On the agenda: Liberty Lake meeting — data center (Feb 11)

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA
WEDNESDAY, FEBRURARY 11, 2026
4 P.M.
CITY HALL
HELD REMOTELY& IN-PERSON AT CITY HALL
To participate remotely, you can:
• Sign up to provide Public Comment at the meeting via calling in.
• Submit Written Public Comment Prior to 2 pm on February 11, 2026.
• Join the Zoom Meeting.
Questions ? Assistance? Please contact Kathy Cummings at [email protected] .
1.
2.
3.

Call to Order – 4:00 pm
Roll Call
Pledge of Allegiance

4.

GENERAL BUSINESS
• Review of Agenda
• Approval of Minutes from January 28, 2026

5.

WORKSHOPS:
•
•

Final Review of Climate & Natural Resources
Required Housing Code Changes

6.

CITIZEN COMMENTS

7.

REPORTS
•
•

8.

Secretary’s Report
Planning Commissioner Reports

Adjournment

Next Meeting: February 25, 2026

PUBLIC COMMENT
If you wish to provide oral public comments or testimony during the Planning Commission
meeting, please follow the directions below to Join the Zoom Meeting.
WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS
If you wish to provide written public comments for the upcoming council meeting, please
email your comments to [email protected] by 2:00 p.m. the day of the Planning
Commission meeting and include all of the following information with your comments:
1. The Meeting Date
2. Your First and Last Name
3. If you are a Liberty Lake resident
4. The Agenda Item(s) which you are speaking about

JOIN ZOOM MEETING
To view the meeting live via Zoom Meeting, join the Zoom web meeting:
Meeting Instructions:
To join the Zoom web meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/s/83242274140

Dial In Phone Numbers:
•
•

+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 253 205 0468 US

Meeting ID:

832 4227 4140

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28TH, 2026
HELD VIA ZOOM & IN PERSON AT CITY HALL

Planning Commission Members Present: Tom Sahlberg (Chairperson), Joe Mann, Jim
Baumker, DG Garcia, Charlie Jencks, and Gene Heuschel.
Adjunct Member(s) Present: Troy Mullenix
Staff Present: Amy Mullerleile, Lance Mueller, and Kathy Cummings
Call to Order: Meeting was called to order at 4:01 p.m.
Roll Call: A quorum of members was present. A motion to excuse Commissioner Phil Folyer was
made by Commissioner Mann, seconded by Commissioner Jencks. The motion was carried
unopposed.
Commissioner Sahlberg asked that everyone stand for the Pledge of Allegiance.
Commissioner Sahlberg made a motion to change the order of the meeting agenda to move
Planning Commissioner’s Reports to the General Business. The motion was seconded by
Commissioner Baumker and carried unanimously.
Commissioner’s Reports: Commissioner Sahlberg emphasized the Planning Commission
meeting priorities and goals and reminded the commission to complete the Open Public Meeting
Act training and to keep discussions within the appropriate scope and responsibilities.
Review of Agenda: Commissioner Jencks motioned to approve the agenda as amended,
seconded by Commissioner Mann. The motion passed unanimously.
Approval of Minutes: A motion was made by Commissioner Jencks to approve the January 14th
meeting minutes, seconded by Commissioner Heuschel. The motion passed unanimously.
Workshops:
Climate Resiliency Plan: Staff clarified that although the agenda labels this presentation as
climate resiliency, the focus of this presentation is transportation resiliency, which is part of the
climate chapter in the comprehensive plan. Consultant John Phillips with Parametrix, presented
an overview of the city’s transportation resiliency plan, with emphasis on wildfire evacuation
routes. The overview included the methodology of the assessments of the routes including
criticality and vulnerability. A memo with all the information will be provided to the commission at
the next Planning Commission meeting. Questions and discussion followed between the
commissioners and the consultants.
Transportation Network Analysis: Staff provided a brief background and the 2nd update to the
draft Transportation Network Analysis. The presentation provided the latest changes to the
mitigations and language clarifications of the draft. The importance of the data within this draft
was discussed amongst staff and the commission. Commissioner Mann motioned to recommend
that City Council adopt the 2025 Liberty Lake Network Analysis Update, seconded by
Commissioner Baumker. The motion passed unanimously.

Planning Commission Meeting Minutes
January 28, 2026

Page 1|2

Preemptive State Law for Infill Housing – Conversion of Commercial Buildings to MultiFamily: Staff provided a general overview of this new state mandate that is to be adopted by
June 30, 2026, or pre-emption will occur. This law will only be applicable to existing buildings
within the zones where multi-family is permitted. Discussion amongst staff and the commission
ensued. Code language will be brought to the Planning Commission for review at a future
workshop.
Citizen Comments: None.
Secretary’s Report: Staff stated that there will be updates to the existing planning commission
calendar schedule and minor changes to the full and final Transportation element that will be
brought to the next planning commission meeting. Also, there was an application received for the
vacant adjunct position that will be reviewed with the mayor, and they will interview the applicant
next week.
Commissioner Baumker asked about the development code allowance of data centers within the
city. It was determined that there is a difference between a data center and a data storage center.
The acting director will check to see if the code addresses either of these. This conversation
continued and led to questions of water supply and how this impacts growth and development
within the city.
Adjournment: Commissioner Mann motioned to adjourn the meeting, seconded by
Commissioner Jencks. The motion carried unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 5:12 p.m.

Planning Commission Meeting Minutes
January 28, 2026

Page 2|2

DRAFT CITY OF LIBERTY LAKE

CLIMATE &
NATURAL
RESOURCES
FOR THE 2026 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

VERSION 01/30/2026

Chapter 4 – Climate & Natural Resources

Contents:
A.

Introduction .............................................................................................. 2

B.

Greenhouse Gas Reduction...................................................................... 3

C.

Greenhouse Gas Reduction Goals & Policies ......................................... 3

D.

Resiliency .................................................................................................. 8

E.

Resiliency Goals and Policies .................................................................. 8

F.

Natural Environment.............................................................................. 12

G.

