City Planning Commission

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 2025 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 March 12, 2025 • Join the Zoom Meeting Questions ? Assistance? Please contact Kathy Cummings at kcummings@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 February 26, 2025 5. WORKSHOPS: • Economic Development Element Workshop - Mark McAvoy • Cultural & Historic Resource Element Workshop – Lance Mueller 6. CITIZEN COMMENTS 7. REPORTS • Secretary’s Report – Amy Mullerleile o Updated Comp Meeting Calendar • Planning Commissioner Reports 8. Adjournment Next Meeting: March 26, 2025  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 kcummings@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, FEBRUARY 26, 2025 HELD VIA ZOOM & IN PERSON AT CITY HALL Planning Commission Members Present: Joe Mann, Tom Sahlberg, Jim Baumker, DG Garcia, and Charlie Jencks were in person. Phil Folyer attended via zoom. Adjunct Member(s) Present: Gene Heuschel and Troy Mullenix Staff Present: Lisa Key, Amy Mullerleile, Lance Mueller and Kathy Cummings Call to Order: Meeting was called to order at 4:00 p.m. Roll Call: A quorum of members was present. Commissioner Mann asked that we stand for the Pledge of Allegiance. Absences: A motion to excuse Commissioner Robbins was made by Commissioner Jencks and seconded by Commissioner Heuschel. The motion carried unanimously. Review of Agenda & Approval of Minutes: Commissioner Jencks motioned to approve the meeting agenda, seconded by Commissioner Sahlberg. The motion was approved unanimously. Commissioner Sahlberg motioned to approve the February 12th meeting minutes, seconded by Commissioner Jencks. The motion was approved unanimously. Workshops: Sign Code Workshop: The city is updating its sign code to improve clarity, align with legal standards and balance business visibility while maintaining city aesthetics. This workshop, presented by Ferdouse Oneza and Michelle Ellsworth from BERK Consulting, Inc., outlined the purpose of the sign code amendment and the key objectives. The topics emphasized were legal compliance and content neutrality, discussion of the various types of signage and allowances, and the concerns of local business owners and developers. BERK Consulting will draft updated sign code language and will present it to the Planning Commission in the Spring-Summer 2025. After the presentation, discussion was held between Director Key and the Planning Commission that provided information on the previously held meeting with the local business owners and developers group. Director Key explained that further engagement with this group will shape final recommendations for the sign code update. Housing Policy Workshop: Shareefa Abdulsalam, a representative from SCJ Alliance Consulting Services, returned via zoom with a presentation discussing optional housing policy recommendations to increase housing diversity and affordability. The main points brought forward for consideration and discussion were: • Expanding Housing Options – allowing tiny homes, co-living developments and cottage housing clusters. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes Page 1|2 February 26, 2025  • Increasing density in the R-2 zone consistent with typical densities for middle -housing developments. Determining which land use zones should allow these housing types while preserving neighborhood character • Removing spacing and occupancy requirements, reducing parking requirements, and allowing office space for wrap-around services for Temporary and Permanent Supportive Housing. • Relaxing standards for the adaptive reuse to encourage the conversion of existing non- residential buildings into housing. • Exploring co-living arrangements to support seniors and individuals in need of assistance. Discussion amongst Director Key and the Commissioners continued throughout the presentation. Other recommendations were given such as increasing allowable density, revising Accessory Dwelling Unit standards, reducing off-street parking requirements, and allowing flexibility in design standards. The Planning Commission questioned how the potential code revisions would impact existing HOA. It was confirmed by staff that existing HOAs would not be required to adopt these changes in their CCRs, although new HOAs would not be able to prohibit development options that are prescribed by GMA amendments, such as ADUs. Some members of the commission strongly opposed changes within established neighborhood zones, while others supported expanding housing diversity within mixed-use and undeveloped areas. All agreed that further study will be necessary before any changes are made. At 5:58 p.m. there was a motion to extend the meeting for another 15 minutes made by Commissioner Jencks, seconded by Commissioner Garcia. The motion was approved unanimously. At the close of the presentation from SCJ Alliance, Director Key stated that she will send out information regarding Commerce guidance on relaxing standards for adaptive reuse for the Planning Commission to review. It was agreed by all that policy language for all potential housing amendments need to be further developed prior to engagement with the public. Citizens Comments: None Secretary’s Report: Director Key shared that the scope of the Network Analysis for the transportation element that will be going to City Council on Tuesday, March 4thfor approval. She provided another updated Tentative Comprehensive Plan Meeting schedule. As previously stated, this schedule will continually change. On Monday, March 3rd, Jen Camp, the City’s Director of Parks and Recreation, will be returning to work. We will be having a kick-off meeting with staff and the consultant for the Parks and Recreation Open Space Plan later next week. The next Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for March 12th, 2025. Mark McAvoy will be presenting the Economic Development chapter and Lance Mueller will be sharing redlines for the Cultural and Historical Resource Element, along with a story map associated with the chapter. Commissioner Reports: None Adjournment: Commissioner Jencks motioned to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Commissioner Heuschel. The motion carried unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 6:13 p.m. