amended 2009
Envirnnment
o Encouraging the use of native plants in street landscapes
and in public facilities.
o Providing greater clazity in development regulations in how
native plants can be used in private development proposals. o Pursuing opportunities to educate the public about the,
benefits of native plants.
EN-33A Development regulations shall emphasize the use of native plant
materials that complement the natural character of the Pacific
Northwest and which are adaptable to the climatic hydrological
characteristics of the region. Regulations should provide
specificity as to native plant types in order to facilitate their use.
EN-34 The City shall discourage the unnecessary disturbance of natural
vegetation in new development.
EN-35 The City sha11 encourage the use of water conserving plants in
landscaping for both public and private projects.
EN-36 The City sha11 update and amend its landscaping ordinances to
ensure that sufficient laridscaping is a required component of all
development. Emphasis should be placed on higher quality and
quantity of landscaping.
EN-37 The City shall strengthen the tree protection ordinance targeted at
protecting large stands of trees and significant trees within the
City.
EN-38 The City sha11 develop a tree planting and maintenance program.
Objective 18.6. To promote energy efficiency and management of resources in the
development and operation of public facilities and services, as well as in private development.
Policies:
EN-39 The City shall encourage the use of renewable energy and other
na.tural resources over non-renewable resources wherever
practicable and sha11 protect deposits or supplies of important
non-renewable natural resources from developments or activities
which will preclude their future utilization.
EN-40 The City of Auburn Energy Management Plan is hereby
incorporated as an element in this Comprehensive Plan.
Page 9-9
Amended 2009
Environment
EN-41 The City encourages site design practices that maximize winter
exposure to solar radiation.
EN-41.A The City sha11 encourage and promote the use of electric vehicles by providing for a broad range of opQortunities for
vehicle recharge.
Objective 18.7. Enhance and maintain the quality of life for the City's inhabitants by
promoting a healthy environment and reducing the adverse impact of
environmental nuisances.
Policies:
EN-42 The City shall seek to minimize the exposure of area inhabitants
to the hazmful effects of excess noise. Performance measures for
noise impact on surrounding development should be adopted and
enforced.
EN-43 The City shall seek to minimize the exposure of area inhabitants
to excessive levels of light and glare. Performance measures for
light and glare exposure to surrounding development should be
adopted and enforced.
EN-44 The City sha11 seek to minim;ze the exposure of azea inhabitants
from noxious plant species.
Objective 18.8. To establish management policies which effectively control the operation
and location of mineral extraction in the City, in order to reduce the
inherent adverse impacts that such activities produce in an urbari
environment.
Policies:
EN-45 The cost effective availability of sand and gravel materials is
needed to support the development of freeways, roads, public
works, and private construction. Mineral extraction may
therefore be permitted if in accord with these policies.
EN-46 Existing mineral eartraction operations (as specifically authorized -
by a City pernut to mine) shall be allowed to continue operation
for the duration of, and in accord with, their existing permits.
EN-47 Mineral extraction operations shall not be considered a permitted
use in any zoning district. They are to be reviewed as special
uses and shall be conducted only in accord with the measures
Page 9-10
Amended 2009
Environment.
needed to mitigate any adverse impact. Permits for the opera.tion
shall be denied whenever any impact is deemed by the CiTy
Council to be unacceptable or cannot be acceptably mitigated.
EN-48 A final grading, draina.ge and erosion control plan shall be
submitted with every application. Conditions of operation shall
be spelled out in detail with performance bonds required to
ensure compliance. Failure to comply with the provisions will be
adequate grounds for suspension and subsequent termination of
the pernut.
EN-49 The burden to demonstrate compliance with these policies and to
demonstrate the need for a new permit or a renewal of a permit
for any mineral extraction operation rests solely on the operator.
The burden to operate in compliance with these policies and any
permit issued in accord with the same shall also be on the
operator.
EN-50 The City shall consider impacts of mining on groundwater and
surface water quality as well as possible changes in hydrology as
a result of the mining during the environmental review process
and require appropriate mitigating measures to prevent water
quality degradation.
EN-51 Mineral resource areas or lands are those lands which have high
quality resources that can be eommercially mined for a minimum
- of twenty years (Map 9.4). Properties around which urban growth
is occurring should not be considered as mineral resource azeas.
As required by RCW 36.70A.060, the City shall require
notification on all plats, short plats, development permits and
building permits issued for development within 500 feet of these
lands on which a variety of commercial activities may occur that
are not compatible with residential development for certain
periods of limited duration.
