City Planning Commission

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2024 4 P.M. CITY HALL HELD REMOTELY& IN-PERSON AT CITY HALL To participate remotely, you can: • Sign up to provide Public Comment at the meeting via calling in • Submit Written Public Comment Prior to 2 pm on December 11, 2024 • Join the Zoom Meeting Questions or Need Assistance? Please contact Jasmine Roper at jroper@libertylakewa.gov . 1. Call to Order – 4:00 pm 2. Roll Call 3. Pledge of Allegiance 4. GENERAL BUSINESS • Review of Agenda • Approval of Minutes from November 13, 2024 5. PUBLIC HEARING: • Emergency Housing Amendment 6. WORKSHOP: • Sign Code o Sign Code Update Public Engagement Plan o Legal Framework for Sign Code Review o Sign Code – Initial Audit 7. CITIZEN COMMENTS 8. REPORTS • Secretary’s Report o Updated Comp Plan Calendar o January 8th Agenda Items • Planning Commissioner Reports 9. Adjournment Next Meeting: January 8, 2024  PUBLIC COMMENT If you wish to provide oral public comments or testimony during the Planning Commission meeting, please register through this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/s/86818958997 WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS If you wish to provide written public comments for the upcoming council meeting, please email your comments to jroper@libertylakewa.gov by 2:00 p.m. the day of the Planning Commission meeting and include all of the following information with your comments: 1. The Meeting Date 2. Your First and Last Name 3. If you are a Liberty Lake resident 4. The Agenda Item(s) which you are speaking about JOIN ZOOM MEETING To view the meeting live via Zoom Meeting, join the Zoom web meeting: Meeting Instructions: To join the Zoom web meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/s/86818958997 Dial In Phone Numbers: • +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma) • +1 253 205 0468 US Meeting ID: 868 1895 8997  PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2024 HELD VIA ZOOM & IN PERSON AT CITY HALL Planning Commission Members Present: Joe Mann, Tom Sahlberg, Jim Baumker, Charlie Jenks, Dale Robbins, and Phil Folyer were in person. Adjunct Member(s) Present: Gene Heuschel and Troy Mullenix Staff Present: Lisa Key, Amy Mullerleile, Lance Mueller Call to Order: Meeting was called to order at 4:00 p.m. Commissioner Mann requested everyone to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll Call: A quorum of members was present. Absences: A motion to excuse Commissioner Garcia was made by Commissioner Jenks and seconded by Commissioner Sahlberg. The motion carried unanimously. Review of Agenda & Approval of Minutes: Commissioner Jenks motioned to approve the meeting agenda, seconded by Commissioner Folyer. The motion was approved. Commissioner Sahlberg motioned to approve the October 9th meeting minutes, seconded by Commissioner Jenks. The motion carried unanimously. Workshops: Climate Resiliency Workshop: John Phillips with Parametrix presented via Zoom on the climate element for the comprehensive plan update. The presentation focused on a general overview of climate resiliency and potential issues the community might face in the years to come due to the changing climate. Examples included drier summer seasons and wetter winter seasons. Housing Update: Director Lisa Key presented on the housing items that must be included as part of the comprehensive plan update. The presentation focused on the process undertaken by the County and City and the factors they must consider when estimating future housing needs. These factors include a housing allocation determined by the County, specifically for Liberty Lake, the urban growth area boundaries, and the county-wide planning policies. Additionally, many changes will be required to address Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and middle housing. Required Housing Code Amendments: Director Key presented a document with proposed red-line changes to the City’s existing emergency housing code. These changes are necessary due to the new requirements imposed upon the City for the comprehensive plan update. She recommended these changes be adopted soon to avoid a land capacity analysis that would likely result in showing the City does not currently meet the new requirements. There was a brief discussion amongst the Commission regarding these proposed changes. The Commissioners’ general consensus was that this should go forward and be brought back for a formal hearing. Citizens Comments: None. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes Page 1|2 November 13, 2024 Secretary’s Report: Director Key presented a tentative schedule for future Planning Commission meetings through the end of the comprehensive plan update process. Commissioner Sahlberg asked if some of these meetings could be held virtually. Director Key determined that some of them could indeed be held virtually at the request of the Planning Commission. Director Key also noted that Commissioners Mann, Sahlberg, Heuschel, and Mullinex had been reappointed to their Planning Commission positions. Director Key also discussed the schedule for December and mentioned staff from BERK will be coming to present to the Commission regarding the update they are completing to the City’s sign code. Part of this presentation will include a sign code-specific Public Engagement Plan. The Community Engagement Commission will also be invited to attend this meeting to discuss the public engagement portion. December agenda items were discussed. Commissioner Reports: Commissioner Baumker referenced an article in the Splash regarding Deb Fink and Project Ohana and recommended everyone take a minute to read it. There is also an editorial in the Spokesman-Review discussing climate change and natural gas. Commissioner Baumker will provide the article for those who wish to read it. Commissioner Baumker also rode STA Line 74 over the weekend and enjoyed the service provided. Adjournment: Commissioner Baumker motioned to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Commissioner Jenks. The motion carried unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 5:48 p.m. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes Page 2|2 November 13, 2024  STAFF REPORT TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION IN THE MATTER OF PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE CITY OF LIBERTY LAKE DEVELOPMENT CODE AND THE RIVER DISTRICT DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS REGARDING LIMITED USE STANDARDS FOR EMERGENCY SHELTERS HEARING DATE: December 11, 2024 @ 4:00 p.m. PROPOSAL COORDINATOR: Lisa D. Key, Director of Planning & Engineering Services PROPOSAL SUMMARY: Location Citywide Amendments to City of Liberty Lake Development Code & River District Development Regulations to allow for Emergency Shelters, Transitional & Proposal Supportive Housing, consistent with the requirements of SHB 1220; and Information changing the definition of Adult Family consistent with SHB 1023, both passed into law in the 2021 Washington State Legislative Session City Development Code §10-2E-3(18): Limited Uses in the M-1 Zone City Development Code §10-2F-3(24): Limited Uses in the M-2 Zone City Development Code §10-2G-3 (23): Limited Uses in the M-3 Zone Code Section City Development Code §10-2H-3(15): Limited Uses in the C-1 Zone City Development Code §10-2I-3(13): Limited Uses in the C-2 Zone River District Development Regs. §10-2E-3(13): Limited Uses in the RD-M Zone River District Development Regs. §10-2I-3(10): Limited Uses in the RD-C Zone Proposed See Exhibit A. Amendments CITY OF LIBERTY LAKE REGULATORY FRAMEWORK & PROCEDURAL REQUIREMENTS: City Code §10-4B-5: Type IV Projects: Development Code Amendments are classified as Type IV Projects in the City of Liberty Lake Development Code and are considered legislative decisions. The procedural requirements and decision criteria are detailed in City Development Code §10-4B-5. Staff Report to the Planning Commission 1 Proposed Amendments to Limited Use Standards for Emergency Housing STATE OF WASHINGTON REGULATORY FRAMEWORK, AUTHORITY & REQUIREMENTS: RCW 35A.21 Provisions Affecting Code Cities In the 2021 Legislative Session, SHB 1022 amended RCW 35A.21 to add a new section requiring that, effective September 30, 2021, cities shall not prohibit transitional housing or permanent supportive housing in any zones in which residential dwelling units or hotels are allowed. Further, indoor emergency shelters and indoor emergency housing shall not be prohibited in any zone where hotels are allowed. RCW 35A.21.314 Not Limiting Number of Unrelated Persons Occupying a Dwelling Unit Except for occupant limits on group living arrangements regulated under state law or on short- term rentals as defined in RCW 64.37.010 and any lawful limits on occupant load per square foot or generally applicable health and safety provisions as established by applicable building code or city ordinance, a city or town may not regulate or limit the number of unrelated persons that may occupy a household or dwelling unit. RCW 35A.21.430 Transitional Housing, Permanent Supportive Housing, Indoor Emergency Housing and Indoor Emergency Shelters Effective September 30, 2021, a code city shall not prohibit indoor emergency shelters and indoor emergency housing in any zones in which hotels are allowed, except in such cities that have adopted an ordinance authorizing indoor emergency shelters and indoor emergency housing in a majority of zones within a one-mile proximity to transit. Reasonable occupancy, spacing, and intensity of use requirements may be imposed by ordinance on permanent supportive housing, transitional housing, indoor emergency housing, and indoor emergency shelters to protect public health and safety. Any such requirements on occupancy, spacing, and intensity of use may not prevent the siting of a sufficient number of permanent supportive housing, transitional housing, indoor emergency housing, or indoor emergency shelters necessary to accommodate each code city's projected need for such housing and shelter. RCW 36.70A Growth Management Act (GMA): Liberty Lake is mandated to plan under GMA. The City’s Comprehensive Plan and Development Regulations were developed in accordance with the requirements of GMA. Development Regulations are required to implement the City’s Comprehensive Plan, and any amendments to City Development Code must be consistent with the City’s adopted Comprehensive Plan. The City must provide reasonable public notice of proposed amendments and opportunities for public participation. RCW 36.70A.070(2) Mandatory Housing Elements Requires local governments to identify sufficient land for housing of all income levels, as well as permanent supportive housing, transitional housing, and emergency housing and shelters. Staff Report to the Planning Commission 2 Proposed Amendments to Limited Use Standards for Emergency Housing  WAC 365-196: Growth Management -- Procedural Criteria for Adopting Comprehensive Plans and Development Regulations Development code amendments must comply with procedures established in WAC 365-196, including rules regarding internal consistency, interjurisdictional coordination, public participation requirements, and notification to the Department of Commerce of “intent to adopt” proposed code amendments at least 60 days prior to final adoption. WAC 197-11: State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) Rules: Development code amendments are subject to SEPA review as a non-project action, in accordance with procedures established in WAC 197-11. SEPA REVIEW: A SEPA Checklist was completed for the proposed amendments to limited use standards for emergency housing and shelters contained in the City of Liberty Lake Development Code and the River District Development Regulations. The City of Liberty Lake Planning & Engineering Services determined that the proposal, as a non-project review, would have no significant adverse environmental impacts and issued a Determination of Non-Significance (DNS) and Adoption of Existing Environmental Document on November 19, 2024. The City adopted the Spokane County Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement for the Spokane County Comprehensive Plan that was prepared on November 22, 2000 and was previously adopted for the original City of Liberty Lake Comprehensive Plan and Development Code, as well as the Final Environmental Impact Statement for the City of Liberty Lake Urban Growth Area Boundary Alternatives that was prepared on December 13, 2006. The Notice of Availability, SEPA Checklist and Threshold Determination, and Amendment Document were routed to agencies on November 18, 2024 and a Notice of Availability was published in the November 22, 2024, edition of the Valley News Herald. On November 20, 2024, the Notice of Availability, Notice of Hearing, SEPA Checklist and Threshold Determination, and proposed amendments were also posted on the City website, and the notice and a link to the City website was emailed to the public notice group. Comments on the SEPA Checklist and Threshold Determination are due by 4 p.m., on December 3, 2024. At the date of this writing, two comments were received. PROCEDURAL INFORMATION: November 13, 2024 Planning Commission Workshop: Agenda & packet published on City website & distributed to City’s “Notify Me” e-mail distribution list. November 20, 2024 SEPA Notice of Availability/ Planning Commission Public Hearing Notice: NOA packet with SEPA checklist and DNS e-mailed to involved agencies, adjacent jurisdictions, “Notify