Natural Environment Goals and Policies .............................................. 13

Figures:
Figure 4.1: Erodible Soils and Aquifer Boundary Map .................................... 16
Figure 4.2: Flood Zones & Critical Slopes Map .............................................. 18

Appendices:
Appendix XYZ - Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory and Background
Analysis
Appendix ABC - Department of Commerce’s GHG Reduction Worksheet
Appendix 123 - Climate Vulnerability and Risk Assessment (CVAR)

1|Page

Chapter 4 – Climate & Natural Resources

A. Introduction
The Climate and Natural Resources Element addresses a range of environmental topics that
are essential to our community's sustainability and resilience. This includes the management
of critical areas (wetlands, aquifer recharge areas, fish and wildlife conservation areas,
frequently flooded areas and geologically hazardous areas), as well as tree conservation,
shorelines, surface water quality and quantity, and air quality. This element ensures a
comprehensive approach to climate adaptation and environmental stewardship aimed at
reducing our community’s greenhouse gas emissions and improving our resilience to natural
and man-made disasters.
In 2023, Washington State adopted House Bill 1181, amending the Growth Management Act
(GMA) to require cities like Liberty Lake to include a Climate Element in their Comprehensive
Plans. The Climate Element consists of two parts: a Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Reduction sub
element to lower communitywide emissions and vehicle miles traveled (VMT), and a Resiliency
sub element to prepare for and adapt to the effects of a changing climate.
Liberty Lake’s Climate and Natural Resources chapter fulfills these new GMA requirements
while continuing the City’s long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship. The
chapter combines the required Climate Element with the City’s existing Natural Environment
element—creating an integrated framework that addresses climate mitigation, adaptation,
and natural resource protection in one place.
This chapter is supported by three key technical resources: the Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Inventory and Background Analysis (Appendix XYZ), the Department of Commerce’s GHG
Reduction Worksheet (Appendix ABC), and the Climate Vulnerability and Risk Assessment
(Appendix 123); these documents are included in this plan as appendices. Together, these
analyses establish the City’s 2022 emissions baseline, identify local climate risks such as
drought, extreme heat, and wildfire, and provide data-driven targets for reducing emissions
and increasing community resilience.
Public engagement was central to shaping this chapter’s goals and policies. The City hosted
targeted stakeholder meetings on energy, transportation, and resiliency with agencies such as
Avista, Spokane Transit Authority, and the Spokane Regional Health District, focus group
discussions, and tabling events at the Liberty Lake Farmers Market and Barefoot in the Park.
An online open house and Story Map were available on the City’s website, and a Climate Policy
Advisory Team (CPAT) met multiple times to review data and advise on community priorities.
The resulting Climate and Natural Resources chapter sets forth policies that reduce emissions,
strengthen resilience, and preserve Liberty Lake’s natural systems for future generations.

2|Page

Chapter 4 – Climate & Natural Resources

B. Greenhouse Gas Reduction
The following goals and policies translate Liberty Lake’s greenhouse gas reduction analysis into
specific, actionable commitments. They focus on reducing energy use and emissions from
buildings, transportation, waste, and City operations while supporting clean energy, compact
development, and multimodal transportation choices. Each goal and policy is informed by the
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory and Background Analysis (Appendix XYZ) and the
Washington State Department of Commerce’s GHG Reduction Worksheet (Appendix ABC).
Together, these strategies establish the framework for Liberty Lake to achieve sustained and
measurable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions consistent with state targets and local
priorities. They are designed to meet the requirements of the climate element by reducing
vehicle miles traveled (VMT) per capita, decreasing overall greenhouse gas emissions, and
ensuring that any implementation does not place a disproportionate burden on vulnerable or
overburdened communities.

C. Greenhouse Gas Reduction Goals & Policies
GHG Goal 1: Encourage buildings to use renewable energy, conserve resources, and
implement efficient technologies and practices to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Sub-goal 1.1: Increase community awareness of energy efficiency measures and benefits.
Policy 1.1.1: Provide cost savings and emissions-reduction marketing campaigns,
educational workshops, activities, and engagement opportunities (e.g., Energy Fair),
especially those that prioritize vulnerable communities.
Sub-goal 1.2: Make existing buildings more energy efficient.
Policy 1.2.1: Partner with public and not-for profit agencies to promote programs that
provide for the preservation and weatherization of older housing stock in cost-burdened
communities (e.g., seniors and lower income households, etc.) to reduce emissions and
increase resilience.
Policy 1.2.2: Support and expand low-cost energy audit programs offered by partners such
as Avista and Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners (SNAP). Identify barriers to utilizing
existing programs and ways to address them.
Policy 1.2.3: When it is time to replace old equipment, incentivize the retrofit of buildings
for energy efficiency. Note: Incentives can be implemented through mechanical and
building permit fee reductions or waivers upon completion of efficiency or GHG reduction
measures.
Sub-goal 1.3: Make future buildings more energy efficient.
Policy 1.3.1: Incentivize additional net-zero greenhouse gas emission features such as
electric heat pumps, electric heat pump water heaters, pellet stoves, or solar panels for
all new residential and commercial structures. Note: Incentives can be provided through
3|Page

Chapter 4 – Climate & Natural Resources

reduction or waiving of building permit fees when the permit applicant performs desired
efficiency or GHG reduction measures.
Policy 1.3.2: Incentivize green building certification to improve energy and environmental
performance.
Sub-goal 1.4: Increase efficiency of streetlights and traffic signals.
Policy 1.4.1: Pursue Dark Sky certification.
Policy 1.4.2: Convert all streetlights and traffic signals to high-efficiency options (e.g.,
LEDs).

GHG Goal 2: Promote solar electricity generation and storage.
Sub-goal 2.1: Install solar on public buildings.
Policy 2.1.1: Partner with other public entities to install solar on other public facilities.
Sub-goal 2.2: Promote solar on private buildings.
Policy 2.2.1: Educate homeowners, property managers, and business owners about solar.
Policy 2.2.2: Work with partners like Avista to provide incentives for solar on private
buildings or over parking areas.
Policy 2.2.3: Partner with the Board of Realtors to promote an analysis of solar capacity
to be completed upon sale of a home or building using free tools like Project Sunroof.
Policy 2.2.4: Explore opportunities to encourage and support the development of solar
cooperatives.
Sub-goal 2.3: Increase small-scale battery storage to pair with local solar generation.
Policy 2.3.1: Collaborate with Avista to facilitate the development of community-owned,
small-scale renewable energy generation projects, such as local microgrid solar and
battery storage facilities, in low-impact sites.
Policy 2.3.2: Work with Avista to determine whether and where large-scale battery
storage is needed and develop a plan for City engagement.