EN-52 Additional mineral extraction operations or major expansion of
existing operations onto adjacent parcels shall be permitted
within mineral resource areas: Impacts of the operations must be
studied thoroughly under tlie provisions of SEPA, and the City
shall require implementation of a11 reasonable mitigating
measures identified in those studies. Pernuts for the operation
and renewal of permits for existing operations shall be denied
whenever any impact cannot be acceptably mitigated.
EN-53 Additional mineral extraction operations or expansions of
existing opera.tions will only be allowed outside of mineral
Page 9-I 1
Amended 2009
Environmeut
resource areas where it is advisable to modify slope to create
usable land (or to provide another public benefit associated with
the site) and where the community will suffer no substantial short
or long term adverse effect. Impacts of the operations must be
studied thoroughly under the provisions of SEPA, and the City
shall require implementa.tion of all reasonable mitigating
measures identified in those studies. Permits for the operation
and renewal of permits for existing.operations shall be denied
whenever any impact cannot be acceptably mitigated.
EN-54 New mineral extraction operations and expa.nsion of existing
mineral extraction operations will not be permitted in areas
designated for "open space" uses.
EN-55 The creation of usable land consistent with this comprehensive
plan should be the end result of a mineral exrtraction operation.
The amount of material to be removed sha11 be consistent with
the end use. While this policy shall be rigidly applied to
developed areas and to all areas outside of mineral resource
azeas, some flexibility may be appropriate within mineral
resource areas.
EN-56 Aesthetic qualities, erosion control, the effect on community and
the creation of usable land which is consistent with approved
Washington State Deparlment of Natural Resources and City
Reclamation Plans shall be the primary considerations in a
decision to grant a pemut for a new mineral extraction opera.tion
or to extend the scope of an existing minera.T extraction operation
outside designated mineral resource areas..
GOAL 19. I3AZAItIDS
To minimize the risk from environmental and manmade hazards to present
and future residents of the community.
Objective 19.1. To reduce potential hazards associated with flood plains without unduly
restricting the benefits associated with the continued development of the
Lower Green River Valley floor.
Policies:
EN-57 The City sha11 seek to protect human health and safety and, to
minimize damage to the property of area inhabitants by
minimizing the potential for and extent of flooding or inundaxion.
Page 9-12
Amended 2009
Environment
EN-58 Flood prone properties outside of the floodway may be
developable provided that such development can meet the
standards set forth in the Fedefal gsed National Flood Iinsura.nce
. Pprogram.
EN-59 Any subdivision of property within the flood plain shall avoid
creating lots which would be subject to serious threats to life,
health and property from floodwaters.
EN-60 Site plan review shall be required under SEPA for any significant
(e.g. over the SEPA threshold) development in the flood plain.
Appropriate mitigating measures shall be required whenever
needed to reduce potential hazards.
EN-61 Any development within the floodway which would reduce the
capacity of the floodway shall'be prohibited.
EN-62 The City shall enact ordinances and review development
proposals in a manner which restricts and controls the discharge
of storm water from new development. At a minimum the peak
dischazge rate after development sha11 not exceed the . peak
dischazge rate before development.
EN-63 The City's development standaTds should require control and
management of storm waters in a manner which minimizes
impacts from flooding.
EN-64 The City shall consider the impacts of new development on
frequently flooded areas (Map 9.5) as part of its environmental
review process and require any appropriate mitigating measures.
As part of this review process, flood engineering and impact
studies may be required. Within FEMA designated 100 year
floodplains, the City of Auburn Re urv Floodplain, and other
designated frequently flooded areas, such mitigation may include
flood engineering studies, the provision of compensatory flood
storage, floodproofing of structures, elevating of structures, and
downstream or upstream improvements.
EN-65 Areas designated as frequently flooded azeas should include 100 yeaz future condition floodplains wherever future condition flows
have been modeled and adopted by the City as part of a basin
plan.
EN-66 Land uses and public and quasi-public facilities which would
present special risks, such as hazardous waste storage facilities,
hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and police and fire stations;
Page 9-13
Amended 2009
Environment
should not be constructed in designated frequently flooded areas
unless no reasonable alternative is available. If these facilities
are located in designated frequently flooded azeas, these facilities
and the access routes needed for their operation, should be built
in a manner that protects, public health and safety during at least
the 100 year flood. In addition, special measures should be taken
to ensure that hazardous or toxic substances aze not released into
flood waters.