Me” e-mail distribution list & posted on website. November 22, 2024 SEPA Notice of Availability/Planning Commission Public Hearing Notice: Published in Valley News Herald. Staff Report to the Planning Commission 3 Proposed Amendments to Limited Use Standards for Emergency Housing  November 26, 2024, WS Commerce Department Review: Amendments were submitted to Commerce Department for the required 60-day review. December 3, 2024 SEPA Comment Period Ends December 11, 2024 Planning Commission Hearing & Recommendation: Agenda & staff report published on City website & distributed to City’s “Notify Me” e-mail distribution list on December 4, 2024. December 17, 2024 (tentative) City Council Workshop January 21, 2025 (tentative) City Council Public Hearing February 4, 2025 (tentative) City Council 1st Reading of Ordinance February 18, 2025 (tentative) City Council 2nd Reading of Ordinance & Adoption AGENCY REVIEW: SEPA Distribution List & Adjacent Jurisdictions: Liberty Lake Police Department; Avista; Century Link; Comcast; Central Valley School District; City of Spokane Valley; CDA Tribe; Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency; Spokane Valley Fire District; Spokane Transit Authority; Spokane Regional Health District; Spokane Tribe; WS Department of Ecology; WS Department of Fish & Wildlife; WS Department of Natural Resources; WS Department of Transportation; Spokane Regional Transportation Council; Liberty Lake Water & Sewer District; Consolidated Irrigation District; Spokane County Utilities; Spokane County Planning; WS Department of Commerce. Agencies Commenting Notification Comment Summary Spokane Tribe of Indians SEPA Notice of Availability No concern regarding code change; however, the Tribe requests a consultation in the event of any ground disturbing activities arising from these changes in Code. Spokane County Public SEPA Notice of Availability No Comment. Works Wastewater Division PUBLIC COMMENTS (WRITTEN): Name & Address Comment Summary N/A No comments received Staff Report to the Planning Commission 4 Proposed Amendments to Limited Use Standards for Emergency Housing RELEVANT COMPREHENSIVE PLAN GOALS & POLICIES: Governance Goal 1: Actively involve residents, businesses, and property owners in the governance of the City. Governance Policy 1: The City shall use the website, email, social media, newsletters, local newspapers, special announcements and other techniques to keep the community well-informed. Housing Goal 2: Encourage the availability of affordable housing to all economic segments, promote a variety of densities and housing types, and encourage the preservation of existing housing stock. Human Services Goal 2: Support and facilitate programs which provide for the City resident's basic human needs including food, clothing, shelter, primary health care, and protection from abuse and neglect. Land Use Policy 2: Provide for a compatible mix of housing and commercial uses in all commercial districts, neighborhood centers, community centers, and the Central Business District. Housing Policy 2: Periodically assess the effects of policies and regulations on the affordability of housing, fair housing choice, and examine the need to reduce regulatory barriers. Housing Policy 7: Periodically review and update provisions that allow for a continuum of housing and care opportunities for special-needs populations. STAFF ANALYSIS: In the 2021 Washington State Legislature enacted SHB 1220, which included requirements regarding Emergency Shelters, Transitional and Supportive Housing. Specifically, SHB 1220 amended RCW 351.21 to require that, effective September 30, 2021, cities shall not prohibit transitional housing or permanent supportive housing in any zones in which residential dwelling units or hotels are allowed, and further, that, indoor emergency shelters and indoor emergency housing shall not be prohibited in any zone where hotels are allowed. At that time, the guidance provided by Commerce indicated that reasonable occupancy, spacing, and intensity of use requirements could be imposed by ordinance for emergency housing and shelters to protect public health and safety. “Occupancy” generally refers to a maximum number of occupants in a structure or facility, at least in a zoning context. “Spacing” is generally applied within a zoning code to limit how close one designated use may be to another use of the same type. In 2021, the City of Liberty Lake adopted Ordinance No. 280, which amended the City’s Development Code and River District Regulations to allow for emergency shelters, transitional and supportive housing as limited uses within the City, provided they met certain standards. Among the standards for emergency Staff Report to the Planning Commission 5 Proposed Amendments to Limited Use Standards for Emergency Housing shelters were spacing requirements, where emergency shelters were allowed in all mixed use and commercial zones within the City provided they met certain limited use standards including a requirement that the facility be located within ¼ mile of a fixed transit route, that the facility must be located a distance of at least ¾ of a mile from any other stand alone emergency shelter or transitional or supportive housing, and they must be limited to a maximum capacity of 75 people. Legislative changes made to RCW 35A.21.314 in recent years specifically limit a jurisdiction’s ability to limit occupancy in housing except as based upon applicable building code limitations establishing occupancy per square foot to address life-safety requirements. Further, Washington State Department of Commerce Guidance states that jurisdictions must do a quantitative Land Capacity Analysis (LCA) for emergency housing needs unless they can provide supporting documentation demonstrating that: • The jurisdiction has one or more zones that allow hotels, all of which allow for emergency housing by right; and, • The jurisdiction has no regulations that limit the occupancy, spacing, or intensity of emergency housing. Based upon the preliminary housing allocation currently on the table for Liberty Lake, and the current spacing and occupancy restrictions for emergency housing contained in Liberty Lake’s development regulations, it appears on the face of it that Liberty Lake will be unable to demonstrate sufficient capacity for projected emergency housing needs. The proposed amendments to the development code will address this compliance challenge. FINDINGS: 1. The required SEPA review has been completed on the proposed amendment. 2. All public and agency notice requirements were met and accomplished in a timely manner. 3. The public was provided the opportunity for early and continuous participation. 