Title
Downtown Strategy - Selection of Stakeholder Work Group Member
Report
Issue:
The public process to form a Downtown Strategy kicks off in fall 2015. A “Stakeholder Work Group” will meet once a month to advise staff and consultants as they prepare analysis, recommendations and public outreach materials. The Olympia Planning Commission (OPC) Chair is asked to have one member selected to participate in this work group.
Staff Contact:
Amy Buckler, Senior Planner, Community Planning & Development, abuckler@ci.olympia.wa.us, 360-570-5847
Presenter(s):
Amy Buckler
Background and Analysis:
On May 19, 2015, the City Council approved a general framework, scope and public participation plan for the Downtown Strategy. This included forming a ‘Stakeholder Work Group’ that will advise staff and consultants during the public process and drafting of the strategy. Further detail about this group’s role and level of commitment is included in attachment 1.
The OPC Chair is asked to have one member selected to participate in the ‘Stakeholder Work Group’. The Planning Commissioner who serves on the ‘Stakeholder Work Group’ is not expected to formally represent the Planning Commission as a body. Rather to lend insight from the perspective of a Commissioner to the work group, as well as help to keep the Commission updated about work group happenings.
Participation in the Stakeholder Work Group is not the only opportunity for Planning Commissioners to get involved with the Downtown Strategy. This past summer, two Commissioners participated in the consultant selection process. Other opportunities include:
• Commissioners are encouraged to participate in 4 public workshops that will occur between November 2015-July 2016, as table hosts, facilitators or note-takers. (Dates & details will be released in mid-October)
• A joint advisory board is being planned for Spring 2016
• OPC will review the final draft strategy and provide a recommendation to the City Council regarding the strategy’s consistency with the Comprehensive Plan. (In early to mid-2016, staff and consultants will engage the City Council and OPC in a discussion about preferences for the final review process.)
• OPC will hold a public hearing and make a recommendation to the City Council regarding any proposed development code changes resulting from the strategy (to include zoning and design changes.)
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
None known
Options:
Prior to this meeting, the OPC Chair will work with staff to determine what the selection process is.
Financial Impact:
Included in base budget