HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-07-2024 Special AgendaPlanning Commission Meeting
May 7, 2024 - 6:00 P M
Special Meeting - City Hall Council
Chambers
A GE NDA
I .P UB L I C PART I C IAT IO N
A .P ublic P articipation I nformation
The City of A uburn S pecial Planning Commission Meeting scheduled for Tuesday,
May 7, 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
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/7999102307
Meeting I D: 799 910 2307
One tap mobile
+12532158782,,7999102307# US (Tacoma)
+12532050468,,7999102307# US
Dial by your location
• +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
• +1 253 205 0468 US
• 888 475 4499 US Toll-free
• 877 853 5257 US Toll-free
Meeting I D: 799 910 2307
Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kbL sn6aJ 7H
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.AP P RO VAL O F M INUT E S
A .A pril 16, 2024 Draft Minutes from the S pecial Planning Commission Meeting
V.O T HE R B US I NE S S
A .P resentation Overview (Steiner)
S taff will provide a brief overview of upcoming Element Presentations and Public
Hearing schedule.
Page 1 of 69
V I .P UB L I C HE ARI NG S
A .P arks and Recreation E lement (Gouk)
P ublic Hearing for the public testimony and Planning Commission deliberation on the
P arks and Recreation E lement.
B .Climate E lement (Tatro)
P ublic Hearing for the public testimony and Planning Commission deliberation on the
Climate E lement.
V I 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 69
AGENDA BILL APPROVAL FORM
Agenda Subject:
April 16, 2024 Draft Minutes from the Special Planning
Commission Meeting
Date:
April 30, 2024
Department:
Community Development
Attachments:
April 16, 2024 Draft Minutes
Budget Impact:
Current Budget: $0
Proposed Revision: $0
Revised Budget: $0
Administrativ e Recommendation:
Background for Motion:
Background Summary:
Rev iewed by Council Committees:
Councilmember:Staff:
Meeting Date:May 7, 2024 Item Number:
Page 3 of 69
Planning Commission Meeting
April 16, 2024 - 6:00 P M
Special Meeting - City Hall Council
Chambers
MINUT E S
I .P UB L I C PART I C IPAT IO N
A .P ublic P articipation I nformation
T he City of Auburn Planning Commission M eeting was held in
person and virtually.
I I .C AL L T O O RD E R
Chair J udi Roland called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. in the
Council Chambers of Auburn City Hall, 25 West M ain Street.
A .RO L L C AL L/E S TAB L I S HM E NT O F Q UO RUM
Commissioners present: Chair J udi Roland, Vice Chair P hillip
S tephens, J ulie Berry, Kent S prague, William Stewart, Aaron
Vanderpol, and Lynn Walters.
S taff members present: Acting Planning Services M anager
Alexandrea Teague, Acting Assistant Director of Community
Development S teve S turza, Economic Development M anager J enn
Francis, Senior P lanner Dinah Reed, S enior Planner J osh Steiner,
P lanner I I Alyssa Tatro, Acting City Attorney Doug Ruth, and Deputy
City Clerk Rebecca Wood-P ollock.
B .P L E D G E O F AL L E G I ANC E
Chair Roland led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance.
I I I .P UB L I C C O M M E NT
Virginia Haugen, Auburn
Virginia shared thoughts about Historic Preservation E lement 1
regarding the preservation and rehabilitation of historical sites in
Auburn and Historic P reservation Element 13 regarding restoration
of historic architectural features.
Linda Redman, Auburn
Linda expressed thoughts about checkerboard development in the
rainforest.
Page 1 of 5Page 4 of 69
I V.AP P RO VAL O F M INUT E S
A .A pril 2, 2024 Draft Minutes from the Special P lanning Commission Meeting
Vice Chair Stephens moved and Commissioner Walters seconded
to approve the April 2, 2024 Planning Commission M eeting M inutes.
M O T IO N C ARRIE D UNANIM O US LY. 7-0
V.O T HE R B US I NE S S
A .P ublic Hearing and Deliberation P rocess Overview (Tate)
S taff will provide an overview of the public hearing and deliberation process for the
upcoming P lanning Commission P ublic Hearings.
Acting Planning Services M anager Teague shared a presentation
with the Commission on the P ublic Hearing and Deliberation
P rocess Overview, including timeline, order of the process, notice
of public comments received, and the steps in the process.
B .Historic Preservation E lement (Reed)
S taff presentation of the proposed changes to the Historic Preservation Element.
S enior Planner Reed shared a presentation with the Commission on
the Historic Preservation E lement, including the purpose and scope
of the Comprehensive P lan Amendments, core changes for updated
and consolidated policies, potential implications, and the next steps
in the process.
T he Commission discussed the process for conducting an
inventory of historical properties in Auburn and the Neely M ansion.
C.E conomic Development Element (Tate)
S taff presentation on the proposed changes to the E conomic Development E lement.
E conomic Development M anager F rancis shared a presentation
with the Commission on the E conomic Development Element,
including the purpose and scope, goals and policies, and the next
steps in the process.
