HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-30-2024 04.30.24 P.C. PACKETPlanning Commission Meeting
April 30, 2024 - 6:00 P M
Special Meeting - City Hall Council
Chambers
A GE NDA
I .P UB L I C PART I C IPAT IO N
A .P ublic P articipation I nformation
The City of A uburn S pecial Planning Commission Meeting scheduled for Tuesday,
A pril 30, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. will be held in person and virtually. To attend the meeting
virtually, click one of the links below, or call in at one of the phone numbers listed below:
J oin Z oom Meeting
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Meeting I D: 799 910 2307
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I I .C AL L T O O RD E R
A .RO L L C AL L/E S TAB L I S HM E NT O F Q UO RUM
B .P L E D G E O F AL L E G I ANC E
I I I .P UB L I C C O M M E NT
Comment from the audience on any proposal for action by the Commission. I f the comment
is related to an action subsequently listed here as a public hearing, the comment should be
provided at the time of the public hearing.
I V.O T HE R B US I NE S S
A .P resentation Overview (Steiner)
S taff will provide a brief overview of Element Presentations and Public Hearing
schedule.
B .P arks and Recreation E lement (Gouk)
S taff presentation of the proposed changes to the P arks and Recreation E lement.
Page 1 of 200
C.Climate Element (Tatro)
S taff presentation on the proposed changes to the Climate E lement.
V.P UB L I C HE ARI NG S
A .Historic Preservation Element (Reed)
P ublic Hearing for the public testimony and Planning Commission deliberation on the
Historic Preservation Element.
B .E conomic Development E lement (Francis)
P ublic Hearing for public testimony and P lanning Commission deliberation on the
E conomic Development E lement.
V I .AD J O URNM E NT
The City of Auburn Planning Commission is a seven member advisory body that provides
recommendations to the Auburn City Council on the preparation of and amendments to land
use plans and related codes such as zoning. Planning Commissioners are appointed by the
Mayor and confirmed by the City Council.
Actions taken by the Planning Commission, other than approvals or amendments to the
Planning Commission Rules of Procedure, are not final decisions; they are in the form of
recommendations to the city council which must ultimately make the final decision.
Page 2 of 200
AGENDA BILL APPROVAL FORM
Agenda Subject:
Presentation Overview (Steiner)
Date:
April 22, 2024
Department:
Community Development
Attachments:
2024 Comp Plan Memorandum
Budget Impact:
Current Budget: $0
Proposed Revision: $0
Revised Budget: $0
Administrativ e Recommendation:
Background for Motion:
Background Summary:
See attached Memorandum
Rev iewed by Council Committees:
Councilmember:Staff:Steiner
Meeting Date:April 30, 2024 Item Number:
Page 3 of 200
Memorandum
To: Judi Roland, Chair, Planning Commission
Planning Commission Members
From: Josh Steiner, Senior Long-Range Planner, Comm. Dev. Dept.
Dinah Reed, Senior Planner, Comm. Dev. Dept.
Jenn Francis, Economic Development Manager, Comm. Dev. Dept.
Alyssa Tatro, Planner II, Comm. Dev. Dept.
Thaniel Gouk, Parks Planning and Development Manager, Parks, Arts, and Recreation
Department
Date: April 30, 2024
Re: Special Meeting: 2024 Comprehensive Plan - Planning Commission
Each city and county in Washington state is required to conduct a periodic update of its
comprehensive plan and development regulations per RCW 36.70A.130 (The Growth
Management Act or GMA). In general, the purpose is to ensure consistency with the Puget
Sound Regional Council Vision 2050, the Countywide Planning Policies (for Auburn this means
both Pierce and King County), any changes in state laws over the intervening time, and to
respond to changing conditions within the local community.
Tonight, a public hearing on the Historic Preservation Element and Economic Development
Element will be conducted. Additionally, staff will be presenting on the Climate Element and the
Parks and Recreation Element of the Comprehensive Plan. Presentations will include a
discussion of the proposed changes and the purpose and implication of the changes. This
meeting is open to the public and has been advertised appropriately as a Special Meeting.
Table 1 illustrates current, past, and upcoming Planning Commission meetings for the
Comprehensive Plan update, as well as subject.
Subject Public
Meeting
Public
Hearing
Deliberation and
Action
Land Use N/A
Housing N/A
Historic Preservation Tonight May 7
Economic Development Tonight May 7
Climate Tonight May 7 May 21
Parks and Open Space Tonight May 7 May 21
Sewer System Plan May 21 June 4 June 18
Page 4 of 200
Transportation June 4 June 18 July 2
PROS Plan June 4 June 18 July 2
Stormwater Plan June 4 June 18 July 2
Capital Facilities June 18 July 2 If Needed
Water System Plan July 2 July 16 If Needed
Utilities Element July 2 July 16 If Needed
Planning Commission Comp Plan
Action July 16
For reference, the current adopted Comprehensive Plan Elements can be found here.
Feel free to contact Josh Steiner, Senior Planner, at jsteiner@auburnwa.gov or 253-804-5064
with any questions.
Included Attachments:
Attachment A – Parks and Recreation Element Presentation
Attachment B – Parks and Recreation Element (v1)
Attachment C - Parks and Recreation Element (v2)
Attachment D – Climate Element Presentation
Attachment E – Climate Element (v2)
Attachment F – Climate Element Framework
Attachment G – Historic Preservation Element Presentation
Attachment H – Historic Preservation Element (v3)
Attachment I – Economic Development Element Presentation
Attachment J – Economic Development Element (v3)
Note: V1 = Currently adopted Plan showing staff edits
V2 = Clean version of V1 with staff edits incorporated
V3 = Clean version of V2 with edits incorporated, showing edits in response to public
comments, Planning Commission comments, and/or agency comments. May include
maps or other figures that have been amended by staff since V2 in response to
comments.
If V1 is not available, please see currently adopted Element via link above.
Page 5 of 200
AGENDA BILL APPROVAL FORM
Agenda Subject:
Parks and Recreation Element (Gouk)
Date:
April 22, 2024
Department:
Community Development
Attachments:
Attachment A - Parks and Recreation Element
Presentation
Attachment B - Parks and Recreation Element V1
Attachment C - Parks and Recreation Element V2
Budget Impact:
Current Budget: $0
Proposed Revision: $0
Revised Budget: $0
Administrativ e Recommendation:
Background for Motion:
Background Summary:
See Attachments
Rev iewed by Council Committees:
Councilmember:Staff:Gouk
Meeting Date:April 30, 2024 Item Number:
Page 6 of 200
AUBURN
VALUES
SERVICE
ENVIRONMENT
ECONOMY
CHARACTER
SUSTAINABILITY
WELLNESS
CELEBRATION
CITY DEPARTMENTS
2024 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
PARKS ELEMENT
THANIEL GOUK, PARK PLANNING &
DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
PLANNING COMMISSION SPECIAL MEETING
APRIL 30, 2024
Department of Community Development
Planning Building Development Engineering Permit Center
Economic Development Community Services ● Code Enforcement
Page 7 of 200
A.The Parks Element will update the Goals and Policies
-Provide long-term guidance for maintaining, enhancing, and
providing additional high-quality park and recreation opportunities
-The City uses the Element to guide parks, trails, and open space
acquisition and development
-Element supports the overall City of Auburn Parks, Recreation &
Open Space (PROS) Plan
-What is the PROS Plan:
-Vision for the Future
-Inventory
-Goals & Objectives
-Identify Short & Long-Term Projects
-Funding Strategies
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
PARKS ELEMENT
Purpose and Scope of Comprehensive Plan Amendments
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATIONPage 8 of 200
A.Update of the PROS Plan will:
-Create a vision for the Parks system and needs of the community
-Inventory parks, recreation, trails, and open space facilities
-Establishes goals, objectives, recommendations and actions
-Identifies service levels, costs, and funding options (including Park
Impact Fees)
-Recommend implementation strategies
-Review of PROS Plan will be in June
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
PARKS ELEMENT
Parks, Recreation & Open Space (PROS) Plan Update
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATIONPage 9 of 200
Updates based on:
2023 City of Auburn Parks, Recreation and Open Space Survey
2023 Washington State Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation
Plan (SCORP)
Park and Recreation staff meetings
Participation rates and interests
Evaluation of existing park conditions.
Core Changes to Parks Element
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
PARKS ELEMENT
Updated Goals and Policies
Page 10 of 200
Element Supports the overall Parks, Recreation, and Open
Space (PROS) Plan
PROS Plan:
Compliance required for State Recreation and Conservation Office
(RCO) grants
Guidance for the Department
Input on the Capital Facilities Plan (CFP) for Parks, Golf Course, Museum
and Farm, and Cemetery
Updates to Park Impact Fees (PIFs)
Potential Implications of Proposed Changes
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
PARKS ELEMENT
Page 11 of 200
May 7th – Public Hearing on Parks Element
May 21 st – Action on Parks Element
June 4th – Public Meeting on PROS Plan
June 18th – Public Hearing on PROS Plan
July 2nd – Action on PROS Plan
Next Steps
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
PARKS ELEMENT
Page 12 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn
Parks and
Recreation Element
Page 13 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Table of Contents
Introduction ....................................................................................................................................................... 1
Vision ..................................................................................................................................................................... 1
Goals and Policies ........................................................................................................................................... 1
Page 14 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Element | PRE- 1
Introduction
Adequate parks and recreation facilities are an essential amenity to maintain a
suitable quality of life in the community. As the population of Auburn grows, the
demand for its parks and recreational programs will increase. To maintain Auburn’s
quality of life, the supply of these parks and programs must keep pace with the
demand placed on them by a growing population.
Open space also plays a key role in the quality of life in an area. While many
understand the concept of the attraction of the western United States and its
“open spaces,” the concept of open space becomes less clear when it comes to
open space and its appropriateness to a City such as Auburn. The policies below
provide a definition of open space as applied to Auburn and its surroundings and
provide a framework for the identification and preservation of these areas.
Vision
A diverse mix of park and recreation amenities, open spaces, and trails are
distributed throughout the City and accessible to the majority of the population.
Nonmotorized trails and paths connect residential neighborhoods, commercial
centers, and other attractions. People are visiting Auburn because of the robust
inventory and quality of park spaces and associated event programming.
Community facilities are accessible and are serving the needs of our seniors, youth,
and the rest of the community.
Goals and Policies
The mission of the Auburn Parks, Arts and Recreation Department is to “Protect the
City of Auburn’s natural beauty through a vibrant system of parks, open space, and
trails while enhancing the quality of life for our residents by providing outstanding
recreational and cultural opportunities.”
The goals and policies outlined in this chapter were developed from the following
resources:
2015 City of Auburn Park, Arts and Recreation Open Space Plan
2023 City of Auburn Parks, Recreation and Open Space Survey
2023 Washington State Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan
(SCORP)
Park and Recreation staff meetings
Participation rates and interests
Evaluation of existing park conditions.
Page 15 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Element | PRE- 2
Goal 1: Serve all residents and provide a broad range of programs
and facilities in order to serve all residents regardless of age or
ability.
The Auburn Parks, Arts, and Recreation Department is committed to offering
leisure and recreational programs and facilities that are accessible to all residents
in our community. We recognize the unique needs of certain groups within our
population and are dedicated to continually improving our facilities and programs
to cater to these needs. This includes increasing awareness of our facilities and
programs by incorporating both innovative and traditional methods to engage our
citizens.
Policies
PR-1. Incorporate diverse activities: Offer a range of recreational facilities and
programs that cater to different age groups, interests, and fitness levels to improve
the physical and mental well-being of community members.
PR-2. Promote accessibility: Develop a comprehensive system of neighborhood and
community parks ensuring that every resident lives within a half-mile walking
distance to a developed park.
PR-3. Adapt to trends: Regularly survey community members to understand
changing recreational trends and develop multi-use facilities that can be adapted
to meet these evolving needs.
PR-4. Identify and serve: Continually identify under-served segments of the
population and develop targeted programs to satisfy their unmet needs.
PR-5. Expand reach: Utilize both traditional and digital marketing strategies to
ensure the widest possible distribution of information concerning park facilities
and recreation programs.
PR-6. Affordability: Strive to provide programs and facilities that are affordable to
local residents, considering tiered pricing structures or discounts for certain groups
where appropriate.
PR-7. Expand financial aid: Continue to improve and expand the Fee Waiver and
Scholarship Programs, exploring partnerships with local businesses or grants to
allow more low-income youth and seniors to participate at reduced rates.
PR-8. Improve accessibility: Continue to improve access for the disabled and
seniors by providing wheelchair ramps and other appropriate facilities in parks
where they do not currently exist, and consider adding more sensory-friendly
spaces.
PR-9. Encourage participation: Maintain an open decision-making process that
allows for resident input, perhaps through regular town hall meetings or an online
suggestion portal.
Page 16 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Element | PRE- 3
PR-10. Staffing and resources: Ensure that staffing levels are sufficient to maintain
and improve existing cultural and recreation programs. As programs expand or
additional parks are developed, evaluate the impact on current staff levels and the
need for additional staff.
PR-11. The City shall evaluate the impacts of new development on parks and
recreational resources through the SEPA environmental review process, and shall
take appropriate steps to mitigate significant adverse impacts.
PR-12. New developments shall contribute to the development of new parks at a
level commensurate with their share of new facility needs as established by the
PROS Plan. If the City determines that the development does not contain an
acceptable park site, the City shall require the payment of cash in lieu of land. The
funds shall be used to acquire land and/ or develop recreational facilities at a
location deemed appropriate by the City. Criteria for site acceptability and
appropriateness shallappropriateness shall be environmental limitations,
accessibility, maintenance costs, consistency with the PROS Plan and the ability to
meet more of the Community’s recreational needs by the coordinated
development of parks located elsewhere
PR-13. The City shall explore all means of funding the purchase of park land
including, but not limited to, bond issuance, the collection of cash in lieu of land
and federal, state, or county grants.
PR-14. Park impact fees will be established that help fund the future development
of new parks, park facilities, trails, and acquisition of open space that meet the
needs of an increasing population.
Goal 2: Provide a balanced mix of passive and active recreation
opportunities to promote healthy and balanced activities.
Historically, the Auburn Parks and Recreation Department placed an emphasis on
sports and active recreation. While the Department and park facilities continue to
be oriented towards active recreation, recent developments have included the
addition of walking trails and appealing natural environments. These additions are
more conducive to a quieter, more relaxed experience in our parks.
Policies
PR-11. Cultivate a comprehensive park system: Develop a park system that caters to
a variety of needs by providing facilities for social gatherings, cultural events, and
physical activities.
PR-122B. Promote passive recreation: We aim to provide park areas that offer
opportunities for passive recreation, such as picnicking, birdwatching, and walking,
allowing residents to relax and enjoy nature.
Page 17 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Element | PRE- 4
PR-13. Facilitate active recreation: Our objective is to provide park areas equipped
with facilities for active muscle-powered recreation, including ball fields, skate
parks, spray parks, and sports courts, to promote physical fitness and community
engagement.
PR-14. Adapt to changing trends: Annually review our recreation programs and
compare them to evolving, state, and national trends. Respond with appropriate
programs and facilities that meet these changing needs, within the constraints of
available funding and budgets, and in line with the service expectations of
Auburn’s residents.
PR-15. Encourage healthy eating: Provide access to healthy foods by continuing to
operate the Auburn Farmer’s Market and Community Gardens, promoting local
produce and encouraging sustainable living.
Goal 3: Establish a system of high-quality parks that are not only
well-maintained but also aesthetically pleasing.
Ensure that Auburn’s parks, open spaces, and trails, as one of the most prominent
public features in a city, contribute positively to the community’s perception. We
are committed to the long-term maintenance, thoughtful design, and use of high-
quality, durable materials in our parks. This commitment aims to create inviting,
safe, and enjoyable spaces that appeal enduringly to all community members. Our
overarching objective is to enhance the quality of life in our community through
well-maintained and aesthetically pleasing parks.
Policies
PR-16. Develop Level of Service Standards: Establish standards that assure
residents’ expectations are met. This could involve surveys or public forums to
understand community needs and expectations.
PR-17. Intentional design: Design parks to require low maintenance, and low water
and energy consumption. Reserve higher maintenance features like fountains or
annual beds for high visibility locations.
PR-18. Sustainable materials: Select materials that are not only durable and
aesthetically pleasing, but also environmentally friendly.
PR-19. Maintenance and appearance: Ensure parks exhibit a “cared for” appearance
through close attention to maintenance, including regular cleaning, landscape
updates, and prompt facility repair.
PR-20. Staff evaluation: Regularly evaluate maintenance staff levels, especially
when new parkland or facilities are added, to ensure parks remain in a safe and
attractive condition.
Page 18 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Element | PRE- 5
PR-21. Renovation and redesign: Identify deteriorating features and conditions that
require redesign or construction of new facilities. Schedule and budget necessary
changes in the City’s Capital Facilities Plan.
PR-22. Regular inspections: Conduct regularly scheduled inspections to identify
necessary repairs and upgrades, ensuring safe conditions in all park facilities.
Goal 4: Provide a park system that not only enhances the quality
of life for our residents but also contributes positively to the city’s
image.
Strive to develop recreational spaces in Auburn that are well-maintained,
accessible, and diverse. These spaces should reflect Auburn’s dedication to the
well-being of its community, environmental sustainability, and aesthetic appeal.
Through thoughtful park design, aim to improve Auburn’s image and identity,
thereby contributing to a positive perception of the city by creating a visually
pleasing environment.
PR-23. Enhance park visibility: Select new park sites that are highly visible. Position
at least one side of larger parks along arterial streets, making them more
accessible, both physically and visually, and known to the broader community.
PR-24. Boost aesthetics and environment: Increase the quantity of trees, shrubs,
and ground covers in parks. Enhance the ambiance of our parks and public spaces
that improves the overall aesthetics of the city.
PR-25. Promote urban forestry: Continue to work towards Tree City USA goals for
improved urban forestry design and tree preservation.
PR-26. Revitalize the downtown core: Create green spaces in the downtown core
that serve as focal points for community activities and stimulate economic growth.
PR-27. Incorporate artwork: Incorporate artwork as part of new park developments
or when upgrading existing parks or other public facilities.
Goal 5: Identify, acquire, and effectively manage significant open
spaces within the City of Auburn, preserving these areas for their
environmental, recreational, and aesthetic value to the
community.
Undeveloped open spaces are invaluable assets to the City of Auburn, contributing
significantly to the well-being of our community. These spaces serve as protective
buffers against urban encroachment, preserving the natural charm of our city while
enhancing the quality of life for Auburn’s residents.
Policies
Page 19 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Element | PRE- 6
PR-28. Preserve Natural Buffers: Maintain and protect a system of forested corridors
and buffers to provide a natural separation between urban land uses and natural
areas.
PR-29. Target Open Spaces: Prioritize significant open space areas in the city for
planning and acquisition. These target areas include lands along the Green and
White Rivers, steep hillsides, the Mill Creek Corridor, and the West Hill Watershed.
PR-30. Secure Funding: Explore all possible funding mechanisms to enable regular
acquisition of open space, allowing for the identification and purchase of properties
as they become available.
PR-31. Ensure Accessibility: Make city-owned open space lands accessible to the
public wherever possible and appropriate, promoting community engagement
with nature.
PR-32. Manage and Maintain Spaces: Provide adequate management and
maintenance of public open spaces, ensuring their ability to provide environmental
benefits and serve as wildlife habitats.
PR-33. Plan for Mitigation: Develop a monitoring and maintenance plan when
mitigation is required, ensuring successful establishment and long-term
sustainability.
PR-34. Engage the Community: Involve the community in habitat restoration
activities through the city’s annual Clean Sweep event, community service days,
and the adopt-a-park program.
PR-35. Evaluate Ecosystem Services: Determine the ecosystem service value of
each open space and park space, ensuring that these areas continue to address
climate resiliency goals.
Goal 6: Develop an inclusive network of trails designed for all,
accommodating pedestrians, cyclists, and individuals of all
mobility levels.
To develop an inclusive network of trails, we will prioritize the needs of all residents.
We will create a comprehensive multi-use trail system that facilitates movement
throughout the city and region without the need for a car. This approach is not only
environmentally friendly, reducing pollution and traffic congestion, but also
promotes a healthier lifestyle. The objectives that follow are designed to enhance
our trail system, transforming it into a truly multi-modal environment that caters to
pedestrians, cyclists, and individuals of all mobility levels.
Policies
Page 20 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Element | PRE- 7
PR-36. Expand the trail network: Develop and extend a network of trails to provide
comprehensive coverage for both commuting and recreational cyclists, while
creating stronger East/West connections throughout the city.
PR-37. Prioritize the Green River Trail: Continue prioritizing the acquisition of land
for the proposed Green River Trail.
PR-38. Leverage natural locations: Design and layout trails to take advantage of
unique natural locations, providing access to a variety of landscapes and habitats.
PR-39. Regional collaboration: Actively participate in planning activities for regional
trails in South King County and North Pierce County.
PR-40. Explore New Connections: Investigate possibilities for new trail connections
between Auburn and neighboring communities.
PR-416F. Ensure Accessibility: Develop and maintain trails in compliance with the
Americans with Disabilities Act, ensuring accessibility for all.
PR-42. Promote Safety: Foster a safe trail system by discouraging crime through
environmental design concepts.
PR-43. Standardize Wayfinding: Continue to implement an interpretive and way-
finding program for use throughout our trail system.
PR-44. Secure funding: Identify and secure funding to maintain existing trail
systems.
Goal 7: Enhance our existing park portfolio by addressing areas
where service standards are currently not met, prioritizing
improvements, particularly in the West Hill and Lea Hill regions of
the city.
Provide unique opportunities for the community to shape the city in ways that
benefit everyone, especially the underserved areas.
Policies
PR-45. Prioritize community parks: Prioritize the development of community parks
and linear parks with trail systems over small neighborhood parks when possible
and appropriate.
PR-46. Secure funding: Apply for grants from King County Conservation Futures
and the Recreation & Conservation Office, among other available funding sources,
to acquire and preserve parkland and natural areas.
PR-47. Acquire community amenities: Emphasize the acquisition of community
amenities, such as shoreline property, to preserve these special places and provide
public access.
Page 21 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Element | PRE- 8
PR-48. Minimize land use conflicts: Minimize conflicts between parks and other
land uses, and employ sensitive design measures when locating parks in residential
neighborhoods.
PR-49. Ensure quality design: Establish criteria for new park development to ensure
consistent high-quality design that meets the needs of the community.
PR-50. Develop master plans: Develop Master Plans for undeveloped park
properties and incorporate future park development costs into the Capital Facilities
Plan as appropriate.
PR-51. Engage the community: Schedule public meetings as part of the Master
Planning process to ensure residents’ voices are heard and their needs are met
when developing new parks.
PR-52. Create public gathering spaces: Develop public gathering spaces in the
downtown core to foster community interaction and engagement.
Page 22 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn
Parks and
Recreation Element
Page 23 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Table of Contents
Introduction ....................................................................................................................................................... 1
Vision ..................................................................................................................................................................... 1
Goals and Policies ........................................................................................................................................... 1
Page 24 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Element | PRE- 1
Introduction
Adequate parks and recreation facilities are an essential amenity to maintain a
suitable quality of life in the community. As the population of Auburn grows, the
demand for its parks and recreational programs will increase. To maintain Auburn’s
quality of life, the supply of these parks and programs must keep pace with the
demand placed on them by a growing population.
Open space also plays a key role in the quality of life in an area. While many
understand the concept of the attraction of the western United States and its
“open spaces,” the concept of open space becomes less clear when it comes to
open space and its appropriateness to a City such as Auburn. The policies below
provide a definition of open space as applied to Auburn and its surroundings and
provide a framework for the identification and preservation of these areas.
Vision
A diverse mix of park and recreation amenities, open spaces, and trails are
distributed throughout the City and accessible to the majority of the population.
Nonmotorized trails and paths connect residential neighborhoods, commercial
centers, and other attractions. People are visiting Auburn because of the robust
inventory and quality of park spaces and associated event programming.
Community facilities are accessible and are serving the needs of our seniors, youth,
and the rest of the community.
Goals and Policies
The mission of the Auburn Parks, Arts and Recreation Department is to “Protect the
City of Auburn’s natural beauty through a vibrant system of parks, open space, and
trails while enhancing the quality of life for our residents by providing outstanding
recreational and cultural opportunities.”
The goals and policies outlined in this chapter were developed from the following
resources:
2015 City of Auburn Park, Arts and Recreation Open Space Plan
2023 City of Auburn Parks, Recreation and Open Space Survey
2023 Washington State Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan
(SCORP)
Park and Recreation staff meetings
Participation rates and interests
Evaluation of existing park conditions.
Page 25 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Element | PRE- 2
Goal 1: Serve all residents and provide a broad range of programs
and facilities in order to serve all residents regardless of age or
ability.
The Auburn Parks, Arts, and Recreation Department is committed to offering
leisure and recreational programs and facilities that are accessible to all residents
in our community. We recognize the unique needs of certain groups within our
population and are dedicated to continually improving our facilities and programs
to cater to these needs. This includes increasing awareness of our facilities and
programs by incorporating both innovative and traditional methods to engage our
citizens.
Policies
PR-1. Incorporate diverse activities: Offer a range of recreational facilities and
programs that cater to different age groups, interests, and fitness levels to improve
the physical and mental well-being of community members.
PR-2. Promote accessibility: Develop a comprehensive system of neighborhood and
community parks ensuring that every resident lives within a half-mile walking
distance to a developed park.
PR-3. Adapt to trends: Regularly survey community members to understand
changing recreational trends and develop multi-use facilities that can be adapted
to meet these evolving needs.
PR-4. Identify and serve: Continually identify under-served segments of the
population and develop targeted programs to satisfy their unmet needs.
PR-5. Expand reach: Utilize both traditional and digital marketing strategies to
ensure the widest possible distribution of information concerning park facilities
and recreation programs.
PR-6. Affordability: Strive to provide programs and facilities that are affordable to
local residents, considering tiered pricing structures or discounts for certain groups
where appropriate.
PR-7. Expand financial aid: Continue to improve and expand the Fee Waiver and
Scholarship Programs, exploring partnerships with local businesses or grants to
allow more low-income youth and seniors to participate at reduced rates.
PR-8. Improve accessibility: Continue to improve access for the disabled and
seniors by providing wheelchair ramps and other appropriate facilities in parks
where they do not currently exist, and consider adding more sensory-friendly
spaces.
PR-9. Encourage participation: Maintain an open decision-making process that
allows for resident input, perhaps through regular town hall meetings or an online
suggestion portal.
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DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Element | PRE- 3
PR-10. Staffing and resources: Ensure that staffing levels are sufficient to maintain
and improve existing cultural and recreation programs. As programs expand or
additional parks are developed, evaluate the impact on current staff levels and the
need for additional staff.
PR-11. The City shall evaluate the impacts of new development on parks and
recreational resources through the SEPA environmental review process, and shall
take appropriate steps to mitigate significant adverse impacts.
PR-12. New developments shall contribute to the development of new parks at a
level commensurate with their share of new facility needs as established by the
PROS Plan. If the City determines that the development does not contain an
acceptable park site, the City shall require the payment of cash in lieu of land. The
funds shall be used to acquire land and/ or develop recreational facilities at a
location deemed appropriate by the City. Criteria for site acceptability and
appropriateness shall be environmental limitations, accessibility, maintenance
costs, consistency with the PROS Plan and the ability to meet more of the
Community’s recreational needs by the coordinated development of parks located
elsewhere
PR-13. The City shall explore all means of funding the purchase of park land
including, but not limited to, bond issuance, the collection of cash in lieu of land
and federal, state, or county grants.
PR-14. Park impact fees will be established that help fund the future development
of new parks, park facilities, trails, and acquisition of open space that meet the
needs of an increasing population.
Goal 2: Provide a balanced mix of passive and active recreation
opportunities to promote healthy and balanced activities.
Historically, the Auburn Parks and Recreation Department placed an emphasis on
sports and active recreation. While the Department and park facilities continue to
be oriented towards active recreation, recent developments have included the
addition of walking trails and appealing natural environments. These additions are
more conducive to a quieter, more relaxed experience in our parks.
Policies
PR-11. Cultivate a comprehensive park system: Develop a park system that caters to
a variety of needs by providing facilities for social gatherings, cultural events, and
physical activities.
PR-12. Promote passive recreation: We aim to provide park areas that offer
opportunities for passive recreation, such as picnicking, birdwatching, and walking,
allowing residents to relax and enjoy nature.
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DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Element | PRE- 4
PR-13. Facilitate active recreation: Our objective is to provide park areas equipped
with facilities for active muscle-powered recreation, including ball fields, skate
parks, spray parks, and sports courts, to promote physical fitness and community
engagement.
PR-14. Adapt to changing trends: Annually review our recreation programs and
compare them to evolving, state, and national trends. Respond with appropriate
programs and facilities that meet these changing needs, within the constraints of
available funding and budgets, and in line with the service expectations of
Auburn’s residents.
PR-15. Encourage healthy eating: Provide access to healthy foods by continuing to
operate the Auburn Farmer’s Market and Community Gardens, promoting local
produce and encouraging sustainable living.
Goal 3: Establish a system of high-quality parks that are not only
well-maintained but also aesthetically pleasing.
Ensure that Auburn’s parks, open spaces, and trails, as one of the most prominent
public features in a city, contribute positively to the community’s perception. We
are committed to the long-term maintenance, thoughtful design, and use of high-
quality, durable materials in our parks. This commitment aims to create inviting,
safe, and enjoyable spaces that appeal enduringly to all community members. Our
overarching objective is to enhance the quality of life in our community through
well-maintained and aesthetically pleasing parks.
Policies
PR-16. Develop Level of Service Standards: Establish standards that assure
residents’ expectations are met. This could involve surveys or public forums to
understand community needs and expectations.
PR-17. Intentional design: Design parks to require low maintenance, and low water
and energy consumption. Reserve higher maintenance features like fountains or
annual beds for high visibility locations.
PR-18. Sustainable materials: Select materials that are not only durable and
aesthetically pleasing, but also environmentally friendly.
PR-19. Maintenance and appearance: Ensure parks exhibit a “cared for” appearance
through close attention to maintenance, including regular cleaning, landscape
updates, and prompt facility repair.
PR-20. Staff evaluation: Regularly evaluate maintenance staff levels, especially
when new parkland or facilities are added, to ensure parks remain in a safe and
attractive condition.
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DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Element | PRE- 5
PR-21. Renovation and redesign: Identify deteriorating features and conditions that
require redesign or construction of new facilities. Schedule and budget necessary
changes in the City’s Capital Facilities Plan.
PR-22. Regular inspections: Conduct regularly scheduled inspections to identify
necessary repairs and upgrades, ensuring safe conditions in all park facilities.
Goal 4: Provide a park system that not only enhances the quality
of life for our residents but also contributes positively to the city’s
image.
