Title
Amendments to the Municipal Code related to project permitting timelines - Briefing
Recommended Action
Information only, no action requested at this meeting.
Report
Issue:
Discussion of potential minor amendments to the Olympia Municipal Code (OMC) to bring the code into compliance with new State law regarding permitting processing timelines. The new law breaks timelines into "buckets" based on required public process allowing more time for land use processes with more community input opportunities and vice versa for those with less. Draft changes are similar to those identified in the update but in some cases are slightly longer to accommodate for Olympia's robust public engagement process that far exceeds state law.
Staff Contact / Presenter:
Nicole Floyd, Principal Planner, Community Planning and Development, 360.570.3768
Background and Analysis:
In 1995 the State underwent regulatory reform which resulted in significant changes to the way all jurisdictions in Washington perform Land Use Review. Reform included standardized timelines for permit processing, including total time allowed, which until now has been set at a standard of 120 days. Most jurisdictions, including Olympia, have struggled meeting this seemingly arbitrary numerical standard, especially as the technical challenges of developing the remaining vacant sites has increased. Tracking and reporting on compliance has always been required, but rewards and repercussions have been absent until now which is likely to affect the approach many jurisdictions take.
Olympia has a long-standing commitment to tracking, measuring, reporting, and most importantly improving our permit processing timelines. Timeline efficiency is a long-standing metric within community planning. Several process improvement initiatives have occurred over the years. In 2015 the City engaged outside consultants resulting in a sophisticated and efficient process for permits. Increased improvements occurred through ...
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