GHG Goal 3: Reduce vehicle miles traveled to achieve greenhouse gas reduction goals.
Sub-goal 3.1: Foster higher density land uses in mixed-use development and transit corridors.
Policy 3.1.1 Facilitate the siting of complimentary destinations such as commercialemployment centers, schools or education centers, and residential developments (e.g.,
co-located library, community center, farmer’s market).
Policy 3.1.2: Increase multimodal capacity in coordination with the location of higherdensity housing, mixed use, and commercial centers.
Policy 3.1.3: Maintain or increase minimum residential densities within urban growth
areas.
4|Page

Chapter 4 – Climate & Natural Resources

Policy 3.1.4: Prioritize infill development through zoning, permitting, and capital
investments.
Sub-goal 3.2: Increase housing diversity and supply within urban growth areas to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions and support environmental justice.
Policy 3.2.1: Allow or encourage middle housing types (such as duplexes, triplexes, and
ADUs) and micro-housing units (such as providing co-living, unit lot subdivisions, tiny
homes, and cottage housing) on all residential lots.
Sub-goal 3.3: Partner with STA and support improvements to public transit reliability and
convenience
Policy 3.3.1: Continue to evaluate land uses near transit corridors in partnership Spokane
Transit Authority (STA) to support (prioritize and promote) planned expansions of the
transit system.
Policy 3.3.2: Prioritize, develop, and maintain mobility hubs in transportation-efficient
locations — especially in overburdened communities experiencing a scarcity of
transportation alternatives.
Policy 3.3.3: Address active transportation and other multimodal types of transportation
options in concurrency programs – both in assessment and mitigation.
Policy 3.3.4: Support improvements to transit to increase speed, frequency, and reliability.
Policy 3.3.5: Partner with STA to promote existing public transit routes and services.
Sub-goal 3.4: Improve the active transportation network
Policy 3.4.1: Continue to support and expand a safe, well-connected, and attractive bicycle
and pedestrian transportation network to encourage active and multimodal
transportation options to reduce single-occupancy vehicle dependence.
Policy 3.4.2: Formalize the City's "Complete Streets" policy by integrating it into the City's
development code.
Policy 3.4.3: Continue to implement and expand complimentary, mixed land uses versus
traditional zoning, such as locating business districts, parks and schools in neighborhoods
to promote cycling and walking and reduce driving.

GHG Goal 4: Increase electric vehicle (EV) adoption.
Sub-goal 4.1: Provide education about EVs, including education about life cycle emissions and
batteries.
Policy 4.1.1: Increase community education on electric vehicles – including cars, trucks,
and golf carts – by developing and sharing educational materials.
Policy 4.1.2: Partner with other organizations to increase community awareness of EVs
(e.g., the electric utility, non-profits).
5|Page

Chapter 4 – Climate & Natural Resources

Sub-goal 4.2: Expand alternative fueling infrastructure, including but not limited to electric
vehicle charging infrastructure.
Policy 4.2.1: Require electric vehicle charging infrastructure in all new buildings in
accordance with state law.
Policy 4.2.2: Prioritize EV infrastructure for existing multifamily housing stock and other
places with a demonstrated need.
Policy 4.2.3: Investigate options for zero emissions heavy duty vehicles as they become
available (including but not limited to electric and hydrogen).

GHG Goal 5: Explore opportunities for renewable diesel blends.
Sub-goal 5.1: Provide education about renewable diesel blends.
Policy 5.1.1: Increase community awareness of renewable diesel blends by developing
and sharing educational materials.

GHG Goal 6: Protect local biodiversity, such as fire-resistant trees, to boost carbon

sequestration, reduce heat islands, and improve air quality, prioritizing overburdened
communities.
Policy 6.1.1: Require open space set-asides (such as parks) for new residential and
multifamily development.
Policy 6.1.2: Improve and expand urban forest management to maximize or conserve
carbon storage, while increasing wildfire resiliency.
Policy 6.1.3: Maximize tree canopy coverage in surface parking lots.

GHG Goal 7: Develop targeted campaigns for reducing and managing waste to reduce GHG
emissions.

Sub-goal 7.1: Provide education about reducing waste.
Policy 7.1.1: Provide educational programming to reduce food waste in the community
with an emphasis on the largest waste streams.
Policy 7.1.2: Increase community awareness of best practices to reduce waste by
developing and sharing educational materials that focus on the seven Rs: rethinking what
to buy, refusing products that are not needed, reducing what is bought, reusing things,
repairing things, regifting, then recycling.

GHG Goal 8: Reduce emissions from waste and wastewater.
Sub-goal 8.1: Reduce emissions from solid waste.
Policy 8.1.1: Work with Waste Management to identify opportunities to leverage waste
collection rates to encourage waste diversion like recycling and composting.
Policy 8.1.2: Increase staff and facility capacity for composting programs to divert 25% of
community organic waste from entering landfills. This could be done by providing
6|Page

Chapter 4 – Climate & Natural Resources

composting services in community gardens and/or by expanding the City's waste
management contract to include organic waste.
Policy 8.1.3: Encourage the development of a program that will enable and/or incentivize
recycling of construction and demolition debris by [insert target date] to minimize
greenhouse gas emissions impacts.
Policy 8.1.4: Continue to evaluate options for alternatives to landfill disposal of solid
waste.
Sub-goal 8.2: Reduce emissions from wastewater treatment.
Policy 8.2.1: Pursue policies to increase water conservation and decrease the volume of
effluent to the wastewater treatment facility.

GHG Goal 9: Reduce emissions from City operations
Sub-goal 9.1: Reduce emissions from City buildings and energy use
Policy 9.1.1: Conduct an energy audit of City facilities.
Policy 9.1.2: Replace natural gas furnaces and water heaters with electric heat pump
options when it’s time to replace equipment in City facilities.
Policy 9.1.3: Install solar on all possible City owned buildings where it is cost effective to
do so.
Policy 9.1.4: Install distributed renewable energy generation and battery infrastructure at
public facilities to store renewable electricity generated on site and provide emergency
power that ensures continuity of operations.
Policy 9.1.5: Develop plan for City’s voluntary compliance with Washington State Clean
Buildings Performance Standard (CBPS) and similar laws.
Sub-goal 9.2: Convert public fleets to zero-emission vehicles by [insert target date] and
develop supporting infrastructure and programs (e.g., charging stations and dedicated lanes
for electric cars and buses).
Policy 9.2.1: Install EV charging stations at City facilities.
Policy 9.2.2: Develop and implement a plan to convert City fleet to EVs at end of useful
life, where appropriate.
Policy 9.2.3: Purchase and use renewable diesel in City fleet vehicles that use diesel when
locally available.
Policy 9.2.4: Develop and implement a plan to convert City-owned golf carts to electric
options at end of useful life and as is operationally feasible.
Sub-goal 9.3: Reduce emissions from employee commute.
Policy 9.3.1: Continue to implement, promote, and expand Liberty Lake's Commute Trip
Reduction program within the Liberty Lake community.
7|Page