EN-67 Developers in floodprone areas sha11 provide geotechnical
information which identifies seasonal high groundwater
elevations for a basis to design stormwater facilities in
conformance with CitY design criteria.
EN-68 The Mill Creek Basin Flood Control Plan, when completed, shall
be the basis for the establishment of downstream drainage
conditions for development in that area.
Objective 19.2. To ensure that development is properly located and constructed with
respect to the limitations of the underlying soils ancl subsurface drainage.
Policies:
EN-69 The City shall seek to ensure that land not be developed or
otherwise modified in a manner which will result in or
, significantly increase the potential for slope slippage, landslide,
subsidence or substantial soil erosion. The City's development
standards shall dictate :the use of Best Management Practices to
minimize the potential for these problems.
EN-70 Where there is a high probability of erosion (see Map 9.6),
grading should be kept to a minimum and disturbed vegetation
should be restored as soon as feasible. The City's development
standards shall dictate the use of Best Management Practices for
clearing and gra.ding activity.
EN-71 The City sha11 consider the impacts of new development on ,
hazards associated with soils and subsurface drainage as a part of
its environmental review process and require any appropriate
mitigating measures.
EN-72 Lazge scale speculative filling and grading activities not
associated with a development proposal sha11 be discouraged as it
reduces a vegetated site's natural ability to provide erosion
control and biofiltration, absorb storm water, and filter suspended
-
Page 9-14
Amended 2009
Environment
particulates. In instances where speculative filling is deemed
appropriate, disturbed vegeta.tion shall be restored as soon as
possible, and appropriate measures to control erosion and
sedimentation until the site is developed sha11 be required.
EN-73 The City sha11 consider the impacts of new development on Class
I and Class III landslide hazard areas (Map 9.7) as part of its
environmenta.l review process and require any appropriate
mitigating measures. The impacts of the new development, both
during and after construction, on adjacent properties shall also be
considered.
EN-74 Auburn will seek to retain areas with slopes in excess of 40
percent as primarily open space areas in order to protect against
erosion and landslide hazards and to limit significant removal of
, vegetation to help conserve Auburn's identity within the
metropolitan region. Slopes greater than 15 percent with zones of
emergent water (springs or ground water seepages) and all slopes
with mapable landslide potential identified by a geotechnical
study shall be protected from alteration.
EN-75 The City will require that a geotechnical report prepared by a
professional engineer licensed by the State of Washington with
expertise in geotechnical engineering be submitted for all
significant activities proposed within Class I and Class III
landslide hazard azeas (Map 9.7). The City shall develop
administrative guidelines which identify the procedures and
information required for the geotechnical reports.
EN-76 New development within Class I and Class III landslide hazard
areas (Map 9.7) shall be designed and located to minimize site
disturbance and removal of vegetation, and to maintain the
natural topographic character of the site. Clustering of structures,
minimizing building footprints, and retaining trees and other
natural vegetation, shall be considered.
Objective 19.3. To reduce risks associated with the transportation and storage of
hazardous ma.terials.
Policies: EN-77 The City shall seek to.minirnize the exposure of area inhabitants
to the risk of explosion or hazardous emissions, and to require
proposals involving the potential risk of an explosion or the
release of hazardous substances to include specific measures
which will protect the public health, safety and welfare.
Page 9-15
Amended 2009
Environment
EN-78 The risk of hazardous materials, substances and wastes shall be
incorporated into the City's emergency management programs..
EN-79 New commercial (other than retail commercial) or industrial uses
which involve the transport or storage of hazardous materials,
substances or wastes shall only be located in that portion of the
designated Region Serving Area of the City between the
Burlington Northern Railroad tracks and east of ttie West Valley
Highway.
EN-80 Any existing.wholesale storage or manufacturing of hazardous
materials, substances or wastes in the designated Community
Serving Area of the City, or within 2000 feet of a school or
medical facility, shall be considered a non-conforming use and
the City should assertively seek its removal.
EN-81 The treatment, storage, processing, handling and disposal of any
hazardous material, substances or wastes shall be only in the
strictest compliance with any applicable local, state or federal
law.
EN-82 The City shall consider the imPacts Posed bY new develoPment
on risks associated with hazardous materials, substances and
wastes as a part of its environmental review process and require
any appropriate mitigating measures. "
EN-83 The Local Hazardous Waste Management Plan for Seattle/King
County, and the King County Solid Waste Interlocal Resolution
No. 90-001, are hereby adopted and incorporated as an element
of the City of Auburn Comprehensive Plan.
