City Planning Commission

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11, 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 June 11, 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 May 28, 2025 5. WORKSHOPS: • Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan Update • Natural Environment Chapter Redlines 6. CITIZEN COMMENTS 7. REPORTS • Secretary’s Report o Upcoming Engagement Opportunities o Updated Comp Meeting Calendar • Planning Commissioner Reports 8. Adjournment Next Meeting: June 25th, 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, MAY 28, 2025 HELD VIA ZOOM & IN PERSON AT CITY HALL Planning Commission Members Present: Joe Mann, Tom Sahlberg, Jim Baumker, DG Garcia, Charlie Jencks and Phil Folyer. Adjunct Member(s) Present: Troy Mullenix and Gene Heuschel (Joined meeting at 4:28 p.m.). Staff Present: Lisa Key, Lance Mueller Call to Order: Meeting was called to order at 4:02 p.m. Roll Call: A quorum of members was present. Commissioner Mann asked that everyone stand for the Pledge of Allegiance. Review of Agenda: Commissioner Jencks motioned to approve the agenda, seconded by Commissioner Sahlberg. The motion was approved unanimously. Absences: Commissioner Dale Robbins was unable to attend. Approval of Minutes: Commissioner Baumker asked for the previous meeting’s discussion pertaining to the warming of Lake Coeur d’Alene and the potential for release of heavy metals into the water be added to the minutes. Commissioner Jencks motioned to approve the amended May 14th meeting minutes, seconded by Commissioner Folyer. The motion was approved unanimously. Workshops: Land Use Chapter Redlines: An overview of the major changes to the Land Use chapter of the Comprehensive Plan was presented by Community Development Director, Lisa Key. These items included an expansion of the discussion of historical land uses, the addition of maps and a description for each specific area plan, an updated annexation discussion, and updated population projections. After reviewing the proposed changes, the Planning Commission did not have any edits to suggest. Commissioner Folyer made a motion to remove the redline formatting and post the proposed chapter edits to the website for the Comprehensive Plan Update. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Sahlberg. The motion was approved unanimously. Development Code Checklist: Community Development Director, Lisa Key gave a presentation which listed the known changes needed to the City’s development code as part of the comprehensive plan update. These changes reflect changes in state law. It was noted that it is possible for additional changes to be enacted in the next legislative session, prior to the adoption of our Periodic Comprehensive Plan Update. Economic Development Chapter: Director Key presented changes that have been made to the Economic Development section of the comprehensive plan since the last presentation to the Planning Commission. These changes included the addition of an implementation section. Director Key also noted that more data is needed to approach economic development in a data- Planning Commission Meeting Minutes Page 1|2 May 28, 2025 driven manner. She will be bringing back employment trend data for incorporation into this chapter at a future Planning Commission meeting. Citizens Comments: None Secretary’s Report: Director Key shared the Updated Planning Commission Calendar which was included in their meeting packets, and the upcoming Public Engagement Schedule. SCJ Alliance is going to present an update on the parks and open space plan on June 11th. On June 25th, the Commission will be reviewing greenhouse gas goals and policies. The Comprehensive Plan booth at the farmer’s market interacted with approximately 50 people over the weekend. Commissioner Reports: None Adjournment: Commissioner Jencks motioned to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Commissioner Folyer. The motion carried unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 4:59 p.m. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes Page 2|2 May 28, 2025  City of Liberty Lake Liberty Lake Parks & Recreation Master Plan: Public Participation Plan April 2025  Table of Contents 1.0 Public Participation Plan Objectives ......................................................................................... 1 2.0 Outreach ................................................................................................................................... 2 2.1 Communication Channels ................................................................................................................... 2 2.2 Engagement Topics ............................................................................................................................. 2 2.3 Engagement Methods ......................................................................................................................... 3 City Staff Stakeholder Interviews .......................................................................................................... 3 Kick-off Workshop................................................................................................................................. 3 Needs Assessment Survey .................................................................................................................... 3 Community Stakeholder Interviews ..................................................................................................... 4 Social Pinpoint Mapping Workshop and Survey ................................................................................... 4 Community Priorities Survey and Pop-ups ........................................................................................... 4 3.0 Deliverables............................................................................................................................... 5 4.0 Timeline..................................................................................................................................... 