Title
Agenda Item:
Ordinance Amending Olympia Municipal Code Regarding Agriculture Uses and Standards
Body
Issue:
Shall changes be made to the Olympia Municipal Code relating to urban agriculture?
Committee Recommendation:
The Olympia Planning Commission recommends changes to the Olympia Municipal Code dealing with urban agriculture.
City Manager's Recommendation:
Move to approve on second reading changes to Olympia Municipal Code Chapter 5.24, Chapter 18.02,180, Chapter 18.04.060 and Chapter 18.40.060. The ordinance reflects direction by the City Council on January 8, 2013.
Staff Contact:
Jennifer Kenny, Associate Planner, 360.753.8031
Presenter(s):
Jennifer Kenny, Associate Planner
Background and Analysis:
On January 8, 2013 the City Council directed staff to amend Olympia Municipal Code Chapter 5.24, Chapter 18.02.180, Chapter 18.04.060 and Chapter 18.40.060, and present the revised ordinance for first reading. Background information about prior outreach and review is included in the staff report for the January 8 meeting.
The changes that Council directed staff to make are: reduce fence permit fee to zero for agricultural fences, reduce setbacks for farm animal structures to five feet for front, side and rear yards, and to apply the code changes to industrial, commercial and residential zones.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
The Planning Commission and City Council received many comments in support of the changes and two in opposition. Sustainable South Sound also reviewed and provided comments on the changes.
Options:
1. Approve the revised ordinance as proposed.
2. Modify the ordinance between first and second reading in two weeks.
3. Schedule and hold a public hearing before taking action.
Financial Impact:
No significant impact.