EN-84 The City's surface water, ground water, sanitary, and storm
drainage systems shall be protected from contamination by
hazardous materials or other contaminants.
EN-85 Use or removal of existing underground storage tanks shall only
be done in the strictest compliance with applicable local, state
and federal law.
GOAL 20 POLICIES FOR PROTECTION OF ENDANGEI2ED FISH
SPECIES
The City recognizes that anadromous Salmonids require clean, cool, well- oxygenated water in adequate quantity for survival and especially during
Page 9-16
Amended 2009
Environment
the critical periods of rearing and migration both before spawning and
after juveniles emerge. Salmonid eggs are highly affected during
incubation and ha.tching by water temperature, flow velocity, water quality
and excessive turbidity. Streams composed of complex habitats with a
high proportion of riffles and pools provide productive spawning habitats,
as well as juvenile rearing azeas in eddying and off-channel areas.
Objective 20.1 To aid in the protection of listed and; candidate endangered fish species.
Policies:
EN-86 The City will continue to participate and support the various
State, Rederal and local programs including Water Resource
Inventory Area (WRIA) No. 9(Green River) and WRIA No. 10
(White-Stuck River) to protect and restore endangered species.
EN-87 The City shall seek to minimize surface water quality and aquatic
habitat degradation of creeks, streams, rivers, ponds, lalces and
other water bodies; to preserve and enhance the suitability of
such water bodies as habitat for restoration of endangered
species.
EN-88 The City shall obtain information during the review of
development proposals, as it relates to the Endangered Species
Act, so that best management practices and best available science
are considered and included in 'the City's evaluation and
decision-making process.
' EN-89 The City shall identify the types and qualities of aquatic
resources within its borders and further deyelop plans and
program for the protection and enhancement of these resources
based on their characteristics.
GOAL 21 GENERAL POLICIES AND REGULATIONS WITHIN AUBURN'S
SHORELINES
The following general policies and regulations apply to all shorelines of
the state that are located in Auburn, regardless of the specific shoreline
environment designation in any one location.
Objective 21.1 Ensure conservation and restoration within Auburn's shorelines.
Polices:
Page 9-17
Amended 2009
Environment
EN-90 Prioritize enhancement and restoration efforts at public parks and
public open space lands.
EN-91 Work with owners of other publicly-owned land to encourage
restoration and enhancementprojects.
EN-92 Work with the public and other interested parties to prioritize
restoration opportunities identified in the Shoreline Inventory
and Characterization Report.
EN-93 Promote vegetation restoration, and the control of invasive weeds
and nonnative species to avoid adverse impacts to hydrology, ~
and reduce the hazard of slope failures or accelerated erosion.
EN-94 Integra.te bioengineering and/or soft engineering approaches into .
local and regional flood control rneasures, infrastructure, and
related capital improvement projects.
EN-95 Develop a program to implement restoration projects, including ,
funding strategies.
EN-96 Monitor and adaptively manage restoration projects.
EN-97 Continue to work with the State, King County, Pierce County,
Watershed Resource Inventory Area (WRIA) 9 and 10 Forums,.
the Muckleshoot Tribe, and other governmental and non-
governmental organizations to explore how local govemments
(with their assistance) can best address the needs of preserving
ecological processes and shoreline functions.
EN-98 Continue to work with the State, King County, Pierce County;
Green River Flood Control Zone District, and the Inter-County
River Improvement Agency to identify and implement flood
management stra.tegies that protect existing development and
restores floodplain and channel migration functions.
EN-99 Continue to work with the WRIA 9 and 10 Forums to restore
shoreline habitats and seasonal ranges that support listed
Page 9-18
Amended 2009
Environment
, endangered and threatened species, as well as other anadromous
fisheries.
EN-100 Create incentives that will make it economically or otherwise
attractive to integrate shoreline ecological restoration into
development projects.
EN-101 Encourage restoration or enhancement of native riparianvegetation through incentives and non-regulatory programs.
EN-102 Establish public education materials to provide shoreline
landowners technical assistance about the benefits of native
vegetation plantings.
EN-103 Explore opportunities with other educational organizations and
agencies to develop an on-going program of shoreline education
for all ages.
EN-104 Identify areas where kiosks and interpretive signs can enhance
the educational experiences of users of shoreline areas.
EN-105 Develop strategies to fund shoreline-related edueational and
interpretive projects.
Objective 21.2 Shoreline Vegetation Conservation.