6 City of Liberty Lake | Parks & Recreation Master Plan Page ii 1.0 Public Participation Plan Objectives This document outlines the public participation opportunities for the Liberty Lake Parks and Recreation Master Plan, including engagement methods, timelines, and implementation strategies. This is a working document and may be updated over time as needed to reflect the community’s needs. The objectives for this Public Participation Plan are to: • Inform residents of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, the process, and outcomes. Utilize outreach methods to inform residents and property owners of the variety of participation opportunities. • Exchange information by conducting collaborative events that engage the community in conversation and the exchange of ideas and information. By exchanging information, we can give participants more ownership in the outcome of planning processes, leading to buy-in, a sense of pride, and higher-quality planning documents. • Be inclusive of a range of perspectives, engaging residents in unique ways to reach a broader audience and understand their goals, needs, and desires. • Provide access to engagement opportunities, events, and participation for all residents, including disadvantaged groups and those who historically have not been heard from throughout community planning processes. • Be transparent and openly reflect a variety of viewpoints within the community and share the City’s process for the development and implementation of the PROST Plan. City of Liberty Lake | Parks & Recreation Master Plan Page 1 2.0 Outreach 2.1 Communication Channels It is important that information be made available so any interested person can review the materials and participate. Throughout the planning process, the City and SCJ will coordinate to maintain several channels for notifying the public and other participants of relevant meetings and events. Regular opportunities for education and notification include: • Project website (Hosted by Liberty Lake) • Social media posts (SCJ/City coordination) • Mailers and other City communications • Local newspapers • Email • Public Engagement Commission • Parks & Arts Commission • Presentations to city staff, commissions and councils 2.2 Engagement Topics Our goal is to design engagement strategies to maximize the involvement of the largest number of residents, ensuring that the plan is built upon input from a wide range of opinions among people who live, work, and recreate in Liberty Lake. The Parks and Recreation Master Plan will be most successful if all sectors of the community have a say in the future of the parks system. This input will be targeted toward hearing about the following topics, plus others that may come up through the process: • Current park, trail, and open space inventory and uses • Public art displays and opportunities • Bicycle network and connectivity • Trail network and connectivity • Facility use and needs • Desired system improvements • Recreation programs and special events • Expectations and preferences from various user groups City of Liberty Lake | Parks & Recreation Master Plan Page 2 2.3 Engagement Methods The specific methods for engagement include workshops, surveys, pop-ups, and stakeholder interviews. These are each detailed here: City Staff Stakeholder Interviews April 2025 SCJ Staff will interview identified City staff to build a foundational understanding of the Liberty Lake community and its parks and recreation system. This will allow SCJ to enter the planning process with internal knowledge that can be built upon through the rest of the engagement methods. Kick-off Workshop Thursday, May 22, 2025 from 4:00-6:00 pm at the Trailhead Event Center We will conduct a kick-off workshop to initiate the public conversation about the Parks and Recreation Master Plan. This meeting will orient participants to the larger parks and recreation context and vision and describe how they can influence the process. There will be engagement boards for community members to provide feedback and help cast a vision for this planning process. Results from this workshop will establish a foundational understanding of the community’s strengths and issues within the parks system and will create connections for the remainder of the project. Efforts will be made to include vulnerable and overburdened populations with specific outreach to faith communities, veterans groups, HOAs, schools, people with disabilities, and assisted living communities. Needs Assessment Survey Open from May 22-June 25, 2025 SCJ will develop and implement a digital needs assessment survey in both English and Spanish to be administered digitally, with paper copies also made available. We’ll launch the survey at the Kick-off Workshop. The online survey and public workshop will be used to identify a qualitative snapshot of how the community currently utilizes the City’s parks, recreation, open spaces, athletic facilities, and programs, what they believe is missing, and explore the public’s needs for desired park improvements. Paper versions will be made available for pickup at City Hall and other identified community spaces. The results will be analyzed and compared with City demographics to ensure we capture an inclusive and equitable population set. City of Liberty Lake | Parks & Recreation Master Plan Page 3 Community Stakeholder Interviews May-June 2025 SCJ Staff will interview community members who have been identified in order to hear more about their experience of the parks and recreation system in Liberty Lake. These interviews provide a good opportunity to talk more in depth with people from certain groups who may not be heard from as often – such as those with lower incomes, racial minorities, youth, people with disabilities, and more. Conversations will also be prioritized with people who lead community groups that have to do with parks and recreation, who can provide further insight on use and desired amenities. Social Pinpoint Mapping Workshop and Survey Early July 2025 The next workshop and online community input tool will focus on mapping. Participants both in-person and online will be able to contribute community insights, pinpoint concerns, share comments, upload images, and participate in discussions with other community members about the areas, issues, and ideas important to them. Social Pinpoint can be used on any cell phone or computer and can be distributed out through the