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Colville City Zoning Code

ARTICLE IV

PROCESSES

§ 17.80.010 Purpose and intent.

This article describes the process for review and approval of land use applications subject to review under this title. The intent is to describe the framework of the various types of development applications, the criteria and timeframe for approvals. The procedures for review and approval of land use applications are described in the following chapter.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997)

§ 17.80.020 General provisions.

It shall be the responsibility of the applicant or petitioner to present evidence to the satisfaction of the body or person authorized by this title to hear an application that undue detriment will not result from the requested approval.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997)

§ 17.84.010 Purpose and intent.

Certain uses, because of their unique characteristics, temporary nature or noise, odors, traffic, dust, etc., generated as side effects, cannot be permitted as a general matter in any zone. Such uses should be considered individually and the impact on surrounding properties taken into account and mitigated if necessary. Therefore, the intent is to provide a review process for these uses, and to establish conditions under which the uses may be permitted in a specific location.
The following standards apply to temporary and conditional uses situated on private property only. All requests for temporary or conditional uses within city right-of-way must be evaluated and approved by Colville city council.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997; Ord. 1510 NS § 3, 2013)

§ 17.84.020 Conditional and temporary use permit process type.

The Type I process shall be used to process temporary use permit requests.
The Type III process shall be used to process conditional use permit requests.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997; Ord. 1324 NS § 6, 2004; Ord. 1510 NS § 3, 2013)

§ 17.84.030 Action of review authority.

The administrative official may approve a temporary use permit in whole or in part, with or without conditions, if all of the following findings of fact can be made in an affirmative manner:
The temporary use shall be a maximum of six months.
The operation of the requested use at the location proposed and within the time period specified will not jeopardize, endanger, or otherwise constitute a menace to the public health, safety, or general welfare.
The proposed site is adequate in size and shape to accommodate the temporary use without detriment to the use and enjoyment of other properties in the project vicinity.
The project makes adequate provision for access and circulation, water supply, storm drainage, sanitary sewage disposal, emergency services, and environmental protection.
Adequate temporary parking to accommodate all vehicular traffic that will be generated by the use will be available either on site or at alternate locations acceptable to the review authority.
The zoning board of adjustment at a public hearing may approve a conditional use permit in whole or in part, with or without conditions, if all of the following findings of fact can be made in an affirmative manner:
The project is consistent with the city of Colville comprehensive plan and meets the requirements and intent of this title, including the type of land use, the density/intensity of the proposed development, and the protection of critical areas, if applicable.
The project will not be unduly detrimental to the use of properties in the project vicinity.
The project makes adequate provision for access and circulation, water supply, storm drainage, sanitary sewage disposal, emergency services, and environmental protection.
The project adequately mitigates impacts identified through the SEPA review process, if applicable.
The project is beneficial to the public health, safety, and welfare, is in the public interest, and is generally compatible with adjacent properties and other property in the district.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997; Ord. 1510 NS § 3, 2013)

§ 17.84.040 Time limits.

A temporary use permit shall be valid for the time specified on the approval or a maximum of six months, if not otherwise specified.
The city shall have the right to summarily remove the use, if the property owner and/or occupant does not vacate the premises on or before the expiration date of the permit. The city shall be entitled to charge an equitable sum to the property owner for the abatement cost of the violation.
Authorization of a conditional use permit shall be valid one year from the effective date, and shall lapse at that time unless a building permit has been issued and substantial construction has taken place or the use has commenced. However, a written request for up to a one-year extension submitted prior to the expiration date may be approved by the administrative official if the administrative official finds that the facts on which the conditional use permit was approved have not changed substantially.
In approving an application for a conditional use permit, the zoning board of adjustment may attach other time limits to the permit as deemed appropriate.
If the use authorized under a conditional use permit ceases or is interrupted for six consecutive months or more, then a new conditional use permit will be required.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997; Ord. 1510 NS § 3, 2013)

§ 17.88.010 Purpose and intent.

The purpose of a variance is to provide relief in cases where the strict application of the development standards in this title would result in the deprivation of privileges enjoyed by others in the same district. The intent is to ensure that because of unique physical characteristics of a property, such as topography, soils, or dimensions, that the property is not rendered unusable.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997)

§ 17.88.020 General provisions.

A variance may be requested and granted for variations to the development standards, such as setbacks, lot dimensions, height or parking. Under no circumstances shall the zoning board of adjustment grant a variance to allow a use not permissible in the district.
No nonconforming use of neighboring lands, structures, or buildings in the same district, and no permitted or nonconforming use of lands, structures, or buildings in other districts shall be considered grounds for the issuance of a variance.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997; Ord. 1278 NS § 4, 2002)

§ 17.88.030 Variance process type.

