On the agenda: Chewelah meeting — data center (Jun 17)

Preliminary CHEWELAH CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at 6:30pm
Chewelah City Hall, 301 E. Clay St.
Website: www.cityofchewelah.org

Council packets may be reviewed at City Hall, 301 E Clay, Room 104 as information becomes available.
Microsoft Teams meeting
Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/22228008479518?p=kt930iWpgLZzHPtyeG
Meeting ID: 222 280 084 795 18
Passcode: nD3YJ9KH
Page

1.

Call to Order

2.

Pledge of Allegiance

3.

Special Business

1

a.

Small City Month

4.

Approval of/Changes to Proposed Agenda

5.

Audience Comments

6.

Consent Agenda

2

a.

Minutes: City Council Workshop Meeting 6/3/2026 - Approve

3-5

b.

Minutes: City Council Regular Meeting 6/3/2026 – Approve

7.

Presentations – none

8.

Public Hearing – none

9.

Mayor’s Report

10.

City Administrator Report

11.

Committee/Commission Reports
a.

Public Works & Capital (Chair John Kabosky) – met 6/8/2026

b.

Finance (Chair Paula Randall) – met 6/8/2026

c.

Public Safety (Chair Sharon Ludwig) – met 6/16/2026

d.

Community & Development (Chair Jon Hardy-McCauliff) – met 6/16/2026

12.

Councilmember Comments

13.

Executive Session – none

14.

Old Business – none

15.

New Business

6-8

a.

Resolution 26-14: RCO Park Planning Grant Application – Approve (5 min)

9-10

b.

Resolution 26-15: Carbon Credit Exchange Authority – Approve (10 min)

11-19

c.

Ordinance 1025: Purchasing Code – Approve (5 min)

20-71

d.

Ordinance 1026: Critical Areas Update – Approve (5 min)

16.

Motion for Adjournment

Informational Enclosures
•

Online Meeting Attendance Report

Preliminary CHEWELAH CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at 6:30pm
Chewelah City Hall, 301 E. Clay St.
Website: www.cityofchewelah.org

Council packets may be reviewed at City Hall, 301 E Clay, Room 104 as information becomes available.
Microsoft Teams meeting
Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/22228008479518?p=kt930iWpgLZzHPtyeG
Meeting ID: 222 280 084 795 18
Passcode: nD3YJ9KH

Note: times listed for agenda items are provided as guidance and are approximate
Guidelines for Audience Comments:
Public comments are an important part of the public process. We take them seriously and factor them into the decisions we make. During Audience Comments, members of the
public are invited to address Council regarding matters that are directly related to city programs, projects, services, or events, except: Public Hearing items, Quasi-Judicial items,
Campaign-related matters.
Anyone from the public who wishes to comment will have the opportunity to do so. Please direct comments to the whole Council and not individuals. While this is not a questionand-answer session, we will contact you to follow up, if needed.
When recognized,
1.
Step up to the podium.
2.
State your Name, relationship to City (e.g. resident, property owner, business owner).
3.
Speak clearly and limit comments to 3 minutes.
Written comments can be submitted at any time to [email protected]
Personal attacks, obscene language, derogatory remarks and disruptive behavior such as shouting, booing, clapping, and stomping feet will not be permitted. If a speaker is out of
order, the mayor will direct the speaker to return to his or her seat. If a speaker does not comply, the mayor may take a recess to restore order. If a disruption to the meeting
occurs and order cannot be restored, the mayor may proceed to use one of the options provided for in RCW 42.30.050 to ensure orderly continuation of the meeting.
If you have special needs, please contact City Hall in advance of the meeting so that special arrangements can be made.

CITY OF CHEWELAH
PROCLAMATION
Proclaiming June 2026 Small Cities Month
WHEREAS, small cities and towns under 50,000 population are the home to millions
of Americans and constitute most municipalities across the United States; and
WHEREAS, small cities and towns strive to strengthen their communities through the
provision of services and programs to improve the quality of life for all citizens; and
WHEREAS, the federal government is an essential partner in the success of small
cities and towns, and must be encouraged to continue to support programs and
legislation that strengthen small communities; and
WHEREAS, state governments are partners in the success of small cities and towns,
and must be encouraged to continue to support key programs and legislation that
strengthen communities; and
WHEREAS, organizations, businesses and citizens are partners in the success of
small cities and towns, and must be encouraged to continue to grow their efforts to
make small communities a viable choice for people to live in; and
WHEREAS, during these challenging economic times, the need for a renewed
intergovernmental partnership to support essential public services is more important
than ever to ensure the safety and growth of small-town America; and
WHEREAS, the National League of Cities President and the Small Cities Council of
the National League of Cities have declared June 2026 as Small Cities Month;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Lindsay Baxter, Mayor of the City of Chewelah do hereby
proclaim June 2026 as Small Cities Month, and encourage President Trump,
Congress, state governments, organizations, businesses, and all citizens to
recognize this event, and to work together this month and throughout the year to
invest in small cities and towns to better the lives of all residents.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 17th day of June, 2026.
_____________________________
Lindsay Baxter, Mayor
Attest:
_____________________________
Julie Culverwell, Clerk/Treasurer

CHEWELAH CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP MINUTES
June 3, 2026, 5:30pm
Chewelah City Hall, 301 E. Clay St.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Lindsay Baxter; Blake Weirs, Position #1 (virtual); Sharon
Ludwig, Position #2; Jon Hardy-McCauliff, Position#3; John Kabosky, Position #4; Lonnie Hoxie,
Position #6; Paula Randall, AT LARGE Position.
STAFF PRESENT: Deavon Jacobson, Deputy Clerk; Tonya Wallace, City Administrator; Rich LeHew,
Building Official; Charlie Martin, Administrative Assistant.
ABSENT: Bruce Nupp, Position #5.
GUESTS: Aaron Qualls and Andrew Oliver, SCJ Alliance.
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Baxter called the meeting to order at 5:30 pm.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGENCE: Mayor Baxter led the flag salute.
WORKSHOP:
Aaron and Andrew gave staff reports on the Comprehensive Plan update requirements for land
capacity and housing allocations. Council reviewed/discussed.
ADJORNMENT:
Mayor Baxter adjourned the meeting at 6:25 pm.

_____________________________________
Lindsay Baxter, Mayor

_________________________________________
Deavon Jacobson – Deputy Clerk

These minutes are not verbatim. Recordings of this meeting are available at city hall.

Workshop Meeting Minutes - Page 1 of 1 – June 3, 2026

CHEWELAH CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
June 3, 2026, 6:30pm
Chewelah City Hall, 301 E. Clay St.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Lindsay Baxter; Blake Weirs, Position #1 (virtual); Sharon
Ludwig, Position #2; John Kabosky, Position #3; Jon Hardy-McCauliff, Position #4; Bruce Nupp,
Position #5; Lonnie Hoxie, Position #6; Paula Randall, AT LARGE Position.
STAFF PRESENT: Deavon Jacobson, Deputy Clerk; Tonya Wallace, City Administrator; Russell
Wittenberg, Police Officer; Mike Waters, City Attorney.
ABSENT: None.
GUESTS: Aaron Qualls and Malissa Burgess, SCJ Alliance.
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Baxter called the meeting to order at 6:30 pm.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGENCE: Mayor Baxter led the flag salute.
SPECIAL BUSINESS: Mayor Baxter read verbatim a Proclamation dedicating the Chewelah Pioneer
Cemetery.
APPROVAL OF/AMENDMENT TO PROPOSED AGENDA ITEMS:
Councilmember Kabosky would like to add under new business changing the second meeting in
July to a workshop.
Councilmember Nupp motioned to approve the agenda as amended; seconded by Councilmember
Kabosky. Roll call vote taken with all in favor, motion carried unanimously.
AUDIENCE COMMENTS ON AGENDA ITEMS:
Jolene McGee – thanked council for their work and supports moving the council meeting and gave
reasons why.
Teige Venemon – disc golf course is not getting mowed, wants the city to mow it.
Ron McCoy – supports changing the council meetings, heard data center is coming to town, does
not support it.
CONSENT AGENDA:
Councilmember Hardy-McCauliff motioned to approve the Consent Agenda; seconded by
Councilmember Kabosky. Roll call vote taken with all in favor, motion carried unanimously.
PUBLIC HEARING: Critical Areas Ordinance Update:
Mayor Baxter opened the public hearing at 6:41pm.
Malissa Burgess and Aaron Qualls, SCJ Alliance gave staff reports on the Critical Areas update to
the Comprehensive Plan.
Council had questions/discussed with Aaron and Malissa.
Written Comment: None.
Regular Meeting Minutes - Page 1 of 3 – June 3, 2026

CHEWELAH CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
June 3, 2026, 6:30pm
Chewelah City Hall, 301 E. Clay St.
Public Comment: None.
Mayor Baxter closed the public hearing at 6:55pm.
MAYOR’S REPORT: the Water Main Replacement made the Appropriations List, attended the Peer
to Peer Capstone Celebration at the hotel last night.
CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT: Personnel updates: Public Works is fully staffed again; two
sergeants from Everett and Spokane will be providing training to police department; new officer
Tyler Hunt graduates June 9th.
Operations updates: State Auditor is auditing 2024-2025; more visitors in the campground since
starting Camp Spot; progress on the Pilot Food Truck Program.
Project updates: testing wells in two weeks; waiting for feedback from RCO on the specifics for the
first phase of the City Center Plaza Park; working to complete the bid package for the Main Ave Tree
Project.
COMMITTEE/COMMISSION REPORTS: None.
COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS:
Councilmember Hardy-McCauliff questions about the public comment on Data Centers, Tonya
answered.
Councilmember Weirs thanked Tonya for her work on the campground improvements.
CLOSED SESSION – RCW 42.30.140(4)(a) Collective Bargaining matters: Mayor Baxter called the
Closed Session to order at 7:15pm for 10 minutes. The regular meeting was called back to order at
7:25pm.
EXECUTIVE SESSION – RCW 42.30.110(1)(i)) discussion with legal counsel about current or
potential litigation.
Mayor Baxter called the executive session to order at 7:25pm for 15 minutes. Mayor Baxter
announced an extension at 7:40pm for five minutes. The regular meeting was called back to order
at 7:45pm.
OLD BUSINESS: None.
NEW BUSINESS:
July Workshop: Councilmember Kabosky explained the reasons for suggesting the change and
what topics he would like to discuss. Councilmember Nupp motioned to approve the 15th of July
Meeting as a Workshop; seconded by Councilmember Hardy-McCauliff. Council had a lengthy
discussion with the City Attorney. Roll call vote taken, 7-0, motion failed: 0 ayes, 7 nays.
Councilmember Ludwig motioned to approve the 15th of July Meeting as a Workshop at 6:00pm with
a place to be determined later; seconded by Councilmember Hardy-McCauliff. Council discussed
in length. Roll call vote taken with all in favor, motion carried unanimously.

Regular Meeting Minutes - Page 2 of 3 – June 3, 2026

CHEWELAH CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
June 3, 2026, 6:30pm
Chewelah City Hall, 301 E. Clay St.
ADJORNMENT: Councilmember Randall motioned to adjourn; seconded by Councilmember
Ludwig. Roll call vote taken with all in favor, meeting adjourned at 8:01 pm.

_____________________________________
Mayor Lindsay Baxter

_________________________________________
Deavon Jacobson – Deputy Clerk

These minutes are not verbatim. Recordings of this meeting are available at city hall.
Regular Meeting Minutes - Page 3 of 3 – June 3, 2026

CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA BRIEFING REPORT

Resolution 26-14:
Carbon Allowance Exchange

Proposed Council Action: Approve

CITY COUNCIL MEETING: 6/17/26
DEPARTMENT: Electric Department
OTHER COUNCIL MEETINGS: Finance Committee 6/8, PW/Capital Committee 6/8
EXHIBITS: Resolution 26-14
SUMMARY STATEMENT: Staff recommend approval of Resolution 26-14 authorizing the registration of
users and the City to the DOE CITSS and consignment of carbon allowances in the upcoming auctions.
Background – The City has accumulated 3,604 carbon allowances by the Washington Department of
Ecology (DOE) used for compliance progress under the Climate Commitment Act (CCA). Allowances are
allocated each year to utilities which can be used for specific purposes. Businesses and individuals can
purchase allowances so that they are not fined for noncompliance with the CCA.
Per DOE, “Electric utilities cannot sell or trade no-cost allowances to other entities. Electric utilities must
use no-cost allowances for compliance, save them for future use, transfer them to electrical generation
facilities or a federal power marketing administration if eligible, or sell them to quarterly auctions. When
consigning no-cost allowances to an auction, utilities are not required to apply to participate in that
auction. Electric utilities must use the proceeds from the sale of no-cost allowances at auction to benefit
utility customers, with priority given to mitigate any rate impacts to low-income customers.”
Staff recommends consigning the allowances at the next quarterly auctions in 2026 to monetize them for
the benefit of ratepayers and CETA Compliance in accordance with the City’s CCA Implementation Plan.
Next Steps – The City Administrator and Electric Director will register to be users of CITSS and establish a
City exchange account. The user registration and account setup must be completed at least 75 days prior
to a quarterly auction. The next auctions are in September and December.
Financial Information – If the City had sold its 3,012 allowances at the prior auction, the sell proceeds
would have amounted to $235,197.04 ($65.26/allowance).
Alternatives – The City could continue to accumulate allowances for future uses. The value of
allowances is subject to market changes. In theory, as businesses become more compliant with the CCA,
they will acquire fewer allowances and the price per allowance will decrease.
RECOMMENDATION: Approval of Resolution 26-14.
MOVE TO: Approve Resolution 26-14 authorizing the City to participate in the Cap-and-Invest auctions to
monetize the City’s allocated allowances.

RESOLUTION 26-14
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY TO PARTICIPATE IN WASHINGTON’S
CLIMATE COMMITMENT ACT (CCA) CAP-AND-INVEST PROGRAM
WHEREAS, Washington State’s Climate Commitment Act (CCA) – a landmark ‘Cap-andInvest’ Program funded by Washington’s largest carbon emitting sources which is designed to
help Washington meet its goal of reducing statewide carbon emissions by ninety-five
percent(95%) by 2050; and,
WHEREAS, the Washington Department of Ecology (DOE) operates an auction and trading
system to control Green House Gas Emissions, with allowances or credits, to be bought and sold
quarterly as part of a market-based exchange by businesses based on their annual emissions; and,
WHEREAS, the City of Chewelah (City) operates an electric utility and is allocated no-cost
allowances consistent with RCW 70A.65.120; and,
WHEREAS, the City must use the allocated allowances for compliance, save them for future
use, transfer them to Electrical Generation Facilities, or sell them to quarterly auctions; and,
WHEREAS, the City purchases clean power from Bonneville Power Administration and does
not require the allocated allowances for compliance or future use; and,
WHEREAS, if the City consigned its allowances to the auction, the proceeds from the sale must
be used to benefit the ratepayers of the city’s electric utility, with priority given to mitigate rate
impacts to low-income customers; and,
WHEREAS, DOE has allocated 3,604 allowances to the City through 2026, which can be
consigned in the last quarterly auctions of 2026 and the proceeds used to mitigate potential rate
impacts of utility customers.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHEWELAH,
WASHINGTON, HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
1. That the City Council of the City of Chewelah, Washington, hereby authorizes the City to
register the required two users with the Department of Ecology’s platform named
Compliance Instrument Tracking System Service (CITSS) and establish the City’s trading
account.
2. The City understands and acknowledges that proceeds from consigning its allowances
must be used for the benefit of the ratepayers of the City’s electrical utility.
PASSED by the City Council of the City of Chewelah, Washington and APPROVED by its
Mayor, at a regularly scheduled open public meeting thereof this 17th day of June 2026.