. '
Polices:
EN-106 Developments and activities in the City's shoreline should be
planned and designed to retain native vegetation or replace
shorelirie vegetation with na.tive species to achieve no net loss of
the ecological functions and ecosystem-wide processes
performed by vegetation.
' EN-107 Woody debris should be left in river corridors to enhance wildlife
habitat and shoreline eeological functions, except where it
threatens personal safety or critical infrastructure, such as bridge
pilings. In such cases where debris poses a threat, it should be
dislodged, but should not be removed from the river.
l
, Page 9-19
Amended 2009
Environment
Objective 21.3 Environmental Impact Mitigation.
Polices:
EN-108 All shoreline use and development should be carried out in a
manner that avoids and minimizes adverse impacts so that the
resulting ecological conditions do not become worse than the
current condition. This means assuring no net loss of ecological
functions and processes and protecting critical areas designated
in Appendix A, Chapter 16.10 "Critical Areas" that are located in
' the shoreline. Should a proposed use and development
potentially create significant adverse environmental impacts not
otherwise avoided or mitigated by compliance with the master
program, the Director should require mitigation measures to
ensure no net loss of shoreline ecological functions.
Objective 21.4 Critical Areas.
Policies:
EN-109 Provide a level of protection to critical areas within the shoreline
that is at least equal to that which is provided by the City's
critical areas regulations adopted pursuant to the Growth.
Management Act and the City's Compreherisive Plan.
EN-110 Allow activities in critical areas that protect and, where possible,
restore the ecological functions and ecosystem-wide processes of
the City's shoreline. If conflicts between the SMP and the critical
area regulations arise, the regulations that are most consistent
with the SMA or its WAC provisions will govern.
EN-111 Preserve, protect, restore and/or mitigate wetlands within and
associated with the City's shorelines to aehieve no net loss of
wetland area and wetland functions. '
EN-112 Developments in shoreline areas that are identified as
geologically hazardous or pose a foreseeable risk to people and
improvements during the life of the development should not be
allowed.
Page 9-20
Amended 2009
Environment
Objective 21.5 Public Access (including views).
Policies:
EN-113 Public access improvements should not result in adverse impacts
to the natural character, and quality of the shoreline and
associated wetlands or result in a net loss of shoreline ecological
functions. Developments and activities within the shoreline
should not impair: or detract from the public's visual or physical
access to the water:
EN-114 Protection and enhancement of the public's physical and visual
access to shorelines should be encouraged. -
EN-115 The amount and diversity of public access to shorelines should be
increased ' consistent with the natural shoreline character,
properry rights, and public safety. ,
EN-116 Publicly owned shorelines should be limited to water-dependent
or public recreation uses, otherwise such shorelines should'
remain protected, undeveloped open space.
EN-117 Public access should be designed to provide for public safety;
Public access facilities should provide awxiliary facilities, such as
' parking and sanitation facilities, when appropriate, and should be
designed to be ADA accessible.
Objective 21.6 Flood Hazazd Reduction.
Policies:
EN-118 T'he Gity should manage flood protection through the City's
Comprehensive Stormwater Drainage Plan, Comprehensive Plan,
stormwater regulations, and flood hazard area regulations.
EN-119 Discourage development within the floodplains associated with
the City's shorelines that would individually or cumulatively
result in an increase to the risk of flood damage.
Page 9-21
Amended 2009
-
- --ment
nvirnn
EN-120 Non-structural flood hazard reduction measures should be given
preference over structural measures. Structural flood hazard
reduction measures should be avoided whenever possible. When
necessary, they should be accomplished in a manner tha.t assures
no net loss of ecological function and ecosystem-wide processes.
Non-structural measures include setbacks; land use controls
prohibiting or limiting development in areas that havi-a-are
historically flooded, stormwater mana.gement plans, or
bioengineering measures.
EN-121 Where possible, public aecess should be integrated into publiely
financed flood control and management facilities.
Objective 21.7 Water Quality; Storm Water'and Non-Point Pollution.
Policies:
EN-122 The City should preyent impacts to water' quality and storm water
quantity that would result in a net loss of shoreline ecological
functions; or a significant impact to aesthetic qualities, or
recreational opportunities.
E1N-123 Storm water management treatment, conveyance, or discha,rge
facilities should be discouraged in the shoreline jurisdictiorr
unless no other feasible alternative is available.
EN-124 Low impact development techniques that allow for greater
amount of storm water to infiltrate into the soil should be
encouraged to reduce storm water run-off.