A variance shall be subject to a Type II or Type III review as follows:
The Type II procedure shall be used to process a minor variance request involving a reduction or increase of 10 percent or less from a quantitative provision of this title.
The Type III procedure shall be used to process a major variance for any request not covered by a minor variance.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997; Ord. 1324 NS § 7, 2004)

§ 17.88.040 Action of the review authority.

A variance request may be approved in whole or in part, with or without conditions, if all of the following findings of fact can be made in an affirmative manner:
That special conditions and circumstances exist which are peculiar to the land, structure, or building involved and which are not generally applicable to other lands, structures, or buildings in the same district;
That literal interpretation of the provisions of this title would deprive the applicant of rights commonly enjoyed by other properties in the same district under the terms of this title;
That the special conditions and circumstances do not result from the actions of the applicant;
That granting the variance requested will not confer on the applicant any special privilege that is denied by this title to other lands, structures, or buildings in the same district;
The granting of the variance will be in harmony with the general purpose and intent of this title, and will not be injurious to the neighborhood, or otherwise detrimental to the public welfare;
That the variance is the minimum variance that will make possible the reasonable use of the land, building, or structure.
A variance request for development within the FM overlay district may be approved in whole or in part, with or without conditions, if all of the following findings of fact can be made in an affirmative manner:
Denial of the variance would result in exceptional hardship and would deny all economic use of the property.
If the nonresidential site is located in a designated floodway, no increase in flood levels during the base flood discharge would result.
Granting of a variance will not result in increased flood heights, additional threats to public safety, extraordinary public expense, or conflict with existing local laws or ordinances.
The variance would result in the minimum relief necessary, considering the flood hazard.
In the case of the reconstruction of a structure listed on the National Register of Historic Places or the State Inventory of Historic Places, the structure is being rebuilt as it previously existed.
In granting any variance, the review authority may prescribe appropriate conditions and safeguards in conformity with this title. Violation of such conditions and safeguards, when made a part of the terms under which the variance was granted, shall be deemed a violation of this title and punishable under Chapter 17.124 CMC.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997; Ord. 1594 NS § 4, 2017)

§ 17.88.050 Time limits.

Authorization of a variance shall be valid one year from the effective date, and shall lapse at that time unless a building permit has been issued and substantial construction has taken place or the use has commenced. However, a written request for up to a one-year extension submitted prior to the expiration date may be approved by the administrative official if the administrative official finds that the facts on which the variance was approved have not changed substantially.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997)

§ 17.92.010 Purpose and intent.

The purpose of a site plan review is to ensure that development on sites containing unique or critical resources protects these resources to the extent possible, and that the public health, safety and welfare of residents of Colville is maintained.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997)

§ 17.92.020 Application and fee.

Any person, firm, or corporation may make application for site plan review. The completed application shall be submitted to the administrative official with applicable fees in accordance with the fee resolution adopted by the city council.
A site plan review application shall include the following:
Plans (drawn to scale) showing:
The nature, location, dimensions of the critical resource area or floodplain area (if applicable).
Existing topography and natural features.
Existing and proposed structures and the proposed uses.
Proposed grading, drainage facilities, and location of storage, if applicable.
All required technical reports prepared by experts with demonstrated qualifications in the area(s) of concern.
Any additional information deemed necessary by the administrative official or the planning commission.
In the case of proposed development within the FM district, the following shall also be provided:
Estimated flood elevation for a 100-year flood or the flood event having a one percent chance of occurring in any given year, as determined by Flood Insurance Agency or a qualified professional engineer.
Elevation in relation to mean sea level of the lowest floor, including the basement, of all structures.
Elevation in relation to mean sea level to which any structure has been floodproofed.
Where available flood data relates to depth of flood waters rather than height above mean sea level, then the depth of the 100-year flood should be substituted for elevation data.
Certification by a registered professional engineer or architect that the floodproofing methods for any nonresidential structure meet the applicable floodproofing standards in CMC § 17.56.100(B).
Description of the extent to which any watercourse will be altered or relocated as a result of proposed development.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997; Ord. 1279 NS § 7, 2002; Ord. 1594 NS § 5, 2017)

§ 17.92.030 Site plan review process type.

Site plan review shall be subject to a Type IV process.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997; Ord. 1279 NS § 8, 2002; Ord. 1324 NS § 8, 2004)

§ 17.92.040 Action by review authority.

The planning commission at a public hearing may approve a site plan review in whole or in part, with or without conditions, if all of the following findings of fact can be made in an affirmative manner
The project is consistent with the Colville comprehensive plan and meets the requirements and intent of the Colville Municipal Code, including the type of land use, the density/intensity of the proposed development, and infrastructure, including public facilities and services needed to serve the development.
The physical location, size, and placement of proposed structures on the site and the location of proposed uses within the project minimize disruption of the critical resource or floodplain area to the greatest extent possible.
The project is compatible with and relates harmoniously to the surrounding area.
The project will not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, or general welfare.
The project adequately mitigates any identified impacts.
Adequate setbacks and buffering have been provided. Any reduction to setbacks or buffer width is the minimum necessary to allow for reasonable economic use of the lot and does not impact the functional value of the critical resource area.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997; Ord. 1279 NS § 9, 2002)

§ 17.92.050 Time limits.