Strive to develop recreational spaces in Auburn that are well-maintained,
accessible, and diverse. These spaces should reflect Auburn’s dedication to the
well-being of its community, environmental sustainability, and aesthetic appeal.
Through thoughtful park design, aim to improve Auburn’s image and identity,
thereby contributing to a positive perception of the city by creating a visually
pleasing environment.
PR-23. Enhance park visibility: Select new park sites that are highly visible. Position
at least one side of larger parks along arterial streets, making them more
accessible, both physically and visually, and known to the broader community.
PR-24. Boost aesthetics and environment: Increase the quantity of trees, shrubs,
and ground covers in parks. Enhance the ambiance of our parks and public spaces
that improves the overall aesthetics of the city.
PR-25. Promote urban forestry: Continue to work towards Tree City USA goals for
improved urban forestry design and tree preservation.
PR-26. Revitalize the downtown core: Create green spaces in the downtown core
that serve as focal points for community activities and stimulate economic growth.
PR-27. Incorporate artwork: Incorporate artwork as part of new park developments
or when upgrading existing parks or other public facilities.
Goal 5: Identify, acquire, and effectively manage significant open
spaces within the City of Auburn, preserving these areas for their
environmental, recreational, and aesthetic value to the
community.
Undeveloped open spaces are invaluable assets to the City of Auburn, contributing
significantly to the well-being of our community. These spaces serve as protective
buffers against urban encroachment, preserving the natural charm of our city while
enhancing the quality of life for Auburn’s residents.
Policies
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DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Element | PRE- 6
PR-28. Preserve Natural Buffers: Maintain and protect a system of forested corridors
and buffers to provide a natural separation between urban land uses and natural
areas.
PR-29. Target Open Spaces: Prioritize significant open space areas in the city for
planning and acquisition. These target areas include lands along the Green and
White Rivers, steep hillsides, the Mill Creek Corridor, and the West Hill Watershed.
PR-30. Secure Funding: Explore all possible funding mechanisms to enable regular
acquisition of open space, allowing for the identification and purchase of properties
as they become available.
PR-31. Ensure Accessibility: Make city-owned open space lands accessible to the
public wherever possible and appropriate, promoting community engagement
with nature.
PR-32. Manage and Maintain Spaces: Provide adequate management and
maintenance of public open spaces, ensuring their ability to provide environmental
benefits and serve as wildlife habitats.
PR-33. Plan for Mitigation: Develop a monitoring and maintenance plan when
mitigation is required, ensuring successful establishment and long-term
sustainability.
PR-34. Engage the Community: Involve the community in habitat restoration
activities through the city’s annual Clean Sweep event, community service days,
and the adopt-a-park program.
PR-35. Evaluate Ecosystem Services: Determine the ecosystem service value of
each open space and park space, ensuring that these areas continue to address
climate resiliency goals.
Goal 6: Develop an inclusive network of trails designed for all,
accommodating pedestrians, cyclists, and individuals of all
mobility levels.
To develop an inclusive network of trails, we will prioritize the needs of all residents.
We will create a comprehensive multi-use trail system that facilitates movement
throughout the city and region without the need for a car. This approach is not only
environmentally friendly, reducing pollution and traffic congestion, but also
promotes a healthier lifestyle. The objectives that follow are designed to enhance
our trail system, transforming it into a truly multi-modal environment that caters to
pedestrians, cyclists, and individuals of all mobility levels.
Policies
Page 30 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Element | PRE- 7
PR-36. Expand the trail network: Develop and extend a network of trails to provide
comprehensive coverage for both commuting and recreational cyclists, while
creating stronger East/West connections throughout the city.
PR-37. Prioritize the Green River Trail: Continue prioritizing the acquisition of land
for the proposed Green River Trail.
PR-38. Leverage natural locations: Design and layout trails to take advantage of
unique natural locations, providing access to a variety of landscapes and habitats.
PR-39. Regional collaboration: Actively participate in planning activities for regional
trails in South King County and North Pierce County.
PR-40. Explore New Connections: Investigate possibilities for new trail connections
between Auburn and neighboring communities.
PR-41. Ensure Accessibility: Develop and maintain trails in compliance with the
Americans with Disabilities Act, ensuring accessibility for all.
PR-42. Promote Safety: Foster a safe trail system by discouraging crime through
environmental design concepts.
PR-43. Standardize Wayfinding: Continue to implement an interpretive and way-
finding program for use throughout our trail system.
PR-44. Secure funding: Identify and secure funding to maintain existing trail
systems.
Goal 7: Enhance our existing park portfolio by addressing areas
where service standards are currently not met, prioritizing
improvements, particularly in the West Hill and Lea Hill regions of
the city.
Provide unique opportunities for the community to shape the city in ways that
benefit everyone, especially the underserved areas.
Policies
PR-45. Prioritize community parks: Prioritize the development of community parks
and linear parks with trail systems over small neighborhood parks when possible
and appropriate.
PR-46. Secure funding: Apply for grants from King County Conservation Futures
and the Recreation & Conservation Office, among other available funding sources,
to acquire and preserve parkland and natural areas.
PR-47. Acquire community amenities: Emphasize the acquisition of community
amenities, such as shoreline property, to preserve these special places and provide
public access.
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DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Element | PRE- 8
PR-48. Minimize land use conflicts: Minimize conflicts between parks and other
land uses, and employ sensitive design measures when locating parks in residential
neighborhoods.
PR-49. Ensure quality design: Establish criteria for new park development to ensure
consistent high-quality design that meets the needs of the community.
PR-50. Develop master plans: Develop Master Plans for undeveloped park
properties and incorporate future park development costs into the Capital Facilities
Plan as appropriate.
PR-51. Engage the community: Schedule public meetings as part of the Master
Planning process to ensure residents’ voices are heard and their needs are met
when developing new parks.
PR-52. Create public gathering spaces: Develop public gathering spaces in the
downtown core to foster community interaction and engagement.
Page 32 of 200
AGENDA BILL APPROVAL FORM
Agenda Subject:
Climate Element (Tatro)
Date:
April 22, 2024
Department:
Community Development
Attachments:
Attachment D - Climate Element Presentation
Attachment E - Climate Element V2
Attachment F - Climate Element Framework
Budget Impact:
Current Budget: $0
Proposed Revision: $0
Revised Budget: $0
Administrativ e Recommendation:
Background for Motion:
Background Summary:
See Attachments
Rev iewed by Council Committees:
Councilmember:Staff:Tatro
Meeting Date:April 30, 2024 Item Number:
Page 33 of 200
A U B U R N
V A L U E S
S E R V I C E
E N V I R O N M E N T
E C O N O M Y
C H A R A C T E R
S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y
W E L L N E S S
C E L E B R A T I O N
CITY DEPARTMENTS
2024 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
–CLIMATE ELEMENT
ALYSSA TATRO, PLANNER II
PLANNING COMMISSION SPECIAL MEETING
APRIL 30, 2024
Department of Community Development
Planning ⚫ Building ⚫ Development Engineering ⚫ Permit Center
Economic Development ⚫ Community Services ● Code Enforcement
Page 34 of 200
A.Climate Element -New requirement from HB 1181
B.Identify priority hazards
C.Outline Auburn's community risk index
D.Incorporate resilience and greenhouse gas emissions
mitigation sub -elements
E.Climate element must maximize economic,
environmental, and social co -benefits and prioritize
environmental justice
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
CLIMATE ELEMENT
Purpose and Scope of Comprehensive Plan Amendments
SERVICE ⚫ ENVIRONMENT ⚫ ECONOMY ⚫ CHARACTER ⚫ SUSTAINABILITY ⚫ WELLNESS ⚫ CELEBRATIONPage 35 of 200
Growth Management Act (GMA) amended to include climate as the
14th planning goal
2029 deadline for adoption of Climate Element
Inclusion in 2024 Comprehensive Plan Update
Builds on existing climate planning resources and new County and
State Goals/requirements
Core Components to Climate Element
SERVICE ⚫ ENVIRONMENT ⚫ ECONOMY ⚫ CHARACTER ⚫ SUSTAINABILITY ⚫ WELLNESS ⚫ CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
CLIMATE ELEMENT
HB 1181 and Climate Planning Resources
Page 36 of 200
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventories (2008 & 2015)
▪Tracks municipal and community emissions by source across two time periods
▪Provides forecasts for possible emissions levels in 2025, 2030
▪Transportation -related emissions are largest source of municipal and community emissions
Climate Action Plan (2018)
▪Establishes existing context for emissions and quality of natural environment in Auburn
▪Identifies a vision for climate planning in Auburn
▪Recommends strategies and policies to reach resilience and mitigation goals
Climate Element Framework (2023)
▪Developed in collaboration with city staff and consulting team
▪Recommends pathways and timeline to develop Climate Element
▪Identifies policy gaps and recommends strategies and actions
Core Components to Climate Element
SERVICE ⚫ ENVIRONMENT ⚫ ECONOMY ⚫ CHARACTER ⚫ SUSTAINABILITY ⚫ WELLNESS ⚫ CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
CLIMATE ELEMENT
Auburn’s Climate Planning Context
Page 37 of 200
Strive toward emissions
reductions of
▪45% reduction by 2030
(1990 levels)
▪70% reduction by 2040
▪95% reduction by 2050
Core Components to Climate Element
SERVICE ⚫ ENVIRONMENT ⚫ ECONOMY ⚫ CHARACTER ⚫ SUSTAINABILITY ⚫ WELLNESS ⚫ CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
CLIMATE ELEMENT
State and County Requirements
Page 38 of 200
King County Requirements
▪Implement Washington State Energy Code by 2031
▪Reduce emissions associated with new construction
▪Strive toward emissions reductions of
▪50% by 2030 (2007 levels)
▪80% by 2050
▪Reduce single -occupancy vehicle miles travelled by
▪20% by 2030 (2017 levels)
▪27% by 2050
▪Reduce energy use in existing buildings by
▪25% by 2030 (2017 levels)
▪45% by 2050
Core Components to Climate Element
SERVICE ⚫ ENVIRONMENT ⚫ ECONOMY ⚫ CHARACTER ⚫ SUSTAINABILITY ⚫ WELLNESS ⚫ CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
CLIMATE ELEMENT
State and County Requirements
Page 39 of 200
Priority Climate Hazards Anticipated to
Impact Auburn Most
▪Rising Temperatures and Extreme Heat
▪Severe Storms and Flooding
▪Drought and Wildfires
Core Components to Climate Element
SERVICE ⚫ ENVIRONMENT ⚫ ECONOMY ⚫ CHARACTER ⚫ SUSTAINABILITY ⚫ WELLNESS ⚫ CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
CLIMATE ELEMENT
Climate Hazards and Risk Assessment
Page 40 of 200
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Sub -Element
Goals and policies to reduce GHG emissions and vehicle
miles traveled
Resiliency Sub -Element
Goals and polices to improve climate preparedness,
response and recovery efforts
Core Components to Climate Element
SERVICE ⚫ ENVIRONMENT ⚫ ECONOMY ⚫ CHARACTER ⚫ SUSTAINABILITY ⚫ WELLNESS ⚫ CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
CLIMATE ELEMENT
Sub -Elements Required
Page 41 of 200
Goals, Policies, Actions are organized into two sub -elements:
Core Components to Climate Element
SERVICE ⚫ ENVIRONMENT ⚫ ECONOMY ⚫ CHARACTER ⚫ SUSTAINABILITY ⚫ WELLNESS ⚫ CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
CLIMATE ELEMENT
Sub -Elements Required
Take stock of built and natural
assets
Identify and address
vulnerabilities
Assess Risks
Support and enhance the
environment
Recommend Protections
Identify community and municipal emissions
Establish reduction targets
Recommend methods to meet reduction
targets
Resilience Emissions Mitigation
Page 42 of 200
Resilience sub-element will layout methods to address climate resilience,
environmental justice, and equity.
Core Components to Climate Element
SERVICE ⚫ ENVIRONMENT ⚫ ECONOMY ⚫ CHARACTER ⚫ SUSTAINABILITY ⚫ WELLNESS ⚫ CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
CLIMATE ELEMENT
Resilience Sub -Element
1. Public Health and Community
Resilience
2. Infrastructure and Emergency
Preparedness
3. Cultural Resources and Practices
4. Water Conservation and
Stormwater Management
5. Natural Habitats and Urban Green
Space
6. Economic Development
Isaac Evans Park
Page 43 of 200
Emissions Mitigation sub-element will identify significant sources of emissions,
establish methods of measuring municipal and community emissions, and set
emissions reduction targets to work toward.
Core Components to Climate Element
SERVICE ⚫ ENVIRONMENT ⚫ ECONOMY ⚫ CHARACTER ⚫ SUSTAINABILITY ⚫ WELLNESS ⚫ CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
CLIMATE ELEMENT
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Mitigation Sub -Element
7. Transportation and Planned
Development
8. Renewable Energy and Energy
Efficiency
9. Waste Management and
Circular Economy
10. Natural Habitats and Urban
Green Space
Page 44 of 200
Negative impacts of climate change and the impacts to vulnerable
communities
Funding gaps
▪Ex. Budget for upgrades to City EV Infrastructure and other facility
improvements
Amendment of code to support plan
▪Development Regulations
▪Landscaping
▪Density and growth centers
Accountable for various state and regional targets and policies
Potential Implications of Proposed Changes
SERVICE ⚫ ENVIRONMENT ⚫ ECONOMY ⚫ CHARACTER ⚫ SUSTAINABILITY ⚫ WELLNESS ⚫ CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
CLIMATE ELEMENT
Page 45 of 200
May 7 th Public Hearing
▪Requested updates based on feedback
May 21 st Deliberation and Action on Climate Element
Next Steps
SERVICE ⚫ ENVIRONMENT ⚫ ECONOMY ⚫ CHARACTER ⚫ SUSTAINABILITY ⚫ WELLNESS ⚫ CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
CLIMATE ELEMENT
Page 46 of 200
Questions, Discussion, and Feedback
SERVICE ⚫ ENVIRONMENT ⚫ ECONOMY ⚫ CHARACTER ⚫ SUSTAINABILITY ⚫ WELLNESS ⚫ CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
CLIMATE ELEMENT
Page 47 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn
Climate Element
Page 48 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Table of Contents
Introduction ....................................................................................................................................................... 1
Vision ..................................................................................................................................................................... 1
Values ................................................................................................................................................................... 2
Character ....................................................................................................................................................... 2
Wellness ......................................................................................................................................................... 2
Service ............................................................................................................................................................. 2
Economy ........................................................................................................................................................ 2
Celebration ................................................................................................................................................... 2
Environment ................................................................................................................................................ 2
Sustainability ............................................................................................................................................... 2
Conditions and Trends................................................................................................................................ 3
Greenhouse Gas Emissions ................................................................................................................. 3
Identified Priority Climate Hazards ................................................................................................. 4
Risk Index ...................................................................................................................................................... 8
Climate Policy at a Glance ........................................................................................................................ 9
Sub-Elements .............................................................................................................................................. 9
RESILIENCE SUB-ELEMENT ................................................................................................................... 10
Goals, Policies, and Actions ............................................................................................................... 10
EMISSIONS MITIGATION SUB-ELEMENT ........................................................................................ 18
Goals, Policies, and Actions ............................................................................................................... 18
Glossary of Terms ........................................................................................................................................ 24
Acronyms .........................................................................................................................................................27
Page 49 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE - 1
Introduction
The Climate Element of the City of Auburn’s comprehensive plan is a strategic
document to guide policy implementation in Auburn as it pertains to addressing
anticipated climate-related changes to the city’s and region’s local environment.
The city is undertaking planning for climate change as a response to House Bill 1181,
passed by the Washington State Legislature in July 2023, and which requires that
the city adopt climate planning goals, policies, and actions into its comprehensive
plan by 2029.
The City of Auburn is choosing to proactively engage in planning for climate
change now, as opposed to by 2029. This is in part due to the immediate
importance of preparing for climate change, and in anticipation of the expected
long-term timelines of a number of climate response strategies.
The Climate Element is organized by two overarching principles: Resilience and
Mitigation. The resilience sub-element will lay out policies and strategies devised to
improve the health of Auburn’s natural environment and citizens, while protecting
local services and assets from negative impacts associated with climate change.
The mitigation sub-element will lay out policies and strategies directed at reducing
city and community emissions contributions to global greenhouse gas levels and
work to discourage other environmentally harmful actions.
Vision
Nestled in the heart of the Green River Valley with Mt. Rainer as a backdrop,
Auburn is a historic and welcoming community with an innovative industrial-based
economy and a wealth of outdoor and cultural activities at its doorstep. Yet the
vitality, livelihoods, and surrounding environment that make up the fabric of
Auburn’s community are threatened by human-driven climate change as
concentrations of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere
continue rising to levels not measured for millions of years. By taking action to
mitigate the worst impacts of climate change, Auburn is living out its commitment
to its core community values of sustainability, environmental stewardship, and
economic vibrancy and ensuring that it remains a livable, sustainable, and safe
place to live, work, and visit.
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DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE - 2
Values
Auburn is a dynamic community with much to offer both residents and visitors.
Here, people understand the value of protecting cherished community assets, both
urban and natural. With severe climate-driven changes expected to come to
Auburn over the coming decades, Auburn’s shared community values will stand as
clear directions which will shape and guide municipal climate policy. These values
are:
Character
Auburn’s surrounding natural environment is restored and investments in Auburn’s
resilience enhance the aesthetic and social qualities of the built environment.
Wellness
Resilience and emissions mitigation investments are grounded in environmental
justice and target front-line communities who are most at risk of suffering adverse
health impacts as a result of climate-related hazards.
Service
The city ensures the long-term maintenance and protection of vital infrastructure
and services in order for residents to continue to rely on them in the face of
extreme weather events.
Economy
Auburn is a leader in providing green job opportunities and training and ensures
that it remains a vibrant and supportive community in which to conduct business.
Celebration
Places and assets of communal value are protected from degradation under
extreme weather events and worsening climatic conditions.
Environment
The natural environment is protected and restored and the built environment
appropriately safeguards natural lands.
Sustainability
Activity in Auburn does not deteriorate the local natural environment and its
emission contributions continue to decline.
Page 51 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE - 3
Conditions and Trends
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
In 2007 the City of Auburn joined the U.S. Mayors’ Climate Protection Agreement,
committing to reducing the city’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and
subsequently conducted its first GHG emissions inventory, marking 2008 as the
baseline year to compare future emissions against. That year, it was revealed that
community activities in Auburn – transportation, residential and commercial
building energy use, and waste – were responsible for 848,324 metric tons of
Carbon Dioxide, CO2 (mtCO2e) emitted. Municipal emissions – emissions directly
caused by City of Auburn activity – were revealed to contribute 10,373 mtCO2e that
year.1
In 2018 the City commissioned its second greenhouse gas inventory and
determined that community and municipal emissions had each declined since
2008 despite Auburn’s population having grown during this same time period.
Community emissions declined by 16% and municipal emissions declined by 19%.
Auburn was able to achieve these reductions through significant cuts to electricity
demand on municipal buildings, lower diesel and gasoline community demand
due to commute trip reduction plans, and the implementation of waste diversion
programs.2
Nonetheless, the City’s State and County partners have adopted ambitious
emissions reductions timelines, and though Auburn has found success in its
approach to emissions reduction, the City will have to take on a more aggressive
1 Cascadia Consulting Group, Inc. Climate Action Plan of the City of Auburn, 2018
2 Cascadia Consulting Group inc. Greenhouse Gas Inventory for the City of Auburn, Washington, 2018
Page 52 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE - 4
stance of curbing its emissions sources in order to meet its legally mandated
reduction targets on time.
Figure 3 – Auburn Community Emissions Forecast and Reduction Goals. Source: Greenhouse Gas
Inventory for the City of Auburn, Washington (2018)
Identified Priority Climate Hazards
Climate change-related hazards are not expected to impact communities and
regions uniformly, some communities may get wetter, others drier, some may be
impacted by significant sea-level rise while others will not. Some communities are
also going to be more vulnerable to particular climate change-related hazards than
others due to the presence or absence of particular infrastructure, its state of repair,
and exposure to risk. A community’s demographic characteristics may also
contribute to its vulnerability; for example, a community with a notable degree of
respiratory illness may find it valuable to prioritize preparing for worsening air
quality. Each of these are things to keep in mind when identifying priority climate
hazards of which are most important to prepare for.
The process of identifying priority climate hazards projected to afflict Auburn relied
on the University of Washington’s Climate Mapping for a Resilient Washington tool,
a climate analysis tool developed to help jurisdictions across Washington
2030 2040 2050
Statewide* -45% -70% -95%
PSRC** -50% - -80%
King County** -50% - -80%
Pierce County* -45% -70% -95%
Table 1 – Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reductions Targets
??????????Jurisdiction*
*Pierce county and statewide targets based on 1990 GHG emissions levels.
**PSRC and King County targets based on 2007 levels.
Page 53 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE - 5
understand and visualize various climate change impacts and vulnerabilities across
the next century and determine the specific affects.
Given the regional context, the characteristics of the city’s infrastructure, and the
economic and public health vulnerabilities of Auburn at large, the climate-change
related hazards which are expected to present the greatest concern for the Auburn
community are rising temperatures and exposure to extreme heat, increasingly
severe storms and flooding, and more frequent droughts and wildfires.3
Rising Temperatures and Extreme Heat
In the Pacific Northwest, average annual temperatures rose 1.5°F over the last
century, resulting in a reduction of snowpack across the Cascade Mountains, more
frequent droughts, and more extreme heat events. Left unaddressed, the impacts of
rising temperatures will have tangible effects on public health and quality of life in
Auburn. Warmer temperatures and extreme heat can increase heat stress and
worsen air quality, heighten allergy symptoms, and exacerbate respiratory illness.
Greater average annual temperatures are also expected to coincide with an increase
in the number of very hot days – days over 90°F – which may result in greater health
risks to those who work outdoors or vulnerable populations such as the elderly.
Rising temperatures also carry the potential to affect our region’s bodies of water
and negatively impact the quality of Auburn’s natural environment. Warmer
streams and lakes can harm fish stocks and produce harmful algal blooms; in 2012
for example, over 80 percent of surveyed streams in King County exceeded state
standards for salmon habitat protection. Meanwhile higher temperatures can
intensify droughts by reducing snowpack and water storage, leading to a drier
landscape in and around Auburn.4
3 Cascadia Consulting Group, Inc. Climate Element Comprehensive Plan Framework, 2023
4 University of Washington Climate Impacts Group. Climate Mapping for a Resilient Washington, 2022
Priority Climate Hazards Anticipated to Impact
Auburn Most
❖ Rising Temperatures and Extreme Heat
❖ Severe Storms and Flooding
❖ Drought and Wildfires
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Figure 2 – Projected Change in Days with Maximum Humidex Above 90° in Washington by 2050-
2079. Source: University of Washington Climate Impacts Group (2023
Severe Storms and Flooding
Climate change is expected to cause precipitation patterns to shift into the
extremes, with far less rainfall occurring in the summer months resulting in
drought-like conditions for portions of the year, while heavier-than-normal rains are
expected to increase the likelihood and frequency of flooding events the rest of the
year.5
In Auburn this means greater likelihood for floods in low-lying areas surrounding
the Green and White Rivers during severe storms, more potential for landslides
along sloped areas of the city as a result of erosion and soil displacement caused by
heavy rains, and water quality concerns in the event that runoff exceeds the
capacity of existing stormwater management facilities and infiltrates polluted
lands. Each of these potential impacts also carry additional concerns for public
health, economic activity, the quality of Auburn’s natural environment, and
produce direct financial costs to Auburn residents.
5 University of Washington Climate Impacts Group
Auburn
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Drought and Wildfires
Places in Washington once thought to have minimal wildfire risk are increasingly
becoming less so as global average annual temperatures continue to rise, drying
out more and more Washington land which in turn serves as greater reserves of
potential fuel for wildfires to spread.
Wildfire risk is expected to grow significantly in many neighboring counties,
including King County, increasing the intensity and frequency of days with
unhealthy levels of air quality in Auburn due to smoke. This will exacerbate
respiratory illness, limit outdoor activities, and harm the natural environment.6
Likelihood of drought in any given year by 2100
(High Global Emissions Scenario)
• Auburn – 32%
• King County – 34%
• Pierce County – 34%
6 King County Wildfire Risk Reduction Strategy
Figure 3 – Projected Percent Change in Magnitude of 25-year Storm inking County by 2020-2049. Source:
University of Washington Climate Impacts Group (2023)
Auburn
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If current emissions trends continue, greater conservation of water during drought
years will be necessary and increased demand on emergency services in response
to reduced access to potable water will become more likely.
Risk Index
These identified priority climate hazards are expected to interact with Auburn’s
prevailing resiliency and vulnerability characteristics in such a way that FEMA has
determined that much of Auburn is at relatively high or very high risk of negative
impacts from climate change, underscoring the necessity to plan for climate
change7.
7 Federal Emergency Management Agency. National Risk Index, 2023
Figure 4 – Wildfire Smoke Seen in Seattle. Source Getty Images (2020)
Figure 5 – Risk Index for Auburn and South King County. Source: Federal Emergency
Management Agency (2023)
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Climate Policy at a Glance
The state legislature requires that Auburn’s Climate Element include
several components in order to be in compliance with the Growth
Management Act. Likewise, the Climate Element will reflect the
requirements set by the Puget Sound Regional Council and Auburn’s
King and Pierce County partners.
Sub-Elements
The Climate Element will feature goals, policies, objectives, and
implementation strategies which will be organized into two sub-
elements, one which addresses resilience and one which addresses
greenhouse gas emissions mitigation.
Resilience Sub-Element
The first of two sub-elements, the Resilience sub-element will layout
methods to address climate resilience, environmental justice, and
equity. This section of the Climate element will also identify natural
hazards which will be exacerbated by climate change, and the
potential approaches to assess community vulnerability. The sub-
element will also address conservation of natural areas and the
introduction of green infrastructure investments, which will allow
Auburn to overcome future hazards.
The Resilience Sub-Element will:
• Take Stock of Assets
• Identify Vulnerabilities
• Assess Risks
• Recommend Protections
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Mitigation Sub-
Element
The Emissions Mitigation sub-element will identify significant sources
of emissions, establish methods of measuring municipal and
community emissions, and set emissions reduction targets to work
toward. This is an important aspect of planning for climate change as
greenhouse gas emissions are largely contributing to the projected
change in global climate.
The Emissions Mitigation Sub-Element will:
• Identify Community and Municipal Emissions
• Establish Reduction Targets
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• Recommend Mitigation Efforts
RESILIENCE SUB-ELEMENT
The Washington State Department of Commerce defines resilience as, “…the
ongoing process of anticipating, preparing for, and adapting to changes in climate
and minimizing negative impacts to our natural systems, infrastructure, and
communities.” Auburn can improve its resilience by introducing mitigation efforts
against natural hazards, adapting to unpreventable impacts, protecting and
restoring natural areas, and developing recovery responses. The goals, policies, and
implementation strategies of the Resilience sub-element are organized into six key
themes:
1. Public Health and Community Resilience
2. Infrastructure and Emergency Preparedness
3. Cultural Resources and Practices
4. Water Conservation and Stormwater Management
5. Natural Habitats and Urban Green Space
6. Economic Development
* Policy developed for concurrency with King County’s Strategic Climate Action
Plan
** Policy developed for concurrency with Washington Department of Commerce
Climate Planning guidance
*** Policy developed for concurrency with Puget Sound Regional Council’s Vision
2050
Goals, Policies, and Actions
Theme 1. Public Health and Community Resilience
Policies related to identifying climate vulnerable communities, investing in
programs and services that reduce vulnerability in vulnerable and frontline
communities, and prioritizing green affordable housing should be considered.
Goal 1. Conduct, and periodically update, a climate vulnerability
and risk assessment
C-1 * Integrate a climate impacts risk assessment and policies into the local hazard
mitigation plan.
C-2 ** Support enhanced data collection for hazard events of all magnitudes to
provide a fuller understanding of the community’s hazard characteristics —
including those affected by climate change.
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C-3 *** Promote the use of health impact assessments and other tools to address
the potential impacts of health, equity, and climate change on vulnerable
communities.
Goal 1 Actions
Action 1.1 *** Conduct, and periodically update, a climate vulnerability and risk
assessment that includes a focus on the built environment, community, and
natural systems. Support enhanced data collection for hazard events to provide a
fuller understanding of the community’s hazard characteristics—including
identifying demographic groups/community members most vulnerable to climate
impacts. Use assessment findings to evaluate changes to comprehensive plan
goals and policies and enhance resilience.
Goal 2. Minimize disproportionate impacts of climate change on
vulnerable and frontline communities and focus/maximize
associated benefits
C-4 * Improve access to services throughout the community by investing in
partnerships with frontline communities to co-identify and remove systemic and
physical barriers to services that increase climate resilience such as green living
environments and adequate public facilities.
C-5 * Identify those communities disproportionately impacted by extreme heat
events and prioritize equitable access to emergency preparedness resources for
vulnerable populations and areas. Develop and distribute tools and resources for
the community to stay safe during extreme heat events.
Goal 3. Prioritize green, affordable housing to meet projected
growth and needs of the community
C-6 Support projects that bring renewable energy and/or higher standard of energy
efficiency to communities of color, low-income populations, and members of
limited-English speaking communities, based on evaluation and assessment of
barriers and challenges.
C-7 *** Uphold the Growth Management Act to prioritize dense, mixed use, transit-
oriented development (TOD) and affordable housing by encouraging integrated
site planning and green building, with a focus on early consideration of these in the
site development process. Encourage the location of new green, affordable
housing units near community amenities and services, such as transit and green
space.
C-8 * Give consideration to and promote a local community response to
homelessness with affordable, green housing and those which include supportive
services.
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Theme 2. Infrastructure and Emergency Preparedness
Policies related to and offering equitable access to adaptation resources (i.e.,
resilience hubs), developing strategies to aid community members ability to
respond to extreme weather events (i.e., extreme heat, wildfire smoke events), and
ensuring critical and non-critical infrastructure is resilient in the face of climate
change should be considered.
Goal 4. Equitably protect public health and safety by identifying
and planning for risks associated with climate change.
C-9 *** Ensure that people, including the community’s most vulnerable groups, are
resilient to climate and weather-related hazards by better understanding hazard
type and impact and equipping people and the community to prepare for and
respond to emergency situations.
C-10 *** Develop community-serving facilities augmented to support residents and
that coordinate resource distribution and services before, during, and after a
hazard event.
C-11 *** Work toward a distribution of growth that promotes equitable access for
frontline communities and reduces the potential for displacement through
program services such as municipal emergency preparedness with consideration
of climate impacts such as extreme heat, flooding, wildfire smoke, and drought.