Chapter 4 – Climate & Natural Resources

Sub-goal 9.4: Reduce supply chain emissions from City operations and purchasing.
Policy 9.4.1: Prioritize the use of lower-carbon building materials in new construction and
building retrofits where feasible to reduce embodied carbon.
Policy 9.4.2: Use recycled materials in the construction of transportation and other
infrastructure facilities where feasible.
Policy 9.4.3: Explore including Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) in City
procurement policy to prioritize purchasing lower-emissions materials and goods.
Policy 9.4.4: Phase out the use of gas-powered landscaping equipment for City
operations.
Sub-goal 9.5: Increase recycling at City facilities.
Policy 9.5.1: Design and implement a full recycling program for all City facilities.
Policy 9.5.2: Work with the City’s waste hauler to ensure that waste streams are taken to
the appropriate waste processing destinations (e.g., recycling to a recycling facility, trash
to the landfill).

D. Resiliency
The Resiliency sub element identifies strategies to help Liberty Lake prepare for, adapt to, and
recover from the impacts of a changing climate. This sub element is grounded in the findings
of the Climate Vulnerability and Risk Assessment (CVAR), which is included in full as Appendix
123 to this plan. The CVAR evaluates the City’s exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity to
major climate risks, particularly drought, extreme heat, increased precipitation, wildfire, and
smoke and provides a technical basis for the policies contained in this element.
This sub element focuses on reducing risks to people, property, and natural systems through
proactive planning, hazard mitigation, and investment in resilient infrastructure. Strategies
include improving emergency preparedness, promoting water conservation, integrating green
stormwater infrastructure, expanding shade and vegetation, and coordinating regionally on
wildfire smoke and air quality. Together, these efforts will help ensure that Liberty Lake remains
a safe, livable, and thriving community under a changing climate.

E. Resiliency Goals and Policies
Resiliency Goal 1: Establish land use patterns that increase the resilience of the built
environment, ecosystems, and communities to climate change.

Policy 1.1: Establish overlays, special zoning districts, design standards, or other strategies
to increase resilience to climate hazards.
Policy 1.2: Restore and maintain critical areas and open space areas to maximize the
climate resilience benefits they provide.

8|Page

Chapter 4 – Climate & Natural Resources

Policy 1.3: Implement complimentary, mixed land uses versus traditional zoning, such as
locating neighborhood commercial, parks and schools near residential neighborhoods to
promote cycling and walking and reduce driving.
Policy 1.4: Develop and implement an urban heat resilience strategy that includes land
use, urban design, urban greening, and waste heat reduction actions.
Policy 1.5: Consider future climate conditions during siting and design of capital facilities,
including changes to temperature and precipitation to help ensure they function as
intended over their planned life cycle.
Policy 1.6: Identify and plan for climate impacts to valued community assets such as parks
and recreation facilities, including relocation or replacement.
Policy 1.7: Establish development regulations that incorporate best practices for reducing
the risk of wildfire, extreme heat, flooding, and other climate-exacerbated hazards.

Resiliency Goal 2: Protect and preserve water quality and quantity.
Policy 2.1: Partner with Liberty Lake Sewer & Water District (LLSWD) and Consolidated
Irrigation District to evaluate the long-term adequacy of water delivery infrastructure to
ensure that changes in hydrological patterns (e.g., increases in flooding frequency or
reduction of late-summer water availability associated with climate change) can be
anticipated and managed effectively.
Policy 2.2: Partner with LLSWD and Consolidated Irrigation District to develop and
implement a comprehensive drought resilience strategy that factors in projected climate
impacts and sets action levels for different drought stages.
Policy 2.3: Partner with Liberty Lake Sewer and Water District to analyze how the
municipal water system maintains adequate pressure during a major wildfire event (e.g.,
multiple structures burning) and how it will look under current and projected drought
conditions.
Policy 2.4: Continue the use of green infrastructure and low-impact development to
address increased storm intensities and stormwater runoff.
Policy 2.5: Partner with Liberty Lake Sewer and Water District to create and encourage
the development of municipal reclaimed water systems and allow onsite non-potable
water systems to reduce water demand in private-sector commercial and residential
buildings.
Policy 2.6: Encourage water purveyors to monitor the water supply for contaminants,
construct, and maintain new water-storage systems (e.g., large cisterns, water towers, and
reservoirs) to provide back-up water supplies during droughts and support climate
resilience.

Resiliency Goal 3: Ensure that cultural resources and practices, including outdoor
recreation and natural resources, are resilient to the impacts of extreme weather and other
natural hazards worsened by climate change.
9|Page

Chapter 4 – Climate & Natural Resources

Policy 3.1: Work with partners to establish and sustain a native plant nursery and seed
bank to support long-term restoration and carbon sequestration efforts where destruction
or loss of forestation has occurred.
Policy 3.2: Enhance the resilience of parks and recreational trails by assessing and
addressing climate hazards and impacts and implementing best management practices.
Policy 3.3: Develop a program to analyze and address the climate impacts and risks of
pests and disease on urban trees.
Policy 3.4: Manage tree canopy and forests (including parks, greenbelts and urban forests)
to decrease climate-exacerbated risks from severe wildfires, protect residents, and
improve ecosystem health and habitat.
Policy 3.5: Ensure that tree species selection and planting guidance are updated to be
resilient to climate change.
Policy 3.6: Develop and implement guidance on tree species selection and care for private
owners and developers to ensure that the urban canopy remains resilient and thriving in
the future climate. (This likely overlaps with the natural resources chapter as well)

Resiliency Goal 4: Ensure that the local transportation system — including infrastructure,
routes, and travel modes — can withstand and recover quickly from climate disruptions.

Policy 4.1: Improve street connectivity and walkability, including sidewalks and street
crossings, to serve as potential evacuation routes.
Policy 4.2: Reduce stormwater impacts from transportation and development through
watershed planning, redevelopment and retrofit projects, and low-impact development.
Policy 4.3: Map transportation infrastructure that is vulnerable to repeated floods,
landslides, and other natural hazards, and designate alternative travel routes for critical
transportation corridors when roads must be closed.
Policy 4.4: Coordinate with STA to ensure that transit waiting areas provide adequate
shelter in all weather.