identified communication channels for increased visibility and participation. Our second public workshop will focus on engaging people in these topics and getting specific locations in mind for needed improvements. Community Priorities Survey and Pop-ups August-September 2025 The final coordinated effort for engagement in this part of the plan will involve SCJ creating an interactive Community Priorities Survey. This will be after a clear set of possible park improvement projects or policy enhancements have been developed and a rough draft of a Capital Improvements Program (CIP) has been reviewed. The survey will be live and available online, and we will have an in- person engagement opportunity that mirrors the online survey. We will have pop-up engagement sessions in popular locations (such as community events, outside of the grocery store, etc.) in order to go to where people are instead of making them come to us to provide feedback. People will be able to share what they would most likely see. This will allow SCJ and the City to confirm and defend community-wide project priorities as they are implemented. City of Liberty Lake | Parks & Recreation Master Plan Page 4 3.0 Deliverables Summaries of engagement events will be compiled by SCJ and made available to the City throughout the engagement process. Deliverables that can be expected are: • Stakeholder Interview Summary o Completed by end of June 2025 • Kick-off Workshop Summary o Completed by early June 2025 • Needs Assessment Survey Summary o Completed by early July 2025 • Social Pinpoint Mapping Workshop and Survey Summary o Completed by end of July 2025 • CIP Engagement Summary o Completed by September 2025 In the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, all detailed engagement summaries will be included as appendices and key takeaways will be provided in the text of the plan. City of Liberty Lake | Parks & Recreation Master Plan Page 5 4.0 Timeline More specific dates are detailed above along with each engagement method, and this document will continue to be updated as each method of engagement approaches. This highlights the overall timeline for engagement for the first phase of this project. City of Liberty Lake | Parks & Recreation Master Plan Page 6  LIBERTY LAKE PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN Take the Parks Survey: Your input shapes the future of Liberty Lake! Visit bit.ly/LLParksSurvey or scan the QR Code to the right to take the survey and get involved! It’s important that the Liberty Lake Parks & Recreation Master Plan is community-driven, ensuring that community members are setting the priorities for how we enhance, grow, and connect our parks and recreation system for the future. Your feedback will meaningfully shape the plan’s priorities! Paper copies of the survey are available at City Hall. Questions, comments, or concerns about the project or process? Visit bit.ly/LLParksPlan to learn more!  Commented [LK2R1]: yes CHAPTER 7 CLIMATE & NATURAL ENVIRONMENT RESOURCES City of Liberty Lake Comprehensive Plan A. Introduction Commented [LK3]: Goals & Policies should follow the introduction. The Climate Change and Natural Environment Element combines several environmentally relatedaddresses a range of environmental topics that are essential to our community's sustainability and resilience topics, including. This includes the management of Critical Areas (wetlands, aquifer recharge areas, fish and wildlife conservation areas, frequently flooded areas and geologically hazardous areas), as well as tree conservation, shorelines, surface water quality and quantity, and air quality. The City Planning and Community Development Department maintains maps identifying natural environment and critical areas located within the City and retains maps surrounding the City. This element aligns with the directives of HB 1181, ensuring a comprehensive approach to climate adaptation and environmental stewardship aimed at reducing our community’s greenhouse gas emissions and improving our resilience to natural and man-made disasters. B. History and Background Commented [AM4]: This section should be revisited when we have a better idea of how we are organizing the chapter and integrating climate specific language The City of Liberty Lake has attracted desirable businesses in recent years because of the natural environment that contributes to a high quality of life. Protecting and enhancing this unique natural environment is the purpose of this Chapter. By ensuring the availability of clean air and water, and preserving critical areas and natural features, we will continue to make the City of Liberty Lake an inviting community. The following are the guiding principles for this element. a.Critical areas, including wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, aquifer recharge areas, Formatted: Numbered + Level: 2 + Numbering Style: a, geologically hazardous areas, and flood hazard areas, shall be preserved, protected, b, c, … + Start at: 1 + Alignment: Left + Aligned at: managed, and restored so that the functions and values of these areas are maintained. 1.03" + Indent at: 1.28" b.Shoreline areas shall be protected from land uses that degrade water quality and wildlife habitat. c. Surface and groundwater should be maintained at adequate quantity and quality, with land uses designed to ensure continued protection. d.Air quality shall be maintained at levels that protect human health, prevent injury to plants and animals, and preserves clear visibility. Critical areas include the following areas and natural places: 1. Wetlands; 2. Areas with a critical recharging effect on aquifers used for domestic purposes; 3. Fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas; 4. Frequently flooded areas; and 5. Geologically hazardous areas. The City of Liberty Lake acknowledges the essential role of protecting the functions of critical areas, which contributes significantly to the high quality of life our residents enjoy. These areas are integral to natural systems that manage stormwater, prevent flooding, and preserve water quality, while also offering recreational opportunities. Safeguarding these critical areas is not only environmentally prudent but also economically wise. Relying