Resolution 26-14

Page | 1

Lindsay Baxter, Mayor
Attest:
Julie Culverwell, Clerk/Treasurer

Resolution 26-14

Page | 2

CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA BRIEFING REPORT

Resolution 26-15:
RCO Planning Grant Application

Proposed Council Action: Approve

CITY COUNCIL MEETING: 6/17/26
DEPARTMENT: Administration
OTHER COUNCIL MEETINGS: Finance Committee 6/8, PW/Capital Committee 6/8
EXHIBITS: Resolution 26-15
SUMMARY STATEMENT: Staff recommend approval of Resolution 26-15 authorizing the application for a
planning grant with the Washington Recreation Conservation Office for the purpose of master planning
and preconstruction development of the Pinebrook Park parcel.
Background – The City has an opportunity to apply for a grant from the Washington Recreation
Conservation Office to support the planning, community engagement, and collaboration between
organizations and residents to prepare for on-the-ground projects.
The City was the beneficiary of a donated 4.9 acre parcel in the Pinebrook neighborhood in the 1980’s.
The parcel remained undeveloped. Later, in 2018, Disc Golf was introduced with volunteers committed to
maintaining the “course”. Other than volunteers maintaining the course, the parcel remains
undeveloped.
The City’s PROS Plan identified a few development opportunities for the parcel; however, the parcel lacks
a master development plan and predevelopment engineering for amenities.
RCO is currently offering a planning grant opportunity to complete pre-development tasks. Applications
are due July 15, 2026, and awards are announced Oct. 21, 2026. Site-specific grants can be up to
$200,000 and a match is not required. All phases of planning, pre-design, and technical assistance for
public outdoor recreation facilities including construction drawings, environmental assessments,
feasibility and pre-construction studies, cultural resources surveys, and Comprehensive Site Plans are
eligible.
The last time a planning grant opportunity was available was in 2022.
Next Steps – Complete and submit the grant application after consultation with SCJ.
Financial Information – The grant request is $125,000, with no match required. The funding would be
used to create a Comprehensive Site Plan and pre-development designs/engineering for trails, a
restroom, parking, and a picnic shelter.
Alternatives – Maintain the park parcel as an undeveloped site for the time being.
RECOMMENDATION: Approval of Resolution 26-15.
MOVE TO: Approve Resolution 26-15 authorizing the City to apply for a planning grant from RCO for the
undeveloped park parcel in the Pinebrook neighborhood.

RESOLUTION 26-15
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING APPLICATION AND ACCEPTANCE OF FUNDING
FROM THE WASHINGTON RECREATION AND CONSERVATION OFFICE (RCO)
FOR PLANNING IMPROVEMENTS AT THE PARK LOCATED IN THE PINEBROOK
AREA
WHEREAS, the park parcel was donated to the City during the development of the Pinebrook
area; and,
WHEREAS, a Disc Golf Course was developed on the parcel in 2018 at the request of two local
brothers whereby the brothers agreed to maintain the course; and,
WHEREAS, the course is currently maintained through volunteer efforts and the remaining park
space is natural open space; and,
WHEREAS, the Chewelah Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan 2024-2030 describes the
park space as underutilized and that it has potential for trails and amenities; and,
WHEREAS, the Washington Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) has published a Notice
of Funding Application for planning for outdoor recreational access to help communities with
limited outdoor access to develop plans that improve access and support recreation investment;
and,
WHEREAS, the grant can fund needed studies, designs, environmental and cultural surveys,
construction-ready plan sets, and permitting; and,
WHEREAS, the eligible costs include consultants and contract services, staff time, community
outreach for design input, and overall project administration.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHEWELAH,
WASHINGTON, HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
1. That the City Council of the City of Chewelah, Washington, hereby authorizes the City to
apply for and accept up to $125,000 from RCO’s Planning for Recreation Access Grant
Program for the development of a Master Park Plan for the park located in the Pinebrook
area, commonly known as the Disc Golf Course or Pinebrook Park, and constructionready plans and designs for trails and amenities within the park. No match is required.
2. Tonya Wallace, City Administrator, or designee, is hereby authorized to execute all
necessary documents related to the application, acceptance, and administration of the
RCO Recreation Grant on behalf of the City.
3. The City understands and acknowledges that if offered an agreement to sign in the future,
it will contain an indemnification and legal venue stipulation and other terms and
conditions substantially in the form contained in the sample Agreement and that such

Resolution 26-15

Page | 1

terms and conditions of any signed Agreement shall be legally binding on the City. RCO
reserves the right to revise the Agreement prior to execution.
4. Grant assistance is contingent on a signed Agreement. Entering into any Agreement with
RCO is purely voluntary on the City’s part.
5. The City understands that grant policies and requirements vary depending on the grant
program applied to, the grant program and source of funding in the Agreement, the
characteristics of the project, and the characteristics of the City.
6. The City also understands that before signing any of the documents mentioned above, the
RCO may update its sample Agreement, potentially making changes such as to the
indemnification provisions or legal venue requirements. The City agrees that before
finalizing the Agreement(s), it will consult with its legal counsel regarding any
modifications made to the project Agreement compared to the sample version.
Furthermore, the City recognizes and agrees that if Tonya Wallace signs the
Agreement(s) with these changes included, all terms and conditions in the signed
Agreement will be considered authorized by us.
7. Any grant funds received will be spent solely on direct, eligible, and allowable costs that
are reasonable and necessary for carrying out the project(s) mentioned above.
8. The City understands that RCO Grant Funds are paid on a reimbursement basis, meaning
payment is only requested after eligible costs are incurred and paid. The RCO may
withhold retainage until all project requirements are met.
9. The City recognizes that any property developed, renovated, improved, or restored with
grant funding must remain dedicated to the grant’s intended purpose forever, unless
otherwise permitted by the Grant Program Policy, RCO in writing, or as specified in the
Agreement or its amendments.
10. The City commits to complying with all applicable federal, state, and local laws,
regulations, and grand requirements associated with the RCO Recreation Grant.
PASSED by the City Council of the City of Chewelah, Washington and APPROVED by its
Mayor, at a regularly scheduled open public meeting thereof this 17th day of June 2026.
____________________________________
Lindsay Baxter, Mayor
Attest:
_____________________________________
Julie Culverwell, Clerk/Treasurer

Resolution 26-15

Page | 2

CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA BRIEFING REPORT

Ordinance 1025
Purchasing Code

Proposed Council Action: Approve

CITY COUNCIL MEETING: 6/17/26
DEPARTMENT: Administration
OTHER COUNCIL MEETINGS: City Council 2/4, Finance Committee 6/8
EXHIBITS: Ordinance 1025
SUMMARY STATEMENT: Staff recommend approval of Ordinance 1025 establishing a new chapter of
Chewelah Municipal Code that outlines the City’s purchasing regulations.
Background – The City follows all Washington State laws governing procurement and competitive
solicitation. It is a standard best practice for local governments to adopt their own regulations governing
procurement practices consistent with state statutes.
The benefits of adopting local regulations are:
• to inform potential vendors and suppliers specifically on the City’s position
• allow the City to formally join competitive government cooperatives and “piggy back” on other
competitively sourced contracts (saving considerable administrative resources)
• register to utilize MRSC Rosters.
Next Steps – Draft authorizing resolutions for MRSC Rosters, create vendor/supplier
purchasing information, and enhance internal processes to ensure full compliance and
documentation.
Financial Information – Potential soft cost savings from the use of cooperative contracts and vendor
lists.
Alternatives – Continue with RCW compliance. Internal processes will still be reviewed and enhanced to
ensure compliance.
RECOMMENDATION: Approval of Ordinance 1025.
MOVE TO: Approve Ordinance 1025 adopting a new chapter in the Chewelah Municipal Code titled
“Purchasing”.

ORDINANCE NO. 1025
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF CHEWELAH, WASHINGTON, CREATING A NEW
CHAPTER 2.80 OF THE CHEWELAH MUNICIPAL CODE TITLED “PURCHASING”
WHEREAS, Chewelah Municipal Code Title 3 regulates “Revenue and Finance”; and,
WHEREAS, the Washington State Auditor’s Office has recommended the formal adoption of
Procurement Policies; and,
WHEREAS, the City Council was briefed on procurement regulations and recommendations on
February 4, 2026; and,
WHEREAS, the City of Chewelah (“City”) desires to codify its purchasing policies and practices.
NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHEWELAH,
WASHINGTON, DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1: Chapter 2.80 entitled “Purchasing” is hereby created to the CMC as follows:
NEW Chapter 2.80 Purchasing
2.80.010 Purpose
It is the purpose of this chapter to provide guidance for:
A. Acquisition of materials, supplies, and equipment not associated with a public works
project;
B. Contracting for personal and purchased services;
C. Contracting for architectural and engineering services; and,
D. Selection and bidding requirements for public works projects.
2.80.015 Policy Statement
The City aims to ensure that procuring goods and services is conducted in a fair and transparent
manner, free from bias or conflicts of interest. Consistent and proper procedures are also expected
for solicitations and contracts. All purchases should deliver the highest quality and value while
staying within budget constraints and supporting objectives set out in the City's Budget. Ultimately,
all City purchases shall receive final approval from the City Council through the accounts payable
voucher process.
2.80.020 Definitions
For purposes of this chapter the following words and phrases shall be defined as follows:
A. "Award" means the formal decision by the City notifying the responsible bidder with the
lowest responsive bid of the City's acceptance of the bid and intent to enter a contract with
said bidder.
Ordinance 1025

Page | 1

B. "Bid Limits" means dollar amounts below which neither competitive bids nor the Small
Works Roster process shall be required for the purchase of equipment, supplies, or materials
or for Public Works Projects.
C. "Competitive Bids" means a process following advertisement in designated legal
newspapers and other media for equipment, supplies, material, and public works contracts
open to all suppliers, vendors, and contractors, and in which price shall be the primary basis
for consideration and contract award.
D. "Contract" means a contract in writing for the execution of public work for a fixed or
determinable amount duly awarded after advertisement and competitive bid, or a contract
awarded under the Small Works Roster process described in RCW 39.04.155.
E. "Emergency" means unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of the City that either: (1)
present a real, immediate threat to the proper performance of essential functions; or (2) will
likely result in material loss or damage to property, bodily injury, or loss of life if
immediate action is not taken.
F. "Professional Services Agreement" means an agreement with an independent contractor for
the rendering of professional services to the City. Under such an agreement the City shall
not provide directions to the provider; rather, the City shall state a goal and objective, and
the provider shall accomplish said goal under his/her own direction.
G. "Public Work" means all work, construction, alteration, repair, or improvement other than
ordinary maintenance, executed at the cost of the City, or which is by law a lien or charge on
any property therein.
H. "Qualified-Based Selection" means a competitive procurement process in which consultants
submit qualification and/or non-cost proposal. Selection shall be based upon based on which
applicant is the most highly qualified, then the final project scope and associated fee shall be
negotiated.
I. "Request for Proposal (RFP)" means a procurement process similar to formal bidding,
except that contract award may be based on factors other than price.
J. "Request for Qualifications (RFQ)" means a procurement process with a focus on the
qualifications of the consultants, including experience of key staff, relevant experience of
the company, and client references.
K. "Responsible Bidder" means a contractor who meets the criteria delineated in Section
3.68.080(C).
L. "Small Works Roster (SWR)" means a process through which there is competition for
Public Works Contracts following notification, normally through a request for quotes
(RFQ), to some or all Public Works Contractors who have requested placement on a roster
kept by the local government agency.
M. "Public Agency Work or Day Labor Limits" are limits set by the state legislature on the
Ordinance 1025

Page | 2

amount of Public Works Projects that can be accomplished using the City's own work force
or by hiring day laborers. Limits are expressed as specific dollar amounts for single or
multiple craft projects.
2.80.030 Adoption of RCW by reference
The provisions of the following RCW Sections are adopted by reference, together with any
amendments or additions made hereafter:
RCW 35.23.352, Public Works Contracts.
RCW 35.42.220, Leases.
RCW 39.04.010, Definition of Public Work.
RCW 39.04.020, Day/Agency Labor Limits.
RCW 39.04.105, Protest Procedures.
RCW 39.04.190, Purchase Contract Process.
RCW 39.04.200, List of Contracts Awarded through Purchase Contract Process.
RCW 39.04.280, Emergency or Sole Source Purchases.
RCW 39.04.350, Lowest Responsible Bidder.
RCW 39.04.155, Small Works Roster.
Chapter 39.10 RCW, Alternative Public Works Contracting Procedures.
RCW 39.12.020, Prevailing Wages.
Chapter 39.30 RCW, Competitive Bidding Violations.
Chapter 39.34 RCW, Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreements.
Chapter 39.80 RCW, Architectural and Engineering Services.
RCW 42.23.030, Interest in Contracts Prohibited.
2.80.040. Bid Procedures Generally
The City shall follow the public works bid procedures as prescribed in RCW 35.23.352, as
currently stated or amended, unless exceptions are provided by that law or this chapter.
2.80.045. Ethics, Integrity, and Best Value for Money
A. All employees and contract agents of the City shall observe the highest standards of ethics and
integrity in undertaking purchasing activity and act in a professional manner. Employees
and contract agents of the City shall observe the following principles and standards through all
stages of the purchasing process to ensure the fair and equitable treatment of all parties:
1. Full accountability shall be taken for all purchasing decisions and the efficient,
effective, and proper expenditure of public funds based on achieving the best value
for money spent.
2. All purchasing practices shall comply with relevant legislation, regulations and
requirements consistent with the City’s policies and code of conduct.
3. Purchasing shall be undertaken with all potential suppliers treated impartially,
honestly, and consistently.
4. All processes, evaluations, and decisions shall be transparent, free from bias, and
fully documented in accordance with applicable policies and audit requirements.
5. Any actual or perceived conflicts of interest shall be identified, disclosed, and
appropriately managed.
B. The best value for money spent is an overarching policy that governs purchasing to provide
the best possible outcome for the City. It is important to note that compliance with
specifications is more important than obtaining the lowest price, particularly considering
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user requirements, quality standards, sustainability, life cycle costing, and service
benchmarks
2.80.050 Small Works Roster Authorized
Instead of following the standard bidding procedures, the City may utilize a Small Works Roster
for Public Works Contracts valued at one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) or less; however,
such utilization shall not be mandatory.
2.80.060 Accounting and Recording Non-Contract Costs
The City shall utilize the form required by RCW 43.09.205 to account for and record costs of
Public Works that exceed five thousand dollars ($5,000) and that are not let by contract.
2.80.070 Purchase of Materials, Supplies, and Equipment in an Amount less than Ten
Thousand Dollars ($10,000), when such Purchase is not related to a Public Works Project
The City is not required to use informal or formal sealed bidding procedures or the procedures set
forth in this chapter for the purchase of any materials, supplies or equipment not connected to a
Public Works Project, where the cost will not exceed ten thousand dollars ($10,000). The City will
attempt to obtain the lowest practical price for such goods and services and record the price quote
with the following information on forms provided by the Clerk/Treasurer:
A. Item(s) to be purchased;
B. Number of units;
C. Tax;
D. Delivery time requirements;
E. Freight costs;
F. Point of delivery; and,
G. Terms of payment.
2.80.072 Purchase of Materials, Supplies, and Equipment from Ten Thousand Dollars
($10,000) to Forty Thousand Dollars ($40,000), when such Purchase is not related to a Public
Works Project
The City Administrator, or their appointed representative, may request telephone or written
quotations for the acquisition of supplies, materials, equipment, or services—excluding
professional services—where the value ranges from ten thousand dollars ($10,000) to forty
thousand dollars ($40,000), provided that the following established procedures are adhered to:
A. Whenever possible, not less than three prospective vendors shall be contacted by telephone
or by letter and advised as to the specifications for the item or items for which quotations
are being sought. The number of vendors contacted may be reduced if the items being
sought are only available from a smaller number of vendors. An explanation shall be placed
in the procurement file when fewer than three bids are requested, or if there are fewer than
three replies. Bid specifications should, whenever possible, be drafted to permit at least
three vendors to qualify as prospective bidders.
B. Whenever possible, bids shall be solicited on a lump sum or fixed unit price basis.
C. Telephone or written requests for quotations shall specify at a minimum the following:
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1. Item(s) to be purchased;
2. Number of units;
3. Tax;
4. Delivery time requirements;
5. Freight costs;
6. Point of delivery; and,
7. Terms of payment.
D. Tabulation of telephone or written quotations shall be on forms provided by the
Clerk/Treasurer and shall include at a minimum the information described in Subsection C of
this section.
E. Upon written authorization of the City Administrator, the materials, equipment or services
shall be ordered from the lowest responsible bidder that meets all specifications established
for the item or items being purchased.
F. Written confirmation of telephone quotations from responsible vendors is not required but
may be requested when warranted.
G. Immediately after an award is made, all bid quotations are to be recorded and open to public
inspection and available by telephone inquiry.
2.80.074 Purchase of Materials, Supplies, and Equipment that cost more than Forty
Thousand Dollars ($40,000) but less than Fifty Thousand Dollars ($50,000), when not related
to a Public Works Project
For the purchase of any materials, supplies or equipment in an amount greater than forty thousand
dollars ($40,000) but less than fifty thousand dollars ($50,000), when not related to a Public Works
Project, the City may use an established vendor list.
2.80.076 Purchase of Materials, Supplies, and Equipment more than Fifty Thousand Dollars
($50,000), when not related to a Public Works Project
For the purchase of any materials, supplies or equipment in an amount greater than fifty thousand
dollars ($50,000), when not related to a Public Works Project, competitive bids shall be required.
2.80.080 Other Purchases
A. Purchase of Architectural, Engineering, Surveying, or Landscape Architectural
Services. Contracts for professional architectural, landscape architecture, surveying and
engineering services shall require Quality-Based Selection (QBS) and an advertising and
negotiation process conducted in accordance with Chapter 39.80 RCW.
B. Purchase of Other Services. Services are activities or projects for which the City contracts
and which are not considered a Public Works Project. Washington cities are not required to
seek competitive bids for services.
C. Purchase of Electronic Data Processing and Telecommunications Systems. RCW
39.04.270 authorizes municipalities to use a "competitive negotiation" process as an
alternative to the competitive bid process when purchasing telecommunications and data
process (computer) equipment or software. Such “competitive negotiation” process shall be
allowed.
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2.80.090 Public Works Contracts
A. The City may use its own employees to perform Public Works Projects with estimated costs
less than seventy-five thousand dollars ($75,000) for single craft or one hundred-fifty
thousand dollars ($150,000) for multiple crafts. The City may also use a minimal
competitive process, a Small Works Roster, or formal competitive bidding process in such
circumstances.
B. For projects that cost more than seventy-five thousand dollars ($75,000) for single craft or
one hundred-fifty thousand dollars ($150,000) for multiple crafts, but less than the limits
defined in Chapter 39.04.152 RCW, the City may use a Small Works Roster or formal
competitive bidding process for construction, renovation, remodeling, alteration, repair, or
improvement of real property.
C. Public Works Projects over the limits defined in Chapter 39.04.152 RCW must be competitively
bid unless the alternative Public Works Contracting Procedures of Chapter 39.10 RCW are
used.
2.80.092 Lowest Responsible Bids
A. Preservation of the integrity of the competitive bid system dictates that after competitive
bids have been opened, award must be made to that responsible bidder who submitted the
lowest responsive bid, unless there is a compelling reason to reject all bids and cancel the
solicitation.
B. In determining the lowest responsible bidder, the City shall consider any preferences
provided by law to Washington products and vendors and, further, may take into
consideration the quality of the articles proposed to be supplied, their conformity with
specifications, the purposes for which required, and the times of delivery.
C. In determining "Lowest Responsible Bidder," in addition to price, the following elements
shall be given consideration:
1. The ability, capacity, and skill of the bidder to perform the contract or provide the
service required;
2. The character, integrity, reputation, judgment, experience, and efficiency of the
bidder;
3. Whether the bidder can perform the contract within the time specified;
4. The quality of performance of previous contracts or services;
5. The previous and existing compliance by the bidder with laws relating to the
contract or services; and,
6. Such other information as may be secured having a bearing on the decision to award
the contract.