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes Page 2|2 February 26, 2025  CHAPTER 10 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT City of Liberty Lake Comprehensive Plan A. Introduction The City of Liberty Lake has always been known as a desirable place to live, work, and play. One of the most Deleted: , and is now establishing important factors that determine whether people or the reputation as “Spokane businesses locate here is the area's livability. Among County’s Premier Address.” the factors that influence livability are the area's ability to provide employment opportunities, viable businesses that provide goods and services, the quality of public services, the area's natural beauty, good schools, strong neighborhoods, and efficient traffic circulation. Maintaining our community's livability requires that we maintain a strong, sustainable, economic climate. B. Economic Development Goals & Policies The following represent the City’s primary economic development goal, and the policies that will Formatted: Right: 0.82" help the City achieve that goal: Economic Development Goal 1: Maintain a healthy and sustainable local economy. Economic Development Policy 1: Prepare and implement a local economic development strategy in consultation with local businesses, regional economic development organizations, property owners, and residents. Economic Development Policy 2: Work with other jurisdictions, community organizations and business organizations to establish specific evaluation methods that will annually measure the community’s overall quality of life and economic viability. The following issues, among others, should be considered when developing indicators to establish evaluation goals: a. Quality of life issues such as crime rate, schools, health care, affordable housing, employment opportunities, and cultural amenities; and b. Economic development issues such as wages; per capita personal and median household income, percentage of population below poverty level, business formation, expansion and retention, economic base, and education. Economic Development Policy 3: Encourage job recruitment efforts towards those sectors that: a. Are compatible with the environmental and quality-of-life standards of the City and region; b. Provide good living wages; c. Help diversify the economy; and d. Capitalize on the strengths of the region. Economic Development Policy 4: Continue to support the start-up, retention, expansion, and recruitment of businesses.  Economic Development Policy 5: Provide consistent, fair, and timely regulations that are flexible, responsive, and effective. Economic Development Policy 6: Periodically review and update economic development techniques to provide a business climate conducive to new and start-up businesses. Economic Development Policy 7: Continue to encourage creation and retention of home- based businesses that are consistent with neighborhood character. Economic Development Policy 8: Encourage development of contingency plans for the possible loss of any of the employers in the City that have a significant economic impact on the City. Economic Development Policy 9: Work with the area Chambers of Commerce and other entities to support patronage of local businesses. Economic Development Policy 10: Provide for the option of Tax Increment Financing (TIF), and Local Infrastructure Financing Tool (LIFT) when appropriate and available. Economic Development Policy 11: Encourage educational institutions to locate in the City of Liberty Lake, especially those that provide technical training to support businesses targeted for recruitment and retention. Economic Development Policy 12: Support and encourage K-through-12 education to include skills-based training and creative partnerships with business. Economic Development Policy 13: Encourage an interactive relationship between schools and businesses through apprenticeship, mentoring, and other programs. Economic Development Policy 14: Maintain an inventory of usable industrial and commercial land that is sufficient to meet projected demand and encourage marketability of the City. C. History and Background The economy plays a central role in maintaining the vitality and quality of life within a community. A healthy economy creates good paying jobs, providing economic opportunities to all citizens. The economy also supports the tax base, providing for schools, police, fire protection, parks, and many Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.06", First line: 0", Right: 0" other community facilities and services. The importance of economic development is recognized in state Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.06", Right: 0" legislation by the inclusion of economic development as one of the planning goals intended to guide local comprehensive plan development, as well as being Deleted: 14 included as a policy topic in the Countywide Planning Policies for Spokane County. The Growth Management Act (GMA) establishes the following as economic development goals for the State of Washington.  Encourage economic development that is consistent with adopted comprehensive plans.  Promote economic opportunity for all citizens of the state, especially for unemployed and disadvantaged persons.  Encourage growth in areas experiencing insufficient economic growth.  Ensure economic growth occurs within the capacities of the state's natural resources, public services, and public facilities. The purpose of the Economic Development Element is to present goals and policies that support and encourage a strong, vibrant economy. The element focuses on business startup, business Deleted: Element retention, expansion and recruitment, regional issues, environment, customer service/ regulation, income, education and training, and tourism. While this element focuses on these Deleted: Element specific topics, it is important to recognize that the Comprehensive Plan as a whole can be Deleted: entire considered as an economic development tool. While the City serves as the greatest advocate for local economic development, the City of Liberty Lake also partners with several regional organizations, such as the Greater Spokane Deleted: Spokane Area Economic Development Incorporated, the regional Associated Development Organization (ADO) for economic