4. The public had the opportunity to submit written comments and testify at a public hearing before the Planning Commission. CRITERIA FOR APPROVAL: The criteria for approval of a code amendment are established in City Code §10-4B-5(A), which states: A. Criteria for Amendment: The City may amend development regulations when it finds that any of the following applies: 1. Such amendment is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and is not detrimental to the public welfare; Staff Report to the Planning Commission 6 Proposed Amendments to Limited Use Standards for Emergency Housing  2. Change in economic, technological, or land use conditions has occurred to warrant modification; 3. It is found that an amendment is necessary to correct an error; 4. It is found that an amendment is necessary to clarify meaning or intent; 5. It is found that an amendment is necessary to provide for a use(s) that was not previously addressed; or 6. Those amendments as deemed necessary by the City Council as being in the public interest. CONCLUSIONS: 1. The proposed amendment IS / IS NOT consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and IS / IS NOT detrimental to the public welfare. 2. The proposed amendment IS / IS NOT warranted by a change in economic, technological and/or land use conditions. 3. The proposed amendment IS / IS NOT necessary to correct an error. 4. The proposed amendment IS / IS NOT necessary to clarify meaning or intent. 5. The proposed amendment IS / IS NOT necessary to provide for a proposed use that was not previously addressed. 6. The proposed amendment IS / IS NOT deemed necessary as being in the public interest. NOTE: The Planning Commission should consider the above-listed statements in their deliberations. These conclusions should inform the motion for recommendation, as based on the “Criteria for Amendment” detailed in City Code §10-4B-5(A). RECOMMENDATION: In the matter of proposed amendments to the City of Liberty Lake Development Code and River District Development Regulations regarding limited use standards for Emergency Shelters (as detailed in Exhibit A of this Staff Report), the City of Liberty Lake Planning Commission recommends to City Council that the amendment be APPROVED / APPROVED WITH MODIFICATIONS / NOT APPROVED. NOTE: The Planning Commission should vote on a motion for recommendation in the above format. If the recommendation is to approve with modifications, the motion should identify the modifications proposed. Staff Report to the Planning Commission 7 Proposed Amendments to Limited Use Standards for Emergency Housing  Exhibit A Emergency Housing Proposed Amendments City Development Code §10-2E-3(C) Limited Use Standards in M-1 (Neighborhood Center Mixed Use) District: §10-2E-3(C)(18) Emergency Housing & Shelters a. The facility must be open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. b. The maximum number of residents in the facility is limited to the general capacity of the building, but in no case shall it exceed 75 residents. c. Beds or rooms shall be assigned to specific residents. d. On-site services such as laundry, hygiene, and meals are limited to the residents of the facility and shall not be available for drop-in use by non-residents. e. In order to prevent the concentra�on of facili�es in one area of the City, the proposed facility must be distanced at least 3/4 mile from any other stand-alone emergency shelter or transi�onal and suppor�ve housing, as measured from the nearest points of such proper�es. f. The facility must be located within ¼ mile of a fixed transit route. e. The facility shall meet any applicable state and federal licensing requirements. §10-2E-3(C) Limited Use Standards in M-2 (Community Center Mixed Use) District: §10-2F-3(C)(24) Emergency Housing & Shelters a. The facility must be open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. b. The maximum number of residents in the facility is limited to the general capacity of the building, but in no case shall it exceed 75 residents. c. Beds or rooms shall be assigned to specific residents. d. On-site services such as laundry, hygiene, and meals are limited to the residents of the facility and shall not be available for drop-in use by non-residents. e. In order to prevent the concentra�on of facili�es in one area of the City, the proposed facility must be distanced at least 3/4 mile from any other stand-alone emergency shelter or transi�onal and suppor�ve housing, as measured from the nearest points of such proper�es. f. The facility must be located within ¼ mile of a fixed transit route.  e. The facility shall meet any applicable state and federal licensing requirements. §10-2G-3(C) Limited Use Standards in M-3 (Central Business District Mixed Use): §10-2G-3(C)(23) Emergency Housing & Shelters a. The facility must be open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. b. The maximum number of residents in the facility is limited to the general capacity of the building, but in no case shall it exceed 75 residents. c. Beds or rooms shall be assigned to specific residents. d. On-site services such as laundry, hygiene, and meals are limited to the residents of the facility and shall not be available for drop-in use by non-residents. e. In order to prevent the concentra�on of facili�es in one area of the City, the proposed facility must be distanced at least 3/4 mile from any other stand-alone emergency shelter or transi�onal and suppor�ve housing, as measured from the nearest points of such proper�es. f. The facility must be located within ¼ mile of a fixed transit route. e. The facility shall meet any applicable state and federal licensing requirements. §10-2H-3(C) Limited Use Standards in C-1 (Community Commercial) District: §10-2H-3(C)(15) Emergency Housing & Shelters a. The facility must be open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. b. The maximum number of residents in the facility is limited to the general capacity of the building, but in no case shall it exceed 75 residents. c. Beds or rooms shall be assigned to specific residents. d. On-site services such as laundry, hygiene, and meals are limited to the residents of the facility and shall not be available for drop-in use by non-residents. e. In order to prevent the concentra�on of facili�es in one area of the City, the proposed facility must be distanced at least 3/4 mile from any other stand-alone emergency shelter or transi�onal and suppor�ve housing, as measured from the nearest points of such proper�es. f. The facility must be located within ¼ mile of a fixed transit route.  