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File #: 25-0718    Version: 1
Type: study session Status: Filed
File created: 8/13/2025 In control: City Council
Agenda date: 9/16/2025 Final action: 9/16/2025
Title: Olympia 2045 - Introduction Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan Update
Attachments: 1. Draft Introduction Chapter, 2. Planning Commission Letter, 3. Social Justice & Equity Commission Letter, 4. Public Comments, 5. Project Webpage
Title
Olympia 2045 - Introduction Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan Update

Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
The Land Use and Environment Committee reviewed the draft Olympia 2045 - Introduction Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan and suggested minor revisions. The Committee recommended the chapter be forwarded to the full City Council for discussion at a Study Session.

City Manager Recommendation:
Review and discuss the draft Introduction Chapter of the Olympia 2045 Comprehensive Plan.

Report
Issue:
Whether to review and discuss the draft Introduction Chapter of the Olympia 2045 Comprehensive Plan.

Staff Contact:
Susan McLaughlin, Director, Community Planning & Economic Development, 360.753.8206
Tim Smith, Deputy Director, Community Planning & Economic Development, 360.570.3915
Joyce Phillips, Planning Manager, Community Planning & Economic Development, 360.570.3722

Presenter(s):
Joyce Phillips, Planning Manager

Background and Analysis:
Olympia's Comprehensive Plan
Olympia's first Comprehensive Plan (Plan) was adopted more than 60 years ago. With the passage of the State's Growth Management Act in 1990, Olympia prepared a new plan which was completed in 1994. The plan was amended a few times over the years. In 2014, the City completed a major rewrite of the Plan, with broad input and participation by community members.

The Plan covers the area of the Olympia City Limits and the urban growth area. It addresses issues like housing, land use, transportation, parks and open spaces, utilities and public services, and the economy. It also reflects community values, such as public participation, addressing climate change, and tree preservation. Once adopted, the Plan becomes the adopted vision for how and where our community will grow and change, and be served with utilities, infrastructure, and public services. Comprehensive Plans must be updated every 10 years.

Growth Management Act (GMA)
The GMA (RCW 36.70A) establishes a framework for comprehensi...

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