Counci… developments, as well as one of the regional Chambers of Commerce that helps attract, create, Deleted: l and retain quality jobs for the region; the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce, which Deleted: a community based, non-profit organization helps promote businesses located in eastern Spokane County, and provides leadership to create Deleted: Regional Chamber of Commerce an environment in which members, businesses, and the community can succeed; Idaho Jobs Plus, which is a Coeur d'Alene Area Nonprofit Economic Development Corporation; and, Inland Deleted: ¶ ... [1] Northwest Partners, a regional consortium of public and non-profit agencies working together to Deleted: and promote regional economic development. Sustainable Regional Economic Development There are a number of established organizations in the region that are engaged in economic development activities. It is in the best interests of the City of Liberty Lake to support and collaborate with these regional organizations. By focusing on common goals and allocating resources accordingly, government and private organizations can work together regionally to maximize successful business start-up, retention, expansion and recruitment efforts. Tools and Strategies Business retention, expansion and recruitment efforts work hand-in-hand in maintaining a successful economy. Business retention and expansion programs address the issues that might affect decisions by established businesses and industries to remain or expand. Such issues might include availability of public services and facilities, permitting procedures, property taxes and labor-training programs. Recruitment programs largely focus on attracting light industries as a major economic development strategy. Retaining, expanding, and attracting industrial businesses is important because they generally provide higher-paying jobs, which creates an economic multiplier effect throughout the region. Environment In recent years there has been a greater recognition that economic development should not come at the expense of environmental quality, which itself is recognized as an important component of the community. A balanced approach to environmental sustainability advocates a balance between the utilization of area resources and economic growth. Economic growth should not exceed the ability of the natural or built environment to sustain growth over the long term. Regulation A regulatory environment that offers flexibility, consistency, predictability, and clear direction Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.06", Right: 0" enhances economic development opportunities. Income One of the primary reasons to pursue economic development is to increase the standard of living for the citizens and businesses located in City of Liberty Lake. One of the primary goals of this Deleted: of the economic development element is to create more living-wage jobs. A strategic approach in the pursuit of new jobs is to recruit, retain, and expand the types of industries that provide quality, good-paying jobs. Deleted: Qualified Labor Force Qualified labor is essential to retain and recruit businesses. The basic cornerstone in the development of a qualified labor force is access to education. Located near the City of Liberty Lake and the surrounding area is a diverse group of higher-education facilities, including community colleges, universities, and private technical and business schools. These schools, as well as the K-through-12 public and private schools, should be encouraged to constantly evaluate their programs to be responsive to the changing job market. Partnerships between business and Deleted: ¶ ... [2] the educational community should be nurtured to further this process. Business should be encouraged to partner with labor unions and other organizations to develop specialized training programs to meet the needs of employers. Tourism The cultural, recreational, and scenic opportunities in the region make tourism an excellent provider of employment. Located either within the City or within an easy driving distance, visitors can enjoy lakes, golf, scenic mountains, community events, and an excellent trail system. Promotion and expansion of tourism serves as an economic development tool, bringing with it Deleted: This section provides goals and policies to p an infusion of outside dollars to the benefit of Liberty Lake businesses, as well as the City’s Deleted: e revenue stream. The City partners with Visit Spokane, a regional non-profit, and other non- Deleted: d probits such as The Hub Sports Center, along with hotels and motels within the City to promote tourism within the City. The City utilizes its lodging tax as a means to finance the promotion of Deleted: as tourism within our city. Infill and Redevelopment Deleted: ¶ Infill and redevelopment programs provide an economic Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.06", Right: 0", Space Before: development tool to revitalize under-utilized or vacant parcels or 0.05 pt structures. Infill development would develop or redevelop vacant commercial or industrial structures or parcels of land that are already provided with services. Re-development policies help utilize existing structures before constructing new commercial or industrial buildings. Deleted: ¶ Adequate Infrastructure and Land Supply Each potential business has its own unique set of location requirements. To attract new employers and to allow existing business to expand, a diverse inventory of industrial and commercial land must be maintained. Sites must be available in a range of sizes and locations with appropriate zoning and compatible surrounding land uses. Infrastructure availability is one of the most critical factors to encourage economic development. Sewer, water, transportation facilities, and communications facilities must be available or easily obtained. For attracting industrial uses, an adequate supply of usable industrial land unencumbered by conflicting land uses and/or environmental constraints, is important. An inventory of available commercial and industrial lands within the City is provided in Appendix “X” of this document. Page 4: [1] Deleted Lisa Key 1/6/2025 12:28:00 PM Page 5: [2] Deleted Lisa Key 1/6/2025 12:37:00 PM  CHAPTER 3 CULTURAL & HISTORICAL