e. The facility shall meet any applicable state and federal licensing requirements. §10-2I-3(C) Limited Use Standards in C-2 (Freeway Commercial) District: §10-2I-3(C)(13) Emergency Housing & Shelters a. The facility must be open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. b. The maximum number of residents in the facility is limited to the general capacity of the building, but in no case shall it exceed 75 residents. c. Beds or rooms shall be assigned to specific residents. d. On-site services such as laundry, hygiene, and meals are limited to the residents of the facility and shall not be available for drop-in use by non-residents. e. In order to prevent the concentra�on of facili�es in one area of the City, the proposed facility must be distanced at least 3/4 mile from any other stand-alone emergency shelter or transi�onal and suppor�ve housing, as measured from the nearest points of such proper�es. f. The facility must be located within ¼ mile of a fixed transit route. e. The facility shall meet any applicable state and federal licensing requirements. River District Development Regula�ons §10-2E-3(C) Limited Use Standards in RD-M (Neighborhood Center Mixed Use) District: §10-2E-3(C)(13) Emergency Housing & Shelters a. The facility must be open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. b. The maximum number of residents in the facility is limited to the general capacity of the building, but in no case shall it exceed 75 residents. c. Beds or rooms shall be assigned to specific residents. d. On-site services such as laundry, hygiene, and meals are limited to the residents of the facility and shall not be available for drop-in use by non-residents. e. In order to prevent the concentra�on of facili�es in one area of the City, the proposed facility must be distanced at least 3/4 mile from any other stand-alone emergency shelter or transi�onal and suppor�ve housing, as measured from the nearest points of such proper�es. f. The facility must be located within ¼ mile of a fixed transit route.  e. The facility shall meet any applicable state and federal licensing requirements. §10-2I-3(C) Limited Use Standards in RD-C (Freeway Commercial) District: §10-2I-3(C)(10) Emergency Housing & Shelters a. The facility must be open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. b. The maximum number of residents in the facility is limited to the general capacity of the building, but in no case shall it exceed 75 residents. c. Beds or rooms shall be assigned to specific residents. d. On-site services such as laundry, hygiene, and meals are limited to the residents of the facility and shall not be available for drop-in use by non-residents. e. In order to prevent the concentra�on of facili�es in one area of the City, the proposed facility must be distanced at least 3/4 mile from any other stand-alone emergency shelter or transi�onal and suppor�ve housing, as measured from the nearest points of such proper�es. f. The facility must be located within ¼ mile of a fixed transit route. e. The facility shall meet any applicable state and federal licensing requirements.  DRAFT December 4, 2024 City of Liberty Lake Sign Code Update Public Engagement Plan October 2024 Introduction The City of Liberty Lake is conducting an update to the City’s sign code. The goal of this update is to ensure that the sign code is clear, enforceable, and reflects changes in case law, technology, and best practices while balancing the needs of businesses, residents, and stakeholders. This process will invite community members to contribute their voices and will be developed collaboratively with the community, including key stakeholders and stakeholder groups. Public Outreach Strategies The BERK team will conduct public outreach and engagement in multiple steps in collaboration with the City. BERK will reach out to stakeholders and community members online, in-person, and at open houses. Exhibit 1 shows the list of engagement methods BERK and the City will undertake to engage the Liberty Lake stakeholders and community. Exhibit 1: Overview and Schedule of Engagement Workshops and Meetings Source: BERK, 2024. 1 Public Workshops BERK Lead – December 2024 – June 2025 The BERK team will participate in multiple workshops with the Planning Commission, Community Engagement Commission, and the City Council as indicated below. The objective of these workshops will be to present information to the Commissions and Council for their review, gather input and update the code. Input from these workshops will be incorporated into the draft code for final adoption by the City Council. The purpose and topics of the workshop will be scaled and narrowed based on the length of the workshop and the feedback that is important to move the project forward. BERK and the City will work together to establish specific meeting dates, location and agenda. The workshops are listed below. 1. Planning Commission workshop – December 2024 2. One joint workshop with the Planning Commission and the Community Engagement Commission - February 2025 3. One workshop with the Planning Commission – May 2025 4. One workshop with the City Council – June 2025 Stakeholders’ Outreach BERK Lead – February 2025 The purpose of the in-person stakeholder meeting is to seek input from key stakeholders that may interact with the sign code on a regular basis or are affected by it. At this meeting, BERK will introduce the project and provide an understanding of best practices. For example, BERK may develop materials showing specific signages and types for initiating input. Open Houses BERK Lead – February 2025 BERK will lead an in-person open house with support from the Liberty Lake City staff and with virtual support from BERK’s legal team members. The open houses will focus on presenting to the public to inform them about the project and understand concerns and ideas. This open house will occur on the same day as the stakeholder meeting. The consultant team will prepare and print the meeting materials for presentation. Survey City Lead – March 2025 An online survey will be created and advertised to give context to the project, create space for visioning and idea sharing, and allow participants to share ideas and review the basic trajectory of the sign code to update findings to date. The survey will be marketed on the City’s website and social media pages, and shared at the open house, with stakeholder groups, and at public workshops. DRAFT December 4, 2024 City of Liberty Lake | Sign Code Update 2 Webpage City Lead 2024-2025 Ongoing updates will be available on the City’s webpage. The City will publish materials on the webpage, with BERK assisting the City with materials to be posted. Adoption City Lead – June - July 2025 BERK will support the City and present the final sign code to the Planning Commission and the City Council for adoption in two virtual meetings. Key Deliverables and Timeline Exhibit 2 shows the key engagement deliverables and their due dates. Engagement will begin in December 2024 with the first Planning