on natural landscapes for these functions avoids the substantial costs associated with constructing and the alternative is maintaining engineered systems designed to protect against floods and geological hazards and to purify drinking water.The City of Liberty Lake recognizes the importance of protecting the functions of critical areas. Preservation of these areas helps to maintain the high quality of life that is enjoyed by the residents of Liberty Lake. These natural systems play valuable roles in stormwater disposal, flood prevention, and water quality preservation, as well as providing recreational opportunities. Protection of critical areas makes economic sense, since  expensive engineered systems for protection from floods and geological hazards and for purification of drinking water. The Critical Areas Goals and Policies establish allowable uses in critical areas and provide development standards to mitigate impacts of development. Better information is needed to refine critical area designations and management recommendations. Effective protection requires an interdisciplinary approach to the evolution of best available science. Involvement by scientists from the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Ecology, area universities, and others including local agencies/jurisdictions such as Spokane Aquifer Joint Board, Spokane County, Spokane Regional Health District, and Liberty Lake Sewer and Water District, will continue to be essential to the advancement of critical area protection. Wetlands Wetlands are areas inundated or saturated by surface water or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas. Wetlands do not include those artificial wetlands intentionally created from non-wetland sites, including, but not limited to, irrigation and drainage ditches, grass- lined swales, canals, detention and retention facilities, wastewater treatment facilities, farm ponds, and landscape amenities. However, wetlands may include those artificial wetlands intentionally created from non-wetland areas to mitigate conversion of wetlands, if permitted by the City. In the past, wetlands were considered nuisances to be filled in and covered up. Experience has revealed the many beneficial functions provided by wetlands, including providing wildlife habitat, storage and disposal of stormwater, groundwater recharge and removal of contaminants. The primary purpose of the wetland goals and policies is to preserve these important natural functions. Commented [AM5]: Should we have a discussion about the limited amount of wetlands in the City? While the City of Liberty Lake currently has no designated wetlands within its municipal boundaries, it is situated near significant wetland areas, including those within Liberty Lake Regional Park and the seasonal wetlands at the south end of Liberty Lake. These nearby wetlands provide essential ecological functions such as wildlife habitat, stormwater management, and groundwater recharge. The City acknowledges the importance of these natural resources and is committed to regional collaboration to preserve and protect these vital ecosystems Aquifer Recharge Areas and Groundwater Underground aquifers are the sources of nearly all the drinking water for the City of Commented [AM6]: I have not heard the aquifer Liberty Lake. The purpose of the following goals and policies is to ensure the long-term referred to in the plural and other resources discuss it in quality of groundwater as a source of drinking water in Liberty Lake. The Spokane singular form. Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer (SVRP Aquifer), which serves as the sole source of domestic water for Liberty Lake, is recognized as a sole source aquifer under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act. The goals and policies outlined in this section aim to safeguard the long-term integrity of groundwater, ensuring it remains a viable source of drinking water for the community. The introduction of contaminants into aquifer recharge areas presents significant risks to the quality of this water. To mitigate these risks, the City of Liberty Lake is required to identify and preserve critical aquifer recharge areas—zones that are crucial for replenishing the aquifer used for potable water. The guidelines in this section are designed to maintain the purity and availability of our aquifer and its critical recharge zones. The Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer supplies all of the domestic water used for the City of Liberty Lake and is designated as a sole source aquifer by the federal Safe Drinking Water Act. Contaminants deposited in aquifer recharge areas pose risks to the water quality of the aquifers. To ensure quality groundwater, the City of Liberty Lake is required to designate and protect critical aquifer recharge areas. A critical aquifer recharge area is an area with a critical recharging effect on aquifers used for potable water. The goals and policies of this section provide guidance to protect our aquifers and critical aquifer recharge areas. Contamination Susceptibility of Aquifers Commented [AM7]: Some of the subsections involve aquifer contamination but that does not seem to be a uniting theme. Surface Water Quantity and Quality Water quality and quantity influences the domestic, economic, recreational, and natural environments of the City of Liberty Lake. Historically, clean water has been taken for granted. As growth and development have increased, so have problems associated with maintaining water quality and quantity. Industry, commercial business, agriculture, and residences all contribute to reduced water quality and quantity. From this perspective, a comprehensive approach must be taken to ensure future water quality and quantity. Stormwater Commented [AM8]: This seems inadequate in describing the importance of stormwater management Virtually all of the stormwater that runs off of developed and impervious and the City’s recent level of investment. It also refers to surfaces in the City discharges to the SVRP Aquifer. The potential for protecting wetlands. We should rewrite this to also pollutants in stormwater to enter the aquifer is well-established. describe the nexus between Liberty Lake’s 208 