RESOURCES City of Liberty Lake Comprehensive Plan CITY OF LIBERTY LAKE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2015- 2037 PAGE 31 A. Introduction Although Cultural Resources is not a required Comprehensive Plan element by the state Growth Management Act, it is important to protect and preserve identified and potential cultural and historical resources within the City of Liberty Lake. Although the area around Liberty Lake is not included within the City limits, much of the culture and traditions that exist today began there and were carried on by the community as a whole. B. History and Background Liberty Lake's Cultural and Historical Heritage The culture we cherish today began long before the formation of the City of Liberty Lake. The Liberty Lake area was inhabited by Native Americans centuries before the first white settlers came to the area. In 1808, David Thompson, a fur trader, arrived in the area and was soon followed by missionaries. Native Americans still occupied Liberty Lake and surrounding areas as the white settlers began to arrive. According to the book entitled Memories of Liberty Lake by Mildred Brereton and Evelyn Foedish, an early fur trader named Ross Cox told tales of the Indians holding horse races on the plains. These horse races Stephen Andrew Seltice were a part of an annual feed on the shores of Liberty Liberty Lake that was hosted by Andrew Seltice, Chief of the Coeur d'Alene Indians. After the dinner, everyone enjoyed the horse races and athletic events where prizes were given out. Many families stayed overnight to hear Tecomtee, a Couer d'Alene tribe member sing Indian songs out over the Lake. Liberty Lake was originally named Lake Grier, but was later re- named after a Frenchman from Canada, Etienne Eduard Laliberte, who came to Liberty Lake in 1871 after changing his name to Stephen Liberty while carrying mail over the Mullan Trail to Rathdrum. Stephen Liberty and his family homesteaded on the west side of the lake and he was known as a friend and spokesman for the Native Americans, and was especially close with Chief Andrew Seltice of the Coeur d'Alene Indians. The following text is from Stephen Liberty's manuscripts, "In February, 1871 I removed to Liberty Lake (so named in my honor) where I again established a home and set out about twenty five acres of orchard and continued the raising of stock. When I removed to Liberty Lake in February, 1871 Chief Seltice was my neighbor. Stillam, one of the head men of the tribe, then resided near Spokane bridge, a short distance from me. From the time of my first acquaintance with Chief Seltice and the other head men of the tribe mentioned, I enjoyed their utmost confidence." Other early settlers may have been drawn to the Liberty Lake area and other parts of the west by the Homestead Act of 1862. The Homestead Act declared that any citizen or intended citizen could claim 160 acres - one quarter square mile - of surveyed government land. Claimants must "improve" the plot with a dwelling and grow crops. After five years, if the original filer was still on the land, it was his property, free and clear. According to records from the Bureau of Land Management, there were eight homesteads in what is now the City limits area between 1884 and 1907. The first homesteader was James Fisher. Fisher homesteaded land in the S1/2 of the NE portion, the NE of the NE portion, and the NW of the SE portion of Section 14 in the late 1870's. He was issued a land patent on May 15, 1884. The next to homestead was Joseph Peavy, in the early 1880's. He homesteaded the S1/2 of the S1/2 of Section 14 and was issued CITY OF LIBERTY LAKE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2015- 2037 PAGE 32 a land patent on May 26, 1888. Peavy, the areas first blacksmith, also carried mail along the Mullan Trail with his friend Stephen Liberty, who homesteaded on the west side of Liberty Lake. Levi P. Fine and John J. Fine homesteaded in the early 1880's. Levi P. Fine homesteaded the N1/2 of the NW portion and the NW of the NE portion of Section 14 and was issued a land patent on January 26, 1891. John J. Fine homesteaded S1/2 of the NW portion and the N1/2 of the SW portion of Section 14 and was issued a land patent on March 5, 1891. The Fine family lived in Liberty Lake long enough to see the new school house, mentioned below, built about ¼ mile south of them on land they had donated. John Simpson was issued a land patent on April 20, 1891 after homesteading the SE of the SW Quarter of Section 2 along the Spokane River in the mid 1880's. The W1/2 of the SW portion, the SW of the NW portion, the NW of the NW Quarter, and the NE of the NW Quarter of Section 10 were homesteaded by Charles Denison in the late 1880's. Denison was issued a land patent on June 8, 1895. George Bennett homesteaded in the late 1880's in the N1/2 of the NW portion of Section 22 and was granted a land patent on July 8, 1895. Finally, Fred Finch was granted a land patent on March 8, 1907 after homesteading in the early 1900's in the NE of the SE portion of Section 14. See Map 10.2 for an overview of these former homestead locations. The following Map 3.1, is a township map of Spokane County showing ownerships of acreage property that is dated September 1, 1905. Several homesteads were still owned by the original families at that time. MAP 3.1 CITY OF LIBERTY LAKE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2015- 2037 PAGE 33 The Spokane Valley Irrigation company, also known as the Spokane Valley Land and Water Company, was organized in 1899 by D.C. Corbin, a well-known Spokane entrepreneur. Corbin also developed the Greenacres area. The irrigation line, circa 1903, brought water from the Spokane River and Liberty Lake through the Valley View Golf Course area and along the Outlet Channel trail, then across to the Holiday Hills site today for irrigating the Greenacres district. The company was formed at a time when a portion of Liberty Lake extended up to the northwest above Sprague Avenue and formed a small body of water called Lake Loomis. According to the book entitled Memories of Liberty Lake by Mildred Brereton and Evelyn Foedish, a great deal of rich ground was ruined by the lake extension, so residents dug a ditch and used the water for valley irrigation, which eliminated