Authorization of a site plan review shall be void three years after the effective date, unless a building permit has been issued and substantial construction has taken place. However, the administrative official may extend the site plan review one year longer if the official finds that the facts on which the site plan review was approved have not changed substantially.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997; Ord. 1324 NS § 9, 2004)

§ 17.100.010 Purpose and intent.

The purposes of the planned unit development provisions are as follows:
To permit flexibility that will encourage a more creative approach in the development of land, and will result in a more efficient, aesthetic, and desirable use of open area, while at the same time maintaining the same unit density and area coverage permitted in the district in which the project is located;
To permit flexibility in design and placement of buildings, use of open spaces, circulation facilities, off-street parking areas, and to best utilize the potential of sites characterized by unique or unusual geography, topography, size or shape.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997)

§ 17.100.020 Permitted uses.

The following are permitted in a PUD:
In an R-1-S, R-1, R-2, R-3 district:
Any residential use including single-family, duplex, multifamily dwellings, or manufactured home;
Conditional uses permitted in the R-1-S, R-1, R-2, or R-3 districts.
In a C district:
Primary permitted uses and conditional uses permitted in a C district.
In an LI or I district, uses shall be limited to those permitted outright in the industrial district.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997)

§ 17.100.030 General standards.

All ground surfaces shall be landscaped according to approved plans.
Perimeters of the PUD shall maintain all required building setbacks as specified in the underlying zone district.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997)

§ 17.100.040 Density of development.

Density of development for a PUD in any R district shall be dependent on the maximum permitted density stated in the comprehensive plan land use designation in which the PUD is proposed to be developed. Intensity in commercial or industrial districts shall be dependent on the maximum floor area ratio established in the Colville comprehensive plan.
The number of dwelling units permitted in any residential planned unit development area shall be determined by multiplying the net development area in acres times the maximum number of dwelling units permitted in the applicable comprehensive plan land use designation.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997)

§ 17.100.050 Traffic circulation and parking.

All dedicated rights-of-way within a PUD shall be paved, and have curbs, gutters and sidewalks in accordance with city street standards. The location of sidewalks may be varied upon a finding that the PUD will provide for the separation of vehicular and pedestrian circulation patterns.
Off-street parking requirements shall be in accordance with Chapter 17.72 CMC. The planning commission may require more than the minimum prescribed standards.
The PUD shall be located with respect to rights-of-way which are adequately designed to handle the generated traffic.
Private roadways may be permitted subject to the approval of the planning commission and city street superintendent. All private roadways shall have direct access onto a dedicated street. Construction standards shall be the same as for public streets of the same classification unless a variance is granted by the city council. The city shall not be responsible for the maintenance of private streets. Creation of a private entity to ensure maintenance will be required.
All private roadways and dedicated streets shall be designed and maintained to carry emergency vehicles.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997)

§ 17.100.060 Utilities.

All utilities, including electricity and telephone, shall be installed underground except for access terminals.
PUDs shall be located on or shall bear the cost of providing streets, sanitary sewers, water mains, storm and surface drainage systems, and other utility systems and installations of adequate size to properly serve the PUD and conform to the comprehensive plan of the city.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997)

§ 17.100.070 Application requirements.

An environmental checklist must be submitted with the application forms.
Application for approval of the proposed planned unit development shall be made to the administrative official upon forms furnished by the city.
A minimum of six copies of the site plan drawn to a scale of one inch equals 100 feet or larger (sheet size 24 inches by 36 inches), and any supporting maps necessary to show the major details of the proposed PUD must be submitted along with the application.
Payment of all required fees.
The applicant must provide the following minimum information:
A general landscape plan;
Existing land uses within 200 feet of the proposed PUD;
Existing site conditions including topography, identification of geological hazards and unique natural features;
Proposed lot lines and plot designs;
The existing and proposed circulation system of arterial, collector, and local streets including off-street parking areas, service areas, loading areas, and major points of ingress and egress to the development;
The existing and proposed utility systems including sanitary sewers, storm sewers, and water, electric, gas, and telephone lines;
The location of all existing and proposed buildings, structures, and other improvements including maximum residential structures including commercial facilities;
The location and size in acres or square feet of all areas to be conveyed, dedicated, or reserved as common open spaces, public parks, recreational areas, school sites, and similar public and semipublic uses;
The proposed pedestrian circulation system;
The proposed treatment of the perimeter of the PUD, including materials and techniques used such as screens, fences, and walls;
Vicinity map showing adjacent subdivisions.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997)

§ 17.100.080 PUD review process type.