C-12 *** Factor climate impacts into the planning of operations and coordination of
preparedness, response, and recovery activities among first responders and
partners, including public health, law enforcement, fire, school, and emergency
medical services (EMS) personnel.
Goal 4 Actions
Action 4.1 ** Create evacuation plans and outreach materials to help residents plan
and practice actions that make evacuation quicker and safer.
Goal 5. Protect the community from extreme heat impacts and
wildfire smoke
C-13 ** Prioritize at-risk community members for actions that mitigate wildfire
smoke, including providing filter fans or incentivizing infrastructure updates that
protect against wildfire smoke (e.g., HVAC updates and MERV 13 filters for air
intake) for facilities that serve high-risk populations.
C-14 * Review and update land use and development codes to encourage the use of
passive cooling approaches to reduce urban heat island effects. Utilizing energy
efficient cooling technologies, reflective and/or vegetated roofs, and the integration
of trees where appropriate, landscaping, and green space should be implemented
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to help reduce the health effects of extreme heat on frontline communities and
vulnerable populations.
C-15 * Encourage the use of methods that contribute to improved indoor air quality
during wildfire smoke events.
C-16 ** Develop and implement notification alerts within the community to reduce
the risk of exposure to wildfire smoke and particulate matter.
C-17 ** Promote equitable access to green space within a half-mile of all community
members.
C-18 ** Support programs to distribute cooling units and install heat pumps,
prioritizing households with residents (e.g., low-income seniors) most vulnerable to
extreme temperature events.
Goal 5 Actions
Action 5.1 * Develop and implement an urban heat resilience plan or strategy that
includes heat mitigation and management actions to prepare for and respond to
chronic and acute heat risk in the community. The strategy should be informed by
urban heat island mapping and may include coordinated efforts such as cooling
centers, early warning systems, development/land use codes, and energy grid
resilience. Utilize the King County Extreme Heat Mitigation Strategy to align with
county planning efforts.
Action 5.2 * Develop community wildfire preparedness, response, and recovery
plans as part of local hazard mitigation plans.
Action 5.3* Provide community education and outreach on flood mitigation best
management practices and expand household-level wildfire mitigation assistance.
Action 5.4 * Provide community education and outreach on wildfire smoke
mitigation best management practices. Ensure outreach is accessible and prioritize
frontline communities.
Action 5.5 ** Develop and implement a wildfire smoke resilience strategy in
partnership with local residents, emergency management officials, regional clean
air agency officials, and other stakeholders.
Action 5.6 ** Develop and implement an urban heat resilience strategy that
includes land use, urban design, urban greening, and waste heat reduction actions.
Goal 6 . Ensure that infrastructure (critical and noncritical) and
utilities are resilient to climate change impacts (e.g., precipitation
events and stormwater flooding)
C-19 * Integrate local climate impacts risk assessment into hazard mitigation
planning.
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C-20 *** Factor climate impacts into the planning of operations and coordination of
preparedness, response, and recovery activities.
C-21 * Encourage coordination and support public education by utility providers
that raises awareness of the need for water and energy conservation and
empowers individuals across diverse audience segments to take action.
C-22 *** Account for climate change impacts in planning, designing, and operating
stormwater management approaches, including stormwater infrastructure and
stormwater best management practices.
C-23 * Identify areas prone to flooding and encourage the reduction of flooding
through improvements to drainage systems, particularly in traditionally
underserved areas.
C-24 ** Incorporate post-wildfire debris flow and flooding hazard information into
critical area delineation in fire-prone communities.
Goal 6 Actions
Action 6.1 ** Develop and improve transportation network with consideration of
infrastructure within floodplains and other critical areas to provide for alternate
routes and network resiliency.
Action 6.2 ** Analyze how the municipal water system maintains adequate pressure
during major drought events as well as under reasonably forecasted drought
conditions.
Goal 7. Provide all residents an equitable opportunity to learn
about climate impacts, influence policy decisions, and take action
to enhance community resilience through community
engagement efforts.
C-25 ** Create and implement culturally contextualized outreach and education
initiatives and materials that will inform the community about near-term and
longer-term climate change threats and ways that the community can prepare and
build resilience to these changes.
C-26 ** Build and support partnerships with community organizations with the
capacity and relationships to convene diverse coalitions of residents and to educate
and empower them to implement climate resilience actions.
C-27 ** Cultivate relationships with climate justice coalitions that can help facilitate
frontline community learning and engagement that links local issues with regional
and statewide issues.
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Theme 3. Cultural Resources and Practices
Additional policies related to assessing climate vulnerability of the city’s historic
resources and establishing and maintaining government-to-government relations
with tribes related to preserving sites should be considered.
Goal 8. Protect and preserve cultural resources and practices to
build resilient communities and ecosystems in the face of climate
change
C-28 ** Promote or work with partners to establish a native plant nursery and seed
bank to support long-term restoration and carbon sequestration efforts.
C-29 ** Maintain government-to-government relations with Native American tribes
for the preservation of archaeological sites and traditional cultural properties that
are vulnerable to climate impacts.
Theme 4. Water Conservation and Stormwater
Management
Policies that link climate change with water conservation efforts and stormwater
management should be considered.
Goal 9. Protect and preserve water quantity and quality from
drought, extreme heat, and other hazards exacerbated by climate
change consistent with the Utilities element
C-30 ** Utilize water conservation methods and technologies in development of
irrigation infrastructure within parks and recreation areas to foster climate
resilience.
C-31 *** Promote water conservation through management of water resources,
including efficient irrigation, preventative maintenance, efficient plant selection,
and landscape management. Goal 10. Account for climate change impacts in
planning, designing, and operating stormwater management approaches
consistent with the Comprehensive Storm Drainage Plan
C-32 *** Identify opportunities to retrofit undersized stormwater infrastructure and
areas with uncontrolled runoff to improve flow control and water quality, with a
priority on locations providing the most benefit, are identified to be most
vulnerable to extreme precipitation climate impacts, and are communities that
have been historically under-resourced.
Goal 9 Actions
Action 9.1 * Review and update development codes and design standards for
requirements for stormwater facility sizing, low-impact development, adopt
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nature-based solutions, and minimize impervious surface areas in private
development and city capital improvements to be consistent with the
requirements of the City’s NPDES Phase 2 Permit.
Theme 5. Natural Habitats and Urban Green Space
Additional policies that speak to tree management and link the protection of
healthy habitats to climate resiliency should be considered.
Goal 10 . Support preservation and access to green and open
spaces
C-33 * Ensure equitable access to parks, green space, and recreational services for
all residents consistent with the Land Use Element.
Goal 1 1. Protect and enhance the climate resilience of urban
forests by implementing climate -smart forest management
C-34 ** Encourage participation in Washington’s small forest landowner assistance
cost-share and stewardship programs.
Goal 1 1 Actions
Action 11.1 * Review, update, and implement tree protection codes to increase tree
retention. Encourage the protection, maintenance, and expansion of tree canopy
throughout the community, prioritizing residential and mixed-use areas with the
least current tree canopy to equitably distribute benefits.
Action 11.2 ** Adopt an urban forest master plan and implementing ordinances to
maintain and expand tree canopy cover, improve tree and watershed health,
prioritize carbon sequestration, and build climate resilience.
Goal 12. Ensure the protection and recovery of ecosystems to
provide healthy habitat in a changing climate
C-35 ** Ensure no net loss of ecosystem composition, structure, and functions,
especially in Critical Areas, and strive for net ecological gain to enhance climate
resilience in accordance with the Land Use Element and as may be feasible.
C-36 ** Identify opportunities to expand habitat protection and improve habitat
quality and connectivity to foster climate resilience using conservation area
designations, buffers, and open space corridors.
C-37 ** Commensurate with resources provided the city should implement actions
identified in restoration and salmon recovery plans to improve climate resilience of
streams and watersheds.
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C-38 ** Commensurate with resources provided the city should protect and restore
riparian vegetation to reduce erosion, provide shade, and support other functions
that improve the resilience of streams to climate change.
Theme 6. Economic Development
Policies related to developing a green job strategy, equitable access to green job
training (including education and workforce training), and a just transition should
be considered.
Goa l 13. Increase access of green jobs, with special consideration
to increasing access for frontline communities.
C-39 *** Develop a green workforce that is representative of the diversity of the
city’s communities and reflects the diverse skill sets, knowledge systems, and
experiences of communities through targeted hiring, workforce development,
community agreements, and creating intentional pathways for frontline
communities across sectors and seniority levels. A Green Workforce refers to jobs
that help advance toward a more sustainable society and help to transition from
over-dependence on oil industries and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
C-40 ** Ensure that the Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan responds to
the impacts of climate change and identifies roles and responsibilities to support a
sustainable economic recovery after a disaster.
C-41 ** Support local businesses’ efforts to generate and store renewable electricity
on-site, which can provide back-up power during emergencies and help ensure
continuity of operations.
C-42 *** Promote local industrial development to support a circular economy that
increases demand for recycled materials and reduces demand for new raw
materials and their inherent carbon emissions.
Goal 13 Actions
Action 13.1 * Develop a green jobs strategy in partnership with community groups,
community resources such as Green River College, frontline communities, and
businesses that:
(1) supports sustainable practices, green skills development, and the
low carbon transition of the city’s impacted industries.
(2) develop pathways for youth and impacted workers to transition
into green jobs.
(3) ensures opportunities (e.g., local hiring requirements) for these
jobs.
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EMISSIONS MITIGATION SUB-ELEMENT
Global climate change and its localized effects are an immediate consequence of
overabundant levels of greenhouse gases permeating Earth’s atmosphere and
causing heat to be retained on our planet rather than radiate outward. This is why
it is critical to eliminate the emission of greenhouse gases as part of widespread
human activity. Actions taken to reduce or eliminate the emission of greenhouse
gases constitute emissions mitigation. To mitigate its emissions, Auburn must
update its municipal and community emissions inventories, identify reduction
targets, and target policies and investments to meet them, considerate of available
resources. The goals, policies, and implementation strategies of the Emissions
Mitigation sub-element are organized into four key themes:
7. Transportation and Planned Development
8. Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency
9. Waste Management and Circular Economy
10. Natural Habitats and Urban Green Space
* Policy developed for concurrency with the King County Regional Hazard
Mitigation Plan, including the City of Auburn annex
**Policy developed for concurrency with King County’s Strategic Climate Action
l1Plan
*** Policy developed for concurrency with Washington Department of Commerce
l11climate planning guidance
**** Policy developed for concurrency with Puget Sound Regional Council’s Vision
11112050
Goals, Policies, and Actions
Theme 7. Transportation and Planned Development
Additional policies related to electric vehicles (EVs) and EV infrastructure, reducing
vehicle miles traveled, and supporting increased density in transit-oriented areas.
Goal 1 4 . Reduce GHG emissions by prioritizing accessible multi -
modal and low-carbon transportation options
C-43 *** Prioritize investments that expand and implement active transportation
options, including bicycling and walking, that improve access to transit.
C-44 * Encourage the prevention of displacement of households and businesses
from transit-oriented locations, with a focus on low-income households and small
businesses, as appropriate.
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Goal 1 4 Actions
Action 14.1 * Encourage increased density near transit-oriented locations to allow
for a variety of housing types that support local business and residents. This can be
accomplished through zoning regulations.
Goal 1 5. Increase the percentage of EV and other low -emission
transportation modes operating within the city
C-45 * Work with utility providers and other partners (e.g. developers and EV
companies) to encourage increased access to EV charging where it is needed and
expand EV charging readiness for buildings by administering and enforcing the
Washington State Building Code. Achievement will be commensurate with
financial resources and availability of the vehicles, and associated infrastructure,
where appropriate. Expansion of access and opportunity for EV charging will be
achieved in part through enforcement of Washington State Building Code
requirements. These requirements include:
• Installation of a dedicated circuit for EV charging at the time of construction
of all new dwelling units
• Installation of EV Charging Stations, EV-Ready Parking Spaces, and EV-
Capable Parking Spaces as a proportional quantity of total parking required
for new commercial development projects
• Installation of EV Charging Stations, EV-Ready Parking Spaces, and EV-
Capable Parking Spaces as a greater proportional quantity of total parking
required for new developments that include multiple residential or sleeping
units such as apartments, hotels, and congregate living facilities
C-46 *** Support state and regional requirements for electric delivery vehicles and
Transportation Network Corporations (TNC's).
Goal 16 . Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by promoting
densification and efficient land uses in mixed -use urban villages
near transit corridors
C-47 *** Prioritize dense, mixed use, transit-oriented development, and affordable
housing in Auburn and the downtown regional growth center.
Goal 16 Actions
Action 16.1 * Adopt “missing middle” housing policies and codes to allow for broader
housing types in single family zones, particularly near transit, to promote
affordability for current and future residents.
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Theme 8. Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency
Policies aimed at transitioning to renewable energy sources, promoting energy
conservation and efficiency measures, building grid resilience, and educating
homeowners about energy efficiency upgrades should be considered.
Goal 17 . Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by transitioning to
renewable energy sources, decarbonizing buildings, and
increasing energy efficiency
C-48 ** Retrofit municipal buildings for energy efficiency, as resources allow.
C-49 ** Promote improved energy efficiency in existing commercial and residential
buildings by offering expedited permitting process, limiting administrative barriers,
and reducing costs for residential solar projects.
C-50 *** Maximize renewable energy sources for the supply of electricity and heat
to new and existing residential and commercial building construction through
administration and enforcement of the Washington State Energy Codes, both
commercial and residential. This will also ensure new development accounts for
future solar systems and include solar readiness zones, structural integrity, and
electrical service capacity in the design and planning of new commercial buildings.
C-51 ** Retrofit publicly owned buildings with solar panels and electric heat pumps,
as structural stability and resources allow.
C-52 *** Support and expand building energy efficiency retrofit programs to reduce
building energy use and improve energy resilience, including a focus on affordable
housing.
C-53 * Explore and promote low interest loan options and incentive programs to
finance energy efficiency upgrades for commercial and residential buildings, while
seeking other finance mechanisms to fill in potential funding gaps. Investments
and programs should be prioritized in historically underserved areas.
C-54 * Develop energy efficiency outreach programs for residents and businesses
by partnering with Puget Sound Energy (PSE) and other local jurisdictions with the
goals to identify and select appropriate and cost-effective energy improvements.
This could involve supporting local schools in integrating climate and sustainability
education into curriculum.
C-55 * Building on proposed WA state policy, strengthen energy efficiency codes to
reflect best practices and meet established energy targets (e.g., require energy use
disclosure and benchmarking for buildings, starting with commercial and
multifamily buildings over a size threshold).
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C-56 *** Expand local onsite renewable energy production, such as through
installation at municipal facilities, support of incentive programs, and coordination
of community-based partnership projects and programs.
C-57 ** Encourage additional net-zero greenhouse gas emission features in all new
residential and commercial structures.
C-58 * Incentivize electric heat pumps and restrict natural gas in new commercial
and residential construction through administration and enforcement of the
Washington State Energy Code.
C-59 ** Phase out natural gas use in existing publicly owned facilities by 2040 and
retrofit with electric heat pumps as resources allow.
C-60 ** Encourage all new publicly owned buildings to be powered 100% by
renewable energy as availability and resources allow, and evaluate opportunities to
retrofit municipal buildings for energy efficiency as resources allow.
C-61 ** Develop low-energy-use requirements and building code compliance for
residential buildings as incorporated in state building codes.
C-62 *** Educate community members about incentives for emerging alternative
energy technology, such as tax exemptions for solar installations, and increase
community awareness of existing solar arrays and water heating systems in the
city.
Goal 18. Promote a diverse, clean, efficient grid that increases the
grids reliability as demand increases
C-63 * Work with and encourage Puget Sound Energy (PSE) to plan, site, build and
maintain an electrical system that meets the needs of existing and future
development, and provides highly reliable service for City customers and
coordinate with non-city utility providers to ensure planning for system growth
consistent with the city’s Comprehensive Plan and growth forecasts.
C-64 * Advocate for increased grid reliability through state and utility regulatory
rulemaking and legislation that supports demand response and environmentally
responsible storage technologies that reduce peak load and provide grid flexibility.
C-65 * Advocate for energy utilities to adopt efficient practices and explore
alternative energy resources, in order to help meet long-term energy needs and
reduce environmental impacts associated with traditional energy supplies.
Theme 9. Waste Management and Circular Economy
Policies aimed at supporting a circular economy, supporting urban agriculture and
local food production, encouraging composting, enforcing sustainable construction
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and demolition (C&D) practices, and environmentally friendly purchasing policies
should be considered.
Goal 19. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from materials and
organic waste by minimizing waste generation
C-66 * Encourage local food production, processing, and distribution through the
support of home and community gardens (i.e., P-Patches), farmers’ markets,
community kitchens, and other collaborative initiatives which provide healthy
foods and promote food security.
C-67 * Promote prevention and redistribution of food waste, such as through
expanding and encouraging community and school gardens, urban agriculture,
and farmers markets and working with local grocery stores to support a food
donation program to send surplus food.
C-68 * Support extended producer responsibility (EPR) related policies and actions
that require companies that make consumer products fund the residential
recycling system and that ensure that packaging and paper products actually get
recycled.
Goal 19 Actions
Action 19.1 * Update municipal solid waste contract policies and programs to
encourage waste prevention and take-back programs, maximize diversion, ensure
efficient collection routes, and promote hybrid and electric vehicles to transport
and collect waste.
Goal 20 . Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from materials and
organic waste by maximizing waste diversion
C-69 ** Encourage recycling of construction and demolition debris.
C-70 ** Use recycled materials in the construction of transportation and other
infrastructure facilities, as resources allow and to the extent feasible.
Goal 20 Actions
Action 20.1 * Expand commercial recycling and organics collection and service,
including making recycling and organics disposal as convenient as garbage service
and adequate to serve the number of tenants. Implement compost requirements
for food businesses in accordance with HB 1799. Consider the implications of
implementing an organics disposal bans and/or requiring services.
Action 20.2 * Expand recycling and compost service for single-family and
multifamily properties and provide technical assistance to help compost
successfully. Consider the implications of implementing an organics disposal bans
and/or requiring services.
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Action 20.3 ** Support a business technical assistance program to increase
recycling and reduce waste.
Action 20.4 ** Support a program that will enable recycling of all construction and
demolition debris.
Action 20.5 * Support development, implementation, and enforcement of
construction and demolition (C&D) recycling and deconstruction ordinances.
Theme 10. Natural Habitats and Urban Green Space
Protect and enhance carbon sinks like forests and urban green spaces, establish
green belt of parks with connections to housing, schools, and businesses.
Goal 21. Protect and enhance land carbon sinks (e.g., trees, urban
green space) to mitigate GHG emissions
C-71 ** Require open space set-asides (such as parks) for new development when
appropriate.
C-72 *** Maximize tree canopy coverage in surface parking lots to mitigate the
negative impacts of urban heat islands caused by excessive impervious surfacing.
C-73 ** Improve and expand urban forest management to maximize or conserve
carbon storage.
C-74 *** Manage natural lands (forests, grasslands, wetlands) to maintain and/or
increase their carbon concentrations. Avoid the conversion of carbon-rich
ecosystems. Prioritize increasing tree canopy cover and open space in
overburdened frontline communities.
C-75 * Increase resilience to flooding, protect, and where possible, enhance, and
restore existing flood storage, conveyance, and ecological functions and values of
floodplains, wetlands, and riparian corridors as resources allow.
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Glossary of Terms
Algal bloom
A rapid growth of microscopic algae or cyanobacteria in water. Algal blooms can
often be harmful to the surrounding environment and human health.
Adaptation
The process of adjusting to new (climate) conditions in order to reduce risks to
valued assets.
Assets
People, resources, ecosystems, infrastructure, and the services they provide. Assets
are the tangible and intangible things people or communities value.
Climate change
A change of climate attributed directly or indirectly to human activity that alters
the composition of the global atmosphere.
*RCW 28B.30.640(3)
Drought
In Washington, the legal definition of drought is based on water availability. A
drought emergency is declared when water supply conditions are expected to fall
below 75 percent of average, and there is potential for undue hardships due to low
water supply.
Ecosystem
A biological environment consisting of all the living organisms or biotic component
in a particular area, and the nonliving, or abiotic component, with which the
organisms interact such as air, soil, water, and sunlight.
Environmental justice
The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race,
color, national origin, or income with respect to the development, implementation,
and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies.
Erosion
The wearing away of rock or soil and the movement of the resulting particles by
wind, water, ice, or gravity, usually excluding mass movements.
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Exposure
The presence of people, assets, and ecosystems in places where they could be
adversely affected by hazards.
Extreme heat
Summertime temperatures that are much hotter and/or humid than average.
Extreme weather event
A time and place in which weather, climate, or environmental conditions – such as
temperature, precipitation, drought, or flooding – rank above a threshold value
near the upper or lower ends of the range of historical measurements.
Frontline community
People who experience the first and worst consequences of climate change. Such
residents’ health and livelihoods are often highly vulnerable to climate-exacerbated
hazards and economic disruptions, and their communities often lack basic support
infrastructure and suffer disproportionately from the compounding impacts of
pollution, discrimination, racism, and poverty.
Greenhouse gas
Gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and certain synthetic
chemicals which trap some of the Earth’s outgoing energy, retaining heat in the
atmosphere.
Hazard
An event or condition that may cause injury, illness, or death to people or damage
to assets.
Mitigation
Actions taken to reduce or eliminate the emissions of greenhouse gases (present
and future) in order to reduce the rate and extent of climate change damage.
Resilience
The ongoing process of anticipating, preparing for, an adapting to changes in
climate and minimizing negative impacts to our natural systems, infrastructure,
and communities.
Risk
The potential for negative consequences where something of value is at stake. In
the context of climate change, this term is often used to refer to the potential for
adverse consequences of a climate-related hazard. Risk can be assessed by
multiplying the probability of a hazard by the magnitude of the negative
consequences or loss.
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Severe storm
A storm is classified as ‘severe’ when it produces hail one inch in size or greater,
winds in excess of 57.5 miles per hour, or a tornado.
Stormwater runoff
Water originating from rainfall and other precipitation becomes surface flow or
interflow.
Vulnerability
The propensity of predisposition of assets to be adversely affected by hazards.
Vulnerability encompasses exposure, sensitivity, potential impacts, and adaptive
capacity.
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Acronyms
CO2 Carbon Dioxide
C & D Construction and Demolition
FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency
GHG Greenhouse Gas
HVAC Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning
EMS Emergency Medical Services
EPR Extended Producer Responsibility
EV Electric Vehicle
MERV Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value
mtCO2e Metric Ton CO2 Emission
TNC Transportation Network Corporation
TOD Transportation Oriented Development
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City of Auburn
Climate Element
Comprehensive Plan
Framework
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Table of contents
Acknowledgements ............................................................................................................................. 1
Climate Element Framework ......................................................................................................... 2
PROJECT OVERVIEW .................................................................................................................................. 2
Intended User .............................................................................................................................................. 3
IMPLEMENTATION PLAN .......................................................................................................................... 3
Guidance Strategy .................................................................................................................................... 3
Recommended Timeline ...................................................................................................................... 5
METHODOLOGY ............................................................................................................................................. 5
Regional and State Climate Change Policy Review and Gap Assessment ...... 12
MITIGATION THEMES (1-4) ...................................................................................................................... 12
RESILIENCE THEMES (5-10) .................................................................................................................... 13
Climate Change Policy Framework ......................................................................................... 15
MITIGATION SUB-ELEMENT................................................................................................................... 15
RESILIENCE SUB-ELEMENT ................................................................................................................... 22
Appendix A: Workshop Meeting Summary ........................................................................ 32
BREAKOUT ROOM TAKEAWAYS ........................................................................................................ 32
Gap Assessment Findings and Goals & Policies Prioritization .......................................... 34
Mitigation ....................................................................................................................................................37
Resilience .................................................................................................................................................... 54
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Acknowledgements
Thank you to all staff who participated in the Climate Element Framework
development process.
City of Auburn Staff
•Josh Steiner, Senior Planner
•Jeff Dixon, Planning Services Manager
SCJ Alliance
•Alicia Ayers, Associate Principal
Prepared by Cascadia Consulting Group
•Nicole Gutierrez
•P.J. Tillmann
•Megan Lee
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Climate Element Framework
PROJECT OVERVIEW
This Climate Element Framework serves as a foundation for City of Auburn staff to
develop a Climate Element and recommends that additional effort be completed
to engage key stakeholders and the community as goals and policies are finalized.
Ultimately, the Climate Element will provide mitigation and resilience goals and
policies to guide City planning efforts that will reduce greenhouse gas (GHG)
emissions and build climate resilience for Auburn residents.
The Climate Element framework includes the following sections:
• Implementation Plan: Provides a guidance strategy for developing a final
Climate Element and timeline
• Methodology: Reviews steps taken to complete the Regional and State
Climate Change Policy Review and Gap Assessment and the Climate Change
Policy Framework
• Regional and State Climate Change Policy Review and Gap Assessment:
Includes the gap assessment for each key theme that was identified for
policies related to climate mitigation, climate resilience, and climate equity
to be included in a climate element
• Climate Change Policy Framework: Includes draft mitigation and resilience
policies for the climate element
THE GROWTH MANAGEMENT ACT (CHAPTER 36.70A RCW) WAS AMENDED IN
2023 UNDER WASHINGTON HOUSE BILL 1181, REQUIRING CITIES AND COUNTIES
TO INTEGRATE CLIMATE MITIGATION AND RESILIENCE POLICIES INTO
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATES. TO MEET THE NEW REQUIREMENTS, THE
WASHINGTON STATE DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE RECOMMENDS
JURISDICTIONS DEVELOP A CLIMATE ELEMENT THAT CONSISTS OF BOTH
RESILIENCE AND GHG EMISSIONS MITIGATION GOALS AND POLICIES. GOALS AND
POLICIES MAY BE CONSOLIDATED INTO A SINGLE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
CLIMATE ELEMENT OR INTEGRATED ACROSS MULTIPLE ELEMENTS.
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Intended User
City staff responsible for drafting the Climate Element for Auburn’s next
Comprehensive Plan update can use this framework as a starting point for
mitigation and resilience goals and policies to include. Additional review and
engagement with the city and community will be required to finalize policies.
IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
Guidance Strategy
The Washington Department of Commerce (Commerce) published an “early
version” Climate Element Planning Guidance in June 2023 that provides local
governments with resources and detailed steps to complete a Climate Element
under the Growth Management Act. This available guidance was incorporated into
the Climate Element Framework; however, Commerce intends to publish an
“intermediate version” of the guidance in December of 2023. As new guidance and
information emerges, Auburn staff should stay informed and incorporate elements
of the guidance as needed.
Commerce Guidance and Next Steps
As stated above, the available Commerce guidance was utilized during
development of Auburn’s Climate Element Framework. As a first phase in
developing Auburn’s Climate Element, the framework does not represent a
complete product, rather it sets the development process in motion by ensuring
requirements are understood and met within the policy recommendations
included in final framework. See the Methodology section under 1. Evaluate state
and regional guidance to identify key themes for compliance requirements.
In the next phase of the Climate Element development process, staff can review
the Commerce Guidance and utilize Auburn’s framework as a starting point and
continue to refine, vet, and engage with the community to ensure compliance is
met and city priorities are centered. The following figure outlines the steps Auburn
can take to draft the Climate Element (Figure 1). See Commerce’s step and pathway
figures and descriptions in the guidance for more information.
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Figure 1. Auburn's Climate Element development steps.
1K 2
1 King County targets: Reduce 2007 emissions 50%, 75%, and 95% by 2030, 2040, and 2050
respectively.
2 Utilize Auburn draft CAP GHG inventory or the Puget Sound Regional Emissions Analysis
Project planning tools
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Recommended Timeline
Please note that the recommended timeline will depend on staff availability.
Date Range Task
2023
July - August
• Review this document: the Climate Element
Comprehensive Plan Framework report.
• Determine department lead and roles.
2023
August – October
• Determine if additional plans/policies are required for
policy audit. Complete supplemental audit if needed.
• Finalize draft goals and policies in a language
consistent with the Comprehensive Plan.
• Engage with Planning Commission to introduce the
Climate Element concept, if needed.
2023 - 2024
October – January
• Vet draft goals and policies with additional staff,
leadership, and the community.
o Community engagement could include
attending in-person events, hosting a
community survey, or publishing draft goals and
policies on a platform that allows comments.
• Draft the Climate Element to include a vision
statement, conditions and trends, goals and policies,
and implementation.
2024
February – Onward
• Finalize Climate Element (Planning Commission
Recommendation and City Council adoption).
METHODOLOGY
Cascadia used a three-step process to complete the regional and state climate
change policy review and gap assessment:
1. Evaluate state and regional guidance to identify key climate resilience and
mitigation themes for climate integration in comprehensive plans. The key
themes identify groupings for goals and policies to be developed that
comply with the GMA and are within the 11 priority sectors identified in
Commerce’s Model Climate Element Guidance.
2. Identify potential comprehensive plan goals and policies for the Climate
Element that relate to the key themes from Step 1. Cascadia reviewed the
model climate element policies from the Department of Commerce and
King County’s K4C Model Policies, Auburn’s unadopted Climate Action Plan
(CAP), and Auburn’s Comprehensive Plan to identify potential goals and
policies.
3. Determine degree of alignment of Auburn’s existing Comprehensive Plan
with potential Climate Element goals and policies. Cascadia compared the
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goals and policies currently in Auburn’s Comprehensive Plan with potential
goals and policies for the Climate Element. We labeled Auburn’s existing
alignment as either “good,” “lacking,” or a “policy gap,” compared to the
model climate goals and policies.
Cascadia then completed two additional steps to develop the Climate Element
Framework:
4. Vet and prioritize draft goals and policies with City Staff and project team for
inclusion in the Climate Element Framework. Following the completion of
Step 3, Cascadia organized a workshop with Auburn City staff and the
Comprehensive Plan update team to vet, refine, and prioritize identified
policies under each key theme to include in a standalone climate element.
5. Develop Draft Climate Change Policy Framework by creating an
implementation plan, guidance strategy, and suite of prioritized mitigation
and resilience policies that can be used to develop a climate change
element.
Each of these steps is outlined in more detail in the sections below.
1. Evaluate state and regional guidance to identify
key themes.
Cascadia reviewed Washington House Bill 1181 that passed the Legislature in 2023
and will require the integration of climate mitigation and resilience policies into
county and city comprehensive plans. These required policy changes will address
climate emissions and impacts, while considering co-benefits and integration with
other planning documents such as housing, transportation, and land use. The
requirements outlined in the bill for the “climate change and resiliency element”
are as follows:
• GHG emission reduction policies must:
Result in reductions in overall GHG emissions generated by
transportation and land use within the jurisdiction but without
increasing greenhouse gas emissions elsewhere in the state.
Result in reductions in per capita vehicle miles traveled within the
jurisdiction but without increasing greenhouse gas emissions
elsewhere in the state.