swales, Consideration of these conditions will inform approaches to stormwater aquifer recharge, and climate resilience management that the City develops as part of their SWMPStormwater Master Plan. The protection of the SVRP Aquifer from pollution, depletion, or degradation is an important aspect of stormwater planning for the City. Specifically, preparing and implementing measures to protect the aquifer from potential stormwater quality impacts are a consideration for the selection and application of stormwater control measures and their maintenance. The City will continue to use stormwater discharge to the ground as its primary disposition due to the advantages in doing so for groundwater supply, flood management and control, system costs, and low-impact design. Stormwater control measures identified in the Eastern Washington Stormwater Manual will continue to be applied to minimize the potential for adverse effects. The City will also continue to engage in regional planning, protection, and education efforts to protect this resource. The increased impervious area resulting from development changes the amount and the quality of runoff water. If left unmanaged, discharges of stormwater can cause flooding and water quality degradation, especially in already impaired water bodies. Increased impervious areas may also adversely impact groundwater recharge. Long-term solutions to stormwater problems will require creative problem-solving on a case-by- case basis. In drainage basins where development has already occurred, much of the natural stormwater system may be altered so that it no longer functions effectively. In areas where wetlands have been filled and natural drainageways altered, substantial investment in stormwater collection and disposal systems will be required. In newly developing areas where stormwater disposal has not yet become a problem, it is important to preserve the natural system of wetlands and drainageways to prevent problems from occurring as a result of future development. Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas include: a.Areas with which specifically identified species have a primary Formatted: Numbered + Level: 2 + Numbering Style: a, association. These specifically identified species include: b, c, … + Start at: 1 + Alignment: Left + Aligned at: endangered, threatened, sensitive and candidate; and 1.03" + Indent at: 1.28" secondarily: monitor and priority species (game and non-game), as identified by the Department of Fish & Wildlife in the Priority Habitats and species Species lists, hereinafter referred to as priority species, compiled in compliance with WAC-365-190-080. Commented [AM9]: This is not the correct WAC. This b.Habitats and species of local importance. WAC speaks generally about planning for critical areas c. Naturally occurring ponds under 20 acres and their submerged Commented [AM10R9]: WAC 365-190-130 - Fish and aquatic beds that provide fish or wildlife habitat. wildlife habitat conservation areas. d.Waters of the state. e.Lakes, ponds, streams, and rivers planted with game fish by a governmental or tribal entity; or f. State natural area preserves and natural resource conservation areas. Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation involves managing land in a way that helps wildlife species live and thrive in their natural environments. The goal is to prevent these populations from being split into smaller, isolated groups that might struggle to survive. Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation means land management for maintaining species in suitable habitats within their natural geographic distribution so that isolated subpopulations are not created. This does not mean maintaining all individuals of all species at all times, but it does mean cooperative and coordinated land use planning is critically important among counties and cities in a regionSpokane County and its various municipalities. Fish and wildlife are part of our heritage. Fishing, hunting, and simply watching wildlife A wide variety of outdoor recreation activities are valued by residents and visitors are valued recreational activities that and contribute to the local economy and quality of life. Preservation of the fish and wildlife habitat is the key to the continued existence of these species in the future. The following many of goals and policies in this chapter articulate the high value that community residents place on conservation of the local fish and wildlife. Frequently Flooded Areas Frequently flooded areas are lands in the floodplain subject to a 1- percent or greater chance of flooding in any given year. These areas include, but are not limited to, streams, rivers, lakes, sink areas, major natural drainageways, and wetlands. Frequently flooded areas are natural physical features of a watershed that play an important role in stormwater storage and disposal. The purpose of these goals is to maintain the natural function of these frequently flooded areas in order to protect private and public property and reduce the need to construct flood control facilities as well as protect the environment. Geologically Hazardous Areas Geologically hazardous areas are locations vulnerable to erosion, landslides, earthquakes, or other geological events. These areas are not suitable for commercial, residential, or industrial development due to potential risks to public health and safety. The aim of establishing specific goals and policies for these areas is to ensure that such hazards are identified and allow for hazard mitigation measures to be integrated into building designs. To protect public safety, development in these hazardous areas should be prohibited unless effective hazard mitigation strategies can be guaranteed. Geologically hazardous areas are areas that, because of their susceptibility to erosion, sliding, earthquake, or other geological events, are not suited to siting commercial, residential, or industrial development consistent with public health or safety concerns. The purpose of these goals and policies is to ensure that areas subject to geological hazard are identified so that hazard mitigation is incorporated into designs. The public safety must be protected by prohibition of development in geologically