Lake Loomis and brought Liberty Lake to its present size. The Madson family, who homesteaded on the west side of Liberty Lake, used Lake Loomis to water cattle and a law suit was started after it was drained. It was determined that if mail had been carried over the Lake Loomis area, it would have been considered an interstate and it could not have been drained. After the discovery of the Spokane Aquifer, irrigation from wells came into practice. Commented [LM1]: Replace with correct story from Ross Schneidmiller Also around the turn of the century, a school house for the Original red brick school house Liberty Lake area was being discussed. One location for the school house that was being considered was Harvard and Appleway in the middle of what is now the City of Liberty Lake. It was decided, however, to build the school house at what is now the southeast corner of Sprague and Molter Road The school was originally a little white building and was later replaced with a larger red brick building in 1912 that was in use until 1959. Residential construction began on the site in the 19701960's. Liberty Lake train station In the early 1900's, during the late fall, winter, and early spring Valley area farmers and ranchers would take advantage of a break from ranch work and get together on Saturday night at the Spokane Bridge near the Washington/ Idaho border for dancing to hill-billy music from around 8 p.m. till dawn. Another winter activity for the locals was Saturday night 500 card parties at one of the area ranches. The basic card game involved tables of four with partners sitting across from each other and working their way up toward a top table by collecting points, with the Train entering Liberty Lake winners of the evening prize being the partners that reach the top table or 500 points. Also during periods of heavy snow, Saturday night hay rides were available with a team of four horses, complete with sleigh bells that pulled a bob sled holding about 20 couples sitting on a mattress of straw. The ride toured from Liberty Lake to Newman Lake and around to the Spokane Bridge where they could enjoy the dance hall. Also by the early 1900's, several resorts were being developed around Liberty Lake, and the Lake was quickly becoming a vacation Pleasure boat "The Ermine" destination for the residents of Spokane and other surrounding areas. Pleasure boats that toured the lake were one of the many amenities that entertained visitors. The Spokane Inland Empire Railway began running electric trains in 1903 from Spokane to Liberty Lake that took around 45 minutes one way and a round trip to CITY OF LIBERTY LAKE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2015- 2037 PAGE 34 and from the Lake cost around 75 cents. The train originally stopped at a 6' x 6' station located at the intersection of the highway of the time, which is near where the “True Legends” restaurant is today. was Appleway and Liberty Lake Road today. Emmett Denison, a descendant of the homesteader, lived at the Liberty Lake dance Pavillion junction and he would meet the train at the depot with his horse drawn stage and transport visitors south to the Lake for 25 cents. As Liberty Lake's popularity Crescent Silver Cornet Band at picnic increased, the station became a depot with signage that circa 1913 identified it as Liberty Lake junction. More people visited the Lake around 1907 when the railroad installed a spur line along today's Liberty Lake Road to bring visitors closer to the lake. The Spokane Inland Empire Railroad developed the Liberty Lake Park in 1908-1909 which became very popular for picnics and other gatherings. Traffic steadily increased from 1910 to 1913 with a two car train running every half-hour in 1910, and by 1913 a five car train ran every half-hour on Sundays and holidays, or when large weekday picnics were scheduled. The years 1910 to 1915 were the peak for the Liberty Lake Park and Liberty Lake became known as "Spokane's Inland Seashore". The natural beauty that included many different tree varieties and unusual flowers, mixed with the many attractions, Liberty Lake Park w/ dance Pavillion on right Liberty Lake Commercial early 20th century made the park very popular. Visitors could rent boats from the Liberty Lake Boat Company for joy rides, enjoy the live band music and dancing at the Pavillion (its historic spelling), stay at the hotel or one of the many resorts, rent swimming suits at the Hurtig Bath House, fish, picnic, savor the dining options, or just relax. As in the days of Tecomtee, the music from the Pavillion could be heard throughout the area. All Valley picnics and other business parties became a tradition at the Lake for many people each summer, and in the winter people could enjoy ice skating on the Lake. Automobiles were becoming popular in the 1920's and visitors could either arrive to the Lake by train or along Sprague / Appleway Avenue and then down Molter Road by car. Because of the popularity of fruit orchards in the Spokane Valley, fruit stands with apples lined Sprague Avenue throughout the valley area, causing it to be renamed “The Appleway”. The 1920's brought major changes to Liberty Lake. All Valley picnics began in 1922, and 1924 saw the biggest crowd ever for the annual 4th of July celebration. 14,000 people attended the festivities that year, with 9,000 of them arriving by train. With the onset of the automobile as the transportation mode of choice, the trains that had Liberty Lake Park advertising sign north of Appleway Ave. CITY OF LIBERTY LAKE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2015- 2037 PAGE 35  brought so many visitors to Liberty Lake quit running by June of 19271926. The beautifully maintained Liberty Lake Park was sold and in 1934 it was re- named Silver City. It was converted to more of a carnival atmosphere with a ferris wheel, a swing ride, and an 1920's orchard south of where unusual carousel. Hand-carved wooden tigers, horses, frogs, Liberty Lake Golf Course is today cats, and dogs circled the elaborately crafted carousel built by artists and engineers of the Herschell-Spillman Company in 1913. The Herschell-Spillman Carousel carousel remained at the Park until 1961 and today it is in the Henry Ford Museum at Dearborn, Michigan. The town was also beginning to develop around