Prioritize reductions that benefit overburdened communities in order
to maximize the co-benefits of reduced air pollution and
environmental justice.
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• Resilience policies must:
Identify, protect, and enhance natural areas to foster resiliency to
climate impacts, as well as areas of vital habitat for safe passage and
species migration.
Identify, protect, and enhance community resiliency to climate
change impacts, including social, economic, and built environment
factors, that support adaptation to climate impacts consistent with
environmental justice; and
Address natural hazards created or aggravated by climate change,
including landslides, flooding, drought, heat, smoke, wildfire, and
other effects of changes to temperature and precipitation patterns.
• The bill also states that for mitigation and resilience policies, complying with
any additional requirements from the Department of Commerce
(Commerce) Model Climate Element guidelines that are developed in
response to the bill would also be required.
According to Commerce guidance, the selection of at least one
climate resilience goal and supportive policy must be developed
within each of the model climate element’s 11 sectors (see Table 1).
Table 1. Priority Sectors identified in Commerce's Model Climate Element Guidance
Priority Sector Includes…
Zoning & Development Site use, design, and other development facets
Buildings & Energy Generation, transmission, and consumption
Cultural Resources &
Practices
Historic sites and cultural resources and
practices
Water Resources Water quality and quantity
Transportation Multimodal travel and infrastructure
Economic Development Business continuity, opportunities
Ecosystems Land and water species and habitat
Emergency Management Preparedness, response, and recovery
Human Health Community well-being and engagement
Waste Management Materials recycling and disposal
Agriculture Production and distribution
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Cascadia evaluated additional climate change planning guidance documents to
identify key themes that would encompass mitigation,3 resilience,4 and climate
equity 5 goals and policies within the 11 priority sectors identified in Commerce’s
Model Climate Element Guidance.
The Washington State and regional guidance documents we reviewed included:
• WA Dept of Commerce’s Climate Element Guidance and Menu of Measures.
• King County-Cities Climate Collaboration (K4C) Comprehensive Plan Model
Climate Policies. Will be available to the public in Summer 2023.
• EcoAdapt’s Climate Change Adaptation through Local Comprehensive
Planning: Guidance for Puget Sound Communities
2. Identify climate element comprehensive plan
goals and policies related to key themes.
Once key themes were identified using HB 1181 and climate change planning
guidance documents, Cascadia identified goals and policies using Washington
state specific model policies,6 Auburn’s Comprehensive Plan, and Auburn’s
unadopted CAP. Key themes and the goals capture the ways climate change can
be integrated in comprehensive plans and cover all 11 Commerce priority sectors.
The ten themes we identified are:
Mitigation Key Themes
Theme 1. Transportation and planned development: Reduce greenhouse gas
(GHG) emissions by prioritizing accessible multi-modal and low-
carbon transportation options; increase the percentage of electric
vehicles (EV) and other low-emission transportation modes operating
within the City; decrease emissions that stem from fleet & freight
3 Goals and policies to reduce the rate and extent of climate change caused by greenhouse gas
emissions. Mitigation can be achieved through approaches such as higher-density development,
reducing vehicle miles traveled, non-motorized transit, green building techniques, reduced
consumption and waste, and renewable energy sourcing.
4 Goals and policies to address the effects of climate change by increasing resilience and/or
decreasing vulnerability. Resiliency policies and goals can be achieved though approaches such as
low-impact development; climate-certified zoning, permitting & procurement; and climate-savvy
hazard mitigation.
5 Goals and policies to address the disproportionate impacts of climate change on frontline
communities due to existing and historic racial, social, environmental, and economic inequities.
Climate equity can be achieved through approaches such as community engagement and
partnerships with frontline communities, increasing access to healthy local food, and investing in anti-
displacement programs. Climate equity policies will be integrated within the resilience and mitigation
themes.
6 Dept. of Commerce’s Menu of Measures and King County’s K4C Model Policies.
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service vehicles and aviation; reduce GHG emissions by promoting
densification and efficient land uses in mixed-use urban villages near
transit corridors.
Theme 2. Renewable energy and energy efficiency: Reduce GHG emissions by
transitioning to renewable energy sources, decarbonizing buildings,
and increasing energy efficiency; promote a diverse, clean, efficient
grid that increases the grid’s reliability as demand increases.
Theme 3. Waste management and circular economy*: Reduce GHG emissions
from materials and organic waste by minimizing waste generation
and maximizing waste diversion; reduce greenhouse gas emissions
from materials by supporting a circular economy.
*Policies within this theme identified with the superscript M+R indicate
that the policy falls under both mitigation and resilience categories.
Theme 4. Natural habitats and urban green space: Protect and enhance land
carbon sinks (e.g., trees, urban green space, soil) to mitigate GHG
emissions; establish a green belt of parks to develop a non-motorized
trail to connect housing, schools, and businesses across a community.
Resilience Key Themes
Theme 5. Public health and community resiliency: Conduct, and periodically
update, a climate vulnerability and risk assessment; minimize
disproportionate impacts of climate change on vulnerable and
frontline communities and focus/maximize associated benefits;
prioritize green, affordable housing to meet projected growth and
needs of the community.
Theme 6. Infrastructure and emergency preparedness: Protect public health
and safety equitably by identifying and planning for risks associated
with climate change; protect the community from extreme heat
impacts and wildfire smoke; ensure that infrastructure (critical and
noncritical) and utilities are resilient to climate change impacts (e.g.,
precipitation events and stormwater flooding); provide all residents an
equitable opportunity to learn about climate impacts, influence policy
decisions, and take actions to enhance community resilience.
Theme 7. Cultural resources and practices: Protect and preserve cultural
resources and practices to build resilient communities and
ecosystems in the face of climate change.
Theme 8. Water conservation and stormwater management: Protect and
preserve water quantity and quality from drought, extreme heat, and
other hazards exacerbated by climate change consistent with
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Auburn’s Comprehensive Water Plan; account for climate change
impacts in planning, designing, and operating stormwater
management approaches consistent with Auburn’s Comprehensive
Storm Drainage Plan.
Theme 9. Natural habitats and urban green space: Support preservation and
access to green and open spaces; protect and enhance the climate
resilience of urban forests by implementing climate-smart forest, park,
and green space management; ensure the protection and recovery of
ecosystems to provide healthy habitat in a changing climate.
Theme 10. Economic development: Increase access to green jobs, with special
consideration for increasing access for frontline communities.
3. Determine the degree of alignment of Auburn’s
existing Comprehensive Plan with climate
element policies.
Cascadia then cross walked Auburn’s Comprehensive Plan to determine policy
alignment with key themes and specific climate policies. With the potential goals
and policies now organized by key theme, Cascadia compared the goals and
policies currently in Auburn’s Comprehensive Plan with each potential goal and
policy for the Climate Element. We assessed whether the potential goal or policy
was present in Auburn’s Comprehensive Plan, the strength and completeness of
the goal or policy in relation to what is in Auburn’s Comprehensive Plan, and
whether the goal or policy made sense to include for Auburn given local context.
We labeled Auburn’s existing alignment as either “good” alignment, “lacking” in
alignment, or a “policy gap” compared to the model climate goals and policies. See
Table 2 for how policies were coded.
Table 2. Policy Alignment Cell Coding
Cell Color Level of Policy Alignment
Green Good. The green cell color indicates that the current Auburn
Comprehensive Plan effectively includes the potential Climate
Element goal or policy already; however, additional
policies/language could be considered to strengthen existing policy
language.
Orange Lacking. The orange cell color indicates that the current Auburn
Comprehensive Plan includes language that is consistent with the
potential Climate Element goal or policy but is not effectively
integrating the potential climate element goal or policy. Or, it
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Cell Color Level of Policy Alignment
indicates the potential Climate Element goal or policy was
identified in Auburn’s unadopted CAP, which is not being used to
implement climate action or policies at this time.
Red Policy Gap. The red cell color indicates a policy gap. The policy is not
represented in Auburn’s current Comprehensive Plan or unadopted
CAP. Policy gaps are taken directly or modified from Commerce’s
menu or measures or the K4C model policies.
Once we determined the alignment of Auburn’s existing
Comprehensive Plan with climate element policies, our team
drafted the Regional and State Climate Change Policy Review and
Gap Assessment memorandum and shared with City staff for
review (Step 4).
4. Prioritize Draft Policies with City Staff
Cascadia worked with the project team and City staff to further refine, vet, and
prioritize climate goals and policies for inclusion into the Climate Element. A
workshop was held on May 17, 2023, with City staff. City staff reviewed the project
purpose, outputs, and timeline, then prioritized the draft climate mitigation and
resiliency goals and policies for the Climate Element. See Appendix A for a detailed
workshop summary.
Staff prioritized policies and provided feedback on goals and policies within the key
theme(s) that best aligned with their expertise. City staff prioritized potential
policies using these rankings:
• NA: Already represented within the current Comprehensive Plan. (Note
element cited).
• Low: Not a priority to include in a Climate Element.
• Medium: Should consider inclusion in the Climate Element, but not a priority.
• High: Recommend inclusion in the Climate Element.
Cascadia revised policies using staff feedback. Policies ranked “Medium” and
“High” were included in the Climate Change Policy Framework. We also included
policies that did not receive a ranking because they require additional review and
prioritization before determining whether they are included in the final Climate
Element. See Appendix A for all draft policy rankings.
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5. Develop Draft Climate Change Policy
Framework
Cascadia then developed a Climate Element Framework that includes a
recommended implementation plan, guidance strategy, and suite of prioritized
mitigation and resilience policies that can be used to draft and finalize a climate
change element. Auburn staff prioritized the preliminary climate goals and policies
for inclusion in the Comprehensive Plan’s climate element and prioritized policies
and included edits based on the feedback we received. Policies were also added
when a gap was identified by staff.
Regional and State Climate Change
Policy Review and Gap Assessment
This section includes the gap assessment summary for each key theme that was
identified for policies related to climate mitigation, climate resilience, and climate
equity to be included in a climate element. For a more detailed policy gap and
alignment analysis, see the Regional and State Climate Change Policy Review and
Gap Assessment (Task 1) Memorandum.
MITIGATION THEMES (1-4)
Theme 1: Transportation and planned development
Gap Assessment: The current Auburn Comprehensive Plan captures key policies for
long-term planning related to transportation and building infrastructure and
development. However, there is a lack of policies that link long-term planning
strategies with GHG emissions reduction and climate equity. Additional policies
related to electric vehicles (EVs) and EV infrastructure, reducing vehicle miles
traveled, and preventing displacement from development should be considered.
Theme 2: Renewable energy and energy efficiency
Gap Assessment: The current Auburn Comprehensive Plan captures key policies for
long-term planning related to land use and utility infrastructure, with some broad
policies aimed at reducing energy consumption, practicing sustainable
development, and reducing the impact of utilities. However, additional polices are
needed that relate these strategies with GHG emissions reduction and climate
equity. These include policies aimed at transitioning to renewable energy sources,
promoting energy conservation and efficiency measures, building grid resilience,
and educating homeowners about energy efficiency upgrades should be
considered.
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Theme 3: Waste management and circular economy
Gap Assessment: The current Auburn Comprehensive Plan captures key policies for
long-term planning related to critical facilities (i.e., waste facilities), with some
aimed at solid waste management. While the Comprehensive Plan encourages
effective solid waste management and increased recycling efforts, additional
policies are needed to relate these strategies with GHG emissions reduction and
climate equity. Policies including supporting a circular economy, supporting urban
agriculture and local food production, encouraging composting, enforcing
sustainable construction and demolition (C&D) practices, and implementing
environmentally friendly purchasing policies should be considered.
Theme 4: Natural habitats and urban green space
Gap Assessment: The current Auburn Comprehensive Plan captures key policies for
long-term planning related to utilizing new development to contribute to new park
developments, seeking land to establish a green belt for non-motorized travel, and
implementing low-impact development and landscaping in parking lots. However,
additional policies are needed that relate these long-term planning strategies with
carbon sequestration (i.e., carbon storage). Policies related to managing and
planning for carbon storage should be considered.
RESILIENCE THEMES (5-10)
Theme 5: Public health and community resiliency
Gap Assessment: The current Auburn Comprehensive Plan captures key policies for
long-term planning related to housing. However, additional policies are needed
that relate to climate resilience, public health, and equity. Policies related to
identifying climate vulnerable communities, investing in programs and services
that reduce vulnerability in vulnerable and frontline communities, and prioritizing
green affordable housing should be considered.
Theme 6: Infrastructure and emergency preparedness
Gap Assessment: The current Auburn Comprehensive Plan captures key policies for
long-term planning related to housing and infrastructure resiliency. However,
additional policies are needed that relate these long-term planning strategies with
equity, emergency preparedness, and climate adaptation. Policies related to and
offering equitable access to adaptation resources (i.e., resilience hubs), developing
strategies to aid community members ability to respond to extreme weather
events (i.e., extreme heat, wildfire smoke events), and ensuring critical and non-
critical infrastructure is resilient in the face of climate change should be
considered.
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Theme 7: Cultural resources and practices
Gap Assessment: The current Auburn Comprehensive Plan captures the
importance of historic preservation through policies related to developing a
Historic Preservation Plan, planning for future development impacts to historic
sites, and recognizing that the City should accord the same levels of promotion and
protection to Native American sites and artifacts as to those of the more recent
past. However, there are not specific policies that recognize the risks climate
impacts pose to historic sites. Additional policies related to assessing climate
vulnerability of the city’s historic resources and establishing and maintaining
government-to-government relations with tribes related to preserving sites should
be considered.
Theme 8: Water conservation and stormwater
management
Gap Assessment: The current Auburn Comprehensive Plan has many policies
related to preserving water quality and quantity through conservation efforts and
includes policies related to stormwater planning. However, additional policies are
needed that provide a connection between climate change impacts and planning
for community water needs and stormwater management. Policies that link
climate change with water conservation efforts and stormwater management
should be considered.
Theme 9: Natural habitats and urban green space
Gap Assessment: The current Auburn Comprehensive Plan includes policies
protecting, enhancing, and restoring critical areas and natural resources. However,
policies related to forest management and increasing the resilience of natural
resources to climate change impacts are lacking. Additional policies that speak to
tree management and link the protection of healthy habitats to climate resiliency
should be considered.
Theme 10: Economic Development
Gap Assessment: The current Auburn Comprehensive Plan captures the high-level
policies related to local economic development. However, additional policies are
needed that recognize climate and environmental justice considerations. Policies
related to developing a green job strategy, an equitable green workforce (including
education and workforce training), and a just transition should be considered.
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Climate Change Policy Framework
Policies were revised using staff feedback received at the staff workshop. Policies
ranked “Medium” and “High” were included in the Climate Change Policy
Framework. Any policy that was not evaluated is also in the Framework so that it
can be further evaluated by staff.
Each policy in the Framework has a parenthetical citation. This citation indicates
where policy language originated. Language may have been edited to suit
Auburn’s specific needs.
• Corresponding policies included within Auburn’s Comprehensive Plan (e.g.,
Comp Plan LU-1). LU-1 indicates the policy can be found in the 2015
comprehensive plan, Land Use section, Policy 1.
• Corresponding actions included within Auburn’s Climate Action Plan (e.g.,
CAP E-7). CAP E-7 indicates the policy can be found in Auburn’s CAP, Energy
section, action 7.
• Policies sourced from the Department of Commerce’s Menu of Measures
(Commerce)
• Policies sourced from the K4C Comprehensive Plan Model Climate Policies
(K4C Model Policies)
MITIGATION SUB-ELEMENT
Goals and policies included in the mitigation sub-element are focused on reducing
GHG emissions.
Theme 1: Transportation and planned
development
Draft policies related to electric vehicles (EVs) and EV infrastructure were typically
ranked high-medium priority. Draft policies pertaining to reducing VMT were
prioritized as “low” or noted as continuing efforts already covered in other elements
within the Comprehensive Plan (“NA”). However, as a key compliance requirement,
reducing per capita VMT will be important for the Climate Element to address
these ongoing strategies and build upon them when appropriate. This includes
policies such as:
• Partnering with agencies that support multimodal transportation
infrastructure;
• Prioritizing dense, mixed use, transit-oriented development, and affordable
housing in high use areas;
• Investigating opportunities to expand and implement multi-modal
transportation options, including bicycling, walking, and transit;
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• Maximize bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure and other active-
transportation systems.
Goal 1 Increase the percentage of EV and other low-emission transportation
modes operating within the City.
Policy 1.1 Development incentives should be established that encourage the
creation of electric car charging stations (LU-57). Work with utility
providers and other partners (e.g. developers and EV companies) to
ensure that there is access to EV charging where it is needed and
expand EV charging readiness for buildings. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 1.2 Develop and implement an Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Plan that:
• Reviews current EV infrastructure in the city to identify gaps in
charging locations. This review should be done with an equity
lens and consider areas that are historically underserved and
where the most benefit would be observed.
• Identifies locations for chargers in commercial, multifamily
residence areas, and city facilities.
• Reviews feasibility of fast charging stations.
• Addresses access issues and barriers to EV and charging
stations for low-income homeowners, renters, and multifamily
residents.
• Identifies key stakeholders to EV infrastructure use and
development.
• Identifies partners in the region who can assist with charging
station infrastructure to lower program and construction costs.
(K4C Model Policies)
Goal 2 Decrease emissions that stem from fleet & freight service vehicles
and aviation.
Policy 2.1 Support state-level policies and actions that incentivize and create
requirements for clean fuels and electrification of private and
commercial fleet vehicles. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 2.2 Convert public-owned fleets to zero-emission vehicles (e.g., electric or
renewably produced hydrogen) as soon as feasible. (Commerce)
Theme 2: Renewable energy and energy
efficiency
Staff noted that some of the draft policies related to energy had limitations to what
a city can achieve and when the effort requires action by an industry or other
regional partners. Additionally, budget limitations need to be considered when
determining what is feasible in the next 20 years under this theme. Draft policies
that were ranked “low” were noted to already be covered elsewhere in the
Comprehensive Plan.
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Goal 3 Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by transitioning to renewable
energy sources, decarbonizing buildings, and increasing energy
efficiency.
Policy 3.1 Evaluate opportunities to retrofit municipal buildings for energy
efficiency. (Commerce)
Policy 3.2 Optimize heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems
at City facilities by installing more efficient equipment and
technology and implementing operational changes to increase
energy efficiency. Such efforts may include the following:
• Conducting HVAC energy efficiency audits to identify cost-
effective upgrades.
• Installing building automation systems (BAS).
• Installing high-efficiency motors, dampers, and multi-speed
motors for air handling.
• Phasing out chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in air-conditioning
and refrigeration equipment.
• Educating staff to ensure and maintain peak efficiency and
operating conditions.
(CAP E-2)
Policy 3.3 Adopt performance standards for all City buildings, including
renovations on existing buildings and design of new buildings, and
establish a tracking system that makes the benchmarking scores of
City buildings publicly available. Relevant building performance
standards may include the following:
• Standards from LEED-EB, the Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design rating system for Existing Buildings.
• Building commissioning requirements.
• Lighting power densities (LPDs) and controls that go beyond
existing energy code requirements.
• Wall insulation, window performance, and envelope air
tightness standards that go beyond existing energy and
building code requirements.
• LEED and/or ENERGYSTAR certification for buildings larger
than a specified size.
(CAP E-3)
Policy 3.4 Optimize building envelope energy efficiency at City facilities by
installing more efficient materials and technology. Relevant
upgrades may include the following:
• Conducting audits to identify cost-effective upgrades for
weatherization and building envelope components.
• Replacing single-pane windows with insulated glazing with
low-e film.
• Replacing or increasing interior wall insulation and roof
insulation during major renovations.
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• Adding additional batt or rigid insulation and thermal
barriers during interior renovations.
(CAP E-4)
Policy 3.5 Implement audits and technical assistance to increase building
energy efficiency. Such a program could address single-family,
multifamily, and/or commercial buildings. Elements could include
weatherization strategies, direct-installation of energy and water
conservation materials, appliance trade-in/exchanges, home and
business conservation kits, and rooftop solar and solar hot water
projects – targeting support in low-income communities. (CAP E-5)
Policy 3.6 Adopt performance standards for residential and commercial
building codes to increase building energy efficiency. The standards
can address single-family, multifamily, and commercial renovations,
existing buildings, and new buildings. The City can also require that
building performance ratings be publicly available, to help inform
prospective tenants and buyers about the energy performance
status of buildings. (CAP E-6)
Policy 3.7 Pursue and advocate for federal and state funding and incentives
to improve energy efficiency in existing commercial and residential
buildings. (Commerce)
Policy 3.8 Maximize renewable energy sources for the supply of electricity and
heat to new and existing residential and commercial building
construction. (Commerce)
Policy 3.9 Retrofit publicly owned buildings with solar panels and electric
heat pumps. (Commerce)
Policy 3.10 Support and expand building energy efficiency retrofit programs to
reduce building energy use and improve energy resilience,
including a focus on affordable housing. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 3.11 Explore and promote low interest loan options and incentive
programs to finance energy efficiency upgrades for commercial
and residential buildings, while seeking other finance mechanisms
to fill in potential funding gaps. Investments and programs should
be prioritized in historically underserved areas. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 3.12 Develop energy efficiency outreach programs for residents and
businesses by partnering with PSE and other local jurisdictions to
identify and select appropriate and cost-effective energy
improvements. This could involve supporting local schools in
integrating climate and sustainability education into curriculum.
(K4C Model Policies)
Policy 3.13 Building on proposed WA state policy, strengthen energy efficiency
codes to reflect best practices and meet established energy targets
(e.g., require energy use disclosure and benchmarking for buildings,
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starting with commercial and multifamily buildings over a size
threshold). (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 3.14 Expand local onsite renewable energy production, such as through
installation at municipal facilities, support of incentive programs,
and coordination of community-based partnership projects and
programs. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 3.15 Support cleaner energy sources. Potential efforts include
supporting community-scale renewable energy projects and
efficient small-scale on-site power generation, working with local
utilities to use cleaner energy sources, and encouraging Auburn
businesses and residents to offset their energy use. (CAP E-7)
Policy 3.16 Develop low-energy-use requirements and building code
compliance for residential buildings. (Commerce)
Policy 3.17 Educate community members about incentives for emerging
alternative energy technology, such as tax exemptions for solar
installations, and increase community awareness of existing solar
arrays and water heating systems in the city. (K4C Model Policies)
Goal 4 Promote a diverse, clean, efficient grid that increases the grids
reliability as demand increases.
Policy 4.1 Work with and encourage the utility provider to plan, site, build and
maintain an electrical system that meets the needs of existing and
future development, and provides highly reliable service for City
customers and coordinate with non-city utility providers to ensure
planning for system growth consistent with the city’s
Comprehensive Plan and growth forecasts. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 4.2 Advocate for increased grid reliability through state and utility
regulatory rulemaking and legislation that supports demand
response and storage technologies that reduce peak load and
provide grid flexibility. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 4.3 Advocate for energy utilities to adopt efficient practices and explore
alternative energy resources, in order to help meet long-term
energy needs and reduce environmental impacts associated with
traditional energy supplies. (K4C Model Policies)
Theme 3: Waste Management and Circular
Economy
Staff feedback received confirmed inclusion of many of the draft policies, however,
policies noted as “impractical”, not feasible, or already a program that Auburn runs
were omitted.
Goal 5 Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from materials and organic
waste by minimizing waste generation.
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Policy 5.1 Encourage local food production, processing, and distribution
through the support of home and community gardens (i.e., P-
Patches), farmers’ markets, community kitchens, and other
collaborative initiatives to provide healthy foods and promote food
security. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 5.2 Update municipal solid waste contract policies and programs to
encourage waste prevention and take-back programs, maximize
diversion, ensure efficient collection routes, and promote hybrid
and electric vehicles to transport and collect waste. (K4C Model
Policies)
Policy 5.3 Promote prevention and redistribution of food waste, such as
through expanding and encouraging community and school
gardens, urban agriculture, and farmers markets; and working with
local grocery stores to support a food donation program to send
surplus food. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 5.4 Support extended producer responsibility (EPR) related policies
and actions that require companies that make consumer products
fund the residential recycling system and that ensure that
packaging and paper products actually get recycled. (K4C Model
Policies)
Policy 5.5 Implement solid waste management programs and services that
provide ample opportunities and incentives to maximize the
community’s participation in local and regional waste reduction
and recycling efforts. (CF-30)
Policy 5.6 Ensure that solid waste management programs shall be developed
to make waste reduction and recycling efficient, reliable, cost-
effective, and convenient for all residents and businesses. (CF-31)
Policy 5.7 Encourage and promote the use of products manufactured from
recycled materials, and the use of materials that can be recycled.
City Departments and contractors shall use recycled and recyclable
products whenever and wherever feasible. (CF-32)
Policy 5.8 Implement solid waste reduction and recycling programs that
have the cumulative effect maintaining the 50 percent waste
reduction and recycling goal (recycling tons/total solid waste
stream). (CF-33)
Policy 5.9 Promote the recycling of solid waste materials by providing
opportunities for convenient recycling and by developing
educational materials on recycling, composting and other waste
reduction methods. (CF-35)
Goal 6 Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from materials and organic
waste by maximizing waste diversion.
Policy 6.1 Expand commercial recycling and organics collection and service,
including making recycling and organics disposal as convenient as
garbage and adequate to serve the number of tenants. Implement
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compost requirements for food businesses in accordance with HB
1799. Consider the implications of implementing an organics
disposal bans and/or requiring services. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 6.2 Expand recycling and compost service for single-family and
multifamily properties and provide technical assistance to help
compost successfully. Consider the implications of implementing
an organics disposal bans and/or requiring services. (K4C Model
Policies)
Policy 6.3M+R Continue to implement community outreach and education
programs around proper waste reduction, recycling, and
composting—with a focus on food waste. Provide outreach and
program in multiple formats and languages as appropriate. (K4C
Model Policies)
Policy 6.4 Adopt standards for City buildings to use best practices for
recycling, composting, reuse, and waste reduction. Standards can
recommend practices such as placing more recycling bins at
workstations, collecting organics more frequently and garbage less
frequently, and installing more water bottle filling stations in
facilities. (CAP M-1)
Policy 6.5M+R Identify gaps in recycling and composting programs and take
steps to expand service. The City can help identify locations,
communities, and building types that are underserved by recycling
and composting programs, such as multifamily apartment
buildings. The City can work with haulers and through policies to
improve service and increase recycling and composting. (CAP M-3)
Policy 6.6 Incentivize recycling of construction and demolition debris.
(Commerce)
Policy 6.7 Use recycled materials in the construction of transportation and
other infrastructure facilities. (Commerce)
Policy 6.8 Develop, implement, and enforce construction and demolition
(C&D) recycling and deconstruction ordinances. (K4C Model
Policies)
Goal 7 Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from materials by supporting a
circular economy.
Policy 7.1 Develop and adopt a citywide purchasing policy that includes
environmental impacts. Environmentally Preferable Purchasing
(EPP) policies can prioritize reusing products and materials,
purchasing durable goods, avoiding disposable goods, and
reducing energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, and lifecycle costs
and impacts. EPP policy may include targets, measures to track
impacts, strategies for implementation, and references to existing
standards (e.g., EPEAT, ENERGYSTAR, and LEED). (CAP M-2)
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Policy 7.2M+R Support “collaborative consumption” community projects that
encourage shared use and exchanges. Examples projects may
include tool libraries or repair cafes, which the City can support
through partnerships or grants with nonprofit and community
organizations. (CAP M-4)
Theme 4: Natural habitats and urban green space
Staff ranked all draft policies “Medium”- “High”.
Goal 8 Protect and enhance land carbon sinks (e.g., trees, urban green
space) to mitigate GHG emissions.
Policy 8.1 Require open space set-asides (such as parks) for new
development. (Commerce) (PR-2)
Policy 8.2 Maximize tree canopy coverage in surface parking lots.
(Commerce)
Policy 8.3 Improve and expand urban forest management to maximize or
conserve carbon storage. (Commerce)
Policy 8.4 Manage natural lands (forests, grasslands, wetlands) to maintain
and/or increase their carbon concentrations. Avoid the conversion
of carbon-rich ecosystems. Prioritize increasing tree canopy cover
and open space in overburdened frontline communities.
(Commerce)
Goal 9 Establish a green belt to develop a non-motorized trail to connect
housing, schools, and businesses across a community.
Policy 9.1 Actively seek to acquire land along corridors identified for future
trail development in the current Comprehensive Transportation
Plan and Auburn Parks, Recreation, & Open Space Plan. (NM-04)
RESILIENCE SUB-ELEMENT
Goals and policies included in the resilience sub-element are focused on building
community resilience and reducing community vulnerability to climate impacts.
Theme 5: Public health and community resiliency
Staff ranked many of the draft policies as “High” but noted they are covered by
other plans and programs such as the Hazard Mitigation plan and the
Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan.
Goal 10 Conduct, and periodically update, a climate vulnerability and risk
assessment.
Policy 10.1 Conduct, and periodically update, a climate vulnerability and risk
assessment that includes a focus on the built environment,
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communities, and natural systems. Support enhanced data
collection for hazard events to provide a fuller understanding of
the community's hazard characteristics—including identifying
demographic groups/community members most vulnerable to
climate impacts. Use assessment findings to evaluate changes to
comprehensive plan goals and policies and enhance resilience.
(K4C Model Policies)
Policy 10.2 Promote the use of health impact assessments and other tools to
address the potential impacts of health, equity, and climate
change on vulnerable communities. (Commerce)
Policy 10.3 Integrate a climate impacts risk assessment and policies into the
local hazard mitigation plan. (Commerce)
Policy 10.4 Support enhanced data collection for hazard events of all
magnitudes to provide a fuller understanding of the community's
hazard characteristics — including those affected by climate
change. (Commerce)
Goal 11 Minimize disproportionate impacts of climate change on
vulnerable and frontline communities and focus/maximize
associated benefits
Policy 11.1 Provide information in multiple languages to Auburn’s diverse
communities regarding services offered by local and regional
governmental, educational, employment, health, and other
providers to improve residents’ quality of life and to promote
resident engagement and household economic independence. (H-
38)
Policy 11.2 Encourage and support human and health service organizations
that offer programs and facilities for people with special needs.
Support programs in particular that help people to remain within
the community, including those that are veterans, disabled,
seniors, single-parent households, and the homeless. (H-31)
Policy 11.3 Identify and address the disproportionate impacts of climate
change on communities of color and lower-income communities
when prioritizing investments, policies, programs, and projects.