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2.80.100 Intergovernmental Purchases
The City Council hereby authorizes the purchase of goods without public bidding when acquired
through:
A. The Washington State Purchasing Cooperative;
B. National Joint Power Alliance (NJPA);
C. Sourcewell; or
D. Another governmental unit, including the United States General Administration (GSA),
when the City Administrator and the requesting department have shown that the
procurement meets the City's requirements and represents the most favorable procurement
for the City considering price and other evaluation factors.
2.80.110 Purchase at Auction
The City may purchase any supplies, equipment, or materials at auctions conducted by the
government of the United States or any agency thereof, any agency of the State of Washington, any
municipality or other government agency, or any private party without being subject to public
bidding requirements, so long as the items can be obtained at a competitive price.
2.80.120 Change Orders
The Mayor or City Administrator may approve change orders under ten percent (10%) of the total
contract value if they are within the departmental budget. Change orders exceeding ten percent
(10%) or requiring additional appropriations beyond the annual budget shall require City Council
approval.
2.80.130. Competitive Bidding Requirements-Exemptions
A. Competitive bidding requirements utilized by the City when awarding contracts for Public
Works and for purchases of materials, supplies, and equipment may be waived by the City
Council for:
1. Purchases that are clearly and legitimately limited to a single source of supply;
2. Purchases involving special facilities or market conditions;
3. Purchases or Public Works in the event of an emergency;
4. Purchases of insurance or bonds;
5. Auctions;
6. Community service group contracts;
7. Water pollution control facilities;
8. Pollution control facilities; and,
9. Solid Waste Facilities and related services.
B. If competitive bidding is waived - due to a sole source or to special market circumstances a resolution must state the reasons for the exception. No resolution shall be required for
purchasing insurance or bonds.
C. In an emergency, the Mayor can declare the existence of said emergency, waive competitive
bidding, and award necessary contracts for the City. If a contract is awarded without
bidding, the City Administrator (or designee) shall record a written finding of the
emergency within two weeks.
D. A resolution shall be required in order to enter into a community service group contract per
RCW 35.21.278, and such resolution must state the value received which must be at least
two times the amount of the payment to the community group. The City may not spend
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more than $75,000 or $2 per resident, whichever is greater on all community service
contracts combined within a single year.
SECTION 2: SEVERABILITY CLAUSE: If any provisions of this ordinance is found invalid or
unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force
and effect.
SECTION 3: EFFECTIVE DATE: This Ordinance or summary thereof consisting of the title shall
be published in the official newspaper of the City and shall take effect and be in full force five (5) days
after publication.
Passed this 17th day of June 2026, by the City Council of the City of Chewelah.
___________________________________
Lindsay Baxer, Mayor
ATTEST:
___________________________________
Julie Culverwell, Clerk/Treasurer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
___________________________________
Michael D. Waters, City Attorney
Introduced: June 17, 2026
Adopted: _____________
Published: ____________
Effective: ____________

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CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA BRIEFING REPORT

Ordinance 1026:
Amending Critical Areas Code

Proposed Council Action: Approve

CITY COUNCIL MEETING: 6/17/2026
DEPARTMENT: Administration
OTHER COUNCIL MEETINGS: Community & Development Committee, 2/26/26; Public Hearing, 6/3/26
EXHIBITS: Ordinance 1026 Amending Critical Areas Code
SUMMARY STATEMENT: Staff recommend approval of Ordinance 1026 Adopting Critical Areas Code
Amendments.
Background – The City is required to align with state regulations and best available science in its “Critical
Areas Ordinance” concerning development and maintenance of environmentally critical areas such as
wetlands, steams, and floodplains. As part of the larger periodic update of the City’s Comprehensive
Plan, planners at SCJ Alliance drafted amendments to comply with these requirements, with additional
changes to make the process of developing in areas encumbered by critical areas more efficient and less
costly for applicants. These amendments were presented to the Community & Development Committee
in February of 2026, after which the City solicited feedback from state and regional agencies.
Comments received from agencies were incorporated into a revised draft of code amendments, which
then underwent mandatory review by the Department of Commerce. A public hearing was held by City
Council on 6/3/2026 to consider the final draft of the amendments. No testimony was received from
residents before or during the hearing. The amendments have now been drafted into an ordinance,
reviewed by the City’s Attorney and are ready to be considered for adoption by City Council.
Next Steps – If approved, staff will amend the City’s Municipal Code and adjust standards for future
development applications.
Financial Information –The proposed amendments will generally reduce the costs charged to applicants
for development projects. As these costs are used for conducting hearings and other procedural
requirements rather than serving as revenue to the City, there is no financial impact to the City from this
amendment.
Alternatives – The City is required to align with State requirements related to critical areas. Council
could make adjustments to other aspects of the code if desired.
MOVE TO: Approve Ordinance 1026 Adopting Critical Areas Code Amendments.

ORDINANCE NO. 1026
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF CHEWELAH, WASHINGTON, AMENDING
SECTION 18.04.040 (DEFINITIONS), REPLACING SECTION 18.08.140 (CRITICAL
RESOURCE AREA OVERLAY (CRA) ZONE), AND REPEALING SECTION 18.16.040
(SITE PLAN REVIEW) OF THE CHEWELAH MUNICIPAL CODE.
WHEREAS, the Comprehensive Plan contains goals, policies, and a future land use element
which provide direction for implementation of the Comprehensive Plan; and,
WHEREAS, the Growth Management Act (GMA) requires fully planning cities to periodically
review and, if needed, revise development regulations to ensure continued compliance with the
GMA; and,
WHEREAS, the City of Chewelah is undertaking its 2027 Growth Management Act Periodic
Update, including updates to the Critical Resource Area Overlay (CRA) Zone and related
development regulations; and,
WHEREAS, the proposed amendments update the Critical Resource Area Overlay (CRA) Zone
in CMC 18.08.140, revise the definition of “Wetland” or “Wetlands” in CMC 18.04.040, and
repeal Site Plan Review provisions in CMC 18.16.040; and,
WHEREAS, the proposed amendments update the City’s regulations for wetlands, critical
aquifer recharge areas, frequently flooded areas, geologically hazardous areas and fish and
wildlife habitat conservation areas; and,
WHEREAS, the proposed amendments clarify the intent, purpose, applicability, administration,
and review process for the Critical Resource Area Overlay and update related definitions and
development review procedures; and,
WHEREAS, the proposed amendments are intended to improve consistency with best available
science, state agency guidance, and applicable Growth Management Act requirements; and,
WHEREAS, the City received technical comments from the Washington Department of Fish
and Wildlife and the Washington State Department of Ecology, and revisions were incorporated
where appropriate; and,
WHEREAS, the proposed amendments are consistent with the Chewelah Comprehensive Plan
and support the protection of public health, safety, welfare, and environmentally sensitive areas;
and,
WHEREAS, the City processed the proposed amendments under the State Environmental Policy
Act (SEPA) and issued a Determination of Non-Significance (DNS) under WAC 197-11-340(2)
on March 12, 2026; and,
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WHEREAS, the City provided notice of intent to adopt the proposed development regulation
amendments to the Washington State Department of Commerce pursuant to RCW 36.70A.106 on
March 3, 2026; and,
WHEREAS, the City Council conducted a public hearing on June 3, 2026, reviewed, and
approved the proposed amendments.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHEWELAH,
WASHINGTON, DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1: Chewelah Municipal Code Section 18.04.040, Definitions, is hereby amended to
revise the definition of “Wetland” or “Wetlands” as follows:
18.04.040 Definitions
"Wetland” or “Wetlands" means areas that are inundated or saturated by surface water or
groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that which under normal
circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil
conditions. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas. Wetlands do
not include those artificial wetlands intentionally created from non-wetland sites, including but
not limited to, irrigation and drainage ditches, grass lined swales, canals, detention facilities,
Wastewater Treatment Facilities, farm ponds and landscape amenities, or those wetlands created
after July 1, 1990, that were unintentionally created as a result of the construction of a road,
street, or highway. Wetlands shall include those artificial wetlands intentionally created from
non-wetland areas to mitigate wetland conversions.
SECTION 2: Chewelah Municipal Code Section 18.08.140, Critical Resource Area Overlay
(CRA) Zone, is hereby repealed and replaced with the following:
18.08.140 Critical Resource Area Overlay (CRA) Zone
A. Intent. The intent of this section is to promote the general health, safety, and welfare of
city residents by conserving and protecting critical areas. The Critical Resource Area
Overlay (CRA) Zone is designed to protect and preserve critical environmental resources
while allowing appropriate development activities when carried out in a responsible
manner with minimal impacts on the environmental resources using best available
science and in consistency with the requirements of the Growth Management Act. In
addition, the intent is to protect the public health, welfare, and safety of residents of
Chewelah.
B. Administrator. For the purposes of the administration and review of the Critical Areas
Ordinance and associated Municipal Code, the Administrator shall be the City
Administrator, or their designee, unless another City Official or body is expressly
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identified as the review authority for a specific application, permit, approval, or
enforcement action.
C. Purpose.
1. The purpose of this section is to:
a. Maintain the character of the city and to safeguard the public interest in
the preservation and conservation of natural areas.
b. Designate and classify ecologically sensitive and hazardous areas
including Wetlands, Critical Aquifer Recharge Areas, Frequently Flooded
Areas, Geologically Hazardous Areas, and Fish and Wildlife Habitat
Conservation Areas and achieve no net loss of these area’s ecological
functions and values by using the most recent Best Available Science,
while also allowing for reasonable use of private property.
c. Implement the goals, policies, guidelines, and requirements of the City of
Chewelah Comprehensive Plan and the Growth Management Act.
2. Compliance with the provisions of this section does not constitute compliance
with other federal, state, and local regulations and permit requirements that may
be required (for example, Shoreline Substantial Development Permits, Hydraulic
Project Approval Permits, Army Corps of Engineers Section 404 Permits,
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permits). The applicant is
responsible for complying with these requirements, apart from the process
established in this section. Where applicable, the Administrator will encourage
use of information such as permit applications to other agencies or special studies
prepared in response to other regulatory requirements to support required
documentation submitted for critical areas review.
D. General Provisions.
1. The city's critical resource area maps in the City of Chewelah Comprehensive
Plan provide generalized information on the location of critical areas. A sitespecific analysis which indicates that any critical area regulated by this section or
Chapter 15.12 - Floodplain Damage Prevention exists on a lot will result in that
portion of the lot being classified as a critical area or floodplain area.
2. The following features shall not be altered or developed except as permitted by
this section:
a. Water features, including rivers, streams, creeks, lakes, ponds and
wetlands.
b. Areas that provide connectivity and habitat to priority species.
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c. Geologically hazardous areas, including landslides and slopes of forty
percent or greater.
3. Compensatory Mitigation.
a. Mitigation Sequencing. Before impacting any critical area or its buffer, the
applicant shall demonstrate that the following actions have been taken.
Actions are listed in the order of preference:
i.

Avoid the impact altogether by not taking a certain action or parts
of an action.

ii.

Minimize impacts by limiting the degree or magnitude of the
action and its implementation, by using appropriate technology, or
by taking affirmative steps to avoid or reduce impacts.

iii.

Rectify the impact by repairing, rehabilitating, or restoring the
affected environment.

iv.

Reduce or eliminate the impact over time by preservation and
maintenance operations.

v.

Compensate for the impact by replacing, enhancing, or providing
substitute resources or environments.

vi.

Monitor the required compensation and take remedial or corrective
measures when necessary.

b. Requirements for Compensatory Mitigation:

Ordinance 1025

i.

Compensatory mitigation for alterations to wetlands shall be used
only for impacts that cannot be avoided or minimized and shall
achieve equivalent or greater biologic functions. Compensatory
mitigation plans shall be consistent with Wetland Mitigation in
Washington State – Part 2: Developing Mitigation Plans--Version
1, (Ecology Publication #06-06-11b, Olympia, WA, March 2006 or
as amended), and Selecting Wetland Mitigation Sites Using a
Watershed Approach (Eastern Washington) (Publication #10-0607, November 2010, or as amended).

ii.

Mitigation ratios shall be consistent with Part K,19.

iii.

Mitigation requirements may be determined using the Credit-Debit
Method described in Calculating Credits and Debits for
Compensatory Mitigation in Wetlands of Eastern Washington

Page | 4

(Ecology Publication #10-06-015), or as revised consistent with
Subsection K of this Chapter.
iv.

Plantings used in mitigation actions shall be native species
appropriate to the ecoregion.

v.

The following areas within a proposed compensation site shall not
contribute to satisfying the requirements for compensatory
mitigation:
a. Easements for utility corridors, stormwater facilities, rightsof-way, and streams conveyed underground.
b. Driveways
c. Roads
d. Any paved or graveled areas intended to convey vehicle or
foot traffic

vi.

Buffers on Wetland Mitigation Sites. All wetland mitigation sites
shall have buffers consistent with the buffer requirements of this
Chapter. Buffers shall be based on the expected or target category
of the proposed wetland mitigation site and the expected level of
impact from the adjacent land use.

vii.

Buffers shall be fully vegetated with a native plant community
appropriate to the ecoregion in order to be included in buffer area
calculations. Existing buffer areas that are unvegetated, sparsely
vegetated, or dominated by invasive species that do not provide the
functions necessary to protect the wetland shall either be planted or
enhanced to establish an appropriate native plant community, or
the buffer shall be widened as necessary to provide adequate
wetland protection. Lawns, walkways, driveways, paved areas, and
mowed or developed areas shall not be considered buffers or
included in buffer area calculations when assessing whether
adequate compensatory mitigation buffers have been provided.

c. Compensating for Lost or Affected Functions. Compensatory mitigation
shall address the functions affected by the proposed project, with an
intention to achieve functional equivalency or improvement of functions.
The goal shall be for the compensatory mitigation to provide similar
wetland functions as those lost, except when either:

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i.