Commission Public Workgroup meeting and will end in June 2025 with the Liberty Lake City Council Public Workgroup Meeting. Additional workshops, a joined stakeholder meeting, an open house meeting, and a survey will be held between December and June. Exhibit 2. Key Engagement Effort Deadlines Deliverable Deliverable Due Open Houses February 2025 Survey March 2025 Public Workshops June 2025 Code Adoption June/July 2025 Conclusion The update of Liberty Lake Sign Code is a collaborative effort in which the City will engage the public, businesses, governmental agencies, and other interested groups. The City’s website, public postings, community events, public meetings, and workshops will be used to reach out to interested parties and get them involved in the process. DRAFT December 4, 2024 City of Liberty Lake | Sign Code Update 3 MEMORANDUM DATE: November 25, 2024 TO: Planning Commission, City of Liberty Lake FROM: Ferdouse Oneza AICP, Michelle Ellsworth, and Yasir Alfarag RE: Review of the Sign Code Introduction The City of Liberty Lake is updating its sign code to implement the community’s vision while complying with best practices and requisite legal framework. The City adopted its sign code in 2002, with additional updates in 2010 and 2021. Liberty Lake is growing with multiple commercial areas with diverse needs. The City is also host to many community events and recreational opportunities that require messaging through signage such as advertising, wayfinding, and sponsor signage. Additionally, the residents of Liberty Lake hold a strong vision for the aesthetic standards of their community. Therefore, it is essential that the sign code reflects these priorities while balancing the varying needs of all stakeholders. Based on a review of the City’s existing sign code, this memo seeks to identify broad areas where the sign code can be updated. Background and Objective The purpose of the review is to identify changes needed to the code in response to the City’s goal of having a clear and legally compliant sign code. To inform these recommendations, BERK reviewed and compared sign codes from six peer jurisdictions in Washington: Gig Harbor, Wenatchee, Milton, Issaquah, Monroe, and Covington. Following the review of the code, BERK identified four broad areas to improve the code:  Content Gaps  Code Reorganization  Clarity and Readability  Legal Requirements Overall Review Findings Each section below highlights gaps and identifies ways to strengthen the Liberty Lake Sign Code by filling in missing elements, improving structure, enhancing clarity and readability, and ensuring legal compliance. November 25, 2024 City of Liberty Lake | Sign Code Updates 1 Content Gaps Exhibit 1 highlights ways the code may be improved with additions that make it easier to review and follow its requirements. We recommend adding some sections in the update of the sign code to improve clarity, cohesion, and understanding. This list identifies broad topics only. Details will be added to the updated code. Exhibit 1. Recommended Changes From Audit Findings Topics and Code Sections Recommended Changes Broader topics Additional Sections Additional sections can be added such as: Administration and Enforcement; Nonconforming Signs (add reference and maintain consistency with Article 10-5C-2, Non-Conforming Development); Maintenance Of Signs; Removal of Signs; Signs of Historical Community Significance; Penalty for Violations; Master Sign Plans; Sign Districts. Definition Add a Definition section to include new definitions such as “Primary building wall,” “secondary building wall,” etc., Combine/move existing definitions related to signage from Article 10- 1C, Definitions into the new section. Definitions to move may include: “Sign,” “Temporary sign,” “Window sign,” “Neon sign,” “Marquee,” “Incidental signs,” “Billboard,” “Awning”. Other definitions could include “copy” and “logo,” in regard to signage allowances and how it relates to corporate or trademarked logos. All permitted and prohibited signs should be included in the definition section and/or incorporate descriptions to add clarity. Graphics Similar to the existing graphics used in the Prohibited Signs section, explore adding additional graphics to make it easier to understand the different sign use typologies throughout the code. Code Sections 10-3E-1: Purpose Can include “elimination of non-conforming sign”, “preservation of free speech” in the objective. See the legal memo for further discussion. 10-3E-2: Applicability and General Clarify to ensure it applies to all permanent and temporary signs Provisions Add exclusions Add language affirming the intent not to restrict noncommercial speech. 10-3E-3: Prohibited Signs Can be re-categorized to establish a basis to prohibit such as, Hazardous Signs, Nuisance Signs, Signs detrimental to traffic safety etc. Can add statement to confirm that prohibited signs do not align with the city’s goals. November 25, 2024 City of Liberty Lake | Sign Code Update 2  Add clarifications such as the distinction between prohibited billboards and permitted large-scale retail signs. Ensure descriptions of each prohibited sign type are clear in the definitions and in the categories. Suggest adding additional prohibited signs (e.g., abandoned signs, feather signs, highway advertising, and signs without proper permits). Define commercial off-premise signs. 10-3E-4: Sign Permit Requirements Add clarification between temporary and permanent sign permit requirements Define necessary forms. Add a table that links permitted signs to their sign types and sign design standards. Review if permit should be required for residential real estate signs. For each sign type, include a table with the following information: Where is the sign allowed Its permitted location The maximum number of total signs The maximum area per sign face The maximum number of signs faces per total sign Maximum height of sign structure and sign Any other relevant requirements that add clarity for each sign. 10-3E-4 A: Exempt Signs Add general requirements for exempt signs. Expand list of exempt signs not requiring a permit such as drive- through selection signs; and make references to home business signs (10-4I-2(D)). 10-3E-5: Signs Permitted in All Address confusion between signs permitted in all zones and specific sign standards by zone. Zones in Connection with Specific Uses Suggestions: Reorganize by zone location (e.g., residential, commercial/mixed use) and then by sign duration (permanent vs. temporary). OR Distribute information to residential and mixed-use, commercial, and industrial sign standards sections. 