Prioritize investments, policies, and programs that address existing
disparities in the distribution of environmental burdens and
benefits. Ensure benefits are accessible to and focused on
underserved communities. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 11.4 Invest in community-driven climate planning processes, share
decision-making power, and co-develop and identify climate
actions and priorities, particularly with frontline communities. (K4C
Model Policies)
Policy 11.5 Improve access to services throughout the community by
investing in partnerships with frontline communities to co-identify
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and remove systemic and physical barriers to services that
increase climate resilience. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 11.6 Place special emphasis on extreme weather events that impact
programs addressing those who are most vulnerable to
homelessness. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 11.7 Prioritize investments, policies, programs, and projects that
equitably reduce climate change impacts on vulnerable
communities and increase resilience. This includes actions that
address the impacts of extreme weather events on those
experiencing homelessness. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 11.8 Identify communities disproportionately impacted by extreme
heat events and prioritize equitable access to emergency
preparedness resources for vulnerable populations and areas.
Develop and distribute tools and resources for the community to
stay safe during extreme heat events. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 11.9 Identify and expand community-centered anti-displacement
strategies and climate-resilient infrastructure to mitigate housing
insecurities exacerbated by climate change and/or gentrification.
(K4C Model Policies)
Policy 11.10 Link climate adaptation strategies with social equity and public
health strategies. (Commerce)
Policy 11.11 Address the social and mental health needs of displaced
populations following disasters. (Commerce)
Goal 12 Prioritize green, affordable housing to meet projected growth and
needs of the community.
Policy 12.1 Support projects that bring renewable energy to communities of
color, low-income populations, and members of limited-English
speaking communities, based on evaluation and assessment of
barriers and challenges. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 12.2 Uphold the Growth Management Act to prioritize dense, mixed
use, transit-oriented development (TOD) and affordable housing
by encouraging integrated site planning and green building, with
a focus on early consideration of these in the site development
process. Encourage the location of new green, affordable housing
units near community amenities and services, such as transit and
green space. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 12.3 Give intentional consideration to a local community response to
homelessness with affordable, green housing and supportive
services provided. (K4C Model Policies)
Theme 6: Infrastructure and Emergency
Preparedness
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Staff ranked many of the draft policies as “High” but noted they are covered by
other plans and programs such as the Hazard Mitigation plan and the
Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan.
Goal 13 Equitably protect public health and safety by identifying and
planning for risks associated with climate change.
Policy 13.1 Promote housing improvements by property owners and building
managers. Seek available assistance for housing rehabilitation.
Assistance will include the development of residential
infrastructure and the rehabilitation of individual properties. (HO-
20)
a. Find public and private sources of capital and offer low-
interest loans for rehabilitation. (Public Works, 2012)
b. Continue to participate in the Emergency Home Repair
Program and consider partnering with nongovernmental
organizations to maximize funds. (Public Works, 2012)
c. Encourage green lending for improved energy conservation,
indoor air quality, and other measures. (Public Works, 2012)
d. Help identify professional volunteers at educational or
professional associations to plan redesign or architectural
upgrades of the properties. (Public Works, 2012)
e. Support additional healthy housing and preservation
strategies, such as property tax exemptions to preserve
affordable housing opportunities and utilizing community
health workers to offer property owners and residents the
education and resources needed to maintain housing. (H-21)
Policy 13.2 Ensure the Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan
incorporates considerations of climate change impacts on the
Auburn community, including: 1) potential housing insecurities and
displacement exacerbated by climate change, 2) chronic and acute
heat risk in the community, 3) infrastructure and utility
disturbances, and 4) plans and communication tools to help
residents plan and practice actions that make responding to
emergencies quicker and safer. (Commerce)
Policy 13.4 Develop resilience hubs — community-serving facilities
augmented to support residents and coordinate resource
distribution and services before, during, and after a hazard event.
(Commerce)
Policy 13.5 Work toward a distribution of growth that promotes equitable
access for frontline communities and reduces the potential for
displacement through program services such as municipal
emergency preparedness, affordable energy prices, and
accountable utilities with consideration of climate impacts such as
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extreme heat, flooding, wildfire smoke, and drought. (K4C Model
Policies)
Policy 13.6 Factor climate impacts into the planning of operations and
coordination of preparedness, response, and recovery activities
among first responders and partners, including public health, law
enforcement, fire, school, and emergency medical services (EMS)
personnel. (Commerce)
Goal 14 Protect the community from extreme heat impacts and wildfire
smoke
Policy 14.1 Work with partners, such as the Valley Regional Fire Authority, to
prioritize at-risk community members for actions that mitigate
wildfire smoke, including providing filter fans or incentivizing
infrastructure updates that protect against wildfire smoke (e.g.,
HVAC updates and MERV 13 filters for air intake) for facilities that
serve high-risk populations. (Commerce)
Policy 14.2 Develop and implement an urban heat resilience plan or strategy
that includes heat mitigation and management actions to prepare
for and respond to chronic and acute heat risk in the community.
The strategy should be informed by urban heat island mapping
and may include coordinated efforts such as cooling centers, early
warning systems, development/land use codes, and energy grid
resilience. Utilize the King County Extreme Heat Mitigation
Strategy to align with county planning efforts. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 14.3 Review and update land use and development codes to encourage
the use of passive cooling approaches to reduce urban heat island
effects. Utilizing energy efficient cooling technologies, reflective
and/or vegetated roofs, and the integration of trees, landscaping,
and green space should be implemented to help reduce the health
effects of extreme heat on frontline communities and vulnerable
population. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 14.4 Encourage the use of methods that contribute to improved indoor
air quality during wildfire smoke events. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 14.5 Provide community education and outreach on wildfire mitigation
best management practices and expand household-level wildfire
mitigation assistance. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 14.6 Provide community education and outreach on wildfire smoke
mitigation best management practices. Ensure outreach is
accessible and prioritize frontline communities. (K4C Model
Policies)
Policy 14.7 Develop and implement a wildfire smoke resilience strategy in
partnership with local residents, emergency management officials,
regional clean air agency officials, and other stakeholders.
(Commerce)
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Policy 14.8 Develop and implement an urban heat resilience strategy that
includes land use, urban design, urban greening, and waste heat
reduction actions. (Commerce)
Policy 14.9 Ensure that all community members have equitable access to
green space within a half-mile. (Commerce)
Policy 14.10 Develop a program to distribute cooling units and install heat
pumps, prioritizing households with residents (e.g., low-income
seniors) most vulnerable to extreme temperature events.
(Commerce)
Policy 14.11 Support Valley Regional Fire Authority in the development of
community wildfire protection plans. (Commerce)
Goal 15 Ensure that infrastructure (critical and noncritical) and utilities are
resilient to climate change impacts (e.g., precipitation events and
stormwater flooding).
Policy 15.1 Integrate local climate impacts risk assessment into hazard
mitigation planning. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 15.2 Account for climate change impacts when planning, siting,
designing, and operating capital facility, utility, and infrastructure
projects. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 15.3 Factor climate impacts into the planning of operations and
coordination of preparedness, response, and recovery activities.
(K4C Model Policies)
Policy 15.4 Coordinate and support public education by utility providers that
raises awareness of the need for water and energy conservation
and empowers individuals across diverse audience segments to
take action. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 15.5 Identify and reduce flooding through improvements to drainage
and reductions in impervious surfaces and runoff, particularly in
overburdened communities. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 15.6 Incorporate post-wildfire debris flow and flooding hazard
information into critical area delineation in fire-prone communities.
(Commerce)
Goal 16 Provide all residents an equitable opportunity to learn about
climate impacts, influence policy decisions, and take actions to
enhance community resilience.
Policy 16.1 Create and implement culturally contextualized outreach and
education initiatives and materials that will inform the community
about near-term and longer-term climate change threats and ways
that the community can prepare and build resilience to these
changes. (Commerce)
Policy 16.2 Build and support partnerships with community organizations with
the capacity and relationships to convene diverse coalitions of
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residents and to educate and empower them to implement
climate resilience actions. (Commerce)
Policy 16.3 Cultivate relationships with climate justice coalitions that can help
facilitate frontline community learning and engagement that links
local issues with regional and statewide issues. (Commerce)
Theme 7: Cultural resources and practices
No feedback was received on theme 7 policies, all were kept for the framework.
Goal 17 Protect and preserve cultural resources and practices to build
resilient communities and ecosystems in the face of climate
change.
Policy 17.1 Ensure that cultural resources and practices — including historic
sites and culturally important traditional foods and natural
resources — are resilient to the impacts of extreme weather and
other natural hazards worsened by climate change consistent with
the Historic Preservation Element. (Commerce) (HP-1)
Policy 17.2 Consider climate impact vulnerability (e.g., flooding, landslides,
etc.) as a factor in the Historic Preservation Plan to identify and
protect City historic resources. (HP-2)
Policy 17.3 Establish or work with partners to establish a native plant nursery
and seed bank to support long-term restoration and carbon
sequestration efforts. (Commerce)
Policy 17.4 Establish and maintain government-to-government relations with
Native American tribes for the preservation of archaeological sites
and traditional cultural properties that are vulnerable to climate
impacts. (Commerce)
Theme 8: Water conservation and stormwater
management
Staff ranked most policies “Medium”- “High” and noted there should be more
emphasis on preparing for drought as this is an impact that will be exacerbated by
climate change. Policy 18.1 was added to address this concern.
Goal 18 Protect and preserve water quantity and quality from drought,
extreme heat, and other hazards exacerbated by climate change
consistent with the Utilities element.
Policy 18.1 Evaluate the long-term adequacy of water delivery infrastructure
to ensure that changes in hydrological patterns (e.g., increases in
flooding frequency or reduction of late-summer water availability
associated with climate change) can be anticipated and managed
effectively.
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Policy 18.2 Reduce water consumption annually for the City of Auburn’s
public water supply by supporting water conservation efforts, such
as addressing distribution leakage. (CAP note; LU-93, CF-20, CF-21)
Policy 18.3 Promote water efficiency and conserve community water
resources.
Foster water conservation through incentives, information, and
requirements that residents and business adopt water-efficiency
practices and technologies. Help ensure that existing codes do not
pose any barriers that discourage or prevent the use of water
conservation practices on public and private property (CAP E-8).
Policy 18.4 Implement automated metering infrastructure (AMI), groundwater
monitoring, and other proven measures to conserve water and
enhance drought resilience. (Commerce) (LU-93, CF-20, CF-21)
Policy 18.5 Utilize water conservation methods and technologies in
development of irrigation infrastructure within parks and
recreation areas to foster climate resilience. (Commerce) (LU-93,
CF-20, CF-21)
Policy 18.6 Manage water resources sustainably in the face of climate change
through smart irrigation, stormwater management, preventative
maintenance, water conservation and wastewater reuse, plant
selection, and landscape management. (Commerce) (LU-93, CF-20,
CF-21)
Goal 19 Account for climate change impacts in planning, designing, and
operating stormwater management approaches consistent with
the Comprehensive Storm Drainage Plan.
Policy 19.1 Identify opportunities to retrofit undersized stormwater
infrastructure and areas with uncontrolled runoff to improve flow
control and water quality, with a priority on locations providing the
most benefit, are identified to be most vulnerable to extreme
precipitation climate impacts, and areas such as overburdened
communities. (K4C Model Policies)
Theme 9: Natural habitats and urban green space
Staff ranked the majority of draft policies as “High” and noted they were aligned
with Auburn’s goals; however, determining leadership and budget to implement
some actions were noted as barriers. Policies relevant to forestland were prioritized
as a “Low” ranking since they may not be applicable to the City.
Goal 20 Support preservation and access to green and open spaces.
Policy 20.1 Ensure equitable access to parks, green space, and recreational
services for all residents consistent with the Land Use Element. (K4C
Model Policies) (LU-96)
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Goal 21 Protect and enhance the climate resilience of urban forests by
implementing climate-smart forest management.
Policy 21.1 Review, update, and implement tree protection codes to increase
tree retention. Encourage the protection, maintenance, and
expansion of tree canopy throughout the community, prioritizing
residential and mixed-use areas with the least current tree canopy
to equitably distribute benefits. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 21.2 Adopt an urban forest master plan and implementing ordinances to
maintain and expand tree canopy cover, improve tree and
watershed health, prioritize carbon sequestration, and build climate
resilience. (Commerce)
Policy 21.5 Prioritize urban forestry planning resources and funding for
frontline communities that are hurt first and worst by climate
change. (Commerce)
Goal 22 Ensure the protection and recovery of ecosystems to provide
healthy habitat in a changing climate.
Policy 22.1 Ensure no net loss of ecosystem composition, structure, and
functions, especially in Critical Areas, and strive for net ecological
gain to enhance climate resilience in accordance with the Land Use
Element. (Commerce) (LU-132, LU-133, LU-134, LU-135)
Policy 22.2 Identify opportunities to expand habitat protection and improve
habitat quality and connectivity to foster climate resilience using
conservation area designations, buffers, and open space corridors.
(Commerce)
Policy 22.3 Use an integrated approach to prevent the spread and
establishment of invasive plant species and enhance the climate
resilience of native plant communities. (Commerce)
Policy 22.4 Implement actions identified in restoration and salmon recovery
plans to improve climate resilience of streams and watersheds.
(Commerce)
Policy 22.5 Protect and restore riparian vegetation to reduce erosion, provide
shade, and support other functions that improve the resilience of
streams to climate change. (Commerce)
Policy 22.6 Increase resilience to flooding by protecting and, where possible,
enhancing, and restoring existing flood storage, conveyance, and
ecological functions and values of floodplains, wetlands, and
riparian corridors. (K4C Model Policies)
Theme 10: Economic Development
Staff ranked all draft policies “High”.
Goal 23 Increase access of green jobs, with special consideration of
increasing access for frontline communities.
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Policy 23.1 Support economic development activity through workforce
development programs to provide training and employment with
private sector, school districts, Downtown Auburn Cooperative, and
Green River College. Consideration of the special needs of
economically disadvantaged residents and neighborhoods, and
people with physical impairments and developmental disabilities,
should be included in these programs. (ED-11)
Policy 23.2 Develop a green jobs strategy in partnership with community
groups, frontline communities, and businesses that (1) supports
sustainable practices, green skills development, and the low carbon
transition of the City’s impacted industries, (2) develops pathways
for youth and impacted workers to transition into green jobs; (3)
ensures opportunities (e.g., local hiring requirements) for these jobs,
and 4) recruits sectors that can bring low-carbon emissions, like
clean energy. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 23.3 Develop an equitable green workforce that is representative of the
diversity of the city’s communities and reflects the diverse skill sets,
knowledge systems, and experiences communities through
targeted hiring, workforce development, community agreements,
and creating intentional pathways for frontline communities across
sectors and seniority levels. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy 23.4 Ensure that the jurisdiction's Comprehensive Emergency
Management Plan responds to the impacts of climate change and
identifies roles and responsibilities to support a sustainable
economic recovery after a disaster. (Commerce)
Policy 23.5 Support local businesses' efforts to generate and store renewable
electricity on-site, which can provide back-up power during
emergencies and help ensure continuity of operations. (Commerce)
Policy 23.6 Promote local industrial development to support a circular
economy that increases demand for recycled materials and reduces
demand for new raw materials and their embodied carbon
emissions. (Commerce)
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Appendix A: Workshop Meeting
Summary
Cascadia worked with the project team and City staff to further refine, vet, and
prioritize climate goals and policies for inclusion into the Climate Element. A
workshop was held on May 17th, 2023 with City staff that focused on reviewing the
project purpose, outputs, timeline, and prioritizing the draft climate mitigation and
resiliency goals and policies for the Climate Element.
Staff in attendance included representatives from the following departments:
• Community Planning
• Public Works
• Parks & Recreation
• Economic Development
The workshop began with project background, goals, final outputs, and an
overview of the timeline. Climate element requirements outlined in HB 1181 and the
Department of Commerce Climate Element Guidance was also reviewed.
Once climate element key themes from the Regional and State Climate Change
Policy Review and Gap Assessment memo were reviewed, staff were organized
amongst four breakout rooms where they were asked to prioritize policies and
provide feedback on goals and policies within the key theme(s) that best aligned
with their expertise. Prioritization of policies was done using the rankings:
• NA: Already represented within the current Comp Plan. (Note element cited).
• Low: Not a priority to include in a Climate Element.
• Med: Should consider inclusion in the Climate Element, but not a priority.
• High: Recommend inclusion in the Climate Element.
Policy feedback was integrated and rankings that were undetermined or ranked
Med - High were to be included in the Climate Change Policy Framework.
BREAKOUT ROOM TAKEAWAYS
Group 1
Group 1 included staff from Community Planning and Public Works and reviewed
the following themes:
• Theme 1: Transportation and planned development
• Theme 2: Renewable energy and energy efficiency
• A few policies in Theme 6: Infrastructure and emergency preparedness
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Main Takeaways
• Many policies on multimodal transportation, transit-oriented development, and
other vehicle miles traveled reduction policies were indicated as being
represented elsewhere in the comprehensive plan.
• The Auburn Comprehensive Plan is currently undergoing an update, therefore
the gap analysis/crosswalk that was conducted on the 2015 plan is not
representative of those updates.
• HB 1110 will address many policies on housing policies in Theme 1.
• There are limitations to what a city is able to achieve on climate and when the
effort requires action by an industry or regionally.
• Budget limitation need to be considered when determining what is
feasible/achievable in the next 20 years.
• There is conflict/competition between natural areas and open space given
demands of housing and employment targets. Space is a commodity and it’s
hard to achieve all the targets.
Group 2
Group 2 included staff from Public Works and reviewed the following themes:
• A few policies in Theme 6: Infrastructure and emergency preparedness
• Theme 8: Water conservation and stormwater management
Main Takeaways
• Currently, three utility systems (water, sewer, and stormwater) are
developing/updating plans. Instead of referring to specific plans within an
element, recommend keep policy language more general.
• There should be more emphasis on preparing for drought as this is an
impact that will be exacerbated by climate change.
Group 3
Group 3 included staff from Parks & Recreation and reviewed the following themes:
• Theme 4: Natural habitats and urban green space (mitigation)
• Theme 9: Natural habitats and urban green space (resilience)
Main Takeaways
• Many of the policies were ranked “High” and inline with Auburn goals;
however, determining leadership and budget to implement some actions
were noted as a barrier.
• Policies relevant to forestland were noted as a “Low” ranking since it may not
be applicable to the City.
Group 4
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Group 4 included staff from Community Planning and Economic Development and
reviewed the following themes:
• Theme 5: Public health and community resiliency
• Most of the policies in Theme 6: Infrastructure and emergency preparedness
• Theme 7: Cultural resources and practices
• Theme 10: Economic development
Main Takeaways
• Many of the policies were ranked “High” but are covered by other plans and
programs such as the Hazard Mitigation plan and the Comprehensive
Emergency Management Plan.
• Identified Valley Regional Fire Authority (VRFA) as a critical partner related to
wildfire risks.
• Noted that the City should be recruiting sectors that bring low-carbon
emissions, like clean energy.
Theme 3: Waste Management and Circular Economy
During the workshop, Theme 3 was not reviewed as the staff responsible for waste
management were not present. Feedback on the goals and policies were collected
following the workshop from the Finance Department, who oversees the City’s
waste management.
Main Takeaways
• It is important to keep policies feasible for the City (i.e., recycling all paper by
a certain date is not practical).
• There are ongoing efforts to increase recycling/composting, education, and
community gardens in Auburn.
Gap Assessment Findings and Goals &
Policies Prioritization
This section includes a gap assessment for each key theme and a suite of
accompanying goals and policies related to climate mitigation, climate resilience,
and climate equity. Policy alignment per proposed policy also assessed to
determine if current Auburn policy alignment is “good,” “lacking,” or was a “policy
gap.” See Table 2 for how policies were coded. Finally, each policy is cited to
indicate where policy language was taken directly or tailored from, these include:
• Corresponding policies included within Auburn’s Comprehensive Plan (e.g.,
LU-1)
• Corresponding actions included within Auburn’s Climate Action Plan (e.g.,
CAP E-7)
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• Policies sourced from the Department of Commerce’s Menu of Measures
(Commerce)
• Policies sourced from the K4C Comprehensive Plan Model Climate Policies
(K4C Model Policies)
Theme Structure
Under each key theme, the relevant Auburn Comprehensive Plan elements and
priority sector will be highlighted if represented by the theme goals and policies.
(see Table 3 for figure abbreviations).
Example:
Table 3. Theme alignment abbreviations (abbr.).
Element
Abbr.
Element (from
Auburn’s Comp Plan)
Priority
Sector Abbr.
Priority Sector (from
Commerce Guidance)
LU Land Use Z&D Zoning & Development
H Housing B&E Buildings & Energy
CF Capital Facilities CR&P Cultural Resources & Practices
U Utilities WR Water Resources
T Transportation T Transportation
ED Economic
Development
ED Economic Development
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PR Parks and Recreation E Ecosystems
HP Historic Preservation EM Emergency Management
HH Human Health
WM Waste Management
A Agriculture
To ensure compliance with Commerce guidance, the resilience themes’ priority
sector alignment was reviewed to confirm at least one climate resilience goal
and/or supportive policy were developed within each of the model climate
element’s 11 sectors. Table 4 shows the number of resilience themes that aligned
within the identified 11 priority sectors.
Table 4. Number of resilience themes that align with Commerce priority sectors.
Priority Sector Number
Zoning & Development 2
Buildings & Energy 1
Cultural Resources & Practices 1
Water Resources 1
Transportation 1
Economic Development 1
Ecosystems 1
Emergency Management 2
Human Health 3
Waste Management* 1
Agriculture 1
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Mitigation
Goals and policies included in the mitigation gap assessment are focused on reducing GHG emissions.
Theme 1: TRANSPORTATION AND PLANNED DEVELOPMENT
Gap Assessment: The current Auburn Comprehensive Plan captures key policies for long-term planning related to
transportation and building infrastructure and development. However, there is a lack of policies that link long-term
planning strategies with GHG emissions reduction and climate equity. Additional policies related to electric vehicles
(EVs) and EV infrastructure, reducing vehicle miles traveled, and preventing displacement from development
should be considered.
Element
Alignment LU H CF U T ED PR HP
Sector
Alignment Z&D B&E CR&P WR T ED E EM HH WM A
Prioritization Notes
Goal 1 Reduce GHG emissions by prioritizing accessible multi-modal and low-carbon
transportation options.
Policy
1.1
Partner with agencies that support multimodal transportation infrastructure
including Puget Sound Regional Council, Sound Transit, King Co. Metro and
Pierce Transit. The City should continue to advocate for funding to support
transportation improvements, such as better first-last mile access to transit, as
an important means of expanding the City’s and the region’s economic base,
consistent with the Economic Development element. (ED-12)
NA/Low (see
notes)
Already covered in transportation plan.
Policy
1.2
Prioritize dense, mixed use, transit-oriented development, and affordable
housing in high use areas in accordance with the Transportation, Land Use (LU-
148), and Housing (H-4) elements.
NA/Low (see
notes)
Already doing.
Theme throughout: We want the
Climate Element to point to other
policies and elements that support
climate policies (both current
plans/policies AND plans/policies in
progress or being updated).
Important to focus on what’s missing,
how hard/easy it is, level of importance.
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Prioritization Notes
Another component: policies are
currently being rewritten (so this
crosswalk doesn’t address upcoming
transportation policies/updates).
We want to keep connectivity between
elements. Don’t want/need to be
repeating policies in the Climate
Element.
Policy
1.3
Investigate opportunities to expand and implement multi-modal transportation
options, including bicycling, walking, and transit. (Commerce; K4C Model
Policies)
NA/Low
Policy
1.4
Create a pedestrian and bicycle master plan to address mobility gaps, improve
safety, and increase convenience by improving infrastructure, services, and
community development for people walking and biking. Improvements may
include:
• Bike-sharing programs
• Personal motor vehicle-free streets in the downtown area
• “Complete Streets”
• Infrastructure repairs and upgrades
• Incentives for people biking and walking. (CAP T-6)
NA/Low
Policy
1.5
Reduce and prevent displacement of households and businesses from transit-
oriented locations, with a focus on low-income households and small
businesses. (K4C Model Policies)
NA/Low Embedded in HB 1110, so it’ll find its way
into Housing Element (no existing
policies but working on it).
Policy
1.6
Consider congestion pricing and tolling or establishing parking maximums to
reduce the number of single occupancy vehicles and promote the use of
alternative transit (Commerce)
Low
(congestion
pricing)
Not sure this would be considered, not
sure how we’d do this. Maybe adjusting
parking maximums.
Goal 2 Increase the percentage of EV and other low-emission transportation modes
operating within the City.
Policy
2.1
Support the transition to plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles within the
community by facilitating the installation of EV-charging stations and requiring
installation of charging stations in new multifamily housing developments. (CAP
T-5)
NA/Low
Easy area to embrace with updated
building code (higher requirements
with EV infrastructure for new
buildings). Implementing a building
code automatically addresses this.
In addition to residential, there’s the
opportunity for more public charging
stations – off street, in parking lots.
Complicated, challenges – cannot add
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Prioritization Notes
into right-of-way. Narrowing sidewalks
takes away from other priorities.
Competition within right-of-way for
amenities (bike racks, wider ped areas,
charging stations, etc.). Especially
relevant in downtown. Promote
charging within existing parking lots.
Take policy a step further to focus on
parking lots.
Policy
2.2
Development incentives should be established that encourage the creation of
electric car charging stations (LU-57). Work with utility providers and other
partners (e.g. developers and EV companies) to ensure that there is access to EV
charging where it is needed and expand EV charging readiness for buildings.
(K4C Model Policies)
High 1.1 and 2.2 blend together – notes
above apply to both.
Important and will evolve.
PSE readiness – support their efforts.
Policy
2.3
Develop and implement an Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Plan that:
• Reviews current EV infrastructure in the city to identify gaps in charging
locations. This review should be done with an equity lens and consider
areas that are historically underserved and where the most benefit
would be observed.
• Identifies locations for chargers in commercial, multifamily residence
areas, and city facilities.
• Reviews feasibility of fast charging stations.
• Addresses access issues and barriers to EV and charging stations for low-
income homeowners, renters, and multifamily residents.
• Identifies key stakeholders to EV infrastructure use and development.
• Identifies partners in the region who can assist with charging station
infrastructure to lower program and construction costs. (K4C Model
Policies)
Med More long-term – needed someday, but
not a more immediate priority. Support
KC if they are already leading the work.
Need to keep an eye on evolving
technology.
Goal 3 Decrease emissions that stem from fleet & freight service vehicles and aviation.
Policy
3.1
Support state-level policies and actions that incentivize and create requirements
for clean fuels and electrification of private and commercial fleet vehicles. (K4C
Model Policies)
Med State’s requirements don’t necessarily
meet the needs (can we find clean
fuels, electric fleet vehicles, etc.?).
Industry needs to be ready before State
forces requirements.
Depends on how this policy is written.
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Prioritization Notes
Policy
3.2
Convert public-owned fleets to zero-emission vehicles (e.g., electric or renewably
produced hydrogen) by 2040 (or other date). (Commerce)
Med/High Tech isn’t there to meet the needs, not
possible. Convert portions of fleet that
can be converted. Police fleet does not
have time for charging so will not go
fully electric. Large vehicles take a lot of
energy to function. And it’s a significant
investment to get charging
infrastructure in place.
Rewrite 3.2 to be more realistic. Also
not recognizing the budget as written.
Can we write policy in a way that is
optimistic about tech and cost
advancements?
Policy
3.3
Partner with local organizations to identify funding sources and opportunities to
electrify buses and heavy- duty vehicles. (K4C Model Policies)
Low 3.3 – 3.5 – happy to support efforts.
Policy
3.4
Increase the energy efficiency of city buses and vehicles, through adoption and
promotion of innovative technology vehicles and greenhouse gas reducing fuels
with a focus on electric vehicles, all electric battery buses and associated
infrastructure, where appropriate. (K4C Model Policies)
Low
Policy
3.5
Support state and regional requirements for electric delivery vehicles and
Transportation Network Corporations (TNC's). (K4C Model Policies)
Low
Policy
3.6
Promote coordinated planning and effective management to optimize the
region’s aviation system in a manner that minimizes air quality and noise
impacts to communities, including historically marginalized communities.
(Visions 2050, Air-03)
Low/NA Air travel is in transportation element
and airport master plan. Already work
on air quality and noise impacts.
Policy
3.7
Support regional and industrial efforts to reduce regional aviation emissions by
promoting the use of sustainable aviation fuel and adoption of aviation fuel
efficiency measures.
Low Industry needs to develop the fuels –
until then, it’s limited in what City can
do.
Low control.
Goal 4 Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by promoting densification and efficient land
uses in mixed-use urban villages near transit corridors.
Policy
4.1
Focus development within the Urban Growth Area and reduce development
pressure on rural and natural resource lands consistent with the Land Use
Element. (LU-92, LU-120)
Missing from the goal/theme: more
explicit or direct VMT reduction
policies.
4.1 and 4.4 relate to comments in goal 1
– easy, achievable, supported.
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Prioritization Notes
Policy is more about consistency with
countywide policies.
Potential policy broadly to comply with
state regulations.
Need more jobs/housing balance so
that people can live closer to job
locations to reduce travel. Plus
expanded/extended transit options.
Policy
4.2
Use innovative zoning provisions to encourage infill development of
underutilized parcels in zones that have been identified in the Comprehensive
Plan as areas where infill residential development should be encouraged.
Certain development requirements for infill development may be relaxed, while
requiring adherence to specific design requirements to ensure compatibility
with the character of nearby existing residential structures. [HO-27] (H15)
Low/NA Addressed under missing middle
housing.
Policy
4.3
Consider greenhouse gas emissions impacts and opportunities to reduce them
when updating and implementing transportation and land use plans, codes, and
zoning, as well as identifying and carrying out relevant projects (CAP T-1)
Low/NA Building code updates also include
energy code updates – which has been
ambitious. Support the State’s policy –
and each energy code update adds
significant housing costs (which does
not support affordability).
Policy is already happening because of
State policy.
Policy
4.4
Prioritize dense, mixed use, transit-oriented development, and affordable
housing in Auburn and city urban growth areas. (K4C Model Policies)
Low/NA Downtown Urban Center Plan will
further support this policy.
Policy
4.5
Adopt “missing middle” housing policies and codes to allow for broader housing
types in single family zones, particularly near transit, while ensuring affordability
for current and future residents. (K4C Model Policies)
Low/NA Easy – HB 1110 will address.
Theme 2: Renewable energy and energy efficiency
Gap Assessment: The current Auburn Comprehensive Plan captures key policies for long-term planning related to
land use and utility infrastructure, with some broad policies aimed at reducing energy consumption, practicing
sustainable development, and reducing the impact of utilities. However, additional polices are needed that relate
these strategies with GHG emissions reduction and climate equity. These include policies aimed at transitioning to
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renewable energy sources, promoting energy conservation and efficiency measures, building grid resilience, and
educating homeowners about energy efficiency upgrades should be considered.
Element
Alignment LU H CF U T ED PR HP
Sector
Alignment Z&D B&E CR&P WR T ED E EM HH WM A
Prioritization Notes
Goal 5 Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by transitioning to
renewable energy sources, decarbonizing buildings, and
increasing energy efficiency.
