Planning Commission

RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION CITY OF BELLINGHAM, WASHINGTON Thursday 7:00 PM May 3, 2018 City Council Chambers Video Recorded www.cob.org Call to Order / Roll Call Present: Ali Taysi (Chair), Mike Estes (Vice Chair), Lisa Anderson (Commissioner), Steve Crooks (Commissioner), Iris Maute-Gibson (Commissioner), Phyllis McKee (Commissioner), Garrett O'Brien (Commissioner) Approval of Minutes The minutes from April 19, 2018 were approved by general consensus. Public Comment Period Opportunity for citizens to speak informally to the Planning Commissioners on any subject not listed on the agenda. Speakers are allowed a MAXIMUM of three (3) minutes to address the Commission. Speakers will not be required to disclose their address. No public comment was given. WORK SESSION A work session to continue the discussion on the proposed amendments to Title 18, BMC. STAFF PRESENTATION Kathy Bell provided a brief background on the subdivision ordinance and the process to date. She explained the rationale for repealing and replacing the existing ordinance and the highlighted the key changes staff is proposing. PUBLIC COMMENT One citizen addressed the Commission. COMMISSIONER COMMENTS / QUESTIONS Performance Standards:  There was concern expressed about the potential lack of predictability with the increased amount of discretion built into the ordinance update. o Staff suggested that they consider including a stronger intent statement to help address the concerns.  It was suggested that formulizing a process that could be followed to review the performance standards with the applicant was suggested.   There was concern expressed that the neighborhood plans are required to be considered; however, some of them contain very outdated language which could create conflict at the onset. o Staff indicated that the language will be reviewed. Lot Design Standards:  The group provided suggestions of where examples would be beneficial.  It was pointed out that aerial photos would also be good to use.  There was a suggestion to consider reducing the 18' width requirement for driveway, taking into consideration infill cluster or alley way width requirements. Cluster:  It was suggested that other public amenities be included for consideration in the cluster chapter. Old/New Business Kurt Nabbefeld advised the Commission on the docketing process that the Commission will be considering on May 17, 2018. Adjournment Minutes prepared by: ____________________________________________ Heather Aven, Recording Secretary Minutes edited by Planning Commission members and various Planning Staff.