Resiliency Goal 5: Increase community emergency preparedness.
Policy 5.1: Support enhanced data collection for hazard events of all magnitudes to
provide a fuller understanding of the community's hazard characteristics — including
those affected by climate change.
Policy 5.2: Develop a comprehensive, communitywide wildfire resilience strategy to
improve emergency response capabilities, create fire-resilient landscapes, promote fireadapted communities, protect the economy, and foster short- and long-term recovery.
Policy 5.3: Develop a resilience hub at the Library to support residents, coordinate
communication, distribute resources, and reduce carbon pollution while enhancing
quality of life.
10 | P a g e

Chapter 4 – Climate & Natural Resources

Policy 5.4: Factor climate impacts into the planning of operations and coordination of
preparedness, response, and recovery activities among first-responders and partners,
including public health, law enforcement, fire, school, and emergency medical services
(EMS) personnel.
Policy 5.5: Integrate a climate impacts risk assessment and policies into the local hazard
mitigation plan.
Policy 5.6: Ensure that the City's emergency management plans respond to the impacts
of climate change and identifies roles and responsibilities to support a sustainable
economic recovery after a disaster.
Policy 5.7: Create evacuation plans and outreach materials to help residents plan and
practice actions that make evacuation quicker and safer.
Policy 5.8: Develop and implement a strategy to expedite management of debris (e.g.,
downed tree) after a disaster incident to reduce subsequent risks.

Resiliency Goal 6: Ensure that buildings are designed and built sustainably to reduce
environmental impacts and remain resilient to extreme weather and other hazards worsened
by climate change.

Policy 6.1: Adopt fire-resilience standards for new and redeveloped sites in high-risk
wildfire areas.
Policy 6.2: Develop or modify design standards to integrate building features that reduce
the impacts of climate change and increase resilience (e.g., ensuring that there is
adequate heating or cooling in the event of a power outage).
Policy 6.3: Work with energy utilities to improve the safety and reliability of infrastructure
vulnerable to climate change.

Resiliency Goal 7: Protect community health and well-being.
Policy 7.1: Prioritize at-risk community members for actions that mitigate wildfire smoke,
including providing personal protective equipment and filter fans or incentivizing
infrastructure updates (e.g., HVAC updates and MERV 13 filters for air intake) for facilities
that serve high-risk populations.
Policy 7.2: Protect the health and well-being of outdoor workers exposed to extreme heat,
smoke, and other climate-exacerbated hazards.
Policy 7.3: Develop and implement a wildfire smoke resilience strategy in partnership with
local residents, emergency management officials, regional clean air agency officials, and
other stakeholders.
Policy 7.4: Work with partners like Avista and SNAP to develop and maintain a program to
distribute cooling units and install heat pumps, prioritizing households with residents
most vulnerable to extreme temperature events (e.g., low-income seniors).

11 | P a g e

Chapter 4 – Climate & Natural Resources

Policy 7.5: Develop and implement notification alerts within the community to reduce risk
exposure to wildfire smoke and particulate matter.

Resiliency Goal 8: Promote climate and resilience education to build a well-informed and
prepared community.

Policy 8.1: Build and support partnerships with community-based organizations with the
capacity and relationships to convene diverse coalitions of residents and to educate and
empower them to implement climate resilience actions.
Policy 8.2: Provide residents living in Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) areas information
about fire prevention (e.g., Firewise) practices, and support application of such practices
via building code provisions.

Resiliency Goal 9: Make city operations more resilient.
Policy 9.1: Utilize water conservation and backflow prevention methods, best practices,
and technologies in development of irrigation infrastructure within parks and recreation
areas so as to foster climate resilience.
Policy 9.2: Manage water resources sustainably in the face of climate change through
smart irrigation, stormwater management, preventative maintenance, water
conservation and wastewater reuse, plant selection, and landscape management.
Policy 9.3: Maintain a Continuation of Operations Plan and the associated ongoing
training to ensure that city operations continue to be available in an emergency.

F. Natural Environment
The City of Liberty Lake has attracted desirable businesses in recent years because of the
natural environment that contributes to a high quality of life. Protecting and enhancing this
unique natural environment is the purpose of this Chapter. By ensuring the availability of clean
air and water, and preserving critical areas and natural features, we will continue to make the
City of Liberty Lake an inviting community. The following are the guiding principles for this
element:
•
•
•
•

Critical areas, including wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, aquifer recharge areas,
geologically hazardous areas, and flood hazard areas, shall be preserved, protected,
managed, and restored so that the functions and values of these areas are maintained;
Shoreline areas shall be protected from land uses that degrade water quality and
wildlife habitat;
Surface and groundwater should be maintained at adequate quantity and quality, with
land uses designed to ensure continued protection; and
Air quality shall be maintained at levels that protect human health, prevent injury to
plants and animals, and preserves clear visibility.

Critical areas include the following areas and natural places:
•

Wetlands;
12 | P a g e

Chapter 4 – Climate & Natural Resources

•
•
•
•

Areas with a critical recharging effect on aquifers used for domestic purposes;
Fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas;
Frequently flooded areas; and
Geologically hazardous areas.

The City of Liberty Lake acknowledges the essential role of protecting the functions of critical
areas, which contributes significantly to the high quality of life our residents enjoy. These areas
are integral to natural systems that manage stormwater, prevent flooding, and preserve water
quality, while also offering recreational opportunities. Safeguarding these critical areas is not
only environmentally prudent but also economically wise. Relying on natural landscapes for
these functions avoids the substantial costs associated with constructing and maintaining
engineered systems designed to protect against floods and geological hazards and to purify
drinking water.
Involvement by scientists from the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife,
Department of Ecology, area universities, and others including local agencies/jurisdictions such
as Spokane Aquifer Joint Board, Spokane County, Spokane Regional Health District, and Liberty
Lake Sewer and Water District, will continue to be essential to the advancement of critical area
protection.

G. Natural Environment Goals and Policies
Natural Environment Goal 1: Preserve and enhance the City’s environmental resources
and critical areas.