hazardous areas unless hazard mitigation is assured. Shorelines Commented [AM11]: We should rewrite this section to be tailored to Liberty Lake’s unique shoreline context. Shorelines are among the most sensitive and ecologically important environments in Washington. While the City of Liberty Lake does not contain any lakes, rivers, or streams within its municipal boundaries that qualify as Shorelines of the State, a narrow portion of the northern city limits does include regulated shorelands—defined as lands within 200 feet of the ordinary high-water mark of shoreline waters. These shorelands are associated with the adjacent Spokane River, which is designated as a Shoreline of Statewide Significance. Although the river itself lies outside City limits, the presence of shorelands within the City triggers planning responsibilities under the Washington State Shoreline Management Act (SMA, RCW 90.58). However, the City has not yet been required to adopt a Shoreline Master Program (SMP). The Washington State Department of Ecology has confirmed that while the City is subject to SMA requirements, it will not be required to develop a local SMP until grant funding is made available—expected around 2029, with formal notice anticipated in 2028. Ecology will support this process with a forthcoming desktop assessment to determine the precise extent of affected areas. Until such time as the City develops an SMP, the Spokane County Shoreline Master Program—adopted by reference prior to incorporation—remains applicable. In accordance with RCW 36.70A.480, goals and policies from the applicable SMP are considered part of this Comprehensive Plan and inform land use planning within shoreline areas. The City recognizes the importance of managing shoreline areas to ensure their ecological function, protect public health and safety, and support responsible recreation and land use. Future planning will reflect these values and ensure consistency with state law and regional coordination efforts. Shorelines are among the most valuable and fragile of environments. The purpose of these goals and policies is to manage the use of the shorelines, so that their protection, preservation, and restoration are assured. The intent is to foster reasonable and appropriate use of the shorelines but also to protect the natural character of the shorelines, preserve the ecology and resources, increase public access to publicly owned shorelines, and to increase recreational opportunities for the public. Bodies of water with a mean annual flow of greater than 20 cubic feet per second (in the case of flowing water) and an area greater than 20 acres (in the case of standing water) are considered Shorelines of the State and are subject to the Shoreline Management Act (SMA). The SMA area of jurisdiction is the body of water together with an adjacent strip of land generally 200 feet wide, measured landward from the ordinary high watermark. In compliance with the SMA, the City of Liberty Lake adopted the Spokane County Shoreline Management Program by reference prior to incorporation. The Shoreline Management Program established goals, policies, and regulations to protect shoreline areas. RCW 36.70A.480 requires that the Shoreline Master Program goals and policies be considered as part of the Comprehensive Plan. Watersheds The City of Liberty Lake should conduct ongoing watershed stewardship activities. The goals of watershed stewardship are to increase public awareness about watershed management efforts and to get participation in the process to ensure stewardship on residents' property  and homes. Promoting watershed advocacy is important because it can lay the foundations for public support and greater watershed stewardship. Most watershed protection tools require maintenance if they are to properly function over the long run. Some of the most critical watershed maintenance functions include management of conservation areas and buffer networks, and maintenance of stormwater practices and sewer networks. The Liberty Lake Sewer and Water District (LLSWD) can provide resource management expertise. LLSWD is involved at multiple scales of engagement, including long-term management of the Liberty Lake and greater Spokane River watersheds. There are six basic programs that can promote greater watershed stewardship: a.Watershed advocacy Formatted: Numbered + Level: 2 + Numbering Style: a, b.Watershed education b, c, … + Start at: 1 + Alignment: Left + Aligned at: c. Pollution prevention 1.03" + Indent at: 1.28" d.Watershed maintenance e.Indicator monitoring f. Watershed restoration Air Quality Several conditions contribute to air pollution in Liberty Lake. Human activities, including automobile use, wood stove use, and industrial and agricultural operations, generate airborne substances that can affect air quality. In addition, the Spokane area has been affected substantially by windblown dust from the entire central portion of the State. The Spokane Valley is also a natural basin in which air pollution is concentrated by an occasional temperature inversion (a situation in which lighter warm air overlies heavier cool air). A variety of air pollution control strategies have been employed in the City of Liberty Lake. The strategies include auto emission inspections, restrictions on open burning, wood stove certification, restriction on wood stove use when pollution levels are high, oxygenated fuels for cars, road paving, use of chemical deicers as an alternative to road sanding, and others. These measures, combined with cleaner-burning cars, have significantly improved air quality. However, traffic volumes continue to increase which could lead to degradation of air quality in the future. Air quality is intricately related to land use and transportation. The challenge presented to the region is to balance land use, transportation, and air quality in such a way that the community can continue to grow and prosper without compromising quality of life. Commented [AM12]: Delete and replace with GHG discussion but make sure GHG conversation talks about other air pollutants that are not GHG’s. Goals Natural Environment Goal 1: Preserve and enhance the City’s environmental resources and critical areas.environmentally sensitive