Planning Commission

MEETING MINUTES TUMWATER PLANNING COMMISSION July 8, 2025 CONVENE: 7:00 p.m. PRESENT: Chair Elizabeth Robbins, Vice Chair Brandon Staff, and Commissioners Terry Kirkpatrick, Sandra Nelson, and Gina Kotek Excused: Grace Edwards, Nelida Daniels Staff: Housing and Land Use Planner Erika Smith-Erickson, Associate Planner Dana Bowers, Community Development Department Director Brad Medrud Others: Chris Lester, Thurston County Realtors Association CHANGES TO THE The Director’s Report was moved to the last item on the agenda. AGENDA: COMMISSIONER’S Commissioner Nelson learned from a Tumwater Historic REPORT: Preservation Commission member that Trosper Road is on 47th parallel. Commissioner Nelson thought it would be interesting to have a sign. Vice Chair Staff discussed bringing more visitation to the City of Tumwater with New Experience Olympia & Beyond CEO Micheal Day. Opportunities discussed included inviting FIFA to Tumwater and hosting large events. Tumwater/Olympia Region is designated as a host site. Other commissioners recognized the importance of tourism. PUBLIC COMMENT: No public comment. 2025 DEVELOPMENT Planner Smith-Erickson presented on State required updates to CODE UPDATE: the Tumwater Municipal code due with the Comprehensive Plan at the end of 2025. House Bill 5558 requires middle housing TUMWATER PLANNING COMMISSION–JULY 8, 2025 1  development code updates to be completed by December 31,2025. The amendment topics covered were related to middle housing, accessory dwelling units, co- housing, clear design standards, permit timelines, and religious organization’s role in housing. • Commissioner Robbins inquired to why non-religious groups are not eligible for sponsored housing density bonus and encampment regulations. • Commissioner Nelson asked for clarification on E2SHB 1110 and common interest communities and working with HOA’s to adjust covenants. • Commissioner Robbins noted concerns with emergency services, access, and parking with the proposed ADU amendments. • Commissioner Robbins asked if the Commission could be briefed on middle housing and housing topics nationwide, including example codes from other cities. • The Commission discussed co-living, converting existing residences into co-living, and the difference between co- living and individual room rentals. FOOD SYSTEMS PLAN Consultant Potasnik provided an update including three goals UPDATE: and thirteen policies to guide actions and strategies to improve Tumwater’s food system. • Commissioner Kirkpatrick noted the absence of Catholic Community Services as a partner in the access section. • Commissioner Nelson noted that the need for local services may change due to recent changes in food assistance programs at the federal level. MANAGER’S REPORT: Director Medrud informed the Commissioners that five candidates have accepted invitations to interview on July 29, 2025 for the Deputy Community Development Director position. NEXT MEETING DATE: The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, July 22, 2025. ADJOURNMENT: With there being no further business, Vice Chair Staff moved, and Commissioner Nelson seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting and Chair Robbins adjourned the meeting at 9:00 p.m. Prepared by Erika Smith-Erickson, Housing and Land Use Planner and Dana Bowers, Associate Planner TUMWATER PLANNING COMMISSION–JULY 8, 2025 2