T he Commission discussed Downtown storefront development,
incentives and tax exemptions, school curriculums, missing and
underrepresented industries, Costco recruitment, hotels,
coordination with the M uckleshoot Tribe, and increasing job
opportunities.
Page 2 of 5Page 5 of 69
V I .P UB L I C HE ARI NG S
A .L and Use E lement (S teiner)
P ublic Hearing for public testimony and P lanning Commission deliberation on the L and
Use E lement.
S enior P lanner Steiner provided the Commission with a presentation on the
Land Use Element, including the purpose and scope, core changes, growth
centers, potential implications, and the next steps in the process.
The Commission discussed density considerations for middle housing.
Chair Roland opened the P ublic Hearing at 7:27 p.m.
Written comments:
Linda Redman, Auburn
Linda shared her thoughts on environmental impacts and land use
considerations.
David Toyer, Lake S tevens
David expressed support of the proposed rezoning in Lea Hill, the Crime
Prevention Through Environmental Design (C P T E D), vertical and
horizontal mixed use for the Mixed Use Land Use Deisgnation, and the Multi
Family Tax Exemption (MF T E).
Trish Borden and Lee Valenta
Trish and Lee shared support for open space and natural environment
preservation.
S imon Uppal
S imon expressed support for the amended Land Use Designations for their
property and the proposed expansion of the Multifamily Tax Exemption
(MF T E) program.
In-Person Comments:
Linda Redman, Auburn
Linda expressed thoughts regarding low density housing, green space
development, and pole shifting.
Virtual Comments:
David Toyer, Auburn
David expressed support of the Lea Hill parcel changes to land use
designations and thanked staff for their considerations of his input on the
policy amendments.
Chair Roland closed the Public Hearing at 7:35 p.m.
Page 3 of 5Page 6 of 69
B .Housing Element (Steiner)
P ublic Hearing for public testimony and P lanning Commission deliberation on the
Housing Element.
S enior P lanner Steiner provided the Commission with a presentation on the
Housing Element, including the purpose and scope of the amendments, core
changes and considerations, potential implications of the proposed changes,
and the next steps in the process.
Chair Roland opened the P ublic Hearing at 8:10 p.m.
Written Comments:
David Toyer, Lake Stevens
David shared support for the proposed rezones in Lea Hill and edits in the
Housing Elements.
S imon Uppal
S imon shared support for future land use and zoning maps and expansion of
the MF T E multifamily tax exemption program
In-Person Comments:
Linda Redman, Auburn
Linda discussed uplifting landscapes to encourage walking, healthy food
options in the Downtown area, green space near housing, the residential
corridor near the Auburn Airport, and neighborhood development.
Chair Roland closed the Public Hearing at 8:16 p.m.
The Commission discussed the Comprehensive Plan process, zoning for the
Downtown area, transit-oriented development, middle housing,
Comprehensive Plan changes in other jurisdictions, parking requirements for
middle housing, zoning capacity, housing availability, and street layouts.
Vice Chair S tephens moved and Commissioner Stewart seconded to accept
the Land Use Element as presented.
MOT ION C AR R IE S UN AN IMO US LY. 7-0
The Commission discussed different types of housing and accessory dwelling
unit requirements.
Vice Chair S tephens moved and Commissioner Sprague seconded to accept
the Housing Element as presented.
MOT ION C AR R IE S UN AN IMO US LY. 7-0
Page 4 of 5Page 7 of 69
V I I .AD J O URNM E NT
T here being no further business to come before the Planning
Commission, the meeting was adjourned at 8:42 p.m.
AP P RO V E D this 7th day of M ay, 2024.
____________________________ ____________________________
J UD I RO L AND, C HAIR Rebecca Wood-Pollock,
Deputy City Clerk
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 5 of 5Page 8 of 69
AGENDA BILL APPROVAL FORM
Agenda Subject:
Presentation Overview (Steiner)
Date:
May 1, 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:May 7, 2024 Item Number:
Page 9 of 69
Memorandum
To: Judi Roland, Chair, Planning Commission
Planning Commission Members
From: Josh Steiner, Senior Long-Range Planner, Comm. Dev. Dept.
Alyssa Tatro, Planner II, Comm. Dev. Dept.
Thaniel Gouk, Parks Planning and Development Manager, Parks, Arts, and Recreation
Department
Date: May 7, 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 Parks and Recreation Element and Climate Element will be
conducted. This meeting is open to the public and has been advertised appropriately as a
Special Meeting. The table below 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 N/A
Economic Development N/A
Climate Tonight May 21
Parks and Open Space Tonight May 21
Sewer System Plan May 21 June 4 June 18
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
Page 10 of 69
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 (v3)
Attachment C – Benchmark Parks Impact Fees
Attachment D – Climate Element Presentation
Attachment E – Climate 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 11 of 69
AGENDA BILL APPROVAL FORM
Agenda Subject:
Parks and Recreation Element (Gouk)
Date:
May 1, 2024
Department:
Community Development
Attachments:
Attachment A - Parks and Recreation Element
Presentation
Attachment B - Parks and Recreation Element V3
Attachment C - Benchmark Parks Impact Fees
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:May 7, 2024 Item Number:PH.1
Page 12 of 69
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
MAY 7, 2024
Department of Community Development
Planning Building Development Engineering Permit Center
Economic Development Community Services ● Code Enforcement
Page 13 of 69
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 14 of 69
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 15 of 69
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 16 of 69
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 17 of 69
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 18 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn
Parks and
Recreation Element
Page 19 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Table of Contents
Introduction ....................................................................................................................................................... 1
Vision ..................................................................................................................................................................... 1
Goals and Policies ........................................................................................................................................... 1
Page 20 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 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 21 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 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 22 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 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.