EN-125 Encourage conservation of existing shoreline vegetation which
provides water quality protection by slowing and filtering storm
water run-off.
Objective 21.8 Educational and Archeological Areas and Historic Sites.
Policies:
Page 9-22
Amended 2009
Environment
EN-126 Where possible, Educational and Archeological Areas and
Historic sites in the shoreline should be permanently preserved
for scientific study, education, and public observation.
EN-127 Consideration should be given to the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966 and Chapter 43.51 RCW to provide for
, the protection, rehabilita.tion, restoration and reconstruction of
districts, sites, buildings, structures and objects located or
associated with the shoreline that are significant in American,
Washington and local history, architecture, archeology or
culture.
EN-128 Where feasible and appropriate, access trails to shorelines should
incorporate access to educational signage acknowledging
protected, historical, cultural and archeological sites or areas in
the shoreline.
Objective 21.9 Nonconfornung Use and Development Standards.
Policies:
EN-129 Legally established uses and developments that predate the
City's Shoreline Master Program (1973, as amended) should be
allowed to continue as legal nonconforming uses provided that
future development or redevelopment does not increase the
degree of nonconfornuty with this program.
GOAL 22 SHORELINE MOIDIFICAT'ION
Shoreline modifications are generally related to construction of a physical
element such as a levee, bulkhead, or pier at or near the edge of a river or
extending into the channel. Other modification actions include dredging,
filling, or vegetation clearing. Modifications are usually undertaken in
support of or in preparation for an allowed shoreline use or development.
Objective 22.1 Prohibited Modifications
The following shoreline modifications are prohibited in all shoreline
environments unless addressed separately in this shoreline master program
under another use:
1. Breakwaters, jetties, groins and weirs:
2. Dune modifications; and
Page 9-23
Amended 2009
Environment
3. Piers and docks.
i
Objective 22.2 Dredging Dredge Material Disposal.
Policies:
. EN-130 Dredging and dredge matenal disposal should be done in manner
which avoids or minimizes significant ecological impacts. Where
impacts cannot be avoided, mitigation measures are required that
result in no net loss of shoreline ecological functions.
EN-131 Dredge spoil disposal in water bodies, on shorelands, or wetlands
within a river's channel migration zone should be discouraged,
except as needed for habitat improvement.
EN-132 New development sha11 be sited and designed to avoid or, if that
is not possible, to minimize the need for new and maintenance
dredging.
Objective 22.3 Piers and Docks.
Policies:
EN-133 The City should discourage the construction of new piers, docks,
or floats in the shoreline jurisdiction along the Green and White
Rivers.
Objective 22.4 Shoreline Stabilization (bulkheads and revetments).
Policies:
EN-134 Shoreline stabilization activities that may necessitate new or
increased shoreline stabilization on the same or other a.ffected
properties where there has been no previous need for
stabilization should be discouraged.
EN-135 New shoreline uses and development shoul be located away
from the shoreline in order to preclude the need for new
stabilization structures.
Page 9-24
Amended 2009
Environment _
EN-136 Structural or "hard" shoreline stabiliza.tion techniques and
structures should be allowed only after it is demonstrated that
non-structural or "soft" shoreline protection measures are not
feasible.
EN-137 The cumulative effect of allowing bulkheads or revetrnents along
river segments should be evaluated. If it is deternuned that the
cumulative effects of bulkheads or revelments would have an
adverse effect on shoreline functions or processes, then permits
for them should not be granted. EN-13$ Bulkheads should not be pemutted as a solution to geo-physical
problems such as mass slope failure, sloughing, or land slides.
Bulkheads and revetments sfiould only be approved for the
purposes of protecting existing developments by preventing bank
erosion by the rivers.
Objective 2-.422.5 Clearing and Crrading.
Policies:
EN-139 Clearing and grading activities should only be allowed in
association with a permitted shoreline development.
EN-140 Clearirig and grading activities shall be limited to the minimum
necessary for the intended development, including residential
development.
Objective 22.6 Fi1L
Policies:
EN-141 Fill placed waterward of the OHWM should be prohibited and
only all "owed to facilitate water dependent uses restoration
projects.
EN-142 Where pernutted, fill should be the minimum necessary to
. provide for the proposed use and should be permitted only when -
Page 9-25
Amended 2009
.
Environment
tied to a specific development proposal that is permitted by the
, Shoreline Master Progratn.