Policy
5.1
Implement measures to promote buildings that conserve
energy and water and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. (LU-9)
Low/NA (covered
elsewhere)
Overarching Q: does the City
want/need to do this faster
than what the state has
established?
Overarching note: Main
limitations are industry and
budget limitations.
Policy
5.2
Public and institutional facilities should incorporate practices
that reduce energy consumption, reduce the emission of
greenhouse gases, conserve water, and preserve native
vegetation. (CF-62)
Low/NA (covered
elsewhere)
Policy
5.3
Sustainable development practices will be incorporated into
capital facility project design and construction. The City will
support and implement efforts to promote climate action
objectives by using low impact development techniques,
energy and water conservation measures, and reducing
greenhouse gas emissions. (CF-10)
Low/NA (covered
elsewhere)
Some components are already
accounted for.
Modify to incorporate as
appropriate.
Policy
5.4
Identify and implement measures that reduce emissions and
conserve energy and water at all park facilities. (CF-9)
Low/NA (covered
elsewhere)
Policy
5.5
Support the transition of utility energy fuel mixes to renewable
sources, including through coordination with utility Integrated
Resource Planning processes and state policy
Low Not sure this feels relevant to
City.
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Prioritization Notes
development/implementation. Work with utility provider and
other stakeholders to establish a plan to have 100% renewable
energy for the community (K4C Model Policies).
Policy
5.6
Retrofit municipal buildings for energy efficiency (Commerce). High, but needs
wording
adjustment/qualifiers –
should be aspirational
goal for City to pursue.
5.6, 5.8, 5.9, and 5.10 – not sure
City can commit to this. Not
simple, plus budget impact.
Supportive of policy that
incorporates more energy
efficiency with new buildings,
but retrofitting is hard and so
unaffordable.
And/or policy that looks
for/evaluates opportunities for
retrofitting.
Policy
5.7
Continue to update and retrofit traffic and street lights to
increase energy efficiency. Upgrades may include converting
traffic lights and street to light-emitting diode (LED) lighting
and installing solar-powered fixtures for signage and lighting
where appropriate. (CAP E-1)
Low/NA Already done, so not a priority.
Policy
5.8
Optimize heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC)
systems at City facilities by installing more efficient equipment
and technology and implementing operational changes to
increase energy efficiency. Such efforts may include the
following:
• Conducting HVAC energy efficiency audits to identify cost-effective
upgrades.
• Installing building automation systems (BAS).
• Installing high-efficiency motors, dampers, and multi-speed motors for
air handling.
• Phasing out chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in air-conditioning and
refrigeration equipment.
• Educating staff to ensure and maintain peak efficiency and operating
conditions. (CAP E-2)
High
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Prioritization Notes
Policy
5.9
Adopt performance standards for all City buildings, including
renovations on existing buildings and design of new buildings,
and establish a tracking system that makes the benchmarking
scores of City buildings publicly available. Relevant building
performance standards may include the following:
• Standards from LEED-EB, the Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design rating system for Existing Buildings.
• Building commissioning requirements.
• Lighting power densities (LPDs) and controls that go beyond existing
energy code requirements.
• Wall insulation, window performance, and envelope air tightness
standards that go beyond existing energy and building code
requirements.
• LEED and/or ENERGYSTAR certification for buildings larger than a
specified size.
(CAP E-3)
(Another department is
responsible for this so should
be the ones weighing in).
Challenge with LEED is annual
certification and monitoring
that continues after building
is built. Staffing would be an
issue.
Massive budget challenges.
Policy
5.10
Optimize building envelope energy efficiency at City facilities by
installing more efficient materials and technology. Relevant
upgrades may include the following:
• Conducting audits to identify cost-effective upgrades for
weatherization and building envelope components.
• Replacing single-pane windows with insulated glazing with low-e
film.
• Replacing or increasing interior wall insulation and roof insulation
during major renovations.
• Adding additional batt or rigid insulation and thermal barriers
during interior renovations.
• (CAP E-4)
(Another department is
responsible for this so should
be the ones weighing in).
Policy
5.11
Implement audits and technical assistance to increase building
energy efficiency. Such a program could address single-family,
multifamily, and/or commercial buildings. Elements could
include weatherization strategies, direct-installation of energy
and water conservation materials, appliance trade-
in/exchanges, home and business conservation kits, and rooftop
solar and solar hot water projects. (CAP E-5)
Big tradeoff with these
policies and affordable
housing.
Want to be able to support,
but all so expensive/require
significant staffing.
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Prioritization Notes
(Notes apply to a lot of these
policies).
Policy edit/addition: high
priority: Home repair program
– importance of
weatherization, esp. for low-
income households, often
mobile homes – so there are
elements to this policy that
could be incorporated
elsewhere (like
weatherization, water
conservation, energy
efficiency).
Policy
5.12
Adopt performance standards for residential and commercial
building codes to increase building energy efficiency. The
standards can address single-family, multifamily, and
commercial renovations, existing buildings, and new buildings.
The City can also require that building performance ratings be
publicly available, to help inform prospective tenants and
buyers about the energy performance status of buildings. (CAP
E-6)
Policy
5.13
Provide incentives to improve energy efficiency in existing
commercial and residential buildings. (Commerce)
Financial costs here.
Could add or focus more on
an advocacy policy – to pursue
incentives from State/federal.
Policy
5.14
Maximize renewable energy sources for the supply of electricity
and heat to new and existing residential and commercial
building construction. (Commerce)
Policy
5.15
Retrofit publicly owned buildings with solar panels and electric
heat pumps. (Commerce)
Budget issue, some
infrastructure issues.
Policy
5.16
Support and expand building energy efficiency retrofit
programs to reduce building energy use and improve energy
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Prioritization Notes
resilience, including a focus on affordable housing. (K4C Model
Policies)
Policy
5.17
Explore and promote low interest loan options and incentive
programs to finance energy efficiency upgrades for commercial
and residential buildings, while seeking other finance
mechanisms to fill in potential funding gaps. Investments and
programs should be prioritized in historically underserved areas.
(K4C Model Policies)
Could add or focus more on
an advocacy policy – to pursue
incentives from State/federal.
Policy
5.18
Develop energy efficiency outreach programs for residents and
businesses by partnering with PSE and other local jurisdictions
with the goals to identify and select appropriate and cost-
effective energy improvements. This could involve supporting
local schools in integrating climate and sustainability education
into curriculum. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy
5.19
Building on proposed WA state policy, strengthen energy
efficiency codes to reflect best practices and meet established
energy targets (e.g., require energy use disclosure and
benchmarking for buildings, starting with commercial and
multifamily buildings over a size threshold). (K4C Model Policies)
Policy
5.20
Expand local onsite renewable energy production, such as
through installation at municipal facilities, support of incentive
programs, and coordination of community-based partnership
projects and programs. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy
5.21
Support cleaner energy sources. Potential efforts include
supporting community-scale renewable energy projects and
efficient small-scale on-site power generation, working with
local utilities to use cleaner energy sources, and encouraging
Auburn businesses and residents to offset their energy use.
(CAP E-7)
Policy
5.22
Require additional net-zero greenhouse gas emission features
of all new residential and commercial structures. (Commerce)
Low/NA Already accounted for in State
requirements.
Policy
5.23
Require electric heat pumps and restrict natural gas in new
commercial and residential construction. (Commerce)
Low/NA Already underway.
Policy
5.24
Phase out natural gas use in existing publicly owned facilities by
2040 and retrofit with electric heat pumps. (Commerce)
Low Not simple. High cost.
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Prioritization Notes
Easier to support these
actions in new buildings. Not
feasible given budget, age of
facilities.
Policy
5.25
Require that all publicly owned buildings are powered 100% by
renewable energy. (Commerce)
Low Not simple. High cost.
Policy
5.26
Develop low-energy-use requirements and building code
compliance for residential buildings. (Commerce)
Policy
5.27
Educate community members about incentives for emerging
alternative energy technology, such as tax exemptions for solar
installations, and increase community awareness of existing
solar arrays and water heating systems in the city. (K4C Model
Policies)
High Doable.
Goal 6 Promote a diverse, clean, efficient grid that increases the grids
reliability as demand increases.
Policy
6.1
The City shall consider the environmental impacts of proposed
utility facilities as a part of its environmental review process.
When requested by the City, the utility provider shall furnish
documentation of current research results and/or provide
additional information related to determination of the potential
environmental impacts, if any, from the proposed facilities. (PU-
7)
Low/NA Already do this.
Policy
6.2
Work with and encourage Puget Sound Energy to plan, site,
build and maintain an electrical system that meets the needs of
existing and future development, and provides highly reliable
service for City customers and coordinate with non-city utility
providers to ensure planning for system growth consistent with
the city’s Comprehensive Plan and growth forecasts. (K4C
Model Policies)
High Interesting, but not sure how
impactful City would be in
this. But happy to support.
Policy
6.3
Advocate for increased grid reliability through state and utility
regulatory rulemaking and legislation that supports demand
response and storage technologies that reduce peak load and
provide grid flexibility. (K4C Model Policies)
High Interesting, but not sure how
impactful City would be in
this. But happy to support.
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Prioritization Notes
Policy
6.4
Advocate for energy utilities to adopt efficient practices and
explore alternative energy resources, in order to help meet long-
term energy needs and reduce environmental impacts
associated with traditional energy supplies. (K4C Model Policies)
High Interesting, but not sure how
impactful City would be in
this. But happy to support.
Broad note:
Conflict/competition between
natural areas and open space
given demands of housing
and employment targets.
Space is a commodity and it’s
hard to achieve all the targets.
Housing/jobs come at the
expense of natural areas.
Theme 3: Waste management and circular economy (waste management, finance
department)
Gap Assessment: The current Auburn Comprehensive Plan captures key policies for long-term planning related to
critical facilities (i.e., waste facilities), with some aimed at solid waste management. While the Comp Plan
encourages effective solid waste management and increased recycling efforts, additional policies are needed to
relate these strategies with GHG emissions reduction and climate equity. These include supporting a circular
economy, supporting urban agriculture and local food production, encouraging composting, enforcing sustainable
construction and demolition (C&D) practices, and implementing environmentally friendly purchasing policies
should be considered.
Element
Alignment LU H CF U T ED PR HP
Sector
Alignment Z&D B&E CR&P WR T ED E EM HH WM* A
*Theme 3 captures both mitigation and resilience policies related to Waste Management.
Prioritization Notes
Goal 7 Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from materials and organic
waste by minimizing waste generation.
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Prioritization Notes
Policy 7.1 The City shall implement solid waste management programs and
services that provide ample opportunities and incentives to
maximize the community’s participation in local and regional
waste reduction and recycling efforts. (CF-30)
Policy 7.2 The City’s solid waste management programs shall be developed
to make waste reduction and recycling efficient, reliable, cost-
effective, and convenient for all residents and businesses. (CF-31)
Policy 7.3 The City encourages and should promote the use of products
manufactured from recycled materials, and the use of materials
that can be recycled. City Departments and contractors shall use
recycled and recyclable products whenever and wherever feasible.
(CF-32)
Policy
7.4
The City shall implement solid waste reduction and recycling
programs that have the cumulative effect maintaining the 50
percent waste reduction and recycling goal (recycling tons/total
solid waste stream). (CF-33)
Policy 7.5 The City shall promote the recycling of solid waste materials by
providing opportunities for convenient recycling and by
developing educational materials on recycling, composting and
other waste reduction methods. (CF-35)
Policy 7.6 The City will coordinate with solid waste providers and King
County to ensure the provision of adequate and mandatory waste
and recycling service throughout Auburn. The City will continue to
create, support, and implement efforts that expand recycling and
reuse. (CF-5)
Policy 7.7 Encourage local food production, processing, and distribution
through the support of home and community gardens (i.e., P-
Patches), farmers’ markets, community kitchens, and other
collaborative initiatives to provide healthy foods and promote food
security. (K4C Model Policies)
This could be added since we have
a Community Garden Program
(Parks), Farmer’s Market (Parks),
and Blue Ribbon Committee
(Mayor).
Policy
7.8
Update municipal solid waste contract policies and programs to
encourage waste prevention and take-back programs, maximize
diversion, ensure efficient collection routes, and promote hybrid
and electric vehicles to transport and collect waste. (K4C Model
Policies)
We do all of this except our hauler
has CNG vehicles for collection.
King County is piloting an electric
transfer truck right now.
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Prioritization Notes
Policy 7.9 Promote prevention and redistribution of food waste, such as
through expanding and encouraging community and school
gardens, urban agriculture, and farmers markets and working with
local grocery stores to support a food donation program to send
surplus food. (K4C Model Policies)
We do this and the Auburn Food
Bank has relationships with many
of the local grocery stores.
Policy
7.10
Support extended producer responsibility (EPR) related policies
and actions that require companies that make consumer products
fund the residential recycling system and that ensure that
packaging and paper products actually get recycled. (K4C Model
Policies)
We are members of the Northwest
Product Stewardship Association.
Goal 8 Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from materials and organic
waste by maximizing waste diversion.
Policy 8.1 Reduce municipal solid waste disposed of in landfills by (insert
percentage) by (insert target date). (Commerce)
This is not realistic for Auburn at
this point. Two-thirds of our
tonnage is from our business
sector, so it fluctuates with the
economy. Also, our city continues
to grow in population, and we’ve
had large multifamily
developments open recently. Even
with waste reduction/recycling
efforts, our disposal tonnage has
been increasing each year.
Policy 8.2 Recycle all paper, food, textile, and metal waste by (date).
(Commerce)
This seems impractical as written.
We have recycling available for all
those waste types, but we rely on
the public to put things where they
should go.
Policy 8.3 Expand commercial recycling and organics collection and service,
including making recycling and organics disposal as convenient as
garbage and adequate to serve the number of tenants. Implement
compost requirements for food businesses in accordance with HB
1799. Consider the implications of implementing an organics
disposal bans and/or requiring services. (K4C Model Policies)
Yes, we are developing a plan to
meet the requirements of HB1799
(Organics Management Law). The
disposal ban/service requirement is
something that would need to
come from King County. Auburn
has mandatory garbage service,
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Prioritization Notes
recycle is no additional cost and
unlimited (not required though),
and organics is offered but not
required (we only have about a 60%
residential subscription rate, so we
continue to keep it optional).
Policy
8.4
Expand recycling and compost service for single-family and
multifamily properties and provide technical assistance to help
compost successfully. Consider the implications of implementing
an organics disposal bans and/or requiring services. (K4C Model
Policies)
We offer free technical assistance
and plan on expanding outreach
efforts as we meet the
requirements of HB1799.
Ban/service requirement would
need to come from King County.
Policy
8.5M+R
Build and implement community outreach and education
programs around proper waste reduction, recycling, and
composting—with a focus on food waste. (K4C Model Policies)
Already do this.
Policy
8.6
Adopt standards for City buildings to use best practices for
recycling, composting, reuse, and waste reduction. Standards can
recommend practices such as placing more recycling bins at
workstations, collecting organics more frequently and garbage
less frequently, and installing more water bottle filling stations in
facilities. (CAP M-1)
We work with our facilities
Department to make sure everyone
has access to recycle/compost at
City buildings where applicable.
We have used grant funds for
water bottle filling stations in
schools, so if that is something the
City wanted to do in our buildings,
we could help with that.
Policy
8.7M+R
Identify gaps in recycling and composting programs and take
steps to expand service. The City can help identify locations,
communities, and building types that are underserved by
recycling and composting programs, such as multifamily
apartment buildings. The City can work with haulers and through
policies to improve service and increase recycling and
composting. (CAP M-3)
We are always looking for ways to
improve service/programs. We
rotate our focus for projects
between residential, multifamily,
schools, and business. We will be
taking a closer look at composting
while implementing the
requirements of HB1799. Almost all
multifamily housing has recycling
(for those that don’t we have a
recycling station at the WM facility
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Prioritization Notes
that is available 24/7). The major
limiting factor in multifamily
buildings is space for organics
collection containers.
Policy
8.8
Incentivize recycling of construction and demolition debris.
(Commerce)
What is meant by incentivize? Who
would be incentivizing?
Policy
8.9
Create a business technical assistance program to increase
recycling and reduce waste. (Commerce)
We already provide free assistance
and WM staff visit Auburn
businesses every-other-year to offer
outreach.
Policy
8.10
Use recycled materials in the construction of transportation and
other infrastructure facilities. (Commerce)
Is this something Community
Development can require?
Policy
8.11
Develop a program that will enable recycling of all construction
and demolition debris (include target date). (Commerce)
King County is leading this.
Doesn’t seem like a City policy.
Policy
8.12
Develop, implement, and enforce construction and demolition
(C&D) recycling and deconstruction ordinances. (K4C Model
Policies)
There are cities who have adopted
ordinances that we could use for
examples.
Policy
8.13
Increase staff and facility capacity for composting programs to
achieve (insert percentage) of community waste. (Commerce)
We are told there is plenty of
capacity in King County. Doesn’t
seem like this should be a City
policy.
Goal 9 Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from materials by supporting a
circular economy.
Policy 9.1 Adopt a citywide purchasing policy that includes environmental
impacts. Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP) policies can
prioritize reusing products and materials, purchasing durable
goods, avoiding disposable goods, and reducing energy use,
greenhouse gas emissions, and lifecycle costs and impacts. EPP
policy may include targets, measures to track impacts, strategies
for implementation, and references to existing standards (e.g.,
EPEAT, ENERGYSTAR, and LEED). (CAP M-2)
Who would lead this? Would need
support/buy-in from City leadership
to accomplish.
Policy
9.2M+R
Support “collaborative consumption” community projects that
encourage shared use and exchanges. Examples projects may
include tool libraries or repair cafes, which the City can support
Kathleen and I are on the steering
committee for South King Tool
Library’s expansion into Auburn.
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Prioritization Notes
through partnerships or grants with nonprofit and community
organizations. (CAP M-4)
Theme 4: Natural habitats and urban green space
Gap Assessment: The current Auburn Comprehensive Plan captures key policies for long-term planning related to
utilizing new development to contribute to new park developments, seeking land to establish a green belt for non-
motorized travel, and implementing low-impact development and landscaping in parking lots. However, additional
policies are needed that relate these long-term planning strategies with carbon sequestration (i.e., carbon storage).
Policies related to managing and planning for carbon storage should be considered.
Element
Alignment LU H CF U T ED PR HP
Sector
Alignment Z&D B&E CR&P WR T ED E EM HH WM A
Prioritization Notes
Goal 10 Protect and enhance land carbon sinks (e.g., trees, urban green
space) to mitigate GHG emissions.
Policy
10.1
Require open space set-asides (such as parks) for new
development. (Commerce) (PR-2)
High If it’s a subdivision and 1 lot is set aside as
green space want to ensure the HOA is
owning that and not City parks (planning
usually does this but just want to make
sure) Planning/Zoning code policy
Policy
10.2
Maximize tree canopy coverage in surface parking lots.
(Commerce)
High Parks department doesn’t build too
many parking lots (maybe not relevant
for this department’s opinion)
Policy
10.3
Improve and expand urban forest management to maximize or
conserve carbon storage. (Commerce)
Med Unless it’s a hazard, trees are not
removed
Policy
10.4
Manage natural lands (forests, grasslands, wetlands) to maintain
and/or increase their carbon concentrations. Avoid the
conversion of carbon-rich ecosystems. Prioritize increasing tree
canopy cover and open space in overburdened frontline
communities. (Commerce)
High May not be relevant – if we’re talking
about street trees that belongs to
Transportation. Open spaces are
maintained by Parks dept.
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Goal 11 Establish a green belt of parks to develop a non-motorized trail
to connect housing, schools, and businesses across a
community.
Recommend to take “of parks” out of the
goal
Policy 11.1 Actively seek to acquire land along corridors identified for future
trail development in the current Comprehensive Transportation
Plan and Auburn Parks, Recreation, & Open Space Plan. (NM-04)
High No obvious language edits
Resilience
Goals and policies included in the resilience gap assessment are focused on building community resilience and
reducing community vulnerability to climate impacts.
Theme 5: Public health and community resiliency
Gap Assessment: The current Auburn Comprehensive Plan captures key policies for long-term planning related to
Housing. However, additional policies are needed that relate to climate resilience, public health, and equity. Policies
related to identifying climate vulnerable communities, investing in programs and services that reduce vulnerability
in vulnerable and frontline communities, and prioritizing green affordable housing should be considered.
Element
Alignment LU H CF U T ED PR HP
Sector
Alignment Z&D B&E CR&P WR T ED E EM HH WM A
Prioritization Notes
Goal 12 Conduct, and periodically update, a climate vulnerability and risk
assessment.
Policy
12.1
Conduct, and periodically update, a climate vulnerability and risk
assessment that includes a focus on the built environment,
communities, and natural systems. Support enhanced data
collection for hazard events to provide a fuller understanding of the
community's hazard characteristics—including identifying
demographic groups/community members most vulnerable to
climate impacts. Use assessment findings to evaluate changes to
High Hazard plan has risk assessment
component, but may not address
climate vulnerability thoroughly.
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Prioritization Notes
comprehensive plan goals and policies and enhance resilience. (K4C
Model Policies)
Policy
12.2
Promote the use of health impact assessments and other tools to
address the potential impacts of health, equity, and climate change
on vulnerable communities. (Commerce)
High More Public Health’s realm, though
there is an Emergency Mgmt.
component. Also not reflected in
Econ development.
Policy
12.3
Integrate a climate impacts risk assessment and policies into the
local hazard mitigation plan. (Commerce)
High Hazard plan has risk assessment
component but may not address
climate vulnerability thoroughly.
Policy
12.4
Support enhanced data collection for hazard events of all
magnitudes to provide a fuller understanding of the community's
hazard characteristics — including those affected by climate
change. (Commerce)
High Don’t currently have system in
place. Not something the City
leads, but do report info to County
after storms occasionally (thought
inconsistent). Need clarity on what
this means and what is entailed but
agree it’s important.
Policy
12.5
Promote the use of health impact assessments and other tools to
address the potential impacts of health, equity, and climate change
on vulnerable communities. (Commerce)
See 12.2 Same as 12.2
Goal 13 Minimize disproportionate impacts of climate change on vulnerable
and frontline communities and focus/maximize associated benefits
Policy
13.1
Provide information in multiple languages to Auburn’s diverse
communities regarding services offered by local and regional
governmental, educational, employment, health, and other
providers to improve residents’ quality of life and to promote
resident engagement and household economic independence. (H-
38)
High Supportive but note it’s covered
elsewhere. Joint effort: Housing
would distribute and lead;
language support comes from
Communications; emergency
mgmt. and econ development.
plan for these communities as well.
Policy
13.2
Encourage and support human and health service organizations
that offer programs and facilities for people with special needs.
Support programs in particular that help people to remain within
the community, including those that are veterans, disabled, seniors,
single-parent households, and the homeless. (H-31)
High Supportive but note it’s covered
elsewhere. Joint effort: Unsure
which dept would lead; health,
human services, community
services, emergency mgmt., parks,
and econ development plan for
these communities as well.
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Prioritization Notes
Policy
13.3
Identify and address the disproportionate impacts of climate
change on communities of color and lower-income communities
when prioritizing investments, policies, programs, and projects.
Prioritize investments, policies, and programs that address existing
disparities in the distribution of environmental burdens and
benefits. Ensure benefits are accessible to and focused on
underserved communities. (K4C Model Policies)
High Should be happening in every
project, not just within one group
or dept. Public Works lead.
Policy
13.4
Invest in community-driven climate planning processes, share
decision-making power, and co-develop and identify climate actions
and priorities, particularly with frontline communities. (K4C Model
Policies)
High Should be happening with every
planning process.
Policy
13.5
Improve access to services throughout the community by investing
in partnerships with frontline communities to co-identify and
remove systemic and physical barriers to services that increase
climate resilience. (K4C Model Policies)
High
Policy
13.6
Place special emphasis on extreme weather events that impact
programs addressing those who are most vulnerable to
homelessness. (K4C Model Policies)
Medium Also in CEMP but broadened to
include all hazards.
Policy
13.7
Prioritize investments, policies, programs, and projects that
equitably reduce climate change impacts on vulnerable
communities and increase resilience. This includes actions that
address the impacts of extreme weather events on those
experiencing homelessness. (K4C Model Policies)
Medium Covered by other policies but
should be mentioned here. Include
working with Mayor’s office, which
has an anti-homelessness strategy.
Emergency Mgmt. works with
Housing Authority (lead), Mayor’s
office (anti-homeless division), and
Public Health to respond to
extreme weather events for
homeless population.
Policy
13.8
Identify communities disproportionately impacted by extreme heat
events and prioritize equitable access to emergency preparedness
resources for vulnerable populations and areas. Develop and
distribute tools and resources for the community to stay safe during
extreme heat events. (K4C Model Policies)
Medium Also in CEMP, but broadened to
include all hazards
Policy
13.9
Identify and expand community-centered anti-displacement
strategies and climate-resilient infrastructure to mitigate housing
High If gentrification is not addressed
elsewhere, should be High
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Prioritization Notes
insecurities exacerbated by climate change and/or gentrification.
(K4C Model Policies)
(emergency mgmt. doesn’t
address). Similar org structure as
Policy 13.7
Policy
13.10
Link climate adaptation strategies with social equity and public
health strategies. (Commerce)
High Should be happening with every
planning process.
Policy
13.11
Address the social and mental health needs of displaced
populations following disasters. (Commerce)
Medium Should be happening with every
planning process. Main focus of this
work should be in emergency
mgmt. plans and disaster recovery
plans.
Goal 14 Prioritize green, affordable housing to meet projected growth and
needs of the community.
Policy
14.1
Support projects that bring renewable energy to communities of
color, low-income populations, and members of limited-English
speaking communities, based on evaluation and assessment of
barriers and challenges. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy
14.2
Uphold the Growth Management Act to prioritize dense, mixed use,
transit-oriented development (TOD) and affordable housing by
encouraging integrated site planning and green building, with a
focus on early consideration of these in the site development
process. Encourage the location of new green, affordable housing
units near community amenities and services, such as transit and
green space. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy
14.3
Give intentional consideration to a local community response to
homelessness with affordable, green housing and supportive
services provided. (K4C Model Policies)
Theme 6: Infrastructure and emergency preparedness (P.J., except Goal 17; AF/NG
Goal 17)
Gap Assessment: The current Auburn Comprehensive Plan captures key policies for long-term planning related to
housing and infrastructure resiliency. However, additional policies are needed that relate these long-term planning
strategies with equity, emergency preparedness, and climate adaptation. Policies related to and offering equitable
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access to adaptation resources (i.e., resilience hubs), developing strategies to aid community members ability to
respond to extreme weather events (i.e., extreme heat, wildfire smoke events), and ensuring critical and non-critical
infrastructure is resilient in the face of climate change should be considered.
Element
Alignment LU H CF U T ED PR HP
Sector
Alignment Z&D B&E CR&P WR T ED E EM HH WM A
Prioritization Notes
Goal 15 Equitably protect public health and safety by identifying and planning for risks
associated with climate change.
Policy
15.1
Promote housing improvements by property owners and building managers.
Seek available assistance for housing rehabilitation. Assistance will include the
development of residential infrastructure and the rehabilitation of individual
properties. [HO-20]
a. Find public and private sources of capital and offer low-interest loans for
rehabilitation. [Public Works, 2012]
b. Continue to participate in the Emergency Home Repair Program and
consider partnering with nongovernmental organizations to maximize funds.
[Public Works, 2012]
c. Encourage green lending for improved energy conservation, indoor air
quality, and other measures. [Public Works, 2012]
d. Help identify professional volunteers at educational or professional
associations to plan redesign or architectural upgrades of the properties.
[Public Works, 2012]
e. Support additional healthy housing and preservation strategies, such as
property tax exemptions to preserve affordable housing opportunities and
utilizing community health workers to offer property owners and residents the
education and resources needed to maintain housing. (H-21)
Policy
15.2
Create evacuation plans and outreach materials to help residents plan and
practice actions that make evacuation quicker and safer. (Commerce)
High Already in
Comprehensive
Emergency Mgmt. Plan
(CEMP), so describe
briefly in Climate Element
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Prioritization Notes
and refer to CEMP for
details.
Policy
15.3
Ensure that people, including the community’s most vulnerable groups, are
resilient to climate and weather-related hazards by better understanding
hazard type and impact and equipping people and the community to prepare
for and respond to emergency situations. (K4C Model Policies)
High Already in
Comprehensive
Emergency Mgmt. Plan
(CEMP), so describe
briefly in Climate Element
and refer to CEMP for
details.
Policy
15.4
Develop resilience hubs — community-serving facilities augmented to
support residents and coordinate resource distribution and services before,
during, and after a hazard event. (Commerce)
Medium Have other policies that
get resources to people;
use a trusted partner
network.
Policy
15.5
Work toward a distribution of growth that promotes equitable access for
frontline communities and reduces the potential for displacement through
program services such as municipal emergency preparedness, affordable
energy prices, and accountable utilities with consideration of climate impacts
such as extreme heat, flooding, wildfire smoke, and drought. (K4C Model
Policies)
High Important to make
policies that get out to
people and effectively
reach them
Policy
15.6
Factor climate impacts into the planning of operations and coordination of
preparedness, response, and recovery activities among first responders and
partners, including public health, law enforcement, fire, school, and
emergency medical services (EMS) personnel. (Commerce)
High Important to make
policies that get out to
people and effectively
reach them
Goal 16 Protect the community from extreme heat impacts and wildfire smoke
Policy
16.1
Prioritize at-risk community members for actions that mitigate wildfire
smoke, including providing filter fans or incentivizing infrastructure updates
that protect against wildfire smoke (e.g., HVAC updates and MERV 13 filters for
air intake) for facilities that serve high-risk populations. (Commerce)
High Should involve Valley
Regional Fire Authority
(VRFA). Doing a lot of
work on smoke and WUI
laws.
Policy
16.2
Develop and implement an urban heat resilience plan or strategy that
includes heat mitigation and management actions to prepare for and respond
to chronic and acute heat risk in the community. The strategy should be
informed by urban heat island mapping and may include coordinated efforts
such as cooling centers, early warning systems, development/land use codes,
High Very important – noting
KC report that identified
Auburn and Kent as heat
sinks.
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Prioritization Notes
and energy grid resilience. Utilize the King County Extreme Heat Mitigation
Strategy to align with county planning efforts. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy
16.3
Review and update land use and development codes to encourage the use of
passive cooling approaches to reduce urban heat island effects. Utilizing
energy efficient cooling technologies, reflective and/or vegetated roofs, and
the integration of trees, landscaping, and green space should be implemented
to help reduce the health effects of extreme heat on frontline communities
and vulnerable population. (K4C Model Policies)
High Outside of emergency
mgmt. so curious about
what building folks think
of this policy
Policy
16.4
Include messages on the impacts of climate change on health and safety,
including information to help residents plan and practice actions to protect
themselves from these impacts, in outreach efforts. Outreach and materials
should be provided in languages representative of community needs. (K4C
Model Policies)
Low Already in outreach
planning
Policy
16.5
Work with community partners to establish resilience hubs that can serve as
clean air shelters for use by the public during wildfire smoke events,
particularly in areas that experience poor air quality due to transportation
emissions. (K4C Model Policies)
Low People don’t use clean air
shelters as much as you
think. Same for cooling
centers. More bang for
buck to focus on things
people can do at home.