The lost wetland provides minimal functions, and the proposed
compensatory mitigation action(s) will provide equal or greater
functions or will provide functions shown to be limiting within a
watershed through a formal Washington State Watershed
Assessment Plan or protocol; or

ii.

Out-of-kind replacement of wetland type or functions will best
meet watershed goals formally identified by the City, such as
replacement of historically diminished wetland types.

d. Approaches to Compensatory Mitigation (optional). Mitigation for lost or
diminished wetland and buffer functions shall rely on the following
approaches:
i.

Wetland Mitigation Banks. Credits from a certified wetland
mitigation bank may be used to compensate for impacts located
within the service area specified in the mitigation bank instrument.
Use of credits from a wetland mitigation bank certified under WAC
173-700 is allowed if:
a. The Administrator determines that it would provide
appropriate compensation for the proposed impacts.
b. The impact site is located in the service area of the bank.
c. The proposed use of credits is consistent with the terms and
conditions of the certified mitigation bank instrument.
d. Replacement ratios for projects using bank credits is
consistent with replacement ratios specified in the certified
mitigation bank instrument.

ii.

Permittee-Responsible Mitigation. In this situation, the permittee
performs the mitigation after the permit is issued and is ultimately
responsible for implementation and success of the mitigation.
Permittee-responsible mitigation may occur at the site of the
permitted impacts or at an off-site location within the same
watershed. Permittee-responsible mitigation shall be used only if
the applicant’s qualified wetland professional demonstrates to the
Administrator’s satisfaction that the proposed approach is
ecologically preferable to use of a mitigation bank, consistent with
the criteria in this section.

e. Methods of Compensatory Mitigation. Mitigation for lost or diminished
wetland and buffer functions shall rely on a method listed below in order
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of preference. A lower- preference form of mitigation shall be used only if
the applicant’s qualified wetland professional demonstrates to the
Administrator’s satisfaction that all higher-ranked types of mitigation are
not viable, consistent with the criteria in this section.
i.

Restoration. The manipulation of the physical, chemical, or
biological characteristics of a site with the goal of returning natural
or historical functions to a former or degraded wetland. For the
purpose of tracking net gains in wetland acres, restoration is
divided into:
a. Re-Establishment. The manipulation of the physical,
chemical, or biological characteristics of a site with the
goal of returning natural or historical functions to a former
wetland. Re-establishment results in a gain in wetland acres
(and functions). Activities could include removing fill
material, plugging ditches, or breaking drain tiles.
b. Rehabilitation. The manipulation of the physical, chemical,
or biological characteristics of a site with the goal of
repairing natural or historical functions of a degraded
wetland. Rehabilitation results in a gain in wetland function
but does not result in a gain in wetland acres. Activities
could involve breaching a dike to reconnect wetlands to a
floodplain or return tidal influence to a wetland.

ii.

Establishment (Creation). The manipulation of the physical,
chemical, or biological characteristics of a site to develop a
wetland on an upland or deepwater site where a wetland did not
previously exist. Establishment results in a gain in wetland acres.
Activities typically involve excavation of upland soils to elevations
that will produce a wetland hydroperiod, create hydric soils, and
support the growth of hydrophytic plant species.
a. If a site is not available for wetland restoration to
compensate for expected wetland and/or buffer impacts, the
Administrator may authorize creation of a wetland and
buffer upon demonstration by the applicant’s qualified
wetland professional that:
i. The hydrologic and soil conditions at the proposed
mitigation site are conducive for sustaining the
proposed wetland and that creation of a wetland at

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the site will not likely cause hydrologic problems
elsewhere.
ii. Adjacent land uses and site conditions do not
jeopardize the viability of the proposed wetland and
buffer (e.g., due to the presence of invasive plants
or noxious weeds, stormwater runoff, noise, light,
or other impacts).
iii. The proposed wetland and buffer will eventually be
self-sustaining with little or no long-term
maintenance.
iii.

Protection/Maintenance (Preservation). Removing a threat to, or
preventing the decline of, wetland conditions by an action in or
near a wetland. This includes the purchase of land or easements, or
repair of water control structures or fences. This term also includes
activities commonly associated with the term preservation.
Preservation does not result in a gain of wetland acres. Permanent
protection of a Category I or II Wetland and associated buffer at
risk of degradation can be used only if:
a. The Administrator determines that the proposed
preservation is the best mitigation option.
b. The proposed preservation site is under threat of
undesirable ecological change due to permitted, planned, or
likely actions that will not be adequately mitigated under
existing regulations.
c. The area proposed for preservation is of high-quality or
critical for the health of the watershed or basin due to its
location. Some of the following features may be indicative
of high-quality sites:
i. Category I or II Wetland rating (using the Wetland
Rating System for Eastern Washington).
ii. Rare or irreplaceable wetland type (for example,
bogs, mature forested wetlands, estuarine wetlands)
or aquatic habitat that is rare or a limited resource in
the area.
iii. The presence of habitat for priority or locally
important wildlife species.

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iv. Provides biological and/or hydrological
connectivity.
v. Priority sites in an adopted watershed plan.
d. Permanent preservation of the wetland and buffer will be
provided through a conservation easement or tract held by
an appropriate natural land resource manager, such as a
land trust.
e. The Administrator may approve other legal and
administrative mechanisms in lieu of a conservation
easement if it determines they are adequate to protect the
site.
f. Ratios for preservation in combination with other forms of
mitigation generally range from 10:1 to 20:1, as determined
on a case-by-case basis, depending on the quality of the
wetlands being impacted and the quality of the wetlands
being preserved. Ratios for preservation as the sole means
of mitigation generally start at 20:1.
iv.

Enhancement. The manipulation of the physical, chemical, or
biological characteristics of a wetland site in order to heighten,
intensify, or improve specific function(s) or to change the growth
stage or composition of the vegetation present. Enhancement is
undertaken for specified purposes such as water quality
improvement, flood water retention, or wildlife habitat.
Enhancement results in a change in some wetland functions and
can lead to a decline in other wetland functions, but does not result
in a gain in wetland acres. Activities typically consist of planting
vegetation, controlling non-native or invasive species, modifying
site elevations or the proportion of open water to influence
hydroperiods, or some combination of these activities. Applicants
proposing to enhance wetlands or associated buffers shall
demonstrate how the proposed enhancement will increase the
wetland’s/buffer’s functions, how this increase in function will
adequately compensate for the impacts, and how existing wetland
functions at the mitigation site will be protected.

4. Location of Compensatory Mitigation. Compensatory mitigation actions shall
generally be conducted within the same sub-drainage basin and on the site of the
alteration except when the applicant can demonstrate that off-site mitigation is
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ecologically preferable. The following criteria will be evaluated when
determining whether the proposal is ecologically preferable. When considering
off-site mitigation, preference should be given to using alternative mitigation,
such as a mitigation bank or advance mitigation.
a. There are no reasonable opportunities on site or within the sub-drainage
basin (e.g., on-site options would require elimination of high-functioning
upland habitat) that have a high likelihood of success based on a
determination of the capacity of the site to compensate for the impacts.
i.

Considerations should include anticipated replacement ratios for
wetland mitigation, buffer conditions and proposed widths,
available water to maintain anticipated hydrogeomorphic classes of
wetlands when restored, proposed flood storage capacity, and
potential to mitigate riparian fish and wildlife impacts (such as
connectivity).

b. On-site mitigation would require elimination of high-quality upland
habitat.
c. Off-site mitigation has a greater likelihood of providing equal or improved
wetland functions than the altered wetland.
d. Off-site locations shall be in the same sub-drainage basin.
e. The design for the compensatory mitigation project needs to be
appropriate for its location (i.e., position in the landscape). Therefore,
compensatory mitigation should not result in the creation, restoration, or
enhancement of an atypical wetland.
f. Timing of Compensatory Mitigation. It is preferred that compensatory
mitigation projects be completed prior to activities that will disturb
wetlands. At the least, compensatory mitigation shall be completed
immediately following disturbance and prior to use or occupancy of the
action or development. Construction of mitigation projects shall be timed
to reduce impacts to existing fisheries, wildlife, and flora.
g. The Administrator may authorize a one-time temporary delay in
completing construction or installation of the compensatory mitigation
when the applicant provides a written explanation from a qualified
wetland professional as to the rationale for the delay. An appropriate
rationale would include identification of the environmental conditions that
could produce a high probability of failure or significant construction
difficulties (e.g., project delay lapses past a fisheries window, or installing
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plants should be delayed until the dormant season to ensure greater
survival of installed materials). The delay shall not create or perpetuate
hazardous conditions or environmental damage or degradation, and the
delay shall not be injurious to the health, safety, or general welfare of the
public. The request for the temporary delay must include a written
justification that documents the environmental constraints that preclude
implementation of the compensatory mitigation plan. The justification
must be verified and approved by the Administrator.
5. If a critical resource area on the property that is being developed in the city
crosses a jurisdictional line, the Administrator shall coordinate with Stevens
County in the review of the project.
6. Functionally Disconnected and Nonfunctioning Buffer Areas.
a. Nonfunctioning Buffer Areas. Riparian, wetland, and pond buffers or
portions of the buffer areas that are both physically separated from a
critical area by a legally established development and not protecting the
critical area from adverse impacts shall be excluded from critical area
buffers otherwise required by this chapter, provided:
i.

The nonfunctioning buffer areas occurred due to topographic
breaks or a legally established road (not including logging roads),
railroad, or other lineal facility, primary structure, or barrier
established prior to the date of adoption of this provision, that
physically separates and impedes the biological and hydrological
functions of a portion of the buffer.

ii.

Where physically separation is caused by a nonconforming
primary structure established prior to the date of adoption of this
provision, any proposed expansions into a nonfunctioning buffer
area shall be limited to the width of the structure, extending away
from the critical area.

iii.

The applicant provides the planning department with sufficient
information pursuant to this chapter, to determine whether the
buffer performs any biological or hydrological function. The
planning department may require concurrent technical review by a
state or federal agency or affected tribe.

b. The City may consult with the Washington Department of Fish and
Wildlife prior to an official determination of a nonfunctioning or
disconnected buffer

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i.

Expansion of a legally established nonconforming structure. If a
structure is nonconforming (e.g., lies within an important habitat
area or its buffer), expansion of the structure is permitted provided
the expansion does not extend into the critical area or associated
buffer. If the legally established nonconforming structure is wholly
within a critical area or its associated buffer, then an expansion is
not permitted.

7. There will be no net loss of critical area functions or values.
8. On-site sewage and/or their components including drainfields are not permitted
with a critical area or its buffer.
E. Best Available Science.
1. Critical areas reports and decisions to alter critical areas shall rely on the current
best available science to protect the functions and values of critical areas and must
give special consideration to conservational and protective measures necessary to
preserve or enhance their functions and values.
2. The best available science is that scientific information applicable to the critical
area. This data must be prepared by local, state, or federal natural resource
agencies, a qualified scientific professional or team of qualified scientific
professionals that is consistent with criteria established in WAC 365-195.
3. In the context of critical area protection, a valid scientific process is one that
produces reliable information useful in understanding the consequences of a local
government's regulatory decisions, and in developing critical area policies and
development regulations that will be effective in protecting the functions and
values of critical areas. To determine whether information received during the
permit review process is reliable scientific information, the Administrator shall
determine whether the source of the information displays the characteristics of a
valid scientific process. Such characteristics are as follows:
a. "Peer Review.” The information has been critically reviewed by other
persons who are qualified scientific experts in that scientific discipline.
The proponents of the information have addressed the criticism of the peer
reviewers. Publication in a referred scientific journal usually indicates that
the information has been appropriately peer reviewed.
b. "Methods.” The methods used to obtain the information are clearly stated
and reproducible. The methods are standardized in the pertinent scientific

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discipline or, if not, the methods have been appropriately peer reviewed to
ensure their reliability and validity.
c. "Logical Conclusions and Reasonable Inferences.” The conclusions
presented are based on reasonable assumptions supported by other studies
and consistent with the general theory underlying the assumptions. The
conclusions are logically and reasonably derived from the assumptions
and supported by the data presented. Any gaps in information and
inconsistencies with other pertinent scientific information are adequately
explained.
d. "Quantitative Analysis.” The data has been analyzed using appropriate
statistical or quantitative methods.
e. "Context.” The information is placed in proper context. The assumptions,
analytical techniques, data, and conclusions are appropriately framed with
respect to the prevailing body of pertinent existing information.
f. "References.” The assumptions, analytical techniques, and conclusions are
well referenced with citations to relevant, credible literature and other
pertinent existing information.
F. Uses.
1. Uses allowed on a lot containing or located within two hundred feet of a critical
area shall be the same as those allowed in the zone in which the lot is located.
Each use shall be evaluated using the review process required for the use in the
zone in conjunction with the requirements of this section and applicable state and
federal regulations. Nothing in this section is intended to preclude the reasonable
use of property.
2. Coordination with Other Permit Processes.
a. This section may require review and/or permit in addition to those
otherwise required by other sections of the Chewelah Municipal Code or
other city rules and regulations.
b. Uses and activities in a critical area or buffer for which no permit or
approval is required remain subject to the performance standards and other
sections of the Chewelah Municipal Code or other city rules and
regulations.
c. The Administrator may approve, approve with conditions, or deny any
permit application for a use or activity in order to comply with the
requirements of this section.
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d. This section shall be used in conjunction with CMC Chapter 15.12 Floodplain Damage Prevention and the City of Chewelah Shoreline
Master Program, when applicable
G. Permit Application Requirements and Process for Critical Resource Areas.
1. Applicability and Review
a. A Critical Area Review is required when a proposed development, land
use activity, or permit application is located within a mapped critical area
or buffer; or is within a defined screening distance of a critical area
(typically 200 feet); or has the potential to impact a critical area,
regardless of mapping accuracy.
2. Initial Screening and Determination
a. Upon receipt of a complete development application, the Administrator
shall conduct a critical area screening to determine whether:
i.
No critical area is present and no impacts are likely;
ii. A critical area is present, but the proposal qualifies as exempt or
does not encroach into buffers; or
iii. A critical area review and supporting technical documentation are
required.
3. Optional Pre-Application Consultation
a. Applicants may request a pre-application meeting to:
i.
Confirm the presence or likelihood of critical areas;
ii. Establish the required scope of any critical area report;
iii. Identify mitigation sequencing expectations; and,
iv.
Clarify review timelines and qualified professional qualifications.
4. An Application for Critical Area Review shall include the following:
a. Plans (drawn to scale) showing the nature, location, and dimensions of the
critical resource area or floodplain area, if any, on or adjacent to the site;
b. Existing topography and natural features;
c. Existing and proposed structures and the proposed uses;
d. Proposed grading, drainage facilities, and location of storage, if
applicable;
e. All required technical reports prepared by experts with demonstrated
qualifications in the area(s) of concern;
f. Any additional information deemed necessary by the Administrator or
City Planner.
5. In the case of proposed development within the FM overlay zone, application
requirements specified within CMC Title 15, Chapter 12 shall also be provided by
the applicant.
6. Process Flowchart.
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H. Review.
1. All uses proposed within the Critical Resource Overlay Zone shall be subject to
an administrative review process.
2. Critical Area Review decisions shall be integrated into the underlying permit
approval and shall not require a separate discretionary permit.

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3. All applications for permits to conduct activities having possible impact(s) to
critical areas must:
a. Establish if critical areas are present by providing a report prepared by a
qualified professional with demonstrated qualifications in the area of
concern. The report shall use scientifically valid methods and studies in
the analysis of critical area data, and the field reconnaissance shall
reference the source of science used.
b. Identify if impact(s) could occur.
c. Make an estimate of the probable impact(s).
d. Refer to the provisions herein to guide development decisions which strive
to mitigate impact(s).
4. The Administrator shall review the Critical Area Report for consistency with:
a. This chapter, and Chapter 15.12.
b. Best available science.
c. State and federal requirements; and,
d. Any adopted local policies.
5. The City may require peer review by a qualified third-party consultant or agency
(at the Administrators discretion) at the cost of the applicant, when:
a. The proposal is technically complex.
b. The impacts are significant or site-specific; or,
c. Additional expertise is necessary to verify conclusions.
6. The Administrator shall issue one of the following written decisions:
a. Approval, with or without conditions.
b. Approval, with mitigation, monitoring, or recording requirements; or
c. Denial, where impacts cannot be adequately avoided or mitigated.
7. Conditions of approval may include, but are not limited to:
a. Buffer modification standards.
b. Mitigation timing and performance standards.
c. Monitoring and reporting requirements.