Policy 1.1: Maintain an inventory of highly sensitive areas appropriate for preservation.
Policy 1.2: Require “no net loss” of wetland functions, value, and quantity as a result of
land use activities.
Policy 1.3: Protect shorelines designated under the state Shoreline Management Act
through enforcement of the City’s Critical Areas Ordinance.
Policy 1.4: New development and/or land use activities shall provide adequate buffer
areas of permanent native and/or appropriate vegetation adjacent to wetlands. These
buffer areas shall be established based on the natural function and beneficial values of
the wetland as determined by established criteria.
Policy 1.5: Within geologically hazardous areas, site alteration, grading, and filling shall be
the minimum necessary to accomplish approved designs/plans.
Policy 1.6: All development proposals should submit an erosion control plan prior to
receiving approval.
Policy 1.7: Geologically hazardous areas demonstrated to be highly sensitive to
modification by development activities shall be preserved in a natural condition for uses
other than development.

13 | P a g e

Chapter 4 – Climate & Natural Resources

Natural Environment Goal 2: Protect and conserve the quality and supply of
groundwater from the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer.

Policy 2.1: Establish partnerships with non-profits entities, such as Cooperative Extension
and the Spokane Aquifer Joint Board, to provide public information and resources to
educate the community in how to protect critical areas and environmental resources from
degradation.
Policy 2.2: Promote water conservation through education, incentives, and regulations in
cooperation with water purveyors and the public.
Policy 2.3: It is recognized that the aquifer used for drinking water in Liberty Lake has part
of its recharge area located outside of the City. Accordingly, the City of Liberty Lake should
coordinate and collaborate with surrounding jurisdictions to protect groundwater.
Policy 2.4: Require appropriate stormwater runoff and spill control provisions for those
who use and/or store potentially critical materials within critical aquifer recharge areas.
Policy 2.5: Water-conserving landscaping and other conservation practices should be
encouraged. Incentives should be used to reduce water consumption.
Policy 2.6: Special consideration should be given to proposed developments or activities
that recycle or find use for wastewater.
Policy 2.7: Partner with Spokane County to educate the public on the long-term expense
and public health consequences of failure to protect critical aquifer recharge areas from
degradation and provide information on practices that threaten water quantity and
quality.
Policy 2.8: Trucks carrying critical materials should be required to use preferred critical
material routes where emergency spill response plans exist.
Policy 2.9: Provide convenient public access to groundwater modeling documents and
regulations to protect critical aquifer recharge areas.

Natural Environment Goal 3: Implement and maintain a fully functional, sustainable

stormwater system that is integrated into the landscape, supports envisioned growth, protects
residents, and nurtures the environment.
Policy 3.1: Continue to require all new development to implement integrated stormwater
treatment in accordance with the Eastern Washington Stormwater Manual or equivalent
best management practices.
Policy 3.2: Fund the long-term maintenance of stormwater infrastructure through a
dedicated stormwater utility fee assessed on all developed properties as based upon its
area of impervious surface.

Natural Environment Goal 4: Maintain air quality that protects human health, prevents
injury to plant and animal life, and preserves clear visibility.

14 | P a g e

Chapter 4 – Climate & Natural Resources

Policy 4.1: Require new development to avoid, minimize, and mitigate potential adverse
environmental impacts.
Policy 4.2: Promote public education to increase the level of responsibility for air quality.
Policy 4.3: Clearing and grading activities shall be limited based upon topography and
seasonal weather conditions.

Natural Environment Goal 5: Preserve the unique beauty of the community through
the conservation of the native trees.

Policy 5.1: Encourage public awareness of the increased property values associated with
tree conservation.
Policy 5.2: Encourage programs that provide assistance to the public in caring for and
nurturing trees.
Policy 5.3: Encourage tree planting programs that emphasize native species and
encourage species diversity.
Policy 5.4: Maintain tree conservation regulations that discourage removal of mature
trees, require appropriate tree replanting when removal is necessary to accommodate
development, and provide incentive to conserve trees in accordance with the City’s
designation as a “Tree City USA”.

Wetlands

Wetlands are areas inundated or saturated by surface water or groundwater at a frequency
and duration sufficient to 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 nonwetland sites, including, but not limited to, irrigation and drainage ditches, grass-lined swales,
canals, detention and retention facilities, wastewater treatment facilities, farm ponds, and
landscape amenities. However, wetlands may include those artificial wetlands intentionally
created from non-wetland areas to mitigate conversion of wetlands, if permitted by the City.
In the past, wetlands were considered nuisances to be filled in and covered up. Experience has
revealed the many beneficial functions provided by wetlands, including providing wildlife
habitat, storage and disposal of stormwater, groundwater recharge and removal of
contaminants. The primary purpose of the wetland goals and policies is to preserve these
important natural functions.
While the City of Liberty Lake currently has no designated wetlands within its municipal
boundaries, it is situated near significant wetland areas, including those within Liberty Lake
Regional Park and the seasonal wetlands at the south end of Liberty Lake. These nearby
wetlands provide essential ecological functions such as wildlife habitat, stormwater
management, and groundwater recharge. The City acknowledges the importance of these
natural resources and is committed to regional collaboration to preserve and protect these
vital ecosystems.
15 | P a g e

Chapter 4 – Climate & Natural Resources

Aquifer Recharge Areas and Groundwater

The Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer (SVRP Aquifer), which serves as the sole source
of domestic water for Liberty Lake, is recognized as a sole source aquifer under the federal Safe
Drinking Water Act. The goals and policies outlined in this section aim to safeguard the longterm integrity of groundwater, ensuring it remains a viable source of drinking water for the
community. The introduction of contaminants into aquifer recharge areas presents significant
risks to the quality of this water. To mitigate these risks, the City of Liberty Lake is required to
identify and preserve critical aquifer recharge areas (Figure 4.1)—zones that are crucial for
replenishing the aquifer used for potable water. The guidelines in this section are designed to
maintain the purity and availability of our aquifer and its critical recharge zones.
Figure 4.1: Erodible Soils and Aquifer Boundary Map

Surface Water Quantity and Quality

Water quality and quantity influences the domestic, economic, recreational, and natural
environments of the City of Liberty Lake. Historically, clean water has been taken for granted.
As growth and development have increased, so have problems associated with maintaining
water quality and quantity. Industry, commercial business, agriculture, and residences all
contribute to reduced water quality and quantity. From this perspective, a comprehensive
approach must be taken to ensure future water quality and quantity.