areas. Commented [AM13]: “Environmentally sensitive areas” is not a defined term. Natural Environment Goal 2: Protect and conserve the quality and supply of groundwater groundwater quality from the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquiferin Liberty Lake area aquifers. Natural Environment Goal 3: Maintain air quality in the City of Liberty Lake that protects human health, prevents injury to plant and animal life, and preserves clear visibility. Natural Environment Goal 4: Preserve the unique beauty of the community Commented [LK14]: This new goal is a paraphrase from through the conservation of the native trees. the stormwater master plan. Natural Environment Goal 5: Implement and maintain a fully functional, Formatted: Font: Bold sustainable stormwater system that is integrated into the landscape, supports Commented [LK15]: These policies should be envisioned growth, protects residents, and nurtures the environment. associated with the goal that they support Policies Formatted: Highlight Natural Environment Policy 1: Maintain an inventory of highly sensitive areas Commented [AM16]: Preservation through zoning or appropriate for preservation. preservation through acquisition? Both present unique challenges particularly without BAS supporting the designation of “highly” sensitive areas. Natural Environment Policy 2: Require “no net loss” of wetland functions, value, Formatted: Highlight and quantity as a result of land use activities and establish a long-term goal of measurable gain of wetlands function and value.. Formatted: Highlight Formatted: Highlight Natural Environment Policy 3: Establish partnerships with non-profits entities, such as Cooperative Extension and the Spokane Aquifer Joint Board, to provide Commented [AM17]: It is curious that a policy is directing us to establish a goal. public information and resources to educate the community in how to protect critical areas and environmental resources from degradationProvide public information Commented [LK18R17]: We can (and do) require no net programs to demonstrate how to protect environmentally sensitive areas from loss through our critical area ordinance but I don’t see how we can meaningfully promote measurable gains of degradation. wetlands function and values, particularly given the well- draining soils that virtually preclude wetlands in the vast majority of lands within the City. Natural Environment Policy 4: Protect shorelines designated under the state Shoreline Management Act with the Spokane County Shoreline Master Program until Formatted: Highlight it is replaced by a City Master Program.through enforcement of the City’s Critical Formatted: Highlight Areas Ordinance. Commented [AM19]: This is an odd policy. Protection of wetlands is not optional so “consider protection” is the Natural Environment Policy 5: Encourage public and private groups to consider wrong term. Wetlands, are already owned by either protection and/or acquisition of wetlands and their buffer areas. public or private groups/individuals so the acquisition piece seems weird. Natural Environment Policy 6: New development and/or land use activities shall Perhaps it should be “Encourage public and private provide adequate buffer areas of permanent native and/or appropriate vegetation conservation groups…” I’m not convinced that is an adjacent to wetlands. These buffer areas shall be established based on the natural appropriate role for the City. function and beneficial values of the wetland as determined by established criteria. Commented [LK20R19]: Agreed. Natural Environment Policy 7: Require new development to avoid, minimize, and Formatted: Highlight mitigate potential adverse environmental impacts. Formatted: Highlight Natural Environment Policy 8: Require appropriate stormwater runoff and spill Formatted: Highlight control provisions for those who use and/or store potentially critical materials within Commented [AM21]: Is this still something we want to critical aquifer recharge areas. encourage? Commented [LK22R21]: We were exploring this 20 Natural Environment Policy 9: Encourage the application of permeable and semi- years ago, and found that it didn’t really work in the long permeable surfaces to parking areas and other innovative storm water control run. alternatives to facilitate storm water treatment and disposal. Formatted: Justified, Right: 0.86", Space Before: 0.05 pt, Line spacing: Multiple 1.01 li Natural Environment Policy 10: Promote water conservation through education, Formatted: Highlight incentives, and regulations in cooperation with water purveyors and the public. Commented [AM23]: Perhaps we could consider additional incentives in our landscape code. Natural Environment Policy 11: It is recognized that the aquifer used for drinking water in Liberty Lake has part of its recharge area located outside of the City. Formatted: Highlight Accordingly, the City of Liberty Lake should coordinate and collaborate with Formatted: Highlight surrounding jurisdictions to protect groundwater. Formatted: Highlight Natural Environment Policy 12: Water-conserving landscaping and other Formatted: Highlight conservation practices should be encouraged. Incentives should be used to reduce water consumption. Commented [AM24]: Special consideration resulting in what alternative outcome? Natural Environment Policy 13: Special consideration should be given to proposed Commented [LK25R24]: Incentives? developments or activities that recycle or find use for wastewater. Formatted: Highlight Natural Environment Policy 14: Explore the feasibility of encouraging double Formatted: Highlight metering for irrigation use in all new developments. Formatted: Highlight Commented [AM26]: This seems like something that Natural Environment Policy 15: Make the public aware ofPartner with Spokane would be implemented by LLSWD and would not County to educate the public on the long-term expense and public health encourage water conservation. consequences of failure to protect critical aquifer recharge areas from degradation Formatted: Highlight and provide information on practices that threaten water quantity and quality. Formatted: Highlight Natural Environment Policy 16: Provide convenient public access to groundwater Commented [AM27]: