Title
Ordinance Consolidating Land Use Permit Processes
Recommended Action
Recommend the attached ordinance consolidating land use permit processes to City Council for adoption.
Report
Issue:
Should the Olympia Municipal Code's existing land use permitting processes (Title 18 OMC) be simplified and clarified to increase flexibility and predictability, as called for in the City's adopted Housing Action Plan.
Staff Contact:
Leonard Bauer, Director, Community Planning and Development 360.753.8206
Presenter(s):
Leonard Bauer, Director, Community Planning and Development
Background and Analysis:
The Planning Commission held a public hearing on the attached ordinance April 3, 2023. Public comments addressed concerns over the draft ordinance's complexity and insufficient time to review it. There was also comment in support of clarifying permitting requirements. Commissioners extended the written comment period until noon on April 7. No additional written comments were received.
Commissioners requested additional information about any changes of permits to the new Type I - IV permits and notice requirements. Attached is a summary of current permits referenced the existing Olympia Municipal Code land use administration chapter (OMC 18.72.080) and the corresponding Permit Type in the draft ordinance. The attachment also notes any specific changes to 'fit' that permit type. An additional attachment summarizes changes resulting from consolidating public notice of application into the new Permit Types.
Purpose of this Project
The City of Olympia adopted its Housing Action Plan in June of 2021, putting forth strategies and establishing a long-term approach to increase the City's housing supply, promote a variety of housing choices, and to facilitate the development of stable, affordable housing. The City was subsequently awarded a Housing Action Plan Implementation Grant in the amount of $100,000 from the Washington State Department of Commerce (DOC) to imple...
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