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d. Installation of fencing, signage, or markers.
e. Financial guarantees for mitigation performance; and,
f. Recording of a Notice to Title.
8. A Critical Areas Report identifying the precise area of critical resource, its
function and resource value and a mitigation and enhancement plan, if necessary,
shall be submitted as part of the application.
a. The report shall be prepared by a qualified professional with demonstrated
qualifications in the area of concern. The City may retain consultants at
the applicant's expense to assist in the review of the technical study, if
needed. The Administrator, in considering the administrative review, shall
determine if the study and the Administrator's review are adequate.
b. The report shall use scientifically valid methods and studies in the analysis
of critical area data, and the field reconnaissance shall reference the source
of science used. The critical areas report shall evaluate the proposal and all
probable impacts to critical areas in accordance with the provisions of this
section.
c. The report contents shall at a minimum contain the following:
i.

The name and contact information of the applicant, a description of
the proposal, and identification of the permit requested.

ii.

A copy of the site plan for the development proposal shall be
obtained prior to any clearing or development activities within two
hundred feet of the critical area; except in the case of an aquifer
recharge/wellhead protection area in which an administrative
review shall be obtained for new commercial or industrial uses or a
change in use if the use is listed or is similar to a listed use
categorized as a high or moderate risk in Table 2 of the Stevens
County Critical Aquifer Recharge Study. Activities listed in Part
H,1 are exempt from administrative review.

iii.

The names and qualifications of the persons preparing the report
and documentation of any fieldwork performed on the site,
including dates.

I. Exemptions and Exceptions.
1. The following activities shall be allowed in critical areas without administrative
review provided they are not prohibited by any other chapter of the Chewelah
Municipal Code or other city rules and regulations or other law, provided a site
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plan describing the proposal has been reviewed and approved by the building
official and provided they are conducted using best management practices and at a
time designed to minimize adverse effects to the critical resource:
a. Practices of conservation or preservation including of soil, water,
vegetation, fish, shellfish, and other wildlife, with the intent of improving
critical area’s function, as long as it is supported by Best Available
Science.
b. Outdoor recreational activities which do not involve disturbance of the
resource or site area, including fishing, hunting, bird watching, hiking,
boating, horseback riding, swimming, canoeing, and bicycling.
c. The harvesting of wild crops in a manner that is not injurious to natural
reproduction of such crops and provided the harvesting does not require
tilling of soil, planting of crops, or alteration of the resource by changing
existing topography, vegetation, water conditions or water sources.
d. Education, scientific research, and use of nature trails.
e. Existing and ongoing agricultural activities, including farming,
horticulture, aquaculture, irrigation, ranching or grazing of animals that
are in compliance with the County’s Voluntary Stewardship Program
(VSP) Activities on areas lying fallow as part of a conventional rotational
cycle are part of an ongoing operation. Activities which bring an area into
agricultural use are not part of an ongoing operation. An operation ceases
to be ongoing when the area on which it was conducted has been
converted to another use or has lain idle for more than twelve consecutive
months.
f. Normal and routine maintenance of legally constructed irrigation and
drainage ditches, provided that this exemption shall not apply to any
ditches used by salmonids.
g. Normal and routine maintenance, repair or operation of existing
serviceable structures, facilities, or improved areas. Maintenance and
repair do not include any modification that changes the character, scope,
or size of the original structure, facility, or improved area and does not
include the construction of a maintenance road.
h. Minor modification of existing serviceable structures provided such minor
modifications are located wholly outside the designated buffer zone and
where modification or construction does not adversely impact functions of
the critical area.
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i.

A minor modification is considered a small change to an existing
lawful structure that does not create new impact on or reduce
protection of the critical area or its buffer.

ii.

The buffer zones are:
a. Chewelah Creek: fifty feet as measured from the ordinary
high-water mark.
b. Thomason and Paye Creeks: twenty-five feet as measured
from the ordinary high-water mark.

i. Vegetation Removal
1. Noxious and Invasive Plant Removal: Removal of noxious and invasive
plants should minimize the impacts to fish, wildlife, and habitat through the
use of hand removal or light equipment, use of only WA Dept. Of Ecology
approved aquatic herbicides and when necessary, avoidance of hazardous
substances, prevention of soil compaction, and timing restrictions to protect
fish and wildlife during sensitive periods. These conditions should apply
whether the activity is exempt or permitted
2.

Hazard Trees
i.

Emergency Tree Removal. Any tree that poses an imminent threat
to life or property may be removed. The City must be notified
within seven (7) days after the emergency tree removal with
evidence of the threat for removing the tree to be considered
exempt from this chapter. If the Planning Official determines that
the emergency tree removal was not warranted or if the removed
tree was required to be retained or planted pursuant to a
development permit, then the removal will be subject to code
enforcement, including fines and restoration.
a. Utility Maintenance. Trees may be removed by the City or
a utility provider in situations involving interruption of
services provided by a utility only if other arboricultural
practices (such as pruning, cabling, or bracing) cannot
solve the utility service problems.

ii.

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Hazard trees within critical areas or their buffers shall be addressed
in accordance with the following:

Page | 19

a. Where feasible, hazard trees shall be converted to wildlife
snags or felled and left in place as large woody debris,
consistent with public safety and access needs.
b. Where retaining the snag or log in place is not feasible due
to safety or access constraints, the tree may be removed,
provided that native replacement trees are planted at a ratio
determined by the Administrator in coordination with the
Department of Ecology.
c. All work shall use low-impact methods, avoid additional
disturbance to soils and vegetation, and comply with any
applicable critical areas permits.
3. Emergency Activities.
a. Criteria for Granting a Temporary Emergency Permit. Notwithstanding the
provisions of this section or any other laws to the contrary, the
Administrator may issue a temporary emergency wetland permit or allow
regulated uses or activities in a Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation
Area or Geologically Hazardous Area if:
i.

The Administrator determines that an imminent threat to public
health, safety, or the environment will occur if an emergency
permit is not granted; and,

ii.

The threat or loss may occur before a wetland permit or Fish and
Wildlife Habitat Conservation Area review can be issued or
conditioned under the procedures otherwise required by this
section.

b. Conditions of an Emergency Permit. Any emergency permit granted shall:

Ordinance 1025

i.

Incorporate to the greatest extent practicable the standards and
criteria required for non-emergency activities.

ii.

Be limited in duration to the time required to complete the
authorized emergency activities, not to exceed ninety days without
reapplication.

iii.

Require contact of the Washington Department of Fish and
Wildlife for an emergency Hydraulic Project Approval if
necessary.

Page | 20

iv.

Require the applicant to avoid and minimize impacts to critical
areas and critical area buffers to the greatest extent practicable
during emergency activities.

v.

Require that, following resolution of the emergency, any adverse
impacts to critical areas or critical area buffers resulting from the
emergency activity be restored, rehabilitated, replaced, or
otherwise mitigated, as determined by the Administrator. The
exemption for emergency activities shall not eliminate the
requirement to mitigate impacts after the immediate threat has
been addressed.

vi.

Require restoration, rehabilitation, replacement, or mitigation to be
initiated within one year of the date of the emergency, unless the
Administrator approves an alternative timeline based on site
conditions, permitting requirements, seasonal constraints, or the
nature of the required mitigation. Required work shall be
completed in a timely manner pursuant to an approved restoration
or mitigation plan.

vii.

Require the applicant to submit documentation, as determined
necessary by the Administrator, identifying the extent of critical
area impacts and the proposed measures to restore, rehabilitate,
replace, or mitigate those impacts.

J. Reasonable Use Exception. If the applicant for a development proposal demonstrates to
the satisfaction of the Administrator that application of the standards of this section
would deny all reasonable use of the property, development satisfying the project
conditions imposed by the Administrator and fulfilling the criteria below shall be
allowed. The applicant shall pay fees as determined by the City which may include
mailing and processing costs and shall submit documentation on forms provided by the
City demonstrating that all of the following are met to the satisfaction of the
Administrator:
a. Reasonable intent to mitigate impacts to critical areas and buffers
consistent with the purpose and standards of this section.
b. There is no reasonable use with less impact on the wetland, fish and
wildlife habitat or geo-hazard area.
c. The requested use or activity will not result in any damage to the other
property and will not threaten public health, safety or welfare, on or off the
property.

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d. Any alteration to the wetland, fish and wildlife habitat or geo-hazard area
is the minimum necessary to allow for reasonable use of the property.
e. The inability of the applicant to derive reasonable use is not the result of
actions by the applicant in subdividing the property or adjusting boundary
lines thereby creating the undevelopable condition after the effective date
of this section.
2. Decision. The Administrator shall include findings on each of the evaluation
criteria listed above in a written decision. The written decision shall comply with
Notice of Decision Standards provided in CMC 18.20.040(D). The written
decision shall include conditions necessary to serve the purposes of this section.
K. Frequently Flooded Areas.
1. Purpose. It is the intent of the City to recognize and diminish potential hazards
that may be caused by inappropriate development in areas where severe and
costly flooding is anticipated to occur. Based on historical observation and
information collected by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the City
endorses a cautious posture that limits construction in areas located within zones
designated to be flood prone. This decision stems from local, as well as state and
federal, understanding that development limitations in these areas help to serve
the health, safety and public welfare of the people of the City.
2. Classification. Classification of frequently flooded areas, according to the
minimum guidelines, should include, at a minimum, the 100-year Floodplain
designations of the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the National
Flood Insurance Program. The following are categories of frequently flooded
areas established for the purpose of classification:
a. Floodways. The channel of a stream, plus any adjacent floodplain areas,
that must be kept free of encroachment in order that the base flood be
carried without substantial increases in flood heights.
b. Floodplains. The floodway and special flood hazard areas.
c. Special Flood Hazard Areas. The areas adjoining the floodway which are
subject to a one percent or greater chance of flooding in any given year, as
identified and determined by the Federal Insurance Administration.
3. Designation. All city lands and waters which are currently identified within the
100-year Floodplain in the Federal Emergency Management Agency Publication
entitled “The Flood Insurance Rate Map for Stevens County, WA, and
Incorporated Areas,” with accompanying flood insurance rate and boundary maps
are designated as frequently flooded areas. If and when this study becomes
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updated to reflect new conditions, designation of frequently flooded areas will
include the changes.
4. All new development within designated frequently flooded areas shall be in
compliance with CMC Chapter 15.12 - Floodplain Damage Prevention.
L. Wetlands.
1. Purposes of this section are to:
a. Recognize and protect the beneficial functions performed by many
wetlands, which include, but are not limited to, providing food, breeding,
nesting and/or rearing habitat for fish and wildlife; recharging and
discharging groundwater; contributing to stream flow during low flow
periods; stabilizing stream banks and shorelines; storing storm and flood
waters to reduce flooding and erosion; and improving water quality
through biofiltration, adsorption, and retention and transformation of
sediments, nutrients, and toxicants.
b. Regulate land use to avoid adverse effects on wetlands and maintain the
functions and values of wetlands throughout the City of Chewelah.
c. Establish review procedures for development proposals in and adjacent to
wetlands.
i.

Compliance with the provisions of this section does not constitute
compliance with other federal, state, and local regulations and
permit requirements (for example, Shoreline Substantial
Development Permits, Hydraulic Project Approval Permits, Army
Corps of Engineers Section 404 Permits, National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System Permits). The applicant is
responsible for complying with these requirements, apart from the
process established in this section.

ii.

The classification of a wetland shall be defined according to the
Washington State Wetland Rating System for Eastern Washington:
2014 Update (Ecology Publication # 14-06-030 or as revised and
approved by Ecology) and the 1987 Federal Wetland Delineation
Manual and appropriate Regional Supplement, or as amended.

2. Identification and Rating.
a. Identification and Delineation. Identification of wetlands and delineation
of their boundaries pursuant to this section shall be done in accordance
with the approved 1987 Federal Wetland Delineation Manual and
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appropriate Regional Supplement, or as amended. All areas within the city
that meet the wetland designation criteria in that procedure are hereby
designated critical areas and are subject to the provisions of this section.
Wetland delineations are valid for five years; after such date the
Administrator shall determine whether a revision or additional assessment
is necessary.
b. Rating. Wetlands shall be rated according to the Washington Department
of Ecology wetland rating system, as set forth in the Washington State
Wetland Rating System for Eastern Washington: 2014 Update (Ecology
Publication #14-06-030, or as revised and approved by Ecology). Wetland
ratings are valid for five years; after such date the City shall determine
whether a revision or additional rating is necessary.
i.

Category I Wetlands perform many functions very well (scores
between 22-27 points).
a. They include:
i. Alkali wetlands.
ii. Wetlands of high conservation value that are
identified by scientists of the Washington Natural
Heritage Program/Department of Natural
Resources.
iii. Bogs and calcareous fens.
iv. Mature and old-growth forested wetlands over one
quarter acre with slow-growing trees.
v. Forests with stands of aspen.
b. These wetlands are those that:
i. Represent a unique or rare wetland type; or
ii. Are more sensitive to disturbance than most
wetlands; or
iii. Are relatively undisturbed and contain ecological
attributes that are impossible to replace within a
human lifetime; or
iv. Provide a high level of function.

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ii.

Category II Wetlands perform functions well (scores between 1921 points).
a. They include:
i. Forested wetlands in the floodplains of rivers.
ii. Mature and old-growth forested wetlands over one
quarter acre with fast-growing trees.
iii. Vernal pools.
b. These wetlands are difficult, though not impossible, to
replace and provide high levels of some functions. These
wetlands occur more commonly than Category I wetlands
but still need a relatively high level of protection.

iii.

Category III Wetlands have a moderate level of functions (scores
between 16-18 points). These wetlands can often be adequately
replaced with a well-planned mitigation project. Wetlands scoring
between 16-18 points generally have been disturbed in some way
and are often less diverse or more isolated from other natural
resources in the landscape than Category II Wetlands.

iv.

Category IV Wetlands have the lowest level of functions (scores
fewer than 16 points) and are often heavily disturbed. These are
wetlands that should be able to be replaced, and in some cases,
improved. However, experience has shown that replacement
cannot be guaranteed in any specific case. These wetlands may
provide some important functions and also need to be protected.

3. Illegal Modifications. Wetland rating categories shall not change due to illegal
modifications made by the applicant or with the applicant’s knowledge.
4. Regulated Activities.
a. For any regulated activity, a critical areas report (see Part G,3) may be
required to support the requested activity.
b. The following activities are regulated if they occur in a regulated wetland
or its buffer:

Ordinance 1025

i.

The removal, excavation, grading, or dredging of soil, sand, gravel,
minerals, organic matter, or material of any kind.

ii.

The dumping of, discharging of, or filling with any material.

Page | 25

iii.

The draining, flooding, or disturbing of the water level or water
table.

iv.

Pile driving.

v.

The placing of obstructions.

vi.

The construction, reconstruction, demolition, or expansion of any
structure.

vii.

The destruction or alteration of wetland vegetation through
clearing, harvesting, shading, intentional burning, or planting of
vegetation that would alter the character of a regulated wetland.

viii.

"Class IV - General Forest Practices" under the authority of the
"1992 Washington State Forest Practices Act Rules and
Regulations," WAC 222.12.030, or as amended.

ix.

Activities that result in:
a. A significant change of water temperature.
b. A significant change of physical or chemical characteristics
of the sources of water to the wetland.
c. A significant change in the quantity, timing or duration of
the water entering the wetland.
d. The introduction of pollutants.

5. Subdivisions. The subdivision and/or short subdivision of land in wetlands and
associated buffers are subject to the following:
a. Land that is located wholly within a wetland or its buffer may not be
subdivided.
b. Land that is located partially within a wetland or its buffer may be
subdivided provided that an accessible and contiguous portion of each new
lot is:
i.

Located outside of the wetland and its buffer; and,

ii.

Meets the minimum lot size requirements of CMC Chapter 18.08.

c. Base flood elevation data and other critical areas and associated buffers or
development restrictions shall be identified on the preliminary and final plat maps of
land by a licensed engineer or surveyor. A note shall be placed on the plat identifying

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any use restrictions on individual lots and indicating that future development may be
subject to review for compliance
6. Exemptions and Allowed Uses in Wetlands.
a. Small, isolated wetlands in arid landscapes often have a higher value and
perform greater functions than in other settings. However, in certain
circumstances, applying the buffers in Part K,7 may result in buffer areas
greater than that of the wetland being protected. In these instances, the
Administrator may consult with the Department of Ecology to determine
whether exemptions from mitigation sequencing and/or reduced buffers
are warranted.
b. Activities Allowed in Wetlands. The following activities are allowed in
wetlands. These activities do not require submission of a critical areas
report, except where such activities result in a loss of the functions and
values of a wetland or wetland buffer. These activities include:

Ordinance 1025

i.