Do we have this information? modeling documents and regulations to protect critical aquifer recharge areas. Formatted: Highlight Natural Environment Policy 17: Trucks and trains carrying critical materials should Formatted: Highlight be required to use preferred critical material routes where emergency spill response Commented [AM28]: Do we have train tracks? How do plans exist. we require trucks to do this? Commented [LK29R28]: We do not. Natural Environment Policy 18: Promote public education to increase the level of responsibility for air quality. Formatted: Highlight Formatted: Highlight Natural Environment Policy 19: Encourage public awareness of the increased Formatted: Highlight property values associated with tree conservation. Formatted: Highlight Formatted: Highlight Natural Environment Policy 20 Encourage programs that provide assistance to the Formatted: Font: Not Bold, Highlight public in caring for and nurturing trees. Formatted: Highlight Formatted: Highlight Natural Environment Policy 21: Encourage tree planting programs that emphasize Commented [AM30]: We need to look at our native species and encourage species diversity. conservation section. We do not require “replanting” nor do we provide incentives. Natural Environment Policy 22: Maintain tree conservation regulations that Commented [LK31R30]: The City’s new Urban Forester discourage removal of mature trees, require appropriate tree replanting when is reviewing our street tree requirements and will be recommending revisions. removal is necessary to accommodate development, and provide incentive to conserve trees in accordance with the City’s designation as a “Tree City USA”. Formatted: Highlight Formatted: Highlight Natural Environment Policy 23: Clearing and grading activities shall be limited Formatted: Highlight based upon topography and seasonal weather conditions. Natural Environment Policy 24: Within geologically hazardous areas, site Formatted: Highlight alteration, grading, and filling shall be the minimum necessary to accomplish approved designs/plans. Natural Environment Policy 25: All development proposals should submit an Formatted: Highlight erosion control plan prior to receiving approval. Natural Environment Policy 26: Geologically hazardous areas demonstrated to be Formatted: Highlight highly sensitive to modification by development activities shall be preserved in a natural condition for uses other than development. Natural Environment Policy 27: Continue to require all new development to implement integrated stormwater treatment in accordance with the Eastern Washington Stormwater Manual or equivalent best management practices. Natural Environment Policy 28: Fund the long-term maintenance of stormwater infrastructure through a dedicated stormwater utility fee assessed on all developed properties as based upon its area of impervious surface. Formatted: Font: Bold  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 • Urban Design – Redlines & Policies January 22, 2025 July 9, 2025 • LCA Summary • Draft Sign Code Revisions & Redlines • 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: • Utilities & Essential Public Facilities - February 26, 2025 Workshop re Utilities • Sign Code Workshop with PC & CEC August 13, 2025 • Housing Policy Workshop • Sign Code Public Hearing • Network analysis -Scope & Timeline • Co-living Housing Public Hearing March 12, 2025 • Utilities & Essential Public Facilities – • Econ Development – Redlines & Policies Redlines & Policies • Cultural & Historical - Redlines & Policies GHG SUB-ELEMENT SUBMITTAL TO March 26, 2025 COMMERCE – AUGUST 15 – JANUARY 15 • Recap of Housing Policy Workshop • Housing & Community Service – Goals August 27, 2025 & Policies • Review Revisions – Utilities & Essential • Co-living Housing Workshop Public Facilities April 9, 2025 • Review Urban Design Revisions • Housing & Community Service – • Employment Projections Revised Policies & Redlines September 10, 2025 • Economic Development Revised • Parks Plan Update Redlines • Network Analysis Workshop • Review Cultural & Historic Revisions September 24, 2025 April 23, 2025 • Outline of Required Development Code • Sign Code Workshop Amendments • Housing & Community Service – • Review Draft Climate Element Updated Chapter October 8, 2025 • Co-living Housing Amendment • Capital Facilities Plan Overview May 14, 2025 • Preliminary Draft of Combined Natural • GHG Priority Actions and Emissions Environment/ Climate Element Targets October 22, 2025 • Climate Vulnerability & Risk Assessment • Parks, Arts & Recreation Plan Report Presentation May 28, 2025 • Transportation - Redlines & Policies • Land Use – Redlines & Policies, Map • Review Introduction & Governance • Review Econ Development Revisions Chapters • Development Code Checklist November 12, 2025 June 11, 2025 • Introduction & Governance Chapters • Parks, Recreation & Open Space Update • Capital Facilities Plan Workshop • Review Natural Environment Redlines • Implementation Plan Workshop December 10, 2025  • Review Revisions to Transportation Element • Capital Facilities Plan Element January 14, 2026 • Parks & Recreation Chapter Review • Other Chapter Reviews as needed 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 Housing & Required Development Code Amendments March 11, 2026 • Workshop on Housing & Required Development Code Amendment March 25, 2026 • Workshop on Housing & Required Development Code Amendments HOUSING & REQUIRED CODE AMENDMENTS TO COMMERCE FOR REVIEW APRIL 15 – JUNE 15 April 8, 2026 • Public Hearing on the Periodic Comp Plan Update April 22, 2026 • Workshop on Other Development Code Amendments COMP PLAN PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE CITY COUNCIL MAY 5 May 13, 2026 • Workshop on Other Development Code Amendments CITY COUNCIL 1ST & 2ND ORDINANCE READING, MAY 19 & JUNE 2 RESOLUTION FINDING FINAL COMP PLAN PERIODIC UPDATE IN COMPLIANCE WITH RCW 36.70A.130(1), JUNE 2 June 10, 2026 • Workshop on Other Development Code Amendments July 8, 2026 • Final Review of All Development Code Amendments August 12, 2026 • Public Hearing on Required Development Code Amendments DEVELOPMENT CODE PUBLKIC HEARING BEFORE CITY COUNCIL SEPTEMBER 15 CITY COUNCIL 1ST & 2ND ORDINANCE READING, OCTOBER 7 & 21