Page 23 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 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 24 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 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 25 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 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 26 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 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.
Page 27 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 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 28 of 69
Benchmarking
Renton - $2,915 SF; $1,978 5+ multi-family; @,2,252/unit - 3-4 MF; $2,366/unit duplex and ADU
Redmond - $5,124 SF; $3,557 MF; $1,933 residential suite; per 1,000 sf GFA $1,388 office, $616 retail
and $625 manufacturing
Tukwila - $3,006 SF; $2,618 MF per 1000 sf GFA; $1,239 office, $1,375 retail, $248 K-12, $687 industrial
Sammamish $6,739 SF, $4,362 MF
Kent - no park impact fee located
Bellevue - no park impact fee located
Auburn $3,500 SF
City Single-family fee Multifamily fee
Renton $2,915 $1,978
Redmond $5,124 $3,557
Tukwila $3,006 $2,618
Sammamish $6,739 $4,362
Shoreline $4,692 $3,077
Lynnwood $5,899 $4,238
Kirkland $5,629 $4,278
University Place $3,644 $2,660
Issaquah $9,107 $5,590
Woodinville $3,175 $3,175
Puyallup $3,675 $3,675
Auburn $3,500 $3,500
Rate Study Key Steps
• Goals and objectives
o Methodology and alternatives
▪ (e.g., with or without commercial, variable by unit size, automatic indexing, etc.)
• Analysis
o Growth estimates
o Allocation
• Additional components
o Peer city benchmarking
o Developer interviews
Page 29 of 69
AGENDA BILL APPROVAL FORM
Agenda Subject:
Climate Element (Tatro)
Date:
May 1, 2024
Department:
Community Development
Attachments:
Attachment D - Climate Element Presentation
Attachment E - Climate 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:Tatro
Meeting Date:May 7, 2024 Item Number:PH.2
Page 30 of 69
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
MAY 7 , 2024
Department of Community Development
Planning ⚫ Building ⚫ Development Engineering ⚫ Permit Center
Economic Development ⚫ Community Services ● Code Enforcement
Page 31 of 69
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 32 of 69
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 33 of 69
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 34 of 69
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 35 of 69
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 36 of 69
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 37 of 69
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 38 of 69
May 21 st Deliberation and Action on Climate Element
Climate Program
▪Commerce Grant -Scope of Work
Next Steps
SERVICE ⚫ ENVIRONMENT ⚫ ECONOMY ⚫ CHARACTER ⚫ SUSTAINABILITY ⚫ WELLNESS ⚫ CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
CLIMATE ELEMENT
Page 39 of 69
Questions, Discussion, and Feedback
SERVICE ⚫ ENVIRONMENT ⚫ ECONOMY ⚫ CHARACTER ⚫ SUSTAINABILITY ⚫ WELLNESS ⚫ CELEBRATION
2024 PERIODIC COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
CLIMATE ELEMENT
Page 40 of 69
DRAFT – MAY 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
City of Auburn
Climate Element
Page 41 of 69
DRAFT – MAY 7, 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 42 of 69
DRAFT – MAY 7, 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.
Page 43 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 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 44 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 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 45 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 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
*Pierce county and statewide targets based on 1990 GHG emissions levels.
**PSRC and King County targets based on 2007 levels.
Page 46 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 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
Page 47 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE- 6
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
Page 48 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE- 7
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
Page 49 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE- 8
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
change 7.
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)
Page 50 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE- 9
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
Page 51 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE- 10
• 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.
Page 52 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE- 11
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.
Page 53 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE- 12
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
Page 54 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE- 13
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.
Page 55 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE- 14
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.
Page 56 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE- 15
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
Page 57 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE- 16
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 11. 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 11 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.
Page 58 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE- 17
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.
Goal 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.
Page 59 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE- 18
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 14 . 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.
Page 60 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE- 19
Goal 14 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 15. 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.
Page 61 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE- 20
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).
Page 62 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE- 21
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
Page 63 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE- 22
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.
Page 64 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE- 23
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.
Page 65 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE- 24
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.
Page 66 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE- 25
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.
Page 67 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE- 26
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.
Page 68 of 69
DRAFT – May 7, 2024 Planning Commission Transmittal
Climate Element | CE- 27
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
Page 69 of 69