Existing and ongoing agricultural activities, provided that they
implement applicable Best Management Practices contained in the
latest edition of the USDA Natural Resources Conservation
Service Field Office Technical Guide; or develop a farm
conservation plan in coordination with the local conservation
district. Best Management Practices and/or farm plans should
address potential impacts to wetlands from livestock, nutrient and
farm chemicals, soil erosion and sediment control and agricultural
drainage infrastructure. Best Management Practices and/or farm
plans should ensure that ongoing agricultural activities minimize
their effects on water quality, riparian ecology, salmonid
populations, and wildlife habitat.

ii.

Those activities and uses conducted pursuant to the Washington
State Forest Practices Act and its rules and regulations (WAC 22212-030) where state law specifically exempts local authority,
except those developments requiring local approval for Class 4 –
General Forest Practice Permits (conversions) as defined in RCW
76.09 and WAC 222-12.

iii.

Conservation or preservation of soil, water, vegetation, fish,
shellfish, and/or other wildlife that does not entail changing the
structure or functions of the existing wetland.

iv.

The harvesting of wild crops in a manner that is not injurious to
natural reproduction of such crops, provided that the harvesting
Page | 27

does not require tilling of soil, planting of crops, chemical
applications, or alteration of the wetland by changing existing
topography, water conditions, or water sources.
v.

Drilling for utilities/utility corridors under a wetland, with
entrance/exit portals located completely outside of the wetland
buffer, provided that the drilling does not interrupt the groundwater
connection to the wetland or percolation of surface water down
through the soil column. Specific studies by a hydrologist are
necessary to determine whether the groundwater connection to the
wetland or percolation of surface water down through the soil
column will be disturbed.

vi.

Enhancement of a wetland through the removal of non-native
invasive plant species. Removal of invasive plant species shall be
restricted to hand removal unless permits from the appropriate
regulatory agencies have been obtained for approved biological or
chemical treatments. All removed plant material shall be taken
away from the site and appropriately disposed of. Plants that
appear on the Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board List
of noxious weeds must be handled and disposed of according to a
Noxious Weed Control Plan appropriate to that species. Revegetation with appropriate native species at natural densities is
allowed in conjunction with removal of invasive plant species.

vii.

Educational and scientific research activities that do not result in
altering the structure or function of the wetland.

viii.

Normal and routine maintenance and repair of any existing public
or private facilities within an existing right-of-way, provided that
the maintenance or repair does not expand the footprint of the
facility or right-of-way and has no adverse effect on the wetland or
buffer.

ix.

Stormwater management facilities. A wetland or its buffer can be
physically or hydrologically altered to meet the requirements of a
LID, Runoff Treatment or Flow Control Best Management Practice
if ALL of the following criteria are met:
a. The wetland is classified as a Category IV or a Category III
Wetland with a habitat score of 3-5 points.
b. There will be “no net loss” of functions and values of the
wetland.

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Page | 28

c. The wetland does not contain a breeding population of any
native amphibian species.
d. The hydrologic functions of the wetland can be improved
as outlined in questions 3, 4, 5 of Chart 4 and questions 2,
3, 4 of Chart 5 in the “Guide for Selecting Mitigation Sites
Using a Watershed Approach,” as provided by the
Department of Ecology; or the wetland is part of a priority
restoration plan that achieves restoration goals identified in
a Shoreline Master Program or other local or regional
watershed plan.
e. The wetland lies in the natural routing of the runoff, and the
discharge follows the natural routing.
f. All regulations regarding stormwater and wetland
management are followed, including but not limited to,
local and state wetland and stormwater codes, manuals, and
permits.
g. Modifications that alter the structure of a wetland or its
soils will require permits. Existing functions and values
that are lost would have to be compensated/replaced.
h. Stormwater LID Best Management Practices required as
part of new or redevelopment projects can be considered
within wetlands and their buffers. However, these areas
may contain features that render LID Best Management
Practices infeasible. A site-specific characterization is
required to determine if an LID Best Management Practice
is feasible at the project site.
7. Wetland Buffers.
a. Buffer Requirements. The following buffer widths have been established
in accordance with the best available science. They are based on the
category of wetland, and the habitat score as determined by a qualified
wetland professional using the Washington State Wetland Rating System
for Eastern Washington: 2014 Update (Ecology Publication #14-06-030,
or as revised and approved by Ecology).

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Page | 29

Buffer width (in feet) based on habitat score

3-5

6-7

8-9

Buffer width
based on
special
characteristics

Category I: Based on total score

100

150

200

NA

Category I: Forested

100

150

200

NA

Category I: Bogs and Wetlands of High
Conservation Value

190 (buffer width not based on
habitat scores)

250

Category I: Alkali

150 (buffer width not based on
habitat scores)

200

Category II: Based on total score

75

200

Category II: Vernal pool

150 (buffer width not based on
habitat scores)

200

Category II: Forested

75

110

150

200

Category III (all)

80

150

200

NA

Category IV (all)

50

Wetland Category

110

150

NA

8. Increased Wetland Buffer Area Width. Buffer widths shall be increased on a caseby-case basis as determined by the Administrator when a larger buffer is
necessary to protect wetland functions and values. This determination shall be
supported by appropriate documentation showing that it is reasonably related to
protection of the functions and values of the wetland. The documentation must
include but is not limited to the following criteria:
a. The wetland is used by a state or federally listed plant or animal species or
has essential or outstanding habitat for those species or has unusual
nesting or resting sites such as heron rookeries or raptor nesting trees.

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Page | 30

b. The adjacent land is susceptible to severe erosion, and erosion-control
measures will not effectively prevent adverse wetland impacts.
c. The adjacent land has minimal vegetative cover or slopes greater than
thirty percent.
9. Buffer averaging to improve wetland protection may be permitted when all of the
following conditions are met:
a. The wetland has significant differences in characteristics that affect its
habitat functions, such as a wetland with a forested component adjacent to
a degraded emergent component or a “dual-rated” wetland with a
Category I Area adjacent to a lower-rated area.
b. The buffer is increased adjacent to the higher-functioning area of habitat
or more-sensitive portion of the wetland and decreased adjacent to the
lower-functioning or less-sensitive portion as demonstrated by a critical
areas report from a qualified wetland professional.
c. The total area of the buffer after averaging is equal to the area required
without averaging.
d. The buffer at its narrowest point is never less than either seventy-five
percent of the required width or seventy-five feet for Category I and II,
fifty feet for Category III and twenty-five feet for Category IV, whichever
is greater.
10. Averaging to allow reasonable use of a parcel may be permitted when all of the
following are met:
a. There are no feasible alternatives to the site design that could be
accomplished without buffer averaging.
b. The averaged buffer will not result in degradation of the wetland’s
functions and values as demonstrated by a critical areas report from a
qualified wetland professional.
c. The total buffer area after averaging is equal to the area required without
averaging.
d. The buffer at its narrowest point is never less than either seventy-five
percent of the required width or seventy-five feet for Category I and II,
fifty feet for Category III and twenty-five feet for Category IV, whichever
is greater.

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Page | 31

11. Measurement of Wetland Buffers. All buffers shall be measured perpendicular
from the wetland boundary as surveyed in the field. The buffer for a wetland
created, restored, or enhanced as compensation for approved wetland alterations
shall be the same as the buffer required for the category of the created, restored, or
enhanced wetland. Buffers must be fully vegetated in order to be included in
buffer area calculations. Lawns, walkways, driveways, and other mowed or paved
areas will not be considered buffers or included in buffer area calculations.
12. Buffers on Mitigation Sites. All wetland mitigation sites shall have buffers
consistent with the buffer requirements of this section. Buffers shall be based on
the expected or target category of the proposed wetland mitigation site.
13. Overlapping Critical Area Buffers. If buffers for two contiguous critical areas
overlap (such as buffers for a stream and a wetland), the wider buffer applies.
14. Allowed Buffer Uses. The following uses may be allowed within a wetland buffer
in accordance with the review procedures of this section, provided they are not
prohibited by any other applicable law and they are conducted in a manner so as
to minimize impacts to the buffer and adjacent wetland:
a. Conservation and Restoration Activities. Conservation or restoration
activities aimed at protecting the soil, water, vegetation, or wildlife.
b. Passive Recreation. Passive recreation facilities designed and in
accordance with an approved critical areas report, including:
i.

Walkways and trails, provided that those pathways are limited to
minor crossings having no adverse impact on water quality. They
should be generally parallel to the perimeter of the wetland,
located only in the outer twenty-five percent of the wetland buffer
area, and located so as to avoid removal of significant trees. They
should be limited to pervious surfaces no more than five feet in
width for pedestrian use only. Raised boardwalks utilizing nontreated pilings may be acceptable.

ii.

Wildlife-viewing structures.

c. Educational and scientific research activities.
d. Normal and routine maintenance and repair of any existing public or
private facility within an existing right-of-way, provided that the
maintenance or repair does not increase the footprint or use of the facility
or right-of-way.

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Page | 32

e. The harvesting of wild crops in a manner that is not injurious to natural
reproduction of such crops, provided that the harvesting does not require
tilling of soil, planting of crops, chemical applications, or alteration of the
wetland by changing existing topography, water conditions, or water
sources.
f. Drilling for utilities/utility corridors under a buffer, with entrance/exit
portals located completely outside of the wetland buffer boundary,
provided that the drilling does not interrupt the groundwater connection to
the wetland or percolation of surface water down through the soil column.
Specific studies by a hydrologist are necessary to determine whether the
groundwater connection to the wetland or percolation of surface water
down through the soil column is disturbed.
g. Enhancement of a wetland buffer through the removal of non-native
invasive plant species. Removal of invasive plant species shall be
restricted to hand removal unless permits from the appropriate regulatory
agencies have been obtained for approved biological or chemical
treatments. All removed plant material shall be taken away from the site
and appropriately disposed of. Plants that appear on the Washington State
Noxious Weed Control Board List of noxious weeds must be handled and
disposed of according to a Noxious Weed Control Plan appropriate to that
species. Re-vegetation with appropriate native species at natural densities
is allowed in conjunction with removal of invasive plant species.
h. Repair and maintenance of non-conforming uses or structures, where
legally established within the buffer, provided they do not increase the
degree of nonconformity.
15. Signs and Fencing of Wetlands and Buffers (optional).
a. Temporary Markers. The outer perimeter of the wetland buffer and the
clearing limits identified by an approved permit or authorization shall be
marked in the field with temporary “clearing limits” fencing in such a way
as to ensure that no unauthorized intrusion will occur. The marking is
subject to inspection by the Administrator prior to the commencement of
permitted activities. This temporary marking shall be maintained
throughout construction and shall not be removed until permanent signs, if
required, are in place.
b. Permanent Signs. As a condition of any permit or authorization issued
pursuant to this section, the Administrator may require the applicant to
install permanent signs along the boundary of a wetland or buffer.
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Page | 33

i.

Permanent signs shall be made of an enamel-coated metal face and
attached to a metal post or another non-treated material of equal
durability. One sign must be posted at fifty-foot intervals, or one
per lot if the lot is less than fifty feet wide; and must be maintained
by the property owner in perpetuity. The signs shall be worded as
follows or with alternative language approved by the
Administrator:
Protected Wetland Area Do Not Disturb
Contact City of Chewelah
Regarding Uses, Restrictions, and Opportunities for
Stewardship

ii.

The provisions of Part K,15, a may be modified as necessary to
ensure protection of sensitive features or wildlife.

c. Fencing.
i.

The applicant shall be required to install a permanent fence around
the wetland or buffer when domestic grazing animals are present or
may be introduced on site.

ii.

Fencing installed as part of a proposed activity or as required in
Part K,15, c, (1) shall be designed so as to not interfere with
species migration, including fish runs, and shall be constructed in a
manner that minimizes impacts to the wetland and associated
habitat.

16. Critical Areas Report for Wetlands.
a. If the Administrator determines that the site of a proposed development
includes, is likely to include, or is adjacent to a wetland, a wetland report
prepared by a qualified professional shall be required. The expense of
preparing the wetland report shall be borne by the applicant.
b. Minimum Standards for Wetland Reports. The written report and the
accompanying plan sheets shall contain the following information:
i.

The written report shall include at a minimum:
a. The name and contact information of the applicant; the
name, qualifications, and contact information for the
primary author(s) of the wetland critical areas report; a
description of the proposal; identification of all the local,

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Page | 34

state, and/or federal wetland-related permit(s) required for
the project; and a vicinity map for the project.
b. A statement specifying the accuracy of the report and all
assumptions made and relied upon.
c. Documentation of any fieldwork performed on the site,
including field data sheets for delineations, rating system
forms, baseline hydrologic data, etc.
d. A description of the methodologies used to conduct the
wetland delineations, wetland ratings, or impact analyses,
including references.
e. Identification and characterization of all critical areas,
wetlands, water bodies, shorelines, floodplains, and buffers
on or adjacent to the proposed project area. For areas offsite of the project site, estimate conditions within two
hundred fifty feet of the project boundaries using the best
available information.
f. For each wetland identified on-site and within two hundred
fifty feet of the project boundary, provide: the wetland
rating, including a description of and score for each
function, per Part K,2,a-b; required buffers;
hydrogeomorphic classification; wetland acreage based on
a professional survey from the field delineation (acreages
for on-site portion and entire wetland area including off-site
portions); Cowardin Classification of vegetation
communities; habitat elements; soil conditions based on
site assessment and/or soil survey information; and to the
extent possible, hydrologic information such as location
and condition of inlet/outlets (if they can be legally
accessed), estimated water depths within the wetland, and
estimated hydroperiod patterns based on visual cues (e.g.,
algal mats, drift lines, flood debris, etc.). Provide acreage
estimates, classifications, and ratings based on entire
wetland complexes, not only the portion present on the
proposed project site.
g. A description of the proposed actions including an
estimation of acreages of impacts to wetlands and buffers
based on the field delineation and survey and an analysis of
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Page | 35

site development alternatives, including a no-development
alternative.
h. An assessment of the probable cumulative impacts to the
wetlands and buffers resulting from the proposed
development.
i. A description of reasonable efforts made to apply
mitigation sequencing pursuant to Part K, 17, a in order to
avoid, minimize, and mitigate impacts to critical areas.
j. A discussion of measures, including avoidance,
minimization, and compensation, proposed to preserve
existing wetlands and restore any wetlands that were
degraded prior to the current proposed land use activity.
k. A conservation strategy for habitat and native vegetation
that addresses methods to protect and enhance on-site
habitat and wetland functions.
l. An evaluation of the functions of the wetland and adjacent
buffer. Include reference for the method used and data
sheets.
ii.

A copy of the site plan sheet(s) for the project must be included
with the written report and must include, at a minimum:
a. Maps (to scale) depicting delineated and surveyed wetland
and required buffers on-site, including buffers for off-site
critical areas that extend onto the project site; the
development proposal; other critical areas; grading and
clearing limits; areas of proposed impacts to wetlands
and/or buffers (include square footage estimates).
b. A depiction of the proposed stormwater management
facilities and outlets (to scale) for the development,
including estimated areas of intrusion into the buffers of
any critical areas. The written report shall contain a
discussion of the potential impacts to the wetland(s)
associated with anticipated hydroperiod alterations from the
project.

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Page | 36

17. Wetland Mitigation Ratios.
Category and Type
of Wetland

Creation or
Reestablishment

Rehabilitation Preservation Enhancement

Category I: Bog,
Natural Heritage site

Not considered
possible

Case by case

24:1

Case by case

Category I: Mature
Forested

6:1

12:1

16:1

16:1

Category I: Based on
4:1
functions

8:1

24:1

16:1

Alkali wetlands

NA

NA

24:1

NA

Category II

3:1

6:1

12:1

12:1

Category III

2:1

4:1

8:1

8:1

Category IV

1.5:1

3:1

6:1

6:1

18. Compensatory Mitigation Plan. When a project involves wetland and/or buffer
impacts, a compensatory mitigation plan prepared by a qualified professional
shall be required, meeting the following minimum standards:
a. Wetland Critical Areas Report. A critical areas report for wetlands must
accompany or be included in the Compensatory Mitigation Plan and
include the minimum parameters described in Part K, 16, b.
b. Compensatory Mitigation Report. The report must include a written report
and plan sheets that must contain, at a minimum, the following elements.
Full guidance can be found in Wetland Mitigation in Washington State-P
art 2: Developing Mitigation Plans (Version 1) (Ecology Publication #0606-011b, Olympia, WA, March 2006 or as amended).
i.