EN-143 The perimeter of fill activities should be designed to avoid or
eliminate erosion and sedimentation impacts, both during initial
fill activities and over time.
Objective 22.7 Shoreline Habitat and Natural Systems Enhancement Projects. _
Policies:
EN-144 All proposed shoreline habitat and natural systems enhancement
projects should assure that the activities associated with each
project address legitimate restoration needs and priorities and
facilitate implementation of the Restoration Plan developed with
this Shoreline Master Program pursuant to WAC 173-26-
201(2)(f)•
GOAL 23 ' SHORELINE USE
Shoreline use activities aze developments or activities that exist or are,
anticipated to occupy shoreline locations.
Objective 23.1 Prohibited Uses within the Shoreline Environment.
Policies:
EN-145 The following uses should be prohibited in a11 shoreline
environments unless addressed separately in " the Shoreline
Master Program under another use: See Section 1 2 of the
Shoreline Master Program for definitions of the following uses:
1. Boat houses;
- 2. Commercial development;
3. Forest practices; and
4. Industrial development;
5. New or expanded mining; and
6. Permanent solid waste storage or transfer
facilities.
Page 9-26
Amended 2009
Environment
Objective 23.2 Agriculture
Policies:
EN-146 This Program allows for existing, ongoing agricultural activities
while also maintaining shoreline ecological functions and
processes.
EN-147 Agricultural activities that do not meet the definition for existing
and ongoing agricultural activities should not be allowed in the
shoreline.
EN-148 Appropriate farm management techniques and new development
construction should be encouraged to prevent contamination of
nearby water bodies and adverse effects on valuable plant, f sh,
and animal life from fertilizer, herbicides and pesticide use and
applicafion.
- ' EN-149 A vegetative buffer should be encouraged to be placed and
maintained between agricultural lands and water bodies or
wetlands in order to reduce harmful bank erosion and resulting in
sedimentation, enhance water quality, provide shade, reduce
flood hazard, and maintain habitat for fish and wildlife,
EN-150 Public access to the shoreline should be encouraged where it does
not conflict with agricultural activities.
EN-151 Proposals to convert agricultuTal uses to other uses should
comply, with a11 policies and regulations established by the
CompreHensive Plan and this Master Program for said uses and
should not result in a net loss of ecological functions.
Objective 23.3 Aqua.culture
Policies:
EN-152 Aquaculture is a water-dependent use, and when consistent with
control of pollution and avoidance of adverse impacts to the
Page 9-27
Amended 2009
Envvonment
environment and preservation of habitat for resident native
species, is an accepted use of the shoreline.
EN-153 Development of aquaculture facilities and associated activities,
such as hatcheries and fish counting stations should assure no net
loss to shoreline ecological functions or processes. Aquacultural
facilities should be designed and located so as not to spread
disease to native aquatic life, establish new non-native species
which cause significant ecological impacts, or significantly
impact the aesthetic qualities of the shoreline.
EN-154 Since locations for aquaculture activities are somewhat limited
and require specific water quality, temperature, oxygen content,
and adjacent land use conditions, arid because the technology
associated with some forms of aquaculture is still experimental,
some latitude should be given when implementing the
regulations of this section, provided that potential impacts on
existing uses and shoreline ecological functions and processes
are given due consideration. Experimental aquaculture projects
should be monitored and adaptively managed to maintain
shoreline ecological functions and processes.
Objective 23.4 Boating Facilities.
Policies:
EN-155 Boating facilities should not be allowed unless they are
accessible to the general public or serve, a commuriity.
EN-156 New boat launching ramps should be allowed only where they
are located at sites with suitable environmental conditions,
shoreline configurations, access and neighboring uses.
EN-157 Development of new or modifications to existing boat launching
ramps and associated and accessory uses should not result in a
net loss of shoreline ecological functions or other significanf
adverse impacts.
Objective 23.5 In-Stream Structural Use.
Policies:
EN-158 Approval of applications forin-stream structures should require
inclusion of provisions for the protection and preservation of
Page 9-28 .
Amended 2009
Environment
ecosystem-wide processes, ecological functions, and cultural
' resources, including, but not limited to, fish and fish passage,
wildlife and water resources, shoreline critical areas, hydro
geological processes, and natural scenic vistas.
EN-159 The location and planning of in-stream structures should give
consideration to the full range of public interests, watershed
functions and processes, and environmental concerns, with
special emphasis on protecting and restoring priority habitats and
species.