Policy
16.6
Encourage the use of methods that contribute to improved indoor air quality
during wildfire smoke events. (K4C Model Policies)
High Helps people at home
Policy
16.7
Develop community wildfire preparedness, response, and recovery plans. (K4C
Model Policies)
Medium Already in
Comprehensive
Emergency Mgmt. Plan
(CEMP), so describe
briefly in Climate Element
and refer to CEMP for
details.
Policy
16.8
Develop and implement notification alerts within the community to reduce
the risk of exposure to wildfire smoke and particulate matter. (Commerce)
Medium Already in
Comprehensive
Emergency Mgmt. Plan
(CEMP), so describe
briefly in Climate Element
and refer to CEMP for
details. Idea to have a
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Climate Element Framework
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Prioritization Notes
Climate Element
statement about
“alignment and support
with CEMP”
Policy
16.9
Provide community education and outreach on wildfire mitigation best
management practices and expand household-level wildfire mitigation
assistance. (K4C Model Policies)
Medium Not Auburn’s biggest
hazard
Policy
16.10
Provide community education and outreach on wildfire smoke mitigation
best management practices. Ensure outreach is accessible and prioritize
frontline communities. (K4C Model Policies)
Medium Indirectly covered in
CEMP, but it’s not specific
to wildfire smoke
Policy
16.11
Develop and implement a wildfire smoke resilience strategy (if absent) in
partnership with local residents, emergency management officials, regional
clean air agency officials, and other stakeholders. (Commerce)
High Don’t have this yet
Policy
16.12
Develop and implement an urban heat resilience strategy (if absent) that
includes land use, urban design, urban greening, and waste heat reduction
actions. (Commerce)
High Don’t have this yet
Policy
16.13
Ensure that all community members have equitable access to green space
within a half-mile. (Commerce)
High Would be great!
Policy
16.14
Develop a program to distribute cooling units and install heat pumps,
prioritizing households with residents (e.g., low-income seniors) most
vulnerable to extreme temperature events. (Commerce)
Medium Not a high priority for
emergency mgmt.
cooling response – would
do other things first
(quicker or more
efficient), but not
unhelpful. Human
Services or Community
Resources would
distribute these.
Policy
16.15
Support the development of community wildfire protection plans.
(Commerce)
High Valley Regional Fire
Authority doing this –
new reports.
Goal 17 Ensure that infrastructure (critical and noncritical) and utilities are resilient to
climate change impacts (e.g., precipitation events and stormwater flooding).
Policy
17.1
Integrate local climate impacts risk assessment into hazard mitigation
planning. (K4C Model Policies)
KC runs hazard
mitigation process for the
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Prioritization Notes
whole county. Auburn
prepares annex and
Emergency Mgmt. leads
it. Work detail is covered
elsewhere so Karissa
recommends Medium.
Policy
17.2
Account for climate change impacts when planning, siting, designing, and
operating capital facility, utility, and infrastructure projects. (K4C Model
Policies)
Policy
17.3
Factor climate impacts into the planning of operations and coordination of
preparedness, response, and recovery activities. (K4C Model Policies)
Policy
17.4
Coordinate and support public education by utility providers that raises
awareness of the need for water and energy conservation and empowers
individuals across diverse audience segments to take action. (K4C Model
Policies)
Policy
17.5
Identify opportunities to retrofit undersized stormwater infrastructure and
areas with uncontrolled runoff to improve flow control and water quality, with
a priority on locations providing the most benefit, are identified to be most
vulnerable to extreme precipitation climate impacts, and areas that are
historically under-resourced. (K4C Model Policies)
Same
Policy
17.6
Review and update development codes and design standards to increase
requirements for stormwater facility sizing, low-impact development, adopt
nature-based solutions, and minimize impervious surface areas in private
development and city capital improvements. (K4C Model Policies)
Theme 8
Policy
17.7
Account for climate change impacts in planning, designing, and operating
stormwater management approaches, including stormwater infrastructure
and stormwater best management practices. (K4C Model Policies)
Low SWIM Plan? Stormwater
management plan
This is something we
could consider once we
know what the target is.
Would need specific
BMPs
Policy
17.8
Identify and reduce flooding through improvements to drainage and
wastewater systems and reductions in impervious surfaces and runoff,
particularly in traditionally underserved areas. (K4C Model Policies)
High Remove wastewater
systems.
Disadvantaged
communities
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Prioritization Notes
We are doing this.
Reductions in impervious
surfaces in a stretch
Policy
17.9
To help increase resilience to flooding, protect, and where possible, enhance,
and restore existing flood storage, conveyance, and ecological functions and
values of floodplains, wetlands, and riparian corridors. (K4C Model Policies)
High Belong in natural
system/greenspace
resiliency.
Existing protections in
place to promote
Policy
17.10
Map transportation infrastructure that is vulnerable to repeated floods,
landslides, and other natural hazards, and designate alternative travel routes
for critical transportation corridors when roads must be closed. (Commerce)
Already in
Comprehensive
Emergency Mgmt. Plan
and map is updated
through that planning
process. Karissa
recommends Low.
Policy
17.11
Analyze how the municipal water system maintains adequate pressure during
a major wildfire event (e.g., multiple structures burning) and how it will look
under current and projected drought conditions. (Commerce)
Low Auburn – not at a high
risk for Wildfires
Well-worn communities –
emergency water
systems
Policy
17.12
Incorporate post-wildfire debris flow and flooding hazard information into
critical area delineation in fire-prone communities. (Commerce)
Goal 18 Provide all residents an equitable opportunity to learn about climate impacts,
influence policy decisions, and take actions to enhance community resilience.
Policy
18.1
Create and implement culturally contextualized outreach and education
initiatives and materials that will inform the community about near-term and
longer-term climate change threats and ways that the community can
prepare and build resilience to these changes. (Commerce)
High High b/c culturally
contextualized. Not
necessarily an Emergency
Mgmt. role but would
support. Not sure who
would lead.
Policy
18.2
Build and support partnerships with community organizations with the
capacity and relationships to convene diverse coalitions of residents and to
educate and empower them to implement climate resilience actions.
(Commerce)
High No clear lead dept.
Emergency Mgmt. would
support. Would likely
integrate across
departments.
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Climate Element Framework
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Prioritization Notes
Policy
18.3
Cultivate relationships with climate justice coalitions that can help facilitate
frontline community learning and engagement that links local issues with
regional and statewide issues. (Commerce)
High No clear lead dept.
Emergency Mgmt. would
support. Would likely
integrate across
departments.
Theme 7: Cultural resources and practices
Gap Assessment: The current Auburn Comprehensive Plan captures the importance of historic preservation
through policies related to developing a Historic Preservation Plan, planning for future development impacts to
historic sites, and recognizing that the City should accord the same levels of promotion and protection to Native
American sites and artifacts as to those of the more recent past. However, there are not specific policies that
recognize the risks climate impacts pose to historic sites. Additional policies related to assessing climate
vulnerability of the city’s historic resources and establishing and maintaining government-to-government relations
with tribes related to preserving sites should be considered.
Element
Alignment LU H CF U T ED PR HP
Sector
Alignment Z&D B&E CR&P WR T ED E EM HH WM A
Prioritization Notes
Goal 19 Protect and preserve cultural resources and practices to build
resilient communities and ecosystems in the face of climate
change.
Policy
19.1
Ensure that cultural resources and practices — including historic
sites and culturally important traditional foods and natural
resources — are resilient to the impacts of extreme weather and
other natural hazards worsened by climate change consistent with
the Historic Preservation Element. (Commerce) (HP-1)
Policy
19.2
The City should consider climate impact vulnerability (e.g., flooding,
landslides, etc.) as a factor in the Historic Preservation Plan to
identify and protect City historic resources. (HP-2)
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Climate Element Framework
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Policy
19.3
Establish or work with partners to establish a native plant nursery
and seed bank to support long-term restoration and carbon
sequestration efforts. (Commerce)
Policy
19.4
Establish and maintain government-to-government relations with
Native American tribes for the preservation of archaeological sites
and traditional cultural properties that are vulnerable to climate
impacts. (Commerce)
Theme 8: Water conservation and stormwater management
Gap Assessment: The current Auburn Comprehensive Plan has many policies related to preserving water quality
and quantity through conservation efforts and includes policies related to stormwater planning. However,
additional policies are needed that provide a connection between climate change impacts and planning for
community water needs and stormwater management. Policies that link climate change with water conservation
efforts and stormwater management should be considered.
Element
Alignment LU H CF U T ED PR HP
Sector
Alignment Z&D B&E CR&P WR T ED E EM HH WM A
Prioritization Notes
Goal 20 Protect and preserve water quantity and quality from drought,
extreme heat, and other hazards exacerbated by climate change
consistent with the Utilities element. consistent with the
Comprehensive Water Plan.
Public Works
– water,
sewer, storm
Water chapter to the water
system plan (what will be
reference in the utilities
element) All three utilities will
have their own system plan
Policy
20.1
Reduce water consumption by 1% annually for the City of Auburn’s
public water supply by supporting water conservation efforts. (CAP
note; LU-93, CF-20, CF-21)
High We are already working to
reduce consumption.
172/g/connection – 1% goal
Once this is reached, we will
reevaluate.
Address distribution leakage
goal (DSL under 10%)
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Prioritization Notes
Policy
20.2
Promote water efficiency and conserve community water resources.
Transporting and treating drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater
requires energy and generates pollution.
The City can foster water conservation through incentives,
information, and requirements that residents and business adopt
water-efficiency practices and technologies, in addition to Low-Impact
Development that it already requires. The City can also help ensure
that existing codes do not pose any barriers that discourage or prevent
the use of water conservation practices on public and private property
(CAP E-8).
Low –
stormwater
Med/High –
water and
sewer
All three utilities are grouped.
Reduce the number of pump
stations.
Development/manage
stormwater on the site.
Goal is to be efficient as possible.
Located in a valley and limited
by terrain.
Separate incentives from
operations
- Water = tiered water rate
system
- Toilet rebate program
(low flow)
- Auburn does not treat
wastewater, but they do
transport it
Policy
20.3
Implement automated metering, groundwater monitoring, and other
proven measures to conserve water and enhance drought resilience.
(Commerce) (LU-93, CF-20, CF-21)
High (water) AMI – implement water
metering.
Should be covered in water and
sewer plans.
Cover all three utilities – try not
toget too specific
Policy
20.4
Utilize water conservation methods and technologies in development
of irrigation infrastructure within parks and recreation areas to foster
climate resilience. (Commerce) (LU-93, CF-20, CF-21)
Med AMI
School education/programs –
water efficiency
May be more appropriate
somewhere else (some parks use
turf, water reuse TBD, water
audits – landscape irrigation)
Policy
20.5
Manage water resources sustainably in the face of climate change
through smart irrigation, stormwater management, preventative
maintenance, water conservation and wastewater reuse, plant
selection, and landscape management. (Commerce) (LU-93, CF-20, CF-
21)
Med Landscape management – lots of
grasses are “useless grass”
Stormwater management = uses
LID
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Prioritization Notes
Goal 21 Account for climate change impacts in planning, designing, and
operating stormwater management approaches consistent with the
Comprehensive Storm Drainage Plan.
Policy 21.1 The Storm Drainage Utility shall work with other jurisdictions and
agencies to address regional water quality issues exacerbated by
climate change, consistent with the Capital Facilities Element. (CF-50,
CF-51, CF-52, CF-53)
NA Regional water quality issues –
what is meant in this policy
Not general
Utilities Element
Policy
21.2
Require the use of green infrastructure and low-impact development
to address increased storm intensities and stormwater runoff.
(Commerce) (CF-38)
NA Utilities Element (stormwater
comprehensive plan)
Policy
21.3
Review and update development codes and design standards to
increase requirements for stormwater facility sizing, low-impact
development, adopt nature-based solutions, and minimize impervious
surface areas in private development and city capital improvements.
(K4C Model Policies) (CF-39, CF-40, CF-44)
Low
Supportive,
but this will
be covered
by other
standards
provided by
Ecology
Sizing = 100 year storm events
There are other regional efforts
going on at the state
level/county level that will push
the direction here
Policy
21.4
Identify opportunities to retrofit undersized stormwater infrastructure
and areas with uncontrolled runoff to improve flow control and water
quality, with a priority on locations providing the most benefit, are
identified to be most vulnerable to extreme precipitation climate
impacts, and areas that are historically under-resourced. (K4C Model
Policies)
High Stormwater comp plan
Make more broad – still related
to stormwater
Theme 9: Natural habitats and urban green space
Gap Assessment: The current Auburn Comprehensive Plan includes policies protecting, enhancing, and restoring
critical areas and natural resources. However, policies related to forest management and increasing the resilience of
natural resources to climate change impacts are lacking. Additional policies that speak to tree management and
link the protection of healthy habitats to climate resiliency should be considered.
Element
Alignment LU H CF U T ED PR HP
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Sector
Alignment Z&D B&E CR&P WR T ED E EM HH WM A
Prioritization Notes
Goal 22 Support preservation and access to green and open spaces.
Policy
22.1
Ensure equitable access to parks, green space, and recreational
services for all residents consistent with the Land Use Element. (K4C
Model Policies) (LU-96)
High
Goal 23 Protect and enhance the climate resilience of urban forests by
implementing climate-smart forest management.
Be sure to use “urban” before forest
when referring to urban forestry.
Policy
23.1
Review, update, and implement tree protection codes to increase
tree retention. Encourage the protection, maintenance, and
expansion of tree canopy throughout the community, prioritizing
residential and mixed-use areas with the least current tree canopy to
equitably distribute benefits. (K4C Model Policies)
High Strong language (good). Planning
and public works policy for
implementation.
Policy
23.2
Adopt a forest master plan and implementing ordinances to
maintain and expand tree canopy cover, improve tree and watershed
health, prioritize carbon sequestration, and build climate resilience.
(Commerce)
Med Not sure what a forest master plan
would like (who would own this?)
Policy
23.3
Reduce loss of private forestland through forest stewardship
education and identify opportunities to expand incentives for forest
landowners. (Commerce)
Low May not be applicable to a city
Policy
23.4
Encourage participation in Washington's small forest landowner
assistance cost-share and stewardship programs. (Commerce)
Low May not be applicable to a city
Policy
23.5
Prioritize urban forestry planning resources and funding for frontline
communities that are hurt first and worst by climate change.
(Commerce)
High Prioritize may not be the right word
for it. Implementation
considerations – would need to hire
a consultant for this, consider what
this means for budget
Goal 24 Ensure the protection and recovery of ecosystems to provide healthy
habitat in a changing climate.
Policy
24.1
Ensure no net loss of ecosystem composition, structure, and
functions, especially in Critical Areas, and strive for net ecological
gain to enhance climate resilience in accordance with the Land Use
Element. (Commerce) (LU-132, LU-133, LU-134, LU-135)
High Good – strong language
Page 146 of 200
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Prioritization Notes
Policy
24.2
Identify opportunities to expand habitat protection and improve
habitat quality and connectivity to foster climate resilience using
conservation area designations, buffers, and open space corridors.
(Commerce)
High Good strong language
Policy
24.3
Use an integrated approach to prevent the spread and establishment
of invasive plant species and enhance the climate resilience of native
plant communities. (Commerce)
High Good strong language
Policy
24.4
Implement actions identified in restoration and salmon recovery
plans to improve climate resilience of streams and watersheds.
(Commerce)
High Good strong language
Policy
24.5
Protect and restore riparian vegetation to reduce erosion, provide
shade, and support other functions that improve the resilience of
streams to climate change. (Commerce)
High Good strong language
Theme 10: Economic Development
Gap Assessment: The current Auburn Comprehensive Plan captures the high-level policies related to local
economic development. However, additional policies are needed that recognize the need for climate and
environmental justice considerations. Policies related to developing a green job strategy, an equitable green
workforce (including education and workforce training), and a just transition should be considered.
Element
Alignment LU H CF U T ED PR HP
Sector
Alignment Z&D B&E CR&P WR T ED E EM HH WM A
Prioritization Notes
Goal 25 Increase access of green jobs, with special consideration of increasing
access for frontline communities.
Policy
25.1
The City should support economic development activity through
workforce development programs to provide training and employment
with private sector, school districts, and Green River College.
Consideration of the special needs of economically disadvantaged
residents and neighborhoods, and people with physical impairments
High Add stakeholder: Downtown
Auburn Cooperative. Economic
development Department is lead;
shared with Community
development Dept
Page 147 of 200
Climate Element Framework
City of Auburn 8 /30/2023 | Page 70
Prioritization Notes
and developmental disabilities, should be included in these programs.
(ED-11)
Policy
25.2
Develop a green jobs strategy in partnership with community groups,
frontline communities, and businesses that (1) supports sustainable
practices, green skills development, and the low carbon transition of
the city’s impacted industries, (2) develops pathways for youth and
impacted workers to transition into green jobs; and (3) ensures
opportunities (e.g., local hiring requirements) for these jobs. (K4C
Model Policies)
High Try to recruit sectors that can bring
low-carbon emissions, like clean
energy. Economic development
Department is lead; shared with
Community development Dept
Policy
25.3
Develop an equitable green workforce that is representative of the
diversity of the city’s communities and reflects the diverse skill sets,
knowledge systems, and experiences communities through targeted
hiring, workforce development, community agreements, and creating
intentional pathways for frontline communities across sectors and
seniority levels. (K4C Model Policies)
High Pair with Policy 25.2 – need the
opportunity and environment to
work. Next 10-year economic
strategic development plan should
include Policies 25.2, 25.3, and 25.6
– will start renewal process in 2024;
include support for the High
policies in Goal 25. Economic
development Department is lead;
shared with Community
development Dept
Policy
25.4
Ensure that the jurisdiction's Comprehensive Emergency Management
Plan responds to the impacts of climate change and identifies roles
and responsibilities to support a sustainable economic recovery after a
disaster. (Commerce)
High CEMP has boiler plate language on
climate change (need to update to
be more specific; it’s on its own 5-
year update cycle).
Policy
25.5
Support local businesses' efforts to generate and store renewable
electricity on-site, which can provide back-up power during
emergencies and help ensure continuity of operations. (Commerce)
High City-private grant partnership to
share costs? Would need to work
with PSE. Encourage for new
buildings in particular. Economic
development Department is lead;
shared with Community
development Dept
Policy
25.6
Promote local industrial development to support a circular economy
that increases demand for recycled materials and reduces demand for
new raw materials and their embodied carbon emissions. (Commerce)
High Economic development
Department is lead; shared with
Community development Dept
Page 148 of 200
AGENDA BILL APPROVAL FORM
Agenda Subject:
Historic Preservation Element (Reed)
Date:
April 22, 2024
Department:
Community Development
Attachments:
Attachment G - Historic Pres ervation Element
Presentation
Attachment H - Historic Pres ervation Element V3
Budget Impact:
Current Budget: $0
Proposed Revision: $0
Revised Budget: $0
Administrativ e Recommendation:
Background for Motion:
Background Summary:
See Attachments.
Rev iewed by Council Committees:
Councilmember:Staff:Reed
Meeting Date:April 30, 2024 Item Number:PH.1
Page 149 of 200
AUBURN
VALUES
SERVICE
ENVIRONMENT
ECONOMY
CHARACTER
SUSTAINABILITY
WELLNESS
CELEBRATION
CITY DEPARTMENTS
2024 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
–HISTORIC PRESERVATION
ELEMENT
DINAH REED, SENIOR PLANNER
PLANNING COMMISSION SPECIAL MEETING
APRIL 30, 2024
Department of Community Development
Planning Building Development Engineering Permit Center
Economic Development Community Services ● Code Enforcement
Page 150 of 200
1)Policies have been updated.
2)Encourage the establishment of an Historic
Preservation Committee.
3)Photographs of each of the six properties listed on the
King County Landmarks List or the National Register of
Historic Places were added to the element.
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
HISTORIC PRESERVATION ELEMENT
Purpose and Scope of Comprehensive Plan Amendments
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATIONPage 151 of 200
Photographs have been added to the Element.
Core Changes to Historic Preservation Element
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
HISTORIC PRESERVATION ELEMENT
Historic Registry Update
Auburn
Masonic
Temple
Auburn
Pioneer
Cemetery
Page 152 of 200
Core Changes to Historic Preservation Element
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
HISTORIC PRESERVATION ELEMENT
Auburn
Post Office
Oscar
Blomeen
House
Mary Olson
Farm
Auburn
Public
Library
Page 153 of 200
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
HISTORIC PRESERVATION ELEMENT
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATIONPage 154 of 200
GOAL 1. To enhance and maintain the quality of historical resources in the region.
Core Changes to Historic Preservation Element
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
LAND USE ELEMENT
Updated and Consolidated Policies.
HP-1 Encourage the protection, preservation, recovery and rehabilitation of significant archaeological resources and historic sites in Auburn.
HP-2 – Educate City staff to recognize significant resources and structures or provide City staff with access to professionals who specialize in historic preservation.
HP-3 – Work with the King County Preservation Office and Department of Archeological and Historic Preservation to apply and help fund a survey of historic building inventories of neighborhoods.
Page 155 of 200
Core Changes to Historic Preservation Element
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
LAND USE ELEMENT
Updated and Consolidated Policies to include Action Items
HP-4 – Develop an Historic Preservation Plan to identify
and protect Auburn’s historic resources.
HP-5 - Update the historic site and building inventory as
part of this plan to include additional buildings, signage,
corridors, and public spaces of historical significance.
HP-6 - Amend existing historic preservation codes and
incentives as needed to implement an Historic
Preservation Plan.
Page 156 of 200
Core Changes to Historic Preservation Element
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
LAND USE ELEMENT
Updated and Consolidated Policies to include Action Items
HP-7 – The City should consider the impacts of new development on existing historic buildings and resources as a part of its environmental review process and encourage alternatives to demolition.
HP-8 - Propose adaptive reuse ideas to encourage the rehabilitation of sites and buildings with unique or significant historic characteristics.
HP-9 - Archival quality historical documentation should be required when a historical building cannot be preserved. Buildings eligible for landmark status shall require the most detailed level of archival documentation and/or measured drawings.
Page 157 of 200
Core Changes to Historic Preservation Element
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
LAND USE ELEMENT
Updated and Consolidated Policies to include Action Items
HP-10 – Require appropriate mitigation measures if demolition is imminent, such as establishing a mitigation fund that could be used to further preservation elsewhere in the City.
HP-11 Future development in the Downtown area should be sensitive to the character of surrounding buildings and the historical context of the area.
HP-12 - Retain existing buildings with historic characteristics and research the potential for placing additional buildings on the historic register.
Page 158 of 200
Core Changes to Historic Preservation Element
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
LAND USE ELEMENT
Updated and Consolidated Policies to include Action Items
HP-13 - Modifications of existing buildings shall consider the appropriate treatment or restoration of historic architectural features.
HP-14 - Make restoration of historic buildings known to the public through publication of projects to foster pride in downtown Auburn.
HP-15 The White River Valley Historical Museum is recognized as the primary repository of historic artifacts which relate to the City’s historical and cultural heritage.
Page 159 of 200
Core Changes to Historic Preservation Element
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
LAND USE ELEMENT
Updated and Consolidated Policies to include Action Items
HP-16 - Promote activities that create awareness and support
cultivating the heritage of Auburn by offering walking or biking
tours, festivals, and other means.
HP-17 - Recognize Auburn’s past prior to the arrival of settlers by
promoting Native American sites and artifacts.
HP-18 - Market the economic benefits to business owners and
community groups when promoting cultural and historical
events to gain a variety of involvement from various sectors in
the City.
Page 160 of 200
Forming an Historic Preservation Committee
Writing an Historic Preservation Plan
Conducting an inventory of the City’s structures, corridors, signage
and places that have historical merit.
Amendment of zoning code to support plan
How to establish a mitigation fund if historical properties are
demolished.
Potential Implications of Proposed Changes
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
LAND USE ELEMENT
Page 161 of 200
May 7th – Action and Deliberation on Element
Next Steps
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
LAND USE ELEMENT
Page 162 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn
Historic Preservation
Element
Page 163 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND ................................................................................................. 1
Vision ..................................................................................................................................................................... 1
VALUES ................................................................................................................................................................ 2
CONDITIONS AND TRENDS ..................................................................................................................... 3
Main Street .................................................................................................................................................... 3
Historic Registry ......................................................................................................................................... 3
GOALS AND POLICIES ................................................................................................................................ 6
Page 164 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn Historic Preservation Element | HPE- 1
INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND
Through the recognition and preservation of its past, Auburn can ensure its
uniqueness and strengthen its identity as it moves into the future. The City
recognizes the importance of maintaining this connection with its past by
including policies which address the enhancement and maintenance of historic
resources within this Comprehensive Plan. This importance is also recognized by
both the State and the County by the inclusion of historic preservation as one of
the goals of the Growth Management Act (GMA) and in the King County
Countywide policies.
Planning Approach to maintain, preserve, and enhance the City’s historic, cultural
and archaeological resources to provide a sense of local identity and history to the
visitors and residents of the community.
In 2010 the United States Census Bureau identified Auburn’s population as being
70,180 residents. Auburn grew in population to 84,858 residents in 2022, a 20%
increase in 12 years but has since gone down in population to 82,657 in 2024... The
growth applied substantial development pressure onto the city and enabled new
businesses and services to prosper, but without the proper management of growth
and development, these forces have potential to negatively impact the historic
sites and cultural practices that exist in Auburn, and which contribute to the reason
why residents and visitors are drawn to Auburn in the first place.
Proper identification and stewardship of historic and cultural assets is critical as the
city works to balance competing demands on space, housing, services, and
resources, because said assets help to create an identifiable identity for Auburn and
often enable residents to better connect with their community. These assets may
be historically significant structures, landmarks, and places and practices of tribal
importance.
Vision
Unlike many cities within the Puget Sound Region, Auburn has a long and
established history. Auburn has been a vibrant and freestanding community for
over 100 years. As a result, Auburn developed its own downtown as the focus of
business and community life. The downtown in particular, and the community as a
whole, were linked to the railroads, which were the major mode of transportation
throughout the region for decades. In the past several decades, the region has
experienced significant population growth. Due to the nature of this growth, the
differences between one community and another have blurred, and communities
are becoming more and more alike. If Auburn is to retain its identity as a unique
community, it must seek to emphasize its differences and celebrate them.
Auburn’s history is a part of its identity that is unique to Auburn.
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City of Auburn Historic Preservation Element | HPE- 2
VALUES
Auburn’s history is identifiable and unique, contributing to an evident community
identity. By preserving where this community has already been, we better inform
where it’s going. Under pressure to grow its economy while simultaneously
meeting the emerging needs of its residents, Auburn’s municipal policies aimed at
preserving the city’s historic and cultural assets will be shaped by our shared
values. These values are:
Character
Historic structures and culturally significant sites are protected, ensuring that
Auburn’s community identity is grounded in its historic legacy.
Wellness
Efforts to support the livability of historic neighborhoods and structures are
supported through city programs, projects, and collaboration with communities.
Service
The ongoing function and operations of historic structures and places are
supported through the investment into, and maintenance of, the utilities that serve
them.
Economy
One-of-a-kind historic structures and places are revitalized, enhancing property
values, and encouraging consumers to remain in place and purchase goods.
Celebration
Auburn’s history and local culture is actively promoted to residents and visitors in
collaboration with city-supported organizations and official programs.
Environment
Investment, maintenance, and restoration of existing buildings and places are
prioritized, disincentivizing urban sprawl into natural and open spaces.
Sustainability
Growth and business activity in Auburn does not damage local historic sites and
culturally important practices continue to be emphasized and supported.
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City of Auburn Historic Preservation Element | HPE- 3
CONDITIONS AND TRENDS
Main Street
In 2017 the Heritage Building, a structure which housed apartments and local
storefronts since 1924, tragically burned down, creating a gap in Auburn’s
otherwise well-defined and preserved Main Street. Four years later, in 2021, the Max
House Apartments, another mature Main Street-defining structure also caught fire,
eventually spreading to the historic and beloved Auburn Avenue Theater,
rendering both buildings unsalvageable. Today, the city and stakeholders continue
work to reimagine the sites of the three lost Main Street structures, and though
their absence serve as an opportunity to imagine a new direction, their loss
nonetheless remains an important reminder of the importance of historic
preservation, because many culturally and historic assets cannot be replaced so
easily once gone.
Historic Registry
There are currently six properties in the city of Auburn listed on either the King
County Landmarks List or the National Register of Historic Places. When a property
is added to either of these lists it means that their historic status is secured and
they are now subject to a number of legal protections to prevent their removal,
destruction, or alteration.
The six properties are:
• Auburn Masonic Temple – Designated 2002
In the late 1800s, settlers in
Auburn formed King Solomon
Lodge No. 60, becoming the
town's second fraternal order.
They built the Auburn Masonic
Temple in 1924, a historic Italian
Renaissance Revival-style
building listed on the King
County Landmarks List in 2002
and National Register of Historic
Places in 2015. It is located at 10
Auburn Way S.
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City of Auburn Historic Preservation Element | HPE- 4
• Auburn Pioneer Cemetery – Designated 2016
Auburn Pioneer Cemetery,
established in the 1860s, is the
city's oldest cemetery. It
underwent various name
changes and was designated a
landmark in 2016. In 2019, the
restored cemetery was officially
dedicated, featuring new
walkways, signage, and the
Tora Kato monument's
restoration. It is located at 850
Auburn Way N.
• Auburn Post Office –
Designated 2000
Built in 1937, the Auburn Post
Office transitioned to King
County's use in the 1960s. In
2016, the City of Auburn
acquired the building to create
the Auburn Postmark Center
for the Arts & Culture Center
preserving its character for
diverse community arts
activities. It is located at 20
Auburn Ave.
• Auburn Public Library –
Designated 1995
• In 1914, Auburn celebrated the
opening of its Carnegie Library,
located at 3rd Street NE and
Auburn Avenue. Designed by
architect David J. Myers and
funded by a $9,000 grant from
the Carnegie Corporation, the
5,000 square-foot brick
building featured a central
librarian's desk, a children's
section, and an adult section,
serving the city for 50 years. It is located at 306 Auburn Ave.
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City of Auburn Historic Preservation Element | HPE- 5
• Mary Olson Farm – Designated 2000
Mary Olson Farm, a
partnership between
the White River Valley
Museum and City of
Auburn, is a fully
restored 1880s
subsistence farm,
known for its
preservation and
conservation awards.