the Lake with more homes and supporting businesses and services being constructed. Farming continued with much of the land being covered in orchards and eventually grass fields. Farming in the 1920's Aerial of Liberty Lake circa 1960 By 1951, there were six resorts operating on Liberty Lake and (looking NW) four public beaches. Liberty Lake was becoming known as a suburb of Spokane and development was limited to the Lake area, south of Sprague Avenue. The Liberty Lake Golf Course, the first of the three golf courses in Liberty Lake, was constructed on the northeast corner of Sprague Avenue and Molter Road in 1959. By the 1960's, many of the original attractions around the Lake were gone. The dance pavilion at the old Liberty Lake Park was destroyed by fire in the late 1950’s and was torn down by the early 1960’s.summer of 1962. Spokane County bought and created the almost 3000 acre Spokane County Regional Park in 1966 which became the only public beach access, however, a public boat launch was also available on the north side of the Lake. Unfortunately the water quality of Liberty Lake had begun to decline, with algae covering much of the lake. By the end of the 19601970's, more resorts had closed and the Liberty Lake Park area was converted into a housing development. In 1991, the last resort on the Lake at Sandy Beach closed. Lodging today is primarily limited to the hotels located within the City limits. However, the 1970's brought a surge in activity north of Sprague Avenue that would eventually be encompassed within the City of Liberty Lake. The large hill on the west side of the City, formerly known as Carlson Hill, became known as Holiday Hills, a ski and snowmobile recreation destination with a lodge and Aerial of (looking Liberty Lake circa 1980 North) restaurant. Holiday Hills gave visitors more winter activity choices than just ice skating. An RV Park with an A-Frame office also offered camping in the summer at Holiday Hills. Over the years, the Holidays Hills site was used for equestrian activities, snowmobile and motocross racing, youth sports camps, and ice skating. Unfortunately, due to financial difficulties, Holiday Hills closed by the end of the decade. CITY OF LIBERTY LAKE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2015- 2037 PAGE 36  Aerial w/ track on left & Holiday Hills ski lift & lodge in center snow making machine Holiday Hills lodge RV Park A-frame office Ski resort ticket booth Aerial of RV Park site looking N. Recreation opportunities increased in 1973 with the development of the Valley View Golf Course east of Liberty Lake Road which was, at the time, the only mid length executive course in the northwest. Housing choices also expanded in the 19601970's and into the early 1980's with the development of the Liberty Lake Heights west of Molter Road. The Liberty Lake Sewer & Water District was formed in the mid 1970's to help clean up the conditions of Liberty Lake. Construction of the new sewer system began in 1977 and the wastewater treatment facility east of Harvard Road was completed in 1982. By the early 1980's, commercial and industrial development had begun with the Hewlett-Packard facility on the east side of Molter Road. The modern-day version of Liberty Lake began with developments from the Main Corporation and the Greenstone Corporation. The City of Liberty Lake, as we know it today, was started by the visions of the Main Corporation, Schneidmiller Land Company, and the Greenstone Corporation. The Homestead residential development was envisioned in the late 1970's and began in the mid 1980's. The streets within the Homestead development were named after early Liberty Lake families. Housing sales boomed in Liberty Lake in the mid 1990's with the creation of Meadowwood (see the Land Use element introduction section of this plan). Meadowwood Golf Course, the third golf course in Liberty Lake, Pavillion Park, and Liberty Lake Elementary School were also completed by the time the City of Liberty Lake officially incorporated on August 31, 2001. With three golf courses in the City limits of Liberty Lake, the Liberty Lake area is now known as a premier golf course community. Liberty Lake Elementary School 2002 Liberty Lake aerial photo looking north 2002 CITY OF LIBERTY LAKE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2015- 2037 PAGE 37  Commented [LM2]: Map to be updated to remove “Existing” from Legend Tree Heritage Site. Preserving Cultural and Historical Traditions Cultural traditions were formed as far back as when the area was occupied by the Coeur d’Alene Tribe. Traditions were further developed during the time when Liberty Lake was known as "Spokane's Inland Seashore". There were Fourth of July Celebrations with fireworks over the lake, live music and dancing at the Pavillion, picnics, boating, and most of all, memories were being created. Although the original buildings no longer exist, the memories and traditions still live on. Families still visit Pavillion Park for picnics, birthdays, and other celebrations. Every year, Pavillion replica Liberty Lake draws huge crowds for the annual Fourth of July celebration with a parade by the lake, and live music and dancing at Pavillion Park, which contains a replica of the original Pavillion for the next generation to enjoy. The musical traditions from years past still exist as the music echoes throughout the area. To conclude the festivities, fireworks are launched over the community. CITY OF LIBERTY LAKE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2015- 2037 PAGE 38  Annual Liberty Lake Fourth of July Celebration 2002 w/ music, dancing, & fireworks !! Tuxedo Junction band 2002 Benches, landscaping, & the plaque pictured above The land for Pavillion Park was donated by the and located at Pavillion Park were donated by some of Schneidmiller family and the memorial pictured above the founding families as a memorial to their loved ones was created to honor their mother, a park supporter Pavillion Park also contains two memorials dedicated to families that helped establish the Liberty Lake area. Other hints of the past can be seen at the Albertson's Safeway store in Liberty Lake where lighted symbols representing the original tour boats decorate the building. In 2002, the City purchased the Valley View Golf Course, which