The written report must contain, at a minimum:
a. The name and contact information of the applicant; the
name, qualifications, and contact information for the
primary author(s) of the compensatory mitigation report; a
description of the proposal; a summary of the impacts and
proposed compensation concept; identification of all the
local, state, and/or federal wetland-related permit(s)
required for the project; and a vicinity map for the project.

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Page | 37

b. Description of how the project design has been modified to
avoid, minimize, or reduce adverse impacts to wetlands.
c. Description of the existing wetland and buffer areas
proposed to be impacted. Include acreage (or square
footage), water regime, vegetation, soils, landscape
position, surrounding lands uses, and functions. Also
describe impacts in terms of acreage by Cowardin
Classification, Hydrogeomorphic Classification, and
wetland rating, based on Part K, 2, b.
d. Description of the Compensatory Mitigation Site, including
location and rationale for selection. Include an assessment
of existing conditions: acreage (or square footage) of
wetlands and uplands, water regime, sources of water,
vegetation, soils, landscape position, surrounding land uses,
and functions. Estimate future conditions in this location if
the compensation actions are NOT undertaken (i.e., how
would this site progress through natural succession?).
e. Surface and subsurface hydrologic conditions, including an
analysis of existing and proposed hydrologic regimes for
enhanced, created, or restored compensatory mitigation
areas. Include illustrations of how data for existing
hydrologic conditions were used to determine the estimates
of future hydrologic conditions.
f. A description of the proposed actions for compensation of
wetland and upland areas affected by the project. Include
overall goals of the proposed mitigation, including a
description of the targeted functions, hydrogeomorphic
classification, and categories of wetlands.
g. A description of the proposed mitigation construction
activities and timing of activities.
h. Performance standards (measurable standards for years
post-installation) for upland and wetland communities, a
monitoring schedule, and a maintenance schedule and
actions proposed by year.
i. A discussion of ongoing management practices that will
protect wetlands after the development project has been
implemented, including proposed monitoring and
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maintenance programs (for remaining wetlands and
compensatory mitigation wetlands).
j. Proof of establishment of Notice on Title for the wetlands
and buffers on the project site, including the compensatory
mitigation areas.
ii.

The scaled plan sheets for the compensatory mitigation must
contain, at a minimum:
a. Surveyed edges of the existing wetland and buffers,
proposed areas of wetland and/or buffer impacts, location
of proposed wetland and/or buffer compensation actions.
b. Existing topography, ground-proofed, at two-foot contour
intervals in the zone of the proposed compensation actions
if any grading activity is proposed to create the
compensation area(s). Also, existing cross-sections of onsite wetland areas that are proposed to be impacted, and
cross-section(s) (estimated one-foot intervals) for the
proposed areas of wetland or buffer compensation.
c. Conditions expected from the proposed actions on site,
including future hydrogeomorphic types, vegetation
community types by dominant species (wetland and
upland), and future water regimes.
d. Required wetland buffers for existing wetlands and
proposed compensation areas. Also, identify any zones
where buffers are proposed to be reduced or enlarged
outside of the standards identified in this section.
e. A planting plan for the compensation area, including all
species by proposed community type and water regime,
size and type of plant material to be installed, spacing of
plants, typical clustering patterns, total number of each
species by community type, and timing of installation.

19. Buffer Mitigation Ratios. Impacts to buffers shall be mitigated at a minimum 1:1
ratio. Compensatory buffer mitigation shall replace those buffer functions lost
from development.
20. Protection of the Mitigation Site. The area where the mitigation occurred and any
associated buffer shall be located in a critical area tract or a conservation
easement consistent with this section.
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21. Monitoring. Mitigation monitoring shall be required for a period necessary to
establish that performance standards have been met, but not for a period less than
five years. If a scrub-shrub or forested vegetation community is proposed,
monitoring may be required for ten years or more. The project mitigation plan
shall include monitoring elements that ensure certainty of success for the project’s
natural resource values and functions. If the mitigation goals are not obtained
within the initial five-year period, the applicant remains responsible for
restoration of the natural resource values and functions until the mitigation goals
agreed to in the mitigation plan are achieved.
a. Advance Mitigation. Mitigation for projects with pre-identified impacts to
wetlands may be constructed in advance of the impacts if the mitigation is
implemented according to federal rules, state policy on advance
mitigation, and state water quality regulations consistent with Interagency
Regulatory Guide: Advance Permittee-Responsible Mitigation (Ecology
Publication #12-06-015, Olympia, WA, December 2012, or as amended).
b. Alternative Mitigation Plans. The Administrator may approve alternative
wetland mitigation plans that are based on best available science, such as
priority restoration plans that achieve restoration goals identified in the
City of Chewelah Shoreline Master Program. Alternative mitigation
proposals must provide an equivalent or better level of protection of
wetland functions and values than would be provided by the strict
application of this section. The Administrator shall consider the following
for approval of an alternative mitigation proposal:

Ordinance 1025

i.

The proposal uses a watershed approach consistent with Selecting
Wetland Mitigation Sites Using a Watershed Approach (Eastern
Washington) (Ecology Publication #10-06-07, November 2010, or
as amended).

ii.

Creation or enhancement of a larger system of natural areas and
open space is preferable to the preservation of many individual
habitat areas.

iii.

Mitigation according to Part K, 17, e is not feasible due to site
constraints such as parcel size, stream type, wetland category, or
geologic hazards.

iv.

There is clear potential for success of the proposed mitigation at
the proposed mitigation site.

v.

The plan shall contain clear and measurable standards for
achieving compliance with the specific provisions of the plan. A
Page | 40

monitoring plan shall, at a minimum, meet the provisions in Part
K,20.
vi.

The plan shall be reviewed and approved as part of overall
approval of the proposed use.

vii.

A wetland of a different type may be justified based on regional
needs or functions and values. The replacement ratios may not be
reduced or eliminated unless the reduction results in a preferred
environmental alternative.

viii.

Qualified professionals in each of the critical areas addressed shall
prepare the plan.

ix.

The Administrator may consult with agencies with expertise and
jurisdiction over the critical areas during the review to assist with
analysis and identification of appropriate performance measures
that adequately safeguard critical areas.

M. Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas.
1. Purpose. The City designates Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas
(FWHCA) within the city and its urban growth area in accordance with
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Priority Habitat and Species
Program, or as amended. In addition to protecting state listed species, habitats,
and corridors, this CAO protects the five core riparian ecosystem functions: shade
for water temperate regulation, root strength for bank stability, nutrient input
through organic matter, wood input for large woody debris, and pollution control
through filtration of upland runoff. The Administrator shall ask the appropriate
resource agencies to review and comment on the development impacts and
provisions of the Habitat Management Plan.
2. Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Area. For purposes of this section, fish
and wildlife habitat conservation areas shall include all of the following:
a. The Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife Priority Habitats
and Species Recommendations for Species and Habitats, for:
i.

Endangered species listed at WAC 220-610-010.

ii.

Threatened species listed at WAC 220-400-010.

iii.

Sensitive species listed at WAC 220-400-100.

b. Bald eagle habitat pursuant to WAC 220-610-100.

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Page | 41

c. Endangered or threatened species listed in accordance with the Federal
Endangered Species Act together with the areas with which they have a
primary association.
3. Classes of Wildlife Conservation Areas.
a. The City shall use two general classifications of Fish and Wildlife Habitat
Conservation Areas. These classifications are not intended to prioritize
protection of one class of habitat over the other, but to recognize that the
two types of habitat areas have differing functions and values within the
urban environment. In reviewing development proposal(s), the City shall
consider the Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas Classification
in establishing buffer widths, mitigation requirements, and permit
conditions. Any decision regarding establishment of buffers, buffer widths,
access restrictions, vegetation conservation, corridor disruption, and
restoration requirements, mitigation requirements, or permit conditions
shall be a Type I Review, subject to CMC 18.20.030.

Ordinance 1025

i.

Aquatic and Riparian Habitat Conservation Areas. With this
classification, the City recognizes that riparian habitat within the
city limits and urban growth area frequently coincides with
shoreline areas, flood hazard areas, wetlands and aquifer recharge
areas. Riparian areas typically offer relatively contiguous habitat
that is essential to a diverse array of fish and wildlife species. Best
available science indicates that these areas are especially sensitive
to pressures from urban development, and that they provide
important habitat functions and values for many species, including
anadromous fish species.

ii.

Upland Habitat Conservation Areas. With this classification, the
City recognizes that those upland areas within the defined city
limits and urban growth boundary that are not otherwise
designated as critical areas are frequently the most suited for
human development. Upland habitats that support federal or state
identified endangered, threatened or sensitive species, or any
habitats which are identified as providing a high level of functions
and values, must be protected in accord with federal and state
regulations. However, in considering best available science, this
classification also is intended to ensure that development is not
subject to burdensome regulation in those areas most suited to
support it. Upland habitat areas shall not include those portions of
the city and Urban Growth Area where a development pattern is
Page | 42

already established such that connectivity of habitat has already
been broken and protection of identified habitat areas is unlikely to
provide measurable benefit to any of the priority species identified
by Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
4. Mapping. Priority Habitat and Species maps used by Washington Department of
Fish and Wildlife depict general locations of Fish and Wildlife Habitat
Conservation Areas. However, because species populations and habitat systems
are dynamic, agency consultation shall be required to verify designation as a
habitat conservation area, except in cases in which a plan or agreement for the
habitat or species in question has been prepared and approved by the Washington
Department of Fish and Wildlife and the City.
5. Standards. In addition to the general provisions of this section and the
requirements of the underlying zone, the following minimum standards shall
apply to development activities within and adjacent to Fish and Wildlife Habitat
Conservation Areas:
a. Alterations shall not degrade the functions and values of the habitat. A
habitat conservation area may be altered only if the proposed alterations of
the habitat or the mitigation proposed do not degrade the functions and
values of the habitat.
b. Non-indigenous species shall not be introduced. No non-indigenous plant,
wildlife, or fish species shall be introduced into a fish and wildlife habitat
conservation area unless authorized by a federal or state permit or
approval.
c. Mitigation shall attempt to preserve contiguous corridors. Where wildlife
corridors exist, such as along stream corridors, mitigation shall preserve
those corridors by appropriate buffer widths.
d. Approvals of activities may be conditioned. The Administrator may
condition approval of activities allowed within or adjacent to a Fish and
Wildlife Habitat Conservation Area or its buffers, as necessary to
minimize or mitigate adverse impacts.
e. Mitigation shall achieve equivalent or greater biological function.
Mitigation alterations to habitat conservation areas shall achieve
equivalent or greater biological function. Mitigation shall address each
function affected by alteration to the habitat.

Ordinance 1025

Page | 43

f. Habitat Assessment. Habitat Management Plans for Fish and Wildlife
Habitat Conservation Areas shall include a habitat assessment to evaluate
the presence or absence of a priority species of habitat.
g. All projects shall comply with applicable federal, state, and local
regulations regarding the species and habitats identified upon a site.
h. The Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife priority habitat and
species management recommendations shall be consulted in developing
specific measures to protect a specific project site.
i. Any approved alteration or development shall be required to minimize
impacts to native vegetation. Where disturbance is unavoidable, the
applicant shall restore the area to the extent possible using native plants
appropriate to the site. New plantings shall be monitored and maintained
in good growing condition and kept free of invasive weeds until well
established upon the site.
j. Within Riparian Habitat Conservation Areas, vegetation shall not be
removed unless no other alternative exists. In such cases clearing shall be
limited to those areas necessary and disturbed areas shall be replanted with
site-appropriate native riparian vegetation.
k. Access to Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas or buffers may be
restricted in accord with the findings of a critical areas report, mitigation
report, Priority Habitat Species Management recommendations or other
best available science. Access restrictions may include fencing and signs,
as needed to ensure protection of habitat functions and values. Restrictions
may be seasonal in nature.
l. All activities, uses and alterations proposed to be located in or adjacent to
water bodies used by anadromous fish shall give special consideration to
the preservation and enhancement of associated habitats.
6. Buffer Requirements for Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas.
a. Buffers are required for activities in or adjacent to fish and wildlife habitat
conservation areas when needed to protect habitat functions and values.
Fish and wildlife habitat buffer widths shall reflect the sensitivity of the
habitat type and intensity of human activity proposed to be conducted
nearby and shall be consistent with recommendations issued by the
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Ordinance 1025

Page | 44

b. Riparian Habitat Areas. Unless otherwise allowed in this title, all
structures and activities shall be located outside of the riparian habitat
area.
i.

Establishment of Riparian Habitat Areas. Riparian habitat areas
shall be established for habitats that include aquatic and terrestrial
ecosystems that mutually benefit each other and that are located
adjacent to rivers, perennial or intermittent streams, seeps, and
springs.

ii.

Riparian Habitat Area Widths. Buffers for fish and wildlife habitat
conservation areas associated with streams and riparian wetlands
shall be established using a site-specific tree height standard. The
minimum buffer width shall be equal to the average mature height
of the dominant native tree species present within the adjacent
riparian plant community.
a. The buffer shall be measured horizontally from the
ordinary high-water mark of a stream, or from the
delineated edge of a riparian wetland.
b. The applicant shall submit a report prepared by a qualified
professional (e.g., forester, ecologist, or wetland scientist)
that:
i. Identifies the dominant native tree species on or
adjacent to the site;
ii. Provides documented mature tree height estimates
based on best available local data (e.g., WDFW
PHS, NRCS plant guides, or field measurements);
iii. Demonstrates that the proposed buffer width based
on tree height will maintain shade, erosion control,
and habitat functions equivalent to or greater than
the standard buffer width.
c. In areas lacking mature native vegetation, the buffer width
shall default to 100 feet or the mature height of a regionally
appropriate native riparian tree species, whichever is
greater. Native revegetation may be required to ensure
long-term functional performance.
d. Buffers shall be maintained or enhanced in a fully
vegetated, undisturbed condition unless otherwise

Ordinance 1025

Page | 45

authorized through a permit or habitat management plan
consistent with this chapter.
e. The City reserves the right to require an increase in the
buffer width based on site conditions including slope,
erosion hazard, species habitat, or adjacent land uses.
f. For those areas without a site-potential tree height value, or
imputed site-potential tree height value, the city or
applicant may consult with a WDFW Habitat Biologist to
find out what riparian management zone width values the
project site shall be.
https://wdfw.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.ht
ml?id=c59b38e4d25a4f058d4d0ecb89eadfde

c. The Administrator may allow the recommended habitat area buffer width
to be reduced in accordance with a critical areas report, the best available
science, and the management recommendations issued by the Washington
Department of Fish and Wildlife, only if:
i.

It will not reduce habitat functions and values.

ii.

It will provide additional resource protection, such as buffer
enhancement.

iii.

The total area contained in a buffer area after averaging is no less
than the area that would have been contained in the standard
buffer.

iv.

Maximum buffer width is not reduced by more than twenty-five
percent with a minimum buffer allowance of 100 feet in any
location.

v.

Land used to satisfy the buffer averaging area requirements shall
be permanently protected in perpetuity through a deed restriction,
conservation easement, or equivalent legal instrument recorded
against the title of the property.

d. Buffer width shall be increased where necessary to account for sitespecific conditions including:

Ordinance 1025

i.

Slopes exceeding 30 percent.

ii.

Highly erodible soils.
Page | 46

iii.

Documented habitat for federally or state-listed endangered,
threatened, or sensitive species.

iv.

Wetlands with high habitat scores or overlapping critical area
buffers.

e. The recommended riparian habitat area widths shall be increased, as
follows:
i.

When the Planning Director determines that the recommended
width is insufficient to prevent habitat degradation and to protect
the structure and functions of the habitat area.

ii.

When the frequently flooded area exceeds the recommended
riparian habitat area width, the riparian habitat area shall extend to
the outer edge of the frequently flooded area.

iii.

When a channel migration zone is present, the riparian habitat area
width shall be measured from the outer edge of the channel
migration zone.

iv.

When the habitat area is in an area of high blowdown potential, the
riparian habitat area width shall be expanded an additional 50 feet
on the windward side; or

v.

When the habitat area is within an erosion or landslide hazard area,
or buffer, the riparian habitat area width shall be the recommended
distance, or the erosion or landslide hazard area or buffer,
whichever is greater.

f. Any structure legally existing as of the effective date of this section and
located within a standard buffer width required under this section may
undergo normal maintenance and repair, or replacement; provided,
however, that such action does not increase the degree of nonconformity.
g. Signs and fencing of habitat conservation areas. The outer perimeter of the
habitat conservation area or buffer shall be marked in the field by
appropriate temporary markers during construction and, if necessary, shall
be delineated by a permanent marker after completion of the activity at the
discretion of the Administrator. Wildlife friendly fencing may be required
at the discretion of the Administrator in order to exclude harmful
disturbances such as grazing animals.
7. Habitat Management Plan.