Stormwater

Virtually all of the stormwater that runs off of developed and impervious surfaces in the City
discharges to the SVRP Aquifer. The potential for pollutants in stormwater to enter the aquifer
16 | P a g e

Chapter 4 – Climate & Natural Resources

is well-established. Consideration of these conditions will inform approaches to stormwater
management that the City develops as part of the Stormwater Master Plan.
The protection of the SVRP Aquifer from pollution, depletion, or degradation is an important
aspect of stormwater planning for the City. Specifically, preparing and implementing measures
to protect the aquifer from potential stormwater quality impacts are a consideration for the
selection and application of stormwater control measures and their maintenance. The City will
continue to use stormwater discharge to the ground as its primary disposition due to the
advantages in doing so for groundwater supply, flood management and control, system costs,
and low-impact design. Stormwater control measures identified in the Eastern Washington
Stormwater Manual will continue to be applied to minimize the potential for adverse effects.
The City will also continue to engage in regional planning, protection, and education efforts to
protect this resource.

Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas
Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas include:
•

•
•
•
•
•

Areas with which specifically identified species have a primary association. These
specifically identified species include endangered, threatened, sensitive and
candidate and secondarily: monitor and priority species (game and non-game), as
identified by the Department of Fish & Wildlife in the Priority Habitats and Species
lists.
Habitats and species of local importance.
Naturally occurring ponds under 20 acres and their submerged aquatic beds that
provide fish or wildlife habitat.
Waters of the state.
Lakes, ponds, streams, and rivers planted with game fish by a governmental or tribal
entity; or
State natural area preserves and natural resource conservation areas.

Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation involves managing land in a way that helps wildlife
species live and thrive in their natural environments. The goal is to prevent these populations
from being split into smaller, isolated groups that might struggle to survive. This does not mean
always maintaining all individuals of all species, but it does mean cooperative and coordinated
land use planning is critically important among Spokane County and its various municipalities.
A wide variety of outdoor recreation activities are valued by residents and visitors and
contribute to the local economy and quality of life. Preservation of the fish and wildlife habitat
is the key to the continued existence of these species in the future. The many goals and policies
in this chapter articulate the high value that community residents place on conservation of the
local fish and wildlife.

Frequently Flooded Areas

Frequently flooded areas are lands in the floodplain subject to a 1-percent or greater chance
of flooding in any given year. These areas include, but are not limited to, streams, rivers, lakes,
sink areas, major natural drainageways, and wetlands. Frequently flooded areas are natural
17 | P a g e

Chapter 4 – Climate & Natural Resources

physical features of a watershed that play an important role in stormwater storage and
disposal. The purpose of these goals is to maintain the natural function of these frequently
flooded areas in order to protect private and public property and reduce the need to construct
flood control facilities as well as protect the environment. Flood zones within Liberty Lake are
shown in Figure 4.2 below.
Figure 4.2: Flood Zones & Critical Slopes Map

Geologically Hazardous Areas

Geologically hazardous areas are locations vulnerable to erosion, landslides, earthquakes, or
other geological events. These areas are not suitable for commercial, residential, or industrial
development due to potential risks to public health and safety. The aim of establishing specific
goals and policies for these areas is to ensure that such hazards are identified and allow for
hazard mitigation measures to be integrated into building designs. To protect public safety,
development in these hazardous areas should be prohibited unless effective hazard mitigation
strategies can be guaranteed. Geologically hazardous areas include slopes greater than 30% as
shown in Figure 4.2 above as well as erodible soils as depicted in Figure 4.1 above.

Shorelines

Shorelines are among the most sensitive and ecologically important environments in
Washington. While the City of Liberty Lake does not contain any lakes, rivers, or streams within
its municipal boundaries that qualify as Shorelines of the State, a narrow portion of the
northern city limits does include regulated shorelands—defined as lands within 200 feet of the
ordinary high-water mark of shoreline waters. These shorelands are associated with the
adjacent Spokane River, which is designated as a Shoreline of Statewide Significance.
18 | P a g e

Chapter 4 – Climate & Natural Resources

Although the river itself lies outside City limits, the presence of shorelands within the City
triggers planning responsibilities under the Washington State Shoreline Management Act
(SMA, RCW 90.58). However, the City has not yet been required to adopt a Shoreline Master
Program (SMP). The Washington State Department of Ecology has confirmed that while the
City is subject to SMA requirements, it will not be required to develop a local SMP until grant
funding is made available—expected around 2029, with formal notice anticipated in 2028.
Ecology will support this process with a forthcoming desktop assessment to determine the
precise extent of affected areas.
Until such time as the City develops an SMP, the Spokane County Shoreline Master Program—
adopted by reference prior to incorporation—remains applicable. In accordance with RCW
36.70A.480, goals and policies from the applicable SMP are considered part of this
Comprehensive Plan and inform land use planning within shoreline areas.
The City recognizes the importance of managing shoreline areas to ensure their ecological
function, protect public health and safety, and support responsible recreation and land use.
Future planning will reflect these values and ensure consistency with state law and regional
coordination efforts.

Watersheds

The City of Liberty Lake should conduct ongoing watershed stewardship activities. The goals of
watershed stewardship are to increase public awareness about watershed management
efforts and to get participation in the process to ensure stewardship on residents' property and
homes. Promoting watershed advocacy is important because it can lay the foundations for
public support and greater watershed stewardship. Most watershed protection tools require
maintenance if they are to properly function over the long run. Some of the most critical
watershed maintenance functions include management of conservation areas and buffer
networks, and maintenance of stormwater practices and sewer networks. The Liberty Lake
Sewer and Water District (LLSWD) can provide resource management expertise. LLSWD is
involved at multiple scales of engagement, including long-term management of the Liberty
Lake and greater Spokane River watersheds. There are six basic programs that can promote
greater watershed stewardship:
•
•
•
•
•
•

Watershed advocacy
Watershed education
Pollution prevention
Watershed maintenance
Indicator monitoring
Watershed restoration

Spokane County Landfill

The Greenacres Landfill is a closed, legacy solid waste site located within the City of Liberty
Lake. Originally operated by Greenacres Township from 1950, the site became a fill-and-cover
19 | P a g e

Chapter 4 – Climate & Natural Resources

landfill under Spokane County’s oversight in 1967 and closed in 1972 after reaching capacity.
In 1984, the site was listed on the National Priorities List due to groundwater contamination
detected in a nearby private well.
The Washington State Department of Ecology assumed regulatory oversight in 1989 and
finalized a cleanup action plan in 1992. A landfill cap was constructed and completed in 1998.
Today, the site is monitored through a network of groundwater wells and landfill gas probes.
Although no leachate collection system is present, regular testing ensures compliance with
state cleanup standards.
The City of Liberty Lake coordinates with Ecology and Spokane County to ensure that nearby
land uses are compatible with ongoing environmental protection efforts. The presence of the
closed landfill highlights the importance of continued vigilance in protecting groundwater
quality, managing land use around sensitive sites, and ensuring that environmental health risks
are minimized through collaborative, science-based approaches.