10-3E-6: Sign Standards in Recategorize under temporary and permanent signs and sub- categories such as, temporary residential sign, temporary commercial Residential Zones sign, permanent residential sign, permanent commercial sign etc. 10-3E-7: Sign Standards for Other Explore organizing signs by use type (commercial vs. noncommercial) and duration (permanent vs. temporary). Zones For permanent signs, include general standards like permit requirements, application process, duration, fees, sign categories, size, height, placement, and setbacks. November 25, 2024 City of Liberty Lake | Sign Code Update 3  For temporary signs, add general standards (permit, fee, duration, restrictions, height, placement, materials), temporary commercial sign design requirements, and noncommercial sign regulations. Add sign types (general onsite, right of way, banners, flags). Include a temporary sign provision for businesses impacted by a public works project. 10-3E-8: Sign Location, Setback, Consider renaming this section “Administration” or “General Sign Standards and Administration.” Area Calculations, and Maintenance Standards Include sign location, setback, area calculations, maintenance, and removal. Add administration and enforcement, including authority, dangerous/illegal sign removal, etc. 10-3E-9: City Wayfinding Signage Add standards for Wayfinding Signage. Program Code Reorganization Error! Reference source not found. shows options for reorganizing the code to improve clarity and accessibility of the code. Drawing on examples from Issaquah and Monroe, this research explores organizing the code to be grouped by permanent and temporary sign requirements. Alternatively, the code could be structured to separate requirements for commercial versus noncommercial signage. We chose two examples to illustrate options for organizing the Liberty Lake sign code which can include elements of these two approaches to enhance the readability and accessibility. Two examples include the following approaches:  Organize the code by broader grouping (Articles) with sub-sections vs. standard list of sections  Structure sign types by permanent and temporary vs. commercial and non-commercial November 25, 2024 City of Liberty Lake | Sign Code Update 4 Exhibit 2. Suggested Approaches to Code Organization Content 1 – Permanent vs Temporary Content 2 – Commercial vs Noncommercial First, information is organized by whether the sign is permanent or First, information is organized by whether the sign is commercial or temporary. Then, it is organized by commercial or noncommercial. noncommercial. Then, it is organized by permanent or temporary. Issaquah Article 10-3E – Signage Standards Article 10-3E – Signage Standards Style Sections: Sections: 10-3E-1. Purpose and Applicability 10-3E-1. Purpose and Applicability 10-3E-1a. Purpose 10-3E-1a. Purpose 10-3E-1b. Applicability 10-3E-1b. Applicability 10-3E-1c. Definitions [potential new section] 10-3E-1c. Definitions [potential new section] 10-3E-2. General Sign Standards and Administration 10-3E-2. General Sign Standards and Administration 10-3E-2a. Prohibited Signs 10-3E-2a. Prohibited Signs 10-3E-2b. Exempt Signs 10-3E-2b. Exempt Signs 10-3E-2c. General Sign Standards 10-3E-2c. General Sign Standards 10-3E-2d. Location, Setback, Calculations 10-3E-2d. Location, Setback, Calculations 10-3E-2e. Sign lighting 10-3E-2e. Sign lighting 10-3E-2f. Signs permitted in the right-of-way [potential new section] 10-3E-2f. Signs permitted in the right-of-way [potential new section] 10-3E-2g. Administration [potential new section] 10-3E-2g. Administration [potential new section] 10-3E-2h. Nonconforming signs [potential new section] 10-3E-2h. Nonconforming signs [potential new section] 10-3E-2i Maintenance and removal potential [new section] 10-3E-2i Maintenance and removal [potential new section] 10-3E-2j. Variances [potential new section] 10-3E-2j. Variances [potential new section] November 25, 2024 City of Liberty Lake | Sign Code Updates 5  10-3E-3. Permanent Sign Standards 10-3E-3. Commercial Sign Standards 10-3E-3a. Permanent Commercial Signs- General Standards [partially 10-3E-3a. Permanent Commercial Signs- General Standards [partially new section] new section] 10-3E-3b. Permanent Commercial Sign Design Requirements [partially 10-3E-3b. Permanent Commercial Sign Design Requirements [partially new section] new section] 10-3E-3c. Permanent Noncommercial Signs- General Standards 10-3E-3c. Temporary Commercial Signs – General Standards [potential new section] [partially new section] 10-3E-3d. Permanent Noncommercial Sign Design Requirements 10-3E-3d. Temporary Commercial Sign Design Requirements [partially [potential new section] new section] 10-3E-4. Temporary Sign Standards 10-3E-4. Noncommercial Sign Standards 10-3E-4a. Temporary Commercial Signs – General Standards 10-3E-4a. Permanent Noncommercial Signs – General Standards [partially new section] [potential new section] 10-3E-4b. Temporary Commercial Sign Design Requirements [partially 10-3E-4b. Permanent Noncommercial Sign Design Requirements new section] [potential new section] 10-3E-4c. Temporary Noncommercial Signs – General Standards 10-3E-4c. Temporary Noncommercial Signs – General Standards [partially new section] [partially new section] 10-3E-4d. Temporary Noncommercial Sign Design Requirements 10-3E-4d. Temporary Noncommercial Sign Design Requirements [partially new section] [partially new section] Monroe Article 10-3E – Signage Standards Article 10-3E – Signage Standards Style Sections: Sections: 10-3E-1. Purpose and Applicability 10-3E-1. Purpose and Applicability 10-3E-2. Definitions [potential new section] 10-3E-2. Definitions [potential new section] 10-3E-3. Administration [potential new section] 10-3E-3. Administration [potential new section] 10-3E-4. Exempt Signs 10-3E-4. Exempt Signs 10-3E-5. Prohibited Signs 10-3E-5. Prohibited Signs 10-3E-6. Signs permitted in the right-of-way [potential new section] 10-3E-6. Signs permitted in the right-of-way [potential new section] November 25, 2024 City of Liberty Lake | Sign Code Update 6  10-3E-7. General Sign Standards 10-3E-7. General Sign Standards 10-3E-8. Location, Setback, Calculations 10-3E-8. Location, Setback, Calculations 10-3E-9. Sign Lighting 10-3E-9. Sign Lighting 10-3E-10. Nonconforming Signs [potential new section] 10-3E-10. Nonconforming Signs [potential new section] 10-3E-11. Maintenance and Removal [potential new section] 10-3E-11. Maintenance and Removal [potential new section] 10-3E-12. Variances [potential new section] 10-3E-12. Variances [potential new section] 10-3E-13. Permanent Commercial Sign General Standards [potential 10-3E-13. Permanent Commercial Sign General Standards [partially new partially new section] section] 10-3E-14. Permanent Commercial Sign Design Requirements [partially new 10-3E-14 Permanent Commercial Sign Design Requirements [partially new section] section] 10-3E-15. Permanent Noncommercial