Planning Commission

RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION CITY OF BELLINGHAM, WASHINGTON THURSDAY WORK SESSION 7:00 P.M. September 22, 2016 CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS Video-taped www.cob.org CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order by Ali Taysi, Chairman of the Planning Commission. ROLL CALL: Tom Grinstad, Jeff Brown, Garrett O'Brien (VC), Ali Taysi (C), Phyllis McKee, Steve Crooks and Lisa Anderson Present: Ali Taysi, Garrett O'Brien, Tom Grinstad, Steve Crooks, and Phyllis McKee and Lisa Anderson Absent: Jeff Brown and Phyllis McKee Staff Present: Rick Sepler, PCDD Director; Kurt Nabbefeld, Development Services Manager; and Heather Aven, Recording Secretary. APPROVAL OF MINUTES There were no minutes submitted for approval. 15 MINUTE PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD No testimony given. WORK SESSION Several land use code amendments identified on the Planning department's "running list", will be introduced. The running list is a method to record, retain and consolidate proposed revisions so that they may be considered collectively throughout the year. The current list includes amendments regarding fencing materials, unclassified uses in commercial and industrial zones, boarding and rooming house definitions and Fairhaven building signage design clarifications. STAFF PRESENTATION: Rick Sepler introduced the Planning and Community Development Department's running list and explained that each of them would come back before the Commission during the public process. BMC 20.25.070.B.1.b.iii.B: Fences between Residential and Transitions Zones Rick Sepler explained the reasoning for the code revision and pointed out that staff provided some language for consideration.  There was general consensus that chain-link fencing would be completely appropriate in some areas, and rather than disallow completely, the group would like to see that determination made on a case by case basis.  Staff explained that this code reference is for the urban village areas; however, it could be added to the landscaping section as well so it can be applied to all areas of the City.  There was support for this issue to move forward. Draft Copy - 1 BMC 20.24.020: Unclassified Uses in Commercial and Industrial Zones Rick Sepler stated that this code revision would allow for a process where unique uses, that would have the same commercial or industrial impact as those already permitted outright, could be considered for inclusion in those two zones. He provided the example of a homeless shelter being allowed in a commercial zone.  There was a question why this would be part of a "running list" instead of going through the Type VI process. o Rick Sepler explained the rationale for the list and spoke to the factors involved in a Type VI process. o Kurt Nabbefeld commented on the number of times a year, an application is received for a use that, although has the same impacts of other uses allowed in that zone, is not specifically listed as one of the approved uses.  There was a brief conversation about neighboring businesses being advised of the Director's decision to allow for a use that may not have been listed in the table. o Rick Sepler explained that comments would be accepted on the application and any decision made could be appealed.  There was support for this issue to move forward. BMC 20.08.020: Clarification of Boardinghouse Definition Rick Sepler stated that this is a City Council directive and expressed concern that this could warrant more scrutiny and time. Staff recommended that the item be left on the list and allow for it to be added to the department's work program.  The group discussed Council Member Lilliquist's recommendation, and Rick informed the group of the process that would need to be followed if an emergency were declared and the interim control was initiated.  There was support for addressing this item. Some members expressed concern about keeping it on the "running list" and having it wait for an additional 1-5 years. o Rick Sepler committed to bringing both items, the Boardinghouse Definition and the Bulk and Scale in Historic Districts, before the Commission in 2017. BMC 20.37.370.D.4:Signage in Fairhaven Rick Sepler explained why the amendment was part of the running list.  Staff stated that although code was followed, concerns have been raised by surrounding neighbors that the scale was too large.  Staff also explained that although the design guidelines were included in the Fairhaven Urban Village Plan, some of the language is not clear enough.  There was support for this issue to move forward. BMC20.30.040.E and F: Bulk and Scale in Historic Districts Rick Sepler pointed out that this item will need a larger public process, and suggested that it come before the Commission in 2017. PLANNING COMMISSION QUESTIONS / COMMENTS: There was a discussion about sign enforcement, and the lack of it, around the City. Draft Copy - 2 GENERAL BUSINESS NEXT MEETING - October 20th ADJOURNED: 8:00 p.m. Minutes prepared by: _____________________________ Heather Aven, Recording Secretary Minutes edited by Planning Commission members and various Planning Staff. Draft Copy - 3