is located at the center of the City on the corner of Country Vista and Liberty Lake Road. In the future, Albertson's tribute to Liberty Lake's as the structures and landscape are remodeled, hopefully more symbols of nautical past the past can be incorporated, such as. A light rail extension into Liberty Lake could incorporate Liberty Lake's railroad past into the design and displays, or within one of the parks, the original Herschell-Spillman Silver City carousel could be replicated. The Liberty Lake Holiday Hill 2002 w/ original pole barn, track, & lodge community has also developed new fireplace annual traditions that have become a part of the Liberty Lake culture including an Easter Egg Hunt, Christmas Lighting Contest, Friends of Pavillion Park Holiday Ball, Community Yard Sale Weekend, and the Pavillion Park summer festival that includes outdoor movies, concerts, and other special events. Additional research into the history of the area might surface Original lodge location more of the past such as the possible location of a fur trading post that was rumored to have been located here, other Native American traditions, etc. CITY OF LIBERTY LAKE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2015- 2037 PAGE 39 Very few historical sites and structures remain within the City area. The old Holiday Hill winter recreation area, that is now being re-platted as a residential development (now known as Legacy Ridge,) still had the pole barn, track, and the original lodge fireplace when the City incorporated. Unfortunately, the original lodge burned down in a fire in the early to mid- 1980's. Another residential plat that isThe Rocky Hill housing development is currently under development construction in the northeast corner of the City, on the north side of Mission Avenue, contains a home site that dates back to the 1940's, with a well house that dated back to the early 1900's. This home site had the oldest known existing structures within the City of Liberty Lake (prior to annexing the River District). The site is included as part of the Rocky Hill Park area and the Domrese barn is on the WA State Heritage Barn Registry. Unfortunately, the well house and farmhouse had to be demolished due to disrepair; however replica features could be constructed with future phases of the park to meet the current needs of the community such as a community building or additional picnic shelter. More information on the Rocky Hill Farm - Domrese homesite is contained in the Washington State Heritage Barn Register Application 2007. Domrese Homesite - Well house was circa early 1900's, Barn constructed 1948, & House was constructed 1949 The tree pictured on the left is seen in the background of Legend Tree several early 1900's photographs and can still be seen from many locations in the Liberty Lake area. The tree sits on the upper northeast corner of the old Holiday Hills site (within the Legacy Ridge neighborhood). The exact history of the tree is unknown at this time, but at over 100 years old, this tree has been linked to several area legends. As development occurs on the site, this tree will be preserved for future generations as a Heritage Tree. The River District portion of the City has an extensive cultural and agricultural history as well and as noted in the 2008 River District Specific Area Plan (RDSAP), interpretive signage recognizing the cultural and agricultural history could be incorporated in the parks or greenways. The 100’ wide Avista powerline easement provides an opportunity to connect the commercial center at Telido Station (named after the historic train station) to the Orchard Park (future community park) and the Centennial Trail with a greenway. Also per the RDSAP, a large community orchard could be planned within the greenway that will provide a cultural connection to agricultural and orchard uses that historically dominated the River District site. Orchard Park also has the potential for incorporating a historical theme like Pavillion Park and Rocky Hill Park have. The River District now contains the oldest known existing structure; a single family Oldest Known Existing Structure in the City home that dates back to 1908 is located along Mission Ave. CITY OF LIBERTY LAKE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2015- 2037 PAGE 40  Importance and Purpose of Protecting Cultural and Historical Resources While the majority of the early culture and history Liberty Lake commercial occurred around the Lake, the Liberty Lake community as a whole is continuing old cultural traditions, while developing new traditions. As more development and re-development occurs, a record of our cultural resources will be important as the City attempts to preserve the past while preparing for theour future. Like wetlands, forests, and other natural resources, historic early 21st century properties and culturally significant traditions are a finite and endangered resource. Once a historic or archaeological property is destroyed, it is lost forever. Most of the significant properties in the Liberty Lake area and especially outside the City around the Lake have already been re-developed and can only be protected through replicating the original. The cultural resources mentioned above are statements of Liberty Lake’s identity that set us apart from other communities. This element of the City of Liberty Lake Comprehensive Plan sets forth policies and a course of action for the preservation and treatment of our cultural and historic resources. The Plan establishes preservation as public policy and puts the values into writing. Both identified and potential cultural resources need to be protected through public policy that ensures:  Management decisions about cultural resources are based on solid information obtained Formatted: Body Text, Indent: Left: 0.83", Right: 0.86", through credible research programs; Space Before: 0 pt, No bullets or numbering, Tab  City planners, developers, property owners, and citizens have ready access to the information stops: Not at 1.23" they need to make informed decisions about actions that could affect the City of Liberty Lake’s cultural heritage;  All available information on cultural resources is fully integrated into planning tools for local decisions about land use. Decisions concerning land use