Ordinance 1025

Page | 47

a. A Habitat Management Plan is required when an activity is proposed
within 200 feet of a Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Area.
b. Prepared by a qualified professional. A habitat management plan report for
a habitat conservation area shall be prepared by a qualified professional
who has professional course work and training and has prepared reports
for the relevant type of habitat.
c. Area addressed in the critical areas report.
i.

The project area of the proposed activity.

ii.

All habitat conservation area within two hundred feet of the project
area.

iii.

All shorelines, floodplains, and other critical areas and related
buffers within two hundred feet of the project area.

d. Habitat Assessment. A habitat assessment is an investigation of the project
area to evaluate the presence or absence of potential critical wildlife
species habitat. A Critical Area Habitat Report shall contain the following:
i.

Detailed description of vegetation on and adjacent to the project
area.

ii.

Identification of any species of local importance, priority species,
or endangered, threatened, or sensitive species that have primary
association with the habitat on or adjacent to the project area, and
assessment of potential impacts to the use of the site by the
species.

iii.

A discussion of any federal, state, or local special management
recommendations.

iv.

A detailed discussion of potential impacts on habitat by the project,
including impacts to water quality.

v.

A map of the project and/or survey area, coordinates, and GIS files
if available.

vi.

A discussion of measures including avoidance, minimization and
mitigation, proposed to preserve existing habitats in accordance
with the following:
a. The applicant shall avoid all impacts that degrade the
functions and values of a critical area or areas. Unless
otherwise provided in this title, if alteration to the critical

Ordinance 1025

Page | 48

area is unavoidable, all adverse impacts to or from critical
areas and buffers resulting from a developing proposal or
alteration shall be mitigated in accordance with an
approved critical areas report and SEPA documents.
b. Mitigation shall be in-kind and on-site, when possible, and
sufficient to maintain the functions and values of the
critical area, and to prevent risk from a hazard posed by a
critical area.
c. Mitigation shall not be implemented until after the
Administrator's approval of a critical areas report that
includes a mitigation plan, and mitigation shall be in
accordance with the provisions of the approved critical
areas report.
d. A discussion of ongoing management practices that will
protect the habitat after the project site has been developed,
including monitoring and maintenance.
e. When appropriate the Administrator may request additional information
relevant to the habitat characteristics and management of the site.
N. Geologically Hazardous Areas.
1. A minimum twenty-five-foot buffer shall be established from the top, toe or sides
of an identified geological hazard, including landslides, earthquake fault lines, or
steep slope areas (forty percent or greater). The buffer may be increased, if
necessary, to protect public health, safety and welfare, based on information
contained in a geotechnical report prepared by a qualified professional engineer.
2. The Administrator may allow a reduction in the buffer provided the geotechnical
report substantiates the following findings:
a. The proposed development will not create a hazard to the subject property
or surrounding properties or rights-of-way; or erosion or sedimentation to
off-site properties or bodies of water.
b. The proposal uses construction techniques which minimize disruption of
existing topography and natural vegetation.
c. The proposal mitigates all impacts identified in the geotechnical report.
3. Buffers shall be maintained with plants or trees that provide soil stability and
erosion control.

Ordinance 1025

Page | 49

O. Critical Aquifer Recharge/Wellhead Protection Areas.
1. The Wellhead Protection Area Maps provided by the Washington State
Department of Health provide a graphical representation of drinking water source
protection areas.
2. In areas designated as highly susceptible to aquifer contamination, all uses shall
be connected to the City's Sewer System. No new uses on a septic system are
permitted in high susceptibility areas of critical aquifer recharge without explicit
authorization from Tri-County Health District.
3. For uses located within a critical aquifer recharge area and requiring
administrative review, a disclosure form indicating activities and hazardous
materials that will be used shall be provided for review and approval.
4. Impervious surfaces shall be minimized within the critical aquifer recharge areas.
5. Best management practices shall be followed by commercial and industrial uses
located in the critical aquifer recharge areas.
6. A spill prevention and emergency response plan shall be prepared and submitted
for review and approval.
P. Appeals
Any decision on an application pursuant to this chapter may be appealed subject to CMC
18.20.050 Appeal Procedures.
Q. Enforcement and Compliance
1. Approved mitigation measures and conditions shall run with the land and remain
binding on subsequent property owners in perpetuity through a deed restriction,
conservation easement, or equivalent legal instrument recorded against the title of
the property.
2. Failure to comply with approved conditions constitutes a violation subject to
enforcement under the City of Chewelah’s Municipal Code.

SECTION 3: Chewelah Municipal Code Section 18.16.040, Site Plan Review, is hereby
repealed in its entirety.
SECTION 4: Severability. If any portion of this ordinance is declared invalid or unconstitutional
by any court of competent jurisdiction, such holding shall not affect the validity of the remaining
portion(s) of this ordinance.
Ordinance 1025

Page | 50

SECTION 5: EFFECTIVE DATE: This ordinance or summary thereof consisting of the title
shall be published in the official newspaper of the City and shall take effect five (5) days after
the date of its passage and publication as provided by law.
Passed this _17th___ day of __June_____, 2026 by the City Council of the City of Chewelah.
______________________________________
Lindsay Baxter, Mayor
ATTEST:
______________________________________
Julie Culverwell, Clerk/Treasurer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________________
Michael D. Waters, City Attorney

Introduced: June 17, 2026
Adopted: _____________
Published: ____________
Effective: ____________

Ordinance 1025

Page | 51

City Council Meeting [online] Attendance Report
1. Summary

Meeting title
Attended participants

City Council Meeting - 5/20/2026
6

Start time

5/20/26, 6:11:41 PM

End time

5/21/26, 10:54:08 AM

Meeting duration

16h 42m 26s

2. Participants
Name

First Join

Last Leave

In-Meeting Duration

Deavon Jacobson

5/20/26, 6:27:20 PM 5/20/26, 8:24:29 PM 1h 57m 8s

John Kabosky

5/20/26, 6:22:50 PM 5/20/26, 7:45:56 PM 1h 21m 26s

Cindy Wilmoth

5/20/26, 6:28:51 PM 5/20/26, 7:38:56 PM 1h 10m 4s

D Akers (Unverified)

5/20/26, 6:28:52 PM 5/21/26, 10:54:08 AM16h 25m 15s

Tiffany Cox (External)
Cindy (Unverified)

5/20/26, 6:29:00 PM 5/20/26, 8:24:35 PM 1h 55m 35s
5/20/26, 6:30:30 PM 5/20/26, 6:57:46 PM 27m 15s

Ronald Beach (Unverified)

5/20/26, 6:42:23 PM 5/20/26, 8:24:24 PM 1h 42m 1s

Cindy (Unverified)

5/20/26, 6:59:51 PM 5/20/26, 8:30:20 PM 1h 30m 29s

1. Summary

Meeting title
Attended participants

City Council Meeting - 5/6/2026
3

Start time

5/06/26, 6:20:59 PM

End time

5/06/26, 8:34:09 PM

Meeting duration

2h 13m 10s

2. Participants
Name

First Join

Last Leave

In-Meeting Duration

Deavon Jacobson

5/06/26, 6:26:10 PM 5/06/26, 8:17:21 PM 1h 51m 11s

DTW (Unverified)

5/06/26, 6:26:28 PM 5/06/26, 8:17:00 PM 1h 50m 32s

Makenna (Statesman-Examiner) (Unverified 5/06/26, 6:26:31 PM 5/06/26, 6:37:56 PM 10m 5s
John/Cindy Wilmoth (Unverified)
5/06/26, 6:26:33 PM 5/06/26, 8:34:09 PM 2h 7m 36s
1. Summary

Meeting title
Attended participants

City Council Meeting - 4/15/2026
5

Start time

4/15/26, 6:17:51 PM

End time

4/15/26, 8:51:09 PM

Meeting duration

2h 33m 17s

2. Participants
Name

First Join

Deavon Jacobson

4/15/26, 6:28:25 PM 4/15/26, 8:50:50 PM 2h 22m 24s

Last Leave

In-Meeting Duration

Tiffany Cox (External)

4/15/26, 6:28:08 PM 4/15/26, 8:50:55 PM 2h 22m 47s

D (Unverified)

4/15/26, 6:28:36 PM 4/15/26, 8:51:09 PM 2h 22m 33s

Debbie Akers (Unverified)

4/15/26, 6:28:38 PM 4/15/26, 8:50:54 PM 2h 22m 16s

Bmac (Unverified)

4/15/26, 6:31:27 PM 4/15/26, 8:13:24 PM 1h 41m 56s

Cindy Wilmoth

4/15/26, 6:42:15 PM 4/15/26, 8:51:05 PM 2h 8m 49s

1. Summary

Meeting title

City Council Meeting - 4/1/2026

https://cityofchewelah.sharepoint.com/sites/ClerkTreasurer/Shared Documents/Clerk/City Council Meetings/City Council Meeting online Attendance Report.xlsx

2026

City Council Meeting [online] Attendance Report
6

Attended participants
Start time

4/01/26, 6:15:06 PM

End time

4/01/26, 8:12:24 PM

Meeting duration

1h 57m 17s

2. Participants
Name

First Join

Last Leave

In-Meeting Duration

Deavon Jacobson

4/01/26, 6:28:07 PM 4/01/26, 8:11:16 PM 1h 43m 8s

Ronald Beach (External)

4/01/26, 6:26:04 PM 4/01/26, 6:28:50 PM 2m 46s

John/Cindy Wilmoth (Unverified)

4/01/26, 6:28:21 PM 4/01/26, 6:34:18 PM 5m 56s

D (Unverified)
Ronald Beach (Unverified)

4/01/26, 6:28:21 PM 4/01/26, 8:11:29 PM 1h 43m 7s
4/01/26, 6:28:23 PM 4/01/26, 7:18:21 PM 49m 57s

Larah Ritchie

4/01/26, 6:33:33 PM 4/01/26, 7:47:39 PM 1h 14m 5s

John Wilmoth

4/01/26, 6:36:37 PM 4/01/26, 8:12:23 PM 1h 35m 45s

Cindy Wilmoth

4/01/26, 6:48:57 PM 4/01/26, 8:12:24 PM 1h 23m 26s

https://cityofchewelah.sharepoint.com/sites/ClerkTreasurer/Shared Documents/Clerk/City Council Meetings/City Council Meeting online Attendance Report.xlsx

2026

City Council Meeting [online] Attendance Report
1. Summary

Meeting title
Attended participants

City Council Meeting - 3/18/2026
3

Start time

3/18/26, 6:16:40 PM

End time

3/18/26, 8:03:20 PM

Meeting duration

1h 46m 40s

2. Participants
Name

First Join

Last Leave

In-Meeting Duration

Deavon Jacobson
Tiffany Cox (External)

3/18/26, 6:25:30 PM 3/18/26, 7:55:10 PM 1h 29m 40s
3/18/26, 6:19:13 PM 3/18/26, 7:55:15 PM 1h 36m 1s

Geno (Unverified)

3/18/26, 6:25:45 PM 3/18/26, 8:03:20 PM 1h 37m 35s

John/Cindy Wilmoth (Unverified)

3/18/26, 6:26:51 PM 3/18/26, 7:55:17 PM 1h 28m 26s

1. Summary

Meeting title
Attended participants

City Council Meeting - 3/4/2026
3

Start time

3/04/26, 6:20:56 PM

End time

3/04/26, 8:06:59 PM

Meeting duration

1h 46m 2s

2. Participants
Name

First Join

Last Leave

In-Meeting Duration

Deavon Jacobson

3/04/26, 6:26:27 PM 3/04/26, 8:06:55 PM 1h 40m 27s

Deb (Unverified)
Tiffany Cox (External)

3/04/26, 6:26:30 PM 3/04/26, 8:06:42 PM 1h 40m 11s
3/04/26, 6:33:58 PM 3/04/26, 8:06:59 PM 1h 33m

Deb Barbee

3/04/26, 6:35:01 PM 3/04/26, 8:05:39 PM 1h 30m 38s

1. Summary

Meeting title
Attended participants

City Council Meeting - 2/18/2026
3

Start time

2/18/26, 5:59:20 PM

End time

2/18/26, 8:14:49 PM

Meeting duration

2h 15m 29s

2. Participants
Name

First Join

Last Leave

In-Meeting Duration

Deavon Jacobson

2/18/26, 6:27:24 PM 2/18/26, 8:08:33 PM 1h 41m 9s

Tiffany Cox (External)

2/18/26, 6:27:47 PM 2/18/26, 8:03:03 PM 1h 35m 15s

DTW (Unverified)

2/18/26, 6:27:51 PM 2/18/26, 8:08:32 PM 1h 40m 41s

Geno (Unverified)

2/18/26, 6:41:07 PM 2/18/26, 7:32:10 PM 51m 2s

Geno (Unverified)

2/18/26, 7:52:23 PM 2/18/26, 8:14:49 PM 22m 25s

1. Summary

Meeting title
Attended participants

City Council Meeting - 2/4/2026
5

Start time

2/04/26, 6:17:23 PM

End time

2/04/26, 8:36:44 PM

https://cityofchewelah.sharepoint.com/sites/ClerkTreasurer/Shared Documents/Clerk/City Council Meetings/City Council Meeting online Attendance Report.xlsx

2026

City Council Meeting [online] Attendance Report
Meeting duration

2h 19m 21s

2. Participants
Name

First Join

Last Leave

In-Meeting Duration

Deavon Jacobson

2/04/26, 6:23:23 PM 2/04/26, 8:33:51 PM 2h 10m 27s

Tonya Wallace
Cindy (Unverified)

2/04/26, 6:21:13 PM 2/04/26, 6:21:15 PM 1s
2/04/26, 6:23:34 PM 2/04/26, 8:35:44 PM 2h 12m 10s

geno (Unverified)

2/04/26, 6:23:34 PM 2/04/26, 7:01:17 PM 34m 18s

Tiffany Cox (External)

2/04/26, 6:23:36 PM 2/04/26, 8:26:22 PM 2h 2m 45s

D (Unverified)

2/04/26, 6:31:28 PM 2/04/26, 8:34:42 PM 2h 3m 14s

geno (Unverified)

2/04/26, 7:04:38 PM 2/04/26, 8:36:44 PM 1h 32m 6s

1. Summary

Meeting title
Attended participants

City Council Meeting - 1/21/2026 [in person]
1

Start time

1/21/26, 6:25:25 PM

End time

1/21/26, 7:29:00 PM

Meeting duration

1h 3m 35s

2. Participants
Name

First Join

Last Leave

In-Meeting Duration

Deavon Jacobson

1/21/26, 6:25:29 PM 1/21/26, 7:29:00 PM 1h 3m 31s

Tonya Wallace

1/21/26, 6:53:22 PM 1/21/26, 7:28:57 PM 29m 35s

1. Summary

Meeting title
Attended participants

City Council Meeting - 1/7/2026 [In-person]
6

Start time

1/07/26, 6:24:28 PM

End time

1/08/26, 2:43:55 AM

Meeting duration

8h 19m 27s

2. Participants
Name

First Join

Last Leave

In-Meeting Duration

Deavon Jacobson

1/07/26, 6:28:32 PM 1/07/26, 8:14:34 PM 1h 46m 1s

Tiffany Cox (External)

1/07/26, 6:26:35 PM 1/07/26, 8:14:40 PM 1h 48m 4s

Brandon Hansen

1/07/26, 6:29:02 PM 1/07/26, 8:14:14 PM 1h 45m 11s

Stephen Axthelm (Unverified)

1/07/26, 6:29:02 PM 1/07/26, 7:42:21 PM 1h 13m 18s

Stephania Wuesthoff (Unverified)

1/07/26, 6:32:14 PM 1/07/26, 8:14:39 PM 1h 42m 25s

Cindy Wilmoth

1/07/26, 6:32:49 PM 1/08/26, 2:43:55 AM 8h 11m 5s

Stephen Axthelm (Unverified)

1/07/26, 6:42:40 PM 1/07/26, 6:48:31 PM 5m 50s

Stephen Axthelm (Unverified)

1/07/26, 6:52:15 PM 1/07/26, 7:06:51 PM 14m 36s

Geno (Unverified)

1/07/26, 6:56:32 PM 1/07/26, 7:06:52 PM 10m 20s

Geno (Unverified)

1/07/26, 7:25:08 PM 1/07/26, 8:04:30 PM 39m 22s

https://cityofchewelah.sharepoint.com/sites/ClerkTreasurer/Shared Documents/Clerk/City Council Meetings/City Council Meeting online Attendance Report.xlsx

2026