This historic 67-acre
site includes seven
wooden buildings, an
orchard, and
meadows, offering a
glimpse into early
1900s farm life. It is located at 28728 Green River Road.
• Oscar Blomeen House – Designated 1991
Built by owner Oscar
Blomeen in 1914, the
Oscar Blomeen House
features a corner turret
and a rich history. It
served as Auburn's first
hospital during the 1917-
1919 influenza epidemic, a
maternity hospital, and a
surgical center. It’s also
an example of post-
Victorian architecture
with Craftsman
influences. It is located at
324 B St NE.
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City of Auburn Historic Preservation Element | HPE- 6
GOALS AND POLICIES
Goal 1. To enhance and maintain the quality of historical resources
in the region.
HP-1 - Encourage the protection, preservation, recovery and rehabilitation of
significant archaeological resources and historic sites in Auburn.
HP-2 – Educate City staff to recognize significant resources and structures or
provide City staff with access to professionals who specialize in historic
preservation.
HP-3 - Seek grant opportunities to conduct historic building inventories of
neighborhoods.
HP-4 - Develop an Historic Preservation Plan to identify and protect Auburn’s
historic resources.
HP-5 - Update the historic site and building inventory as part of this plan to include
additional buildings, signage, corridors, and public spaces of historical significance.
HP-6 - Amend existing historic preservation codes and incentives as needed to
implement the Historic Preservation Plan.
HP-7 - The City should consider the impacts of new development on existing
historic buildings and resources as a part of its environmental review process and
encourage alternatives to demolition.
HP-8 - Propose adaptive reuse ideas to encourage the rehabilitation of sites and
buildings with unique or significant historic characteristics.
HP-9 - Archival quality historical documentation should be required when a
historical building cannot be preserved. Buildings eligible for landmark status shall
require the most detailed level of archival documentation and/or measured
drawings.
HP-10 - Require appropriate mitigation measures if demolition is imminent, such as
establishing a mitigation fund that could be used to further preservation elsewhere
in the City.
HP-11 - Future development in the Downtown area should be sensitive to the
character of surrounding buildings and the historical context of the area.
HP-12 - Retain existing buildings with historic characteristics and research the
potential for placing additional buildings on the historic register.
HP-13 - Modifications of existing buildings shall consider the appropriate treatment
or restoration of historic architectural features.
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City of Auburn Historic Preservation Element | HPE- 7
HP-14 - Make restoration of historic buildings known to the public through
publication of projects to foster pride in Auburn.
HP-15 - The White River Valley Historical Museum is recognized as the primary
repository of historic artifacts which relate to the City’s historic and cultural
heritage.
HP-16 - Promote activities that create awareness and support cultivating the
heritage of Auburn by offering walking or biking tours, festivals, and other means.
HP-17 - Recognize Auburn’s past prior to the arrival of settlers by promoting Native
American sites and artifacts.
HP-18 - Market the economic benefits to business owners and community groups
when promoting cultural and historical events to gain a variety of involvement
from various sectors in the City.
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City of Auburn Historic Preservation Element | HPE- 8
Page 172 of 200
AGENDA BILL APPROVAL FORM
Agenda Subject:
Economic Development Element (Francis)
Date:
April 22, 2024
Department:
Community Development
Attachments:
Attachment I - Economic Development Element
Presentation
Attachment J - Economic Development Element
V3
Budget Impact:
Current Budget: $0
Proposed Revision: $0
Revised Budget: $0
Administrativ e Recommendation:
Background for Motion:
Background Summary:
See Attachments
Rev iewed by Council Committees:
Councilmember:Staff:Francis
Meeting Date:April 30, 2024 Item Number:PH.2
Page 173 of 200
AUBURN
VALUES
SERVICE
ENVIRONMENT
ECONOMY
CHARACTER
SUSTAINABILITY
WELLNESS
CELEBRATION
CITY DEPARTMENTS
2024 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
–ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
ELEMENT
JENN FRANCIS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
MANAGER
PLANNING COMMISSION SPECIAL MEETING
APRIL 30, 2024
Department of Community Development
Planning Building Development Engineering Permit Center
Economic Development ● Code Enforcement
Page 174 of 200
A. Provide zoned capacity for 12,000 new housing units and
19,520 new jobs by 2044
B. Incorporate Middle Housing (HB 1110)
C. Land Use and Zoning Updates
D. Opportunities to simplify land use and zoning
E. Approaches for density in Growth Centers
F. Zoning changes in Downtown
G. Goals and Policies Updates
H. Other clean-up items
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ELEMENT
Purpose and Scope of Comprehensive Plan Amendments
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATIONPage 175 of 200
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ELEMENT
Element Overview:
•Introduction
•Vision
•Conditions and Trends
•Planning Approach
•Values
•Goals and Policies
Page 176 of 200
Retention of Business
Supporting growth and
expansion
Stronger connection between
schools and industry workforce
needs
Advocacy for existing
businesses
Connecting businesses and
sectors with each other
Providing regulatory
assistance
Attracting New Business
Targeted recruitment of new
businesses or brands
Identify businesses that have a
positive revenue, social, or
climate impact
Market the city and what it has
to offer
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ELEMENT
Goals and Policies
Page 177 of 200
Missing & Under -
represented Industry
Identify sectors that are
missing within our profile
Select industries that could
benefit from, or provide
benefit to locating in Auburn
Build incentive programs to aid
in marketing
Supporting Industry
Clusters
Target strategies that support
the existing aero-space
industry
Overcome the negative
impacts of logistics and
distribution
Partner with school districts to
build out curriculum that
creates a ready work force
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ELEMENT
Goals and Policies
Page 178 of 200
Downtown Auburn
Reduce the number of empty
storefronts
Increase amenities (plazas, art
installation, lighting)
Concentration of housing units
Support façade improvement
program
High Standards
Enhanced architectural style
and appearance
High quality landscaping and
greenery
Attention to detail for signs,
and lighting
Strong connections to non-
motorized infrastructure
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ELEMENT
Goals and Policies
Page 179 of 200
Incentives
Workforce development
Regulatory efficiencies
Engagement amongst the
business community
Targeting financial incentives
Partnership
Between businesses and
through organizations
Between businesses and
residents
Events and connections
Sharing resources
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ELEMENT
Goals and Policies
Page 180 of 200
Tourism
Hotel stays = spending
Marking events and attractions
Tourism workplan and strategy
Lodging Tax Advisory
Committee
Diversity
Economic
Cultural
Socio-economic
Removing barriers
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ELEMENT
Goals and Policies
Page 181 of 200
Displacement
Economic development not
intended to wipe out housing
and communities
Soften impacts of industry on
communities
Increased supply of housing
creates stability and options
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ELEMENT
Goals and Policies
Page 182 of 200
Tonight’s Public Hearing
May 7th Deliberation
Next Steps
SERVICE ENVIRONMENT ECONOMY CHARACTER SUSTAINABILITY WELLNESS CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ELEMENT
Page 183 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn
Economic
Development
Element
Page 184 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Table of Contents
Introduction ....................................................................................................................................................... 1
Vision ..................................................................................................................................................................... 1
Planning Framework .................................................................................................................................... 1
Vision for 2044 ............................................................................................................................................. 1
Conditions and Trends ............................................................................................................................... 2
Auburn Profile ............................................................................................................................................. 2
Household and Income Characteristics ....................................................................................... 2
Resident Labor Force and Employment Characteristics .................................................... 3
Daily Inflow and Outflow ...................................................................................................................... 5
Growth Projections .................................................................................................................................. 6
Planning Approach ...................................................................................................................................... 7
Values .............................................................................................................................................................. 7
Goals and Policies .......................................................................................................................................... 7
Maps and Figures
Figure 1 - Inflation-Adjusted Median Household Income in Auburn with Regional
Comparison (2020) ............................................................................................................................................ 3
Figure 2 - Auburn Workforce Top Industry Sectors (2019) .......................................................... 4
Figure 3 - Top Ten Employers in Auburn (2022) ............................................................................... 4
Figure 4 - Top Industry Sectors in Auburn (2002-2019) ................................................................ 5
Figure 5 - Auburn Daily Commuting Patterns (2019) .................................................................... 6
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DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn Economic Development Element | EDE - 1
Introduction
Economic development is a crucial aspect of the City of Auburn's overall well-being
and quality of life. A strong and diverse economy provides opportunities for
residents through job creation, business growth and a robust tax base that funds
essential services such as police, streets, and parks.
The Economic Development Element of the Comprehensive Plan serves as a guide
to attract, retain and grow businesses in the city, expand economic opportunity for
everyone, ensure that economic expansion is carried out in a sustainable fashion,
and drive regional economic growth. It recognizes that economic development is
not a standalone endeavor but is closely linked to other key elements of the plan,
including land use, infrastructure, transportation, housing, and sustainable
resource management.
The Economic Development Element is designed to establish policies and
strategies that promotes the implementation of Auburn's vision for a strong,
inclusive, and diverse local and regional economy. The Economic Development
Element therefore provides a comprehensive overview of Auburn’s economy, sets
policy direction for economic growth, and identifies strategies, programs, and
projects to improve the local and regional economy
Vision
The City of Auburn is a diverse and inclusive economy that promotes prosperity for
all members of the community. New business and industry desire to locate in
Auburn and existing businesses are able to grow and prosper. The economic
landscape is welcoming to large and small businesses as well as an array of
different industry sectors. Economic growth is carried out in a climate friendly
manner that effectively weathers economic volatility. A pathway to success exists
for all residents and business owners regardless of their background or
socioeconomic status.
Planning Framework
Vision for 2044
To achieve this vision, the city will focus on strategic partnerships, targeted
investments, and inclusive policies and programs. In 2044, Auburn will be a city
where people want to start their careers, raise their families, and enjoy all that life
has to offer. It will be a place where businesses want to locate and visitors want to
spend time.
Our vision for the future is one in which Auburn is a model of sustainable living,
where residents, business owners, and workers enjoy a high quality of life while also
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City of Auburn Economic Development Element | EDE- 2
reducing their impact on the planet. We are working to create an efficient
economy that minimizes waste and maximizes resource efficiency.
Conditions and Trends
Auburn Profile
Auburn is a vibrant and growing city located in the Pacific Northwest region,
situated about 15 miles north of Tacoma and 20 miles south of Seattle and is part of
the greater Seattle metropolitan area. Most of the city is in King County, with a
small portion extending into Pierce County. Auburn is currently ranked as the 14th
largest city in Washington State and shares its borders with Federal Way, Kent,
Pacific, Algona, Sumner and unincorporated King County. The Muckleshoot Indian
Reservation lies partly within and partly adjacent to the City. Auburn is known for
its natural beauty, strong economy, and diverse community, offering residents and
visitors a high quality of life and a sense of belonging. The city boasts a thriving
business community, top rated schools, and ample recreational opportunities,
including access to the Green River, White River and the Cascade Mountains.
Auburn also has a rich history and cultural diversity reflected in its many festivals,
events, and community organizations. Auburn is a city that is constantly evolving
and improving, yet always maintains its small-town charm and is a place where
people come to start their careers, raise their families, and enjoy all that life has to
offer.
Household and Income Characteristics
In 2020, Auburn was estimated to have 29,220 households, an increase of 12% since
2010. The average household size was 2.75, larger than the King County average of
2.43. This is likely due to the larger share of family households in Auburn, at 68%,
compared with 59% in King County, and a smaller share of householders living
alone. This reflects Auburn’s suburban development patterns compared with some
of the denser urban areas in Seattle and its closer-in suburbs. About 60% of
Auburn’s households are homeowners and 40% are renters, a slightly lower share
of homeowners than Washington as a whole, but higher than the King County
average.
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City of Auburn Economic Development Element | EDE- 3
Figure 1 - Inflation-Adjusted Median Household Income in Auburn with Regional Comparison (2020)
Source: 2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates, Table S2503, CPI Inflation Index
Auburn’s median household income was $76,410 in 2020, an increase of 19% from
$64,443 in 2010 (adjusted for inflation). As shown in Figure 1, Auburn’s incomes are
on par with statewide and Pierce County averages but lag behind the higher
incomes of King County households primarily as a result of Seattle and Eastside
residents. Rental households in Auburn earn significantly less than ownership
households – the average renter household earns $54,396 compared with $98,153
for ownership households. Auburn’s BIPOC households are more likely to be
renters. Around 46% of renters are non-white residents, compared to 33% of
homeowners. These types of intersections of income, race, access to housing and
wealth-building are important considerations when planning to accommodate the
needs of all Auburn residents.
Resident Labor Force and Employment
Characteristics
$0
$20,000
$40,000
$60,000
$80,000
$100,000
$120,000
Auburn King County Pierce County Washington
2010 2020
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City of Auburn Economic Development Element | EDE- 4
Figure 2 - Auburn Workforce Top Industry Sectors (2019)
Source: US Census On The Map
The top ten industry sectors in which Auburn residents were employed in 2019 is
shown in Figure 2. Auburn has traditionally been a blue-collar community since its
initial early 20th century population boom stemming from the construction of a
railroad freight terminal. Despite a decrease in manufacturing employment in the
1990s and early 2000s, 13% of Auburn residents were currently employed in the
industry in 2019. Since the recession of 2008, the number of Auburn residents
employed in health care, retail, and construction have increased substantially and
the overall diversity of jobs worked by Auburn residents has increased, reflecting
the rapidly increasing population and shifts in demographics discussed previously.
Figure 3 - Top Ten Employers in Auburn (2022)
Source: Washington Employment Security Department
05001,0001,5002,0002,5003,0003,5004,0004,5005,000
0
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
Number of EmployeesPage 189 of 200
DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn Economic Development Element | EDE- 5
The top employers in Auburn are shown in Figure 3. Boeing is the largest employer
in the City, as it has been several decade, followed by a variety of retail,
manufacturing, and wholesale businesses, as well as Multicare, the regional
hospital and health care center in Downtown Auburn. The top ten employers in
Auburn currently account for about 23% of the jobs in the City, down from 55% in
2011 and 85% in 2002, further demonstrating the increasing diversity of business
activity in Auburn in recent decades
Figure 4 - Top Industry Sectors in Auburn (2002-2019)
Source: US Census On The Map
As of 2019, there were about 46,383 jobs located in Auburn. The top sectors are
shown in Figure 4 along with their change over the past two decades. Despite
decreases in the manufacturing industry from 1990 and 2000 noted in Auburn’s
previous (2014) comprehensive plan, the sector has seen rapid increases since the
2008 financial crisis and now accounts for over 20% of jobs in the City. Other
notable shifts include a rapid increase in construction jobs over the past several
years as well as a decrease in retail which corresponds to an increase in wholesale
trade, perhaps reflecting increasing patterns of online rather than in-store
shopping.
Daily Inflow and Outflow
As of 2019, 5,288 Auburn residents, or 15% of the population both lived and worked
in the City. The remaining 85% of those who worked in Auburn commuted from
outside the City. As shown in Figure 5, there are more people who work in Auburn
0
2,000
4,000
6,000
8,000
10,000
12,000
2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
Manufacturing Construction Retail Trade
Wholesale Trade Transportation / Warehousing
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DRAFT – April 30, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn Economic Development Element | EDE- 6
and live elsewhere than those who live in Auburn and work elsewhere. This results
in an increased pool of residents and employees who engage with City services and
businesses. Although this data predates the COVID-19 pandemic, the relatively
large share of in-person manufacturing and retail jobs in the City suggests that the
commuting patterns may have been less affected by the pandemic in Auburn
compared with other areas which have a higher share of office jobs.
Figure 5 - Auburn Daily Commuting Patterns (2019)
Source: US Census On The Map
Growth Projections
Understanding future population and employment growth is essential for
planning. King County, Pierce County, the Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC)
and the Washington State Office of Financial Management (OFM) are each involved
in forecasting population and job growth in Auburn over the coming decades, and
this section summarizes the current forecasts from these agencies which can be
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City of Auburn Economic Development Element | EDE- 7
used to inform future actions on land use, infrastructure, housing, economic
development, and transportation in Auburn.
Planning Approach
Values
Character: Our community values the unique perspectives and experiences that
our diverse population brings, and we strive to create inclusive spaces that
celebrate our differences and foster a sense of belonging for all.
Wellness: We are a secure community with walkable commercial districts where
the perception and reality are that crime activity is low.
We prioritize the health and well-being of our residents by investing in programs
and infrastructure that promote active living, access to healthy food, and mental
health support for all residents.
Service: Our economic development strategies are guided by a commitment to
equitable growth, which means ensuring that all businesses and entrepreneurs
have equal access to resources and opportunities to succeed.
Economy: We are working to create a resilient and equitable economy that
benefits all members of our community, including those who have historically been
marginalized or underrepresented.
Celebration: We actively promote our local businesses and have been successful at
making our residents more aware of what is available locally as well as attracting
visitors from beyond our City.
We take pride in our vibrant arts and culture scene, which serves as a cornerstone
of our community and attracts visitors from around the region. We are committed
to supporting and promoting local artists and cultural institutions.
Environment: Our economy is growing and diversifying because of our efforts to
protect our rivers, streams, wetlands, and other environmental resources.
Sustainability: Residents are staying in Auburn to work and shop, and we are widely
considered a regional dining, shopping, and entertainment destination.
Goals and Policies
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City of Auburn Economic Development Element | EDE- 8
Goal # 1 – Retention of Existing Businesses
Retain existing businesses by developing growth opportunities, cultivating local talent,
promoting safety measures, and facilitating supportive expansion and relocation
options.
Policies:
ED-1. Collaborate with local educational partners (e.g. Green River College & Auburn
School District) and vocational centers to develop programs that are aligned with the
skills needed by businesses in Auburn. This will necessitate a deep understanding of
employer needs and educational/employment pipelines and includes fostering
partnerships with businesses to provide internships, apprenticeships, and job placement
opportunities for local talent.
ED-2. Implement and promote security measures in commercial areas, including
physical improvements such as enhanced lighting, surveillance, and landscaping as
well as strengthening communication amongst the business community and the City in
order to create a secure environment that encourages businesses to succeed.
ED-3. Nurture/foster a collaborative environment by conducting regular gatherings and
forums for businesses, community leaders and local government representatives to
share their ideas, needs, strategies, and concerns.
ED-4. Develop and implement a support system for existing businesses within the city
by assisting them in optimizing their operations and addressing challenges they may
encounter during expansion or relocation within the city. Provide comprehensive
information on available commercial properties, zoning regulations, and necessary
permits. Offer proactive assistance to navigate local government procedures, ensuring a
seamless transition for businesses committed to staying and growing in Auburn.
ED-5. Promote diversity and inclusion within the local business community by
supporting initiatives that encourage greater participation and inclusion of minority
owned businesses. Create resources and programs that provide equitable opportunity
for businesses owned by underrepresented groups to be fully engaged in the local
business community and the full array of resources and partnerships that exist.
ED-6. Establish a dedicated business retention program that proactively engages with
local businesses to understand their needs, challenges, and opportunities. Identify and
provide resources and support to address issues before they become significant
barriers to continued operation and/or expansion.
Goal # 2 – Attract New Businesses
Attract new, high performing businesses by identifying market gaps, precisely defining
the types of businesses Auburn seeks, strategically marketing Auburn's advantages,
and optimizing available land and space.
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City of Auburn Economic Development Element | EDE- 9
ED-7. Perform regular market analyses to identify emerging trends, gaps, and
opportunities in the local and regional markets. Conduct periodic research and
collaboration with local education centers, research institutions and industry experts in
order to stay updated on emerging needs and opportunities. Emphasize efforts and
prioritize opportunities that attract businesses that are positively contributing to a more
sustainable and climate-friendly operation. This can be in the form of businesses that
are designing, creating, selling and distributing climate-friendly products and
approaches or businesses that are seeking to incorporate sustainable development or
building management practices.
ED-8. Clearly define the types of businesses that align with the city’s economic
development strategies, considering local strengths and market demands. Engage with
local business associations and community stakeholders to gather input on desired
business types. Develop industry profiles to guide prospective businesses in
understanding the local market.
ED-9. Implement targeted marketing campaigns to showcase the city’s advantages and
attract businesses that fit the defined criteria. This includes developing a comprehensive
marketing strategy highlighting Auburn's infrastructure, workforce, incentives, and
quality of life. Leverage digital platforms, industry conferences, and targeted events to
reach potential businesses and investors.
ED-10. Establish incentive programs to encourage desired businesses and industries to
choose Auburn as their location. Collaborate with local and state governments to create
tax incentives, grants, and other financial support mechanisms. Develop customized
incentive packages based on the specific needs of target businesses. Build out a set of
incentives that are specifically targeted towards attracting climate-friendly businesses to
locate and grow in Auburn.
ED-11. Foster collaboration between the public and private sectors to create a
supportive environment for attracting high-performing businesses. This includes
establishing a platform for ongoing dialogue and collaboration between local
government and business leaders and encouraging private sector participation in
infrastructure development, workforce training, and other initiatives.
Goal # 3 – Missing or Underrepresented Industries
Identify and support emerging high performing business sectors with growth potential,
contributing to a resilient and dynamic economic landscape, particularly in industries
that are currently underrepresented.
Policies
ED-12. Identify and analyze emerging high performing business sectors with growth
potential through ongoing collaboration with industry professionals, research institutions,
and local business leaders. Develop a systematic process for monitoring market trends
and assessing the viability of missing new economic sectors.
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ED-13. Direct strategic investments and resources towards industries that are currently
underrepresented in the local economy but show potential for growth. This involves
creating incentive programs and support mechanisms tailored to the specific needs of
these industries to foster their development.
ED-14. Establish programs to support entrepreneurs and startups within the identified
high potential sectors. Provide mentorship, access to resources, and networking
opportunities to nurture the growth of emerging businesses in underrepresented
industries.
ED-15. Collaborate with educational institutions and industry partners to develop
training programs and educational initiatives that align with the needs of emerging
sectors. This ensures a skilled workforce is ready to contribute to the growth and
development of underrepresent industries.
ED-16. Foster a collaborative economic ecosystem by encouraging partnerships
between local businesses, startups, research institutions, and government agencies
within the identified sectors. Facilitate networking events, conferences, and
collaborative projects to strengthen the overall business environment.
Goal #4 – Supporting Industry Clusters
Implement strategies that support local and regional industry clusters which includes
approaches that support Auburn specific clusters as well as regional clusters that
represent the Highway 167 Corridor clusters, King and Pierce County identified clusters,
and regionally identified Puget Sound clusters.
ED-17. Retain and recruit businesses that support an already robust aerospace
industry by encouraging establishment and growth of manufacturing, innovation and
design, and transport of materials and goods.
ED-18. Seek legislative solutions and private partnerships that are designed to offset
the local impacts that occur as a result of logistics uses that are space consumptive,
have high impacts on local street conditions, and that result in low performing ratio of
jobs to square footage.
ED-19. Upon successful completion of Policy P.2, support the logistics needs that exist
along the Highway 167 Corridor between the Port of Seattle and the Port of Tacoma.
ED-20. Expand upon opportunities to build out the local educational systems with the
intention to create a stronger and more targeted employment pipeline that supports
local industry clusters.
Goal #5 – Downtown Auburn
Develop downtown as a livable, walkable and drivable destination by fostering an active
community through art, entertainment, and evening activity. Enhance building design,
amenities and safety measures to create a welcoming environment that encourages
residents and visitors to explore Auburn.
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Policies:
ED-21. Implement public art initiatives and cultural programs in downtown Auburn to
enhance the aesthetic appeal and cultural vibrancy of the area. This includes installing
public art installations, organizing cultural events, and collaborating with local artists and
performers.
ED-22. Foster an active downtown community by organizing regular events, festivals,
and markets in downtown Auburn. This involves collaborating with local businesses,
community groups, and event organizers to create a diverse calendar of activities that
attract residents and visitors.
ED-23. Offer incentives for mixed use developments in the downtown area, encouraging
the combination of residential, commercial, and entertainment spaces. This policy aims
to create a vibrant and dynamic urban environment that supports both daytime and
evening activities.
ED-24. Develop comprehensive parking and transportation plans to ensure convenient
access to downtown. This involves strategically placing parking facilities, promoting
public transportation options, and encouraging alternative modes of transportation to
make the area both drivable and accessible.
ED-25. Enhance security measures, including increased police presence, improved
lighting and surveillance systems, to ensure a secure environment for residents and
visitors, especially during evening activities. Collaborate with local law enforcement
agencies to address security concerns proactively.
ED-26. Improve and expand the existing facade improvement program to support local
businesses in upgrading their storefronts, signage, and exterior aesthetics. This not only
contributes to the overall visual appeal of downtown but also encourages economic
growth.
ED-27. Develop a mix of incentives and penalties that seek to eliminate ongoing
vacancy of ground floor commercial spaces.
Goal # 6 – High Standards
Promote high quality architectural design, pedestrian circulation, landscaping, lighting,
public amenities, security investments, and signage that are customized to the various
commercial and mixed-use areas of the city.
Policies:
ED-28. Implement lighting standards that contribute to the security and quality of
commercial areas. This involves strategically placed lighting fixtures, street lighting, and
architectural lighting to enhance visibility and create a secure and attractive
environment during both day and night.
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ED-29. Invest in infrastructure, such as improved multimodal transportation systems,
electric vehicle charging stations, rideshare features, parks and open space, and
enhanced security measures, to ensure the well-being of pedestrians and cyclists in
commercial and mixed-used zones.
ED-30. Establish design standards and procedures within commercial and mixed-use
areas. This ensures that development plans align with the preferences and needs of the
local community.
ED-31. Establish a mechanism for regular design reviews to assess ongoing and
proposed developments in commercial and mixed-use areas. This process ensures that
projects align with established design standards and contribute positively to the overall
urban beauty.
Goal #7 – Incentives
Develop and implement a comprehensive incentive program designed to attract and
support business recruitment and retention. Incentives will include financial benefits,
ease of access, community acceptance, strong connections to local goals, and
maintaining support beyond initial opening.
Policies:
ED-32. Routinely provide workforce development, business assistance, and business
development programs.
ED-33. Implement a streamlined permitting and approval process for businesses,
reducing bureaucratic hurdles and ensuring a swift and efficient process. This policy
aims to enhance ease of access for both new and existing businesses.
ED-34. Develop incentives that encourage businesses to actively engage with the local
community. This includes supporting community events, participating in local initiatives,
and fostering a positive relationship with residents to enhance community acceptance.
ED-35. Establish economic incentives that are geographically targeted and intended to
attract specific businesses, brands, sectors, and amenities within the community.
Goal #8 – Partnership
Facilitate dynamic partnerships between the city, business community, educational
institutions, event organizers and lodging providers.
Policies.
ED-36. Develop a comprehensive framework for promoting dynamic partnerships
between the city, business community, educational institutions, and business
associations. This framework will outline strategies for collaboration, communication
channels, and shared goals.
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ED-37. Conduct regular meetings and forums to bring together representatives from the
city, business community, educational institutions, DAC, chamber. These meetings will
serve as platforms for discussing opportunities for collaboration, addressing challenges,
and sharing best practices.
ED-38. Encourage the development of collaborative initiatives that leverage the
strengths and resources of each stakeholder group. This will include joint marketing
campaigns, workforce development programs, community events, and infrastructure
projects that benefit all parties involved.
ED-39. Collaborate with event organizers and lodging providers to coordinate and
support events that drive economic activity and tourism in the city. This will involve
providing logistical support, marketing assistance, and facilitating partnerships to
enhance event experiences.
ED-40. Facilitate resource sharing and support services among stakeholders to
maximize efficiency and effectiveness. This will involve sharing facilities, equipment,
expertise, and access to networks to support mutual goals and initiatives.
ED-41. Acknowledge and appreciate the contributions of stakeholders in fostering
dynamic partnerships and collaborative efforts. This could include awards,
acknowledgments, and public recognition for exemplary partnerships and initiatives that
benefit the city and its community.
Goal #9 – Tourism
Drive the growth of tourism by strategically investing in tourism related initiatives,
fostering partnerships with key stakeholders and implementing effective promotional
campaigns that are collectively designed to increase the number and length of hotel
stays.
Policies
ED-42. Identify and prioritize strategic tourism initiatives, such as the development of
tourist attractions, cultural events, and recreational facilities. Ensure these initiatives
align with the city's unique offerings and contribute to an attractive and memorable
visitor experience.
ED-43. Foster public private partnerships in the tourism sector to leverage the expertise
and resources of both the public and private sectors. Encourage collaboration with local
businesses, event organizers, and attractions to create a unified and compelling tourism
experience,
ED-44. Develop and implement effective promotional campaigns and marketing
strategies to increase the visibility of the city as a tourist destination. Utilize digital
platforms, social media, and traditional marketing channels to reach target audiences
and showcase the city's attractions.
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ED-45. Maintain a strong level of communication and coordination with the lodging
industry in order to cross promote events and amenities within the city and build
Auburn’s reputation as a destination.
Goal #9 – Diversity
All members of the community operate on a level playing field with equal access to
services and where their participation is welcome and heard.
ED-46. All economic development goals, policies, and strategies will be designed
around inclusiveness and with an intention to reach the entire business community.
ED-47. Intentionally identify and recruit missing or underrepresented ethnic and cultural
groups to serve on economic development, tourism and downtown boards and
commissions.
ED-48. Establish opportunities that enable broader engagement and listening from
underserved communities within the city in the development of plans, strategies and
decision making.
ED-49. Identify and eliminate barriers that have traditionally made it difficult to start or
grow a business due to language. This includes providing translation and interpretation
for non-English speaking people and accommodating individuals where a physical
disability is eliminating adequate access to services.
Goal #10 – Displacement
In support of a stronger and more diverse economy the city will plan, protect, preserve
and produce housing options that are intended to be attainable to all members of the
community where the primary goal is to ensure that residents’ choices about when,
whether and under what circumstances to remain in their home or move.
ED-50. While the Economic Development Element places a heavy emphasis on the
attraction of new businesses it is not the intent of this Plan to displace people,
communities, populations, or affordable housing. Nor is it the intent of this Plan or any
specific Goal or Policy to be considered higher priority in the event that there are
conflicts.
ED-51. Establish zoning district boundaries that avoid a result where residential
communities are designated as a non-conforming use.
ED-52. Avoid issuance of conditional use permits, variances, and other special land
use approvals that convert existing residential uses into new commercial uses. This
does not include the allowance of home based businesses.
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ED-53. Establish development standards that mitigate the impacts of noise, light, odor,
and building massing generated on commercial sites that are adjacent to existing
residential communities.
ED-54. Embrace housing policies that support the creation of more housing across the
full spectrum of affordability ranges in order to stabilize housing prices and avoid rapid
volatility in the housing market. A strong and stable housing market in all sectors of
affordability is an important element of a strong, local, and diverse workforce.
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