will include active participation by the wide variety of people whose heritage and traditions are at stake;  Cultural resources which may be owned by the City of Liberty Lake will be in good condition; and The City of Liberty Lake’s support for cultural and historic preservation programs will become increasingly stable and reliable as evidenced by achievement of the goals and policies contained in this chapter. This element of the City of Liberty Lake Comprehensive Plan outlines policies and a framework for identifying, nominating, and maintaining a list of historical properties within the city. The Plan establishes the preservation of historical properties as a public policy priority and ensures these values are reflected in actionable guidelines. The following steps and strategies may guide the identification, nomination, and ongoing preservation of the City’s historical resources:  Identification of Historical Properties: A comprehensive process should be implemented to identify potential and existing historical properties within the City. This should involve community input, expert assessments, and thorough research to create an inclusive list of historical resources.  Nomination Process: Once identified, properties that meet established criteria may be nominated for inclusion on the City’s official register of historical properties. This nomination process should be transparent, ensuring the public and stakeholders have opportunities for input before final decisions are made.  Ongoing Maintenance and Preservation: The City should ensure that historical properties are preserved in good condition through ongoing monitoring, regular assessments, and maintenance guidelines. This should include a commitment to funding and supporting preservation efforts for these properties, particularly those under the City’s ownership.  Access to Information: City planners, developers, property owners, and citizens should have easy access to the necessary information about historical properties to make informed decisions. This information should be made available through digital platforms, public meetings, and other accessible CITY OF LIBERTY LAKE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2015- 2037 PAGE 41  means.  Integration into Planning Tools: Historical properties should be integrated into the City’s planning tools to ensure that land use decisions consider the impact on these resources. This should involve collaboration between a diverse range of stakeholders, including those whose heritage and traditions are directly connected to the properties.  Sustained Support for Preservation Programs: The City should work to ensure long-term stability and reliability of support for historical and cultural preservation programs, as reflected in the successful implementation of this process and the achievement of the preservation goals outlined in this plan. This comprehensive approach will help to ensure that Liberty Lake’s cultural and historical heritage is respected, protected, and integrated into the city’s ongoing development and planning efforts.  Formatted: Body Text, Indent: Left: 0.83", Right: 0.86", Space Before: 0 pt, No bullets or numbering, Tab A large part of the greater Liberty Lake community's identity is derived from its heritage. From the stops: Not at 1.23" Native Americans and early traders who first established their homes here to the subsequent newcomers from around the world, all have left their mark. Included in the City of Liberty Lake's definition of cultural or historical resources are buildings, structures, sites, associations, objects, landscapes, or traditions left behind by a group of people. Many cultural and historical resources are over 50 years old, however, new traditions and buildings, whether they reflect the past or not, should be treated as potentially being culturally or historically significant one day.; and that should be considered during the planning process.. CITY OF LIBERTY LAKE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2015- 2037 PAGE 42  PLANNING COMMISSION TENTATIVE COMP PLAN MEETING SCHEDULE January 8, 2025 June 25, 2025 • Population & Housing Workshop -LCA • GHG Sub-element /Goals & Policy • Update & Schedule on Climate Element • Review Urban Design Revisions January 22, 2025 July 9, 2025 • LCA Summary • Sign Code Public Hearing • Critical Area Review • Resiliency Sub-Element/Goals & Policies • Update & Schedule on Housing Element July 23, 2025 February 12, 2025 • Utilities & Essential Public Facilities - • Housing Policy Workshop Workshop re Public Safety • Update & Schedule on Other Elements: August 13, 2025 February 26, 2025 • Utilities & Essential Public Facilities – • Sign Code Workshop with PC & CEC Redlines & Policies • Housing Policy Workshop • Network analysis -Scope & Timeline GHG SUB-ELEMENT SUBMITTAL TO March 12, 2025 COMMERCE – AUGUST 15 – JANUARY 15 • Econ Development – Redlines & Policies • Cultural & Historical - Redlines & August 27, 2025 Policies • Network Analysis Workshop March 26, 2025 • Development Code Checklist • Economic Development – Redlines & September 10, 2025 Policies (if needed) • Review Revisions – Utilities & Essential • Housing & Community Service – Goals Public Facilities & Policies September 24, 2025 April 9, 2025 • Outline of required Development Code • Housing & Community Service – Amendments Redlines & Policies • Review Natural Environment Chapter • Review Cultural & Historic Revisions October 8, 2025 April 23, 2025 • Capital Facilities Plan Overview • Climate Vulnerability & Risk Assessment • Preliminary Draft of Climate Element Report October 22, 2025 • Review Revisions to Econ Development • Transportation - Redlines & Policies Chapter • Review Introduction & Governance May 14, 2025 Chapters • Sign Code Workshop November 12, 2025 • GHG Priority Actions and Emissions • Final Review- Introduction & Targets Governance Chapters (if needed) May 28, 2025 • Development Code Amendment • Land Use – Redlines & Policies, Map Checklist • Parks, Recreation & Open Space Update • Implementation Plan Workshop June 11, 2025 December 10, 2025 • Utilities & Essential Public Facilities - • Review Revisions to Transportation Workshop re Utilities Element • Urban Design – Redlines & Policies • 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)