General Standards [new section] 10-3E-15. Temporary Commercial Sign General Standards [partially new section] 10-3E-16. Permanent Noncommercial Sign Design Requirements [potential new section] 10-3E-16. Temporary Commercial Sign Design Requirements [partially new section] 10-3E-17. Temporary Commercial Sign General Standards [partially new section] 10-3E-17. Permanent Noncommercial Sign General Requirements [potential new section] 10-3E-18. Temporary Commercial Sign Design [partially new section] 10-3E-18. Permanent Noncommercial Sign Design Requirements [potential 10-3E-19. Temporary Noncommercial Sign General Standards [partially new section] new section] 10-3E-19. Temporary Noncommercial Sign General Standards [partially 10-3E-20. Temporary Noncommercial Sign Design Requirements [partially new section] new section] 10-3E-20. Temporary Noncommercial Sign Design Requirements [partially new section] November 25, 2024 City of Liberty Lake | Sign Code Update 7 Readability and Clarity There are a few specific ways that the sign code could add more clarity and readability to make the content more user-friendly. Enhance Overall Readability The following recommendations are centered around enhancing readability for the community member interpreting the sign code.  Incorporate graphics. To aid with code interpretation, a general recommendation is to include more graphics to provide visual aids. Use of graphics could be applied to show all sign examples that are permitted or prohibited, and to illustrate concepts such as sign clearance, sign measurement standards, and placement. Text should accompany each graphic  Include links to connect sections. To improve navigation throughout the sign code, a recommendation is to incorporate relevant links. Suggested link placement include linking permitted signs to the sign permit requirements and sign design type standards for that specific sign type. Add Clarity to Specific Sections After restructuring, each section will add further clarification to the existing sign code. Examples include the following:  Add clarification on standards for window signs. A specific recommendation is to include further details on window sign standards. Focus areas include  Clarify the 20% bonus language and add language to account for the available window area, such as the percentage of total window area that the sign can occupy. Include clarifying details regarding the degree of transparency and visibility allowed for a window sign.  Clarify placement and allowance for wall signs. It would also be advisable to include further details related to wall sign standards. Focus areas include  Clarify that the building wall used to calculate the area of the wall sign must also be the wall that the sign is placed on.  Include a maximum number of wall signs on properties in nonresidential zones. Legal Requirements - See Appendix A Please see separate legal memo provided to the City of Liberty Lake that includes an analysis of the legal framework. The memo provides a summary of U.S. Supreme Court Case Reed v. Town of Gilbert, basic rules surrounding enforcement of noncommercial signs and content, legal summary of Collier v. City of Tacoma, and a legal analysis of the Liberty Lake Sign Code. November 25, 2024 City of Liberty Lake | Sign Code Update 8  PLANNING COMMISSION TENTATIVE COMP PLAN MEETING SCHEDULE November 13, 2024 May 28, 2025 • Climate Resiliency • Review Urban Design Revisions • Population & Housing Workshop • Review Natural Environment Chapter • Required Housing Code Amendments • Cultural & Historical - Redlines & December 11, 2024 Policies • Sign Code: Code Audit & Best Practices June 11, 2025 • Emergency Housing Public Hearing • Review of GHG Goals & Policies January 8, 2025 June 25, 2025 • Population & Housing Workshop -LCA • Review of GHG Goals & Policies (if • Update & Schedule on Elements: needed) o Climate Planning • Review of Resiliency Goals & Policies o Parks, Recreation & Open Space July 9, 2025 o City Facilities Master Plan • Sign Code Public Hearing o Housing • Utilities & Essential Public Facilities – o Engagement Opportunities Redlines & Policies January 22, 2025 July 23, 2025 • LCA Review (if needed) • Utilities & Essential Public Facilities - • Critical Area Review Workshop re Utilities February 12, 2025 • Review Cultural & Historic Revisions • Sign Code Workshop with PC & CEC August 8, 2025 • Critical Area Review (if needed) • Utilities & Essential Public Facilities - • Housing Policy Workshop Workshop re Public Safety February 26, 2025 August 27, 2025 • Housing Policy Workshop (if needed) • Review Cultural & Historic Revisions • Land Use – Redlines & Policies, Map September 9, 2025 March 12, 2025 • Network Analysis Workshop • Econ Development – Redlines & Policies September 24, 2025 • Housing & Community Service – • Review Revisions – Utilities & Essential Redlines & Policies Public Facilities March 26, 2025 October 8, 2025 • Housing & Community Service – • Capital Facilities Plan Overview Redlines & Policies (if needed) • Preliminary Draft of Climate Element • Network analysis -Scope & Timeline October 22, 2025 April 4, 2025 • Transportation - Redlines & Policies • Urban Design – Redlines & Policies • Review Introduction & Governance • Review Revisions to Housing Chapters April 23, 2025 • Review Revisions to Econ Development CLIMATE ELEMENT SUBMITTAL TO COMMERCE Chapter – OCTOBER 15 – JANUARY 15 • Review Revisions to Housing May 14, 2025 November 12, 2025 • Sign Code Workshop • Final Review- Introduction & • Parks, Recreation & Open Space Update Governance Chapters (if needed) • Development Code Amendment Checklist • Implementation Plan Workshop December 10, 2025 • Review Revisions to Transportation Element • Capital Facilities Plan Workshop January 14, 2026 • Parks, Arts & Recreation Plan Presentation • Parks & Recreation Chapter Review January 28, 2026 • Final Climate & Natural Environment Chapter & Policy Review • Finalize Capital Facilities Plan February 11, 2026 • Review Full Draft Document DRAFT TO COMMERCE FOR REVIEW, FEBRUARY 15 – APRIL 15 SEPA, FEBRUARY 15 -APRIL 15 February 25, 2026 • Workshop on Required Development Code Amendments March 11, 2026 • Workshop on Required Development Code Amendment March 25, 2026 • Workshop on Required Development Code Amendments April 8, 2026 • Public Hearing on Required Development Code Amendments April 22, 2026 • Public Hearing on the Periodic Comp Plan Update COMP PLAN & DEVELOPMENT CODE PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE CITY COUNCIL MAY 5 1ST & 2ND ORDINANCE READING, MAY 19 & JUNE 2ND RESOLUTION FINDING FINAL COMP PLAN PERIODIC UPDATE IN COMPLIANCE WITH RCW 36.70A.130(1), JUNE 2ND ADOPTED COMP PLAN WITH RESOLUTION DUE TO COMMERCE BY JUNE12,2026 (FOR GRANT REIMBURSEMENT PURPOSES)