EN-160 Non-structural and non-regulatory methods to protect, enhance,
and restore shoreline ecological functions and processes and
other shoreline resources should be encouraged as an alternative
to structural in-stream structures.
Objective 23.6 Mining.
Policies:
EN-161 Limit mining activities near the shoreline to existing mining uses:
Objective 23.7 Recreation.
Policies:
EN-162 Prioritize shoreline recreational development that provides public
access, enjoyment and use of the water and shorelines of the
State over other non water-oriented recreational uses.
EN463 Shoreline azeas with the potential for providing recreation or
public access opportunities should be identified for this use and,
wherever possible, acquired and incorporated into the Public
Park and open space system.
~ EN-164 Public recreational facilities should be located, designed and
operated in a manner consistent with the purpose of the
environment designation in which they are located and such that
no net loss of shoreline ecological functions or ecosystem-wide
, processes result.
Page 9-29
Amended 2009
En"vironment
EN-165 The coordination of local, state, and federal recreation plarining
should be encouraged so as to mutually satisfy needs. Shoreline
recreational developmenfs should be consistent with the City's
Comprehensive Plan and Parks, Recreation and Open Space
Plan.
EN-166 Reereational development should not interfere with public use of
navigable waters.
Objective 23.8 Residential Development.
Policies:
EN-167 New over-water residences, including floating homes, are not a
preferred use and should be prohibited.
EN-168 New multiunit residential development and land subdivisions for
more than four parcels should provide community and/or public
access in conformance to the City's publie access planning and
this Shoreline Master Program. Adjoining access shall be
considered in making this determination.
EN-169 Accessory development (to either multiple family or single
family) should be designed and located to blend into the site as
much as possible.
EN-170 New residential development should avoid the need for new
shoreline stabilization or flood hazard reduction measures that
would cause significant impacts to other properties or public
improvements or a net loss of shoreline ecological functions.
Objective 23.9 Signs.
Policies:
EN-171 Signs should be designed, constructed and placed so that they aze
compatible with the natural quality of the shoreline environment
and adjacent land and water uses.
-
Page 9-30
Amended 2009
Environment
Objective 23.10 Transportation.
Policies:
EN-172 Plan, locate, design and where appropriate construct, proposed
roads, non-motorized systems and pazking facilities where routes
will have the least possible adverse effect on unique or fragile
shoreline features, will not result in a net loss of shoreline
ecological functions or adversely impact existing or planned
watei-dependent uses. Where other options are available and
feasible, new roads or road expansions should not be built within
shoreline jurisdiction.
EN-173 The number of river crossings should be minimized.
EN-174 Parking facilities in shorelines are not preferred and shall be
allowed only as necessary to support an authorized use and then
as remote from the shoreline as possible.
EN-175 Trail and bicycle systems should be encouraged along the White
and Green Rivers wherever possible.
EN-176 Joint use of transportation corridors within the shoreline
jurisdiction for roads, utilities, and non-motorized transportation
should be encouraged.
EN-177 New railroad corridors should be prohibited.
Objective 23.11 Utilities.
Policies:
EN-178 Utility facilities should be designed and located to assure no net
loss of shoreline ecological functions, preserve the natural
landscape and vistas, preserve and protect fish and wildlife
habitat, and minimize conflicts with present and planned land
and shoreline uses.
EN-179 Primary utility production and processing facilities, such as
power plants, sewage treahnent plants, water reclamation plants,
Page 9-31
Amended 2009
r
Environment
or parts of those facilities that are non-water-oriented should not
be allowed in shoreline areas.
EN-180 Utilities should utilize existing transportation and utilities sites,
rights-of-way and corridors, whenever possible. Joint use of
rights-of-way and corridors should be encouraged.
EN-181 Transmission facilities for the conveyance of services, such as
power lines, cables, and pipelines, shall be located outside of the
shoreline azea where feasible. Where no other option exists,
utilities should be placed underground or alongside or under
bridges.
EN-182 New utilities facilities should be located so as not to require
extensive shoreline protection structures.
EN-183 Where storm water management, conveyance, and dischazge
facilities are pernutted in the shoreline, they should be limited to
the minimum size needed to accomplish their purpose and should
be sited and designed in a manner that avoids, or mitigates
adverse effects to the physical, hydrologic, or ecological
functions.
EN-184 Stormwater conveyance facilities should utilize existing
transportation and utility sites, rights-of-.way and corridors, .
whenever possible. Joint use of right-of-way and corridors
should be encouraged.
Page 9-32
Amended 2009