Air Quality

Air quality in Liberty Lake is influenced by both natural conditions and human activity.
Greenhouse gas emissions and related reduction strategies are addressed in the Greenhouse
Gas Reduction sub element; this section focuses on other pollutants that can affect local air
quality and public health.
Primary sources of air pollution include vehicle emissions, wood burning, open burning,
construction dust, and agricultural activities. Regional air quality can also be affected by
windblown dust from central Washington. The Spokane Valley’s topography contributes to
occasional temperature inversions, which can trap pollutants close to the ground during
certain weather conditions.
The City, in coordination with the Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency and the Washington State
Department of Ecology, implements measures such as restrictions on open burning,
certification and limited use of wood stoves during air quality alerts, and dust control through
road paving and alternative deicers. These actions, combined with cleaner fuels and vehicle
technology, have improved air quality in recent decades.
As Liberty Lake continues to grow, maintaining good air quality will require continued
coordination between land use and transportation planning, along with regional air quality
programs, to protect community health and quality of life.

20 | P a g e

PLANNING COMMISSION
TENTATIVE COMP PLAN MEETING SCHEDULE
January 8, 2025
 Population & Housing Workshop -LCA
 Update & Schedule on Climate Element
January 22, 2025
 LCA Summary
 Critical Area Review
 Update & Schedule on Housing Element
February 12, 2025
 Housing Policy Workshop
 Update & Schedule on Other Elements:
February 26, 2025
 Sign Code Workshop with PC & CEC
 Housing Policy Workshop
 Network analysis -Scope & Timeline
March 12, 2025
 Econ Development – Redlines & Policies
 Cultural & Historical - Redlines &
Policies
March 26, 2025
 Recap of Housing Policy Workshop
 Housing & Community Service – Goals
& Policies
 Co-living Housing Workshop
April 9, 2025
 Housing & Community Service –
Revised Policies & Redlines
 Economic Development Revised
Redlines
 Review Cultural & Historic Revisions
April 23, 2025
 Sign Code Workshop
 Housing & Community Service –
Updated Chapter
 Co-living Housing Amendment
May 14, 2025
 GHG Priority Actions and Emissions
Targets
 Climate Vulnerability & Risk Assessment
Report
May 28, 2025
 Land Use – Redlines & Policies, Map
 Review Econ Development Revisions
 Development Code Checklist

June 11, 2025
 Parks, Recreation & Open Space Review
 Development Code Checklist
June 25, 2025
 GHG Sub-element /Goals & Policy
 Urban Design – Redlines & Policies
July 9, 2025
 Resiliency Sub-Element/Goals & Policies
 Employment Projections
July 23, 2025
 Utilities & Essential Public Facilities
Workshop
 Employment Projections Memo
August 13, 2025
 Updated Economic Development
Chapter
 Utilities & Capital Facilities Chapter
 6-year Capital Facilities Plan
August 27, 2025
 Draft Sign Code Revisions & Redlines
September 10, 2025
 Co-living Housing Public Hearing
 Parks Plan Update
 Sign Code Workshop
September 24, 2025
 Network Analysis Workshop
 Introduction & Governance Chapters
October 8, 2025
 Draft Sign Code Revisions Workshop
 Housing Element-MFTE Update
October 22, 2025
 Parks Plan Presentation
 Preliminary Draft-Combined Natural
Environment/Climate Element
November 12, 2025
 Updated Utilities & Public Facilities
 Transportation Element Overview
December 10, 2025
 Joint Meeting w/Parks & Arts re Parks
LOS
 Draft Transportation Element (Pt 1)
January 14, 2026
 Parks Plan Update
 Draft Transportation Element (Pt 2)
 Update on Climate Element (based on
Commerce Feedback)

January 28, 2026
 Transportation Resiliency Plan
 Final Transportation Network Analysis
 Workshop on Housing & Required Development Code Amendment
February 11, 2026
 Final Natural Environment/Climate Element
 Workshop on Housing & Required Development Code Amendment
February 25, 2026
 Final Transportation Element
 Workshop on Housing & Required Development Code Amendments
March 11, 2026
 Sidewalk Master Plan
 Parks Element
 Workshop on Housing & Required Development Code Amendments
March 25, 2026
 Capital Facilities Plan Workshop
 Workshop on Housing & Required Development Code Amendments
April 8, 2026
 Workshop on Housing & Required Development Code Amendments
April 22, 2026
 Final Capital Facilities Plan Review
 Review Full Draft Comp Plan Document
SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP, TBD - APRIL 27 -MAY 8
DRAFT TO COMMERCE & OTHER AGENCIES FOR REVIEW, MAY 11 – JULY 11; SEPA, MAY 11 – JUNE 11
May 13, 2026
 Workshop on Housing & Required Development Code Amendments
 Sign Code Workshop
HOUSING & REQUIRED CODE AMENDMENTS TO COMMERCE FOR REVIEW MAY 15 – JULY 15
May 27, 2026
 Workshop on Other Development Code Amendments
June 10, 2026
 Workshop on Other Development Code Amendments
June 24, 2026
 Workshop on Other Development Code Amendments
July 8, 2026
 Workshop on Other Development Code Amendments
July 22, 2026
 Review of Any Changes to Comp Plan Required by Commerce or Other Agencies
 Final Review of All Development Code Amendments
COMMERCE REVIEW OF ALL DEVELOPMENT CODE AMENDMENTS, JULY 23– SEPTEMBER 21
SEPA REVIEW OF ALL DEVELOPMENT CODE AMENDMENTS, JULY 23 – AUGUST 21
August 12, 2026
 PC Public Hearing on Periodic Comprehensive Plan Update

CITY COUNCIL COMP PLAN PUBLIC HEARING, AUGUST 18
CITY COUNCIL 1ST & 2ND ORDINANCE READING, SEPTEMBER 1 & SEPTEMBER 15
RESOLUTION, FINAL COMP PLAN PERIODIC UPDATE IN COMPLIANCE W/RCW 36.70A.130(1), SEPT 15
August 26, 2026
 Public Hearing on All Development Code Amendments
DEVELOPMENT CODE PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE CITY COUNCIL, SEPTEMBER 15
CITY COUNCIL 1ST & 2ND ORDINANCE READING, OCTOBER 7 & 21