PUD shall be subject to a Type IV process.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997; Ord. 1324 NS § 11, 2004)

§ 17.100.090 Action of review authority.

The planning commission may recommend approval, approval with specific conditions or changes to be incorporated into the final plans of a PUD, if all of the following findings of fact can be made in an affirmative manner:
The project is consistent with the Colville comprehensive plan and meets the requirements and intent of the Colville Municipal Code and CMC Title 16, Land Divisions, including the type and intensity of land use, and the protection of critical resource areas, if applicable.
The project is compatible with the existing development or proposed development on properties in the project vicinity.
The project makes adequate provision (including financial guarantees) for access and circulation, water supply, storm drainage, sanitary sewage disposal, emergency services, and environmental protection.
The project adequately mitigates impacts identified through the SEPA review process, if applicable.
The project is beneficial to the public health, safety, and welfare, and is in the public interest.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997)

§ 17.100.100 Implementation of the planned unit development.

The subdivider shall post a performance bond or other financial guarantee in a form satisfactory to the city attorney and upon the recommendation of the commission and approval of the city council. This bond shall be of such an amount to cover 150 percent of the cost of completing all public improvements (streets, water and sewer lines, etc.), utilities, and all landscaping improvements as required by the city council in approving the final PUD plan.
If, during the construction phase of the PUD, minor changes in the location, setting, or character of buildings or structures become necessary, they may be authorized by the planning commission. All other changes in the PUD must be approved by the city council.
If construction of the public improvements (streets, water and sewer lines, etc.) has not been started within two years from the date of approval of a final development plan, or if construction has been commenced but the work has been abandoned for a period of one year or more, and if no extension of time has been granted by the city council, the authorization granted for the PUD project shall terminate and all permits and approvals issued pursuant to such authorization shall expire and be null and void.
Extension of Time Limit. The city council may grant relief to the developer of the land involved in a PUD project by granting an extension of the time limits for commencement of construction of the PUD project, or may extend or make adjustments in the time schedule for development. Such relief may be granted only after a public meeting and only upon specific findings by the city council:
That unforeseen circumstances or conditions have caused the delay in development;
That an extension of time will not cause substantial detriment to the neighboring property owners or to the community.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997)

§ 17.100.110 Platting, subdivision, and resale.

Platting shall be required for all projects which involve or contemplate the division of land and the procedures set forth in CMC Title 16, Land Divisions, shall be followed concurrently herewith.
The development plans must be submitted in a form which will satisfy the requirements of CMC Title 16, Land Divisions, for preliminary and final plats.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997)

§ 17.102.010 Purpose and intent.

The purpose of a development agreement is to provide greater assurance in the planning and development process to both the property owner and the city. A development agreement is typically used for a larger scale project or one that will develop over an extended period of time. A development agreement clearly identifies applicable standards and conditions under which a property will be developed.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997)

§ 17.102.020 Application and fee.

A completed application shall be submitted to the city official with applicable fees in accordance with the fee resolution adopted by the city council.
The application shall be accompanied by the development agreement as proposed by the applicant.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997)

§ 17.102.030 Review process.

The administrative official shall negotiate the terms of the agreement with the property owner and enter into a preliminary contract.
A development agreement shall be subject to a Type IV process.
The council shall review the development agreement at least every 12 months from the effective date until the terms of approval are satisfied.
If, as a result of an annual review, the council determines, on the basis of substantial evidence, that the applicant or successor has not complied in good faith with the terms and conditions of the agreement, the council may commence proceedings to enforce, modify or terminate the agreement.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997; Ord. 1278 NS § 6, 2002; Ord. 1324 NS § 12, 2004)

§ 17.102.040 Recordation.

Within 10 days of the effective date of the approval of a development agreement, the administrator shall forward the agreement to the office of the county auditor for recordation.
The agreement shall be binding on the parties and their successors.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997)

§ 17.102.050 Amendment or cancellation.

Either the city or the applicant or successor may propose an amendment or cancellation in whole or in part of the agreement.
An amendment or cancellation shall be subject to a Type III process.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997)
§ 17.96.010 Purpose and intent.
The text and/or map of this title may be amended to better implement the city of Colville comprehensive plan or protect the health, safety, and welfare of local residents.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997; Ord. 1278 NS § 5, 2002)
§ 17.96.020 Amendments to title text and zoning map.
An amendment to the text of this title or to make a change in or addition to the zoning map by altering district boundaries may be initiated by the council, commission, or by application of a property owner or contract purchaser or his authorized agent.
An application by a property owner or his authorized agent for an amendment to this title shall be filed with the administrative official on forms provided by the city. The application shall be accompanied by a fee as established by resolution of the city council.
Attached to any proposed amendment or supplement shall be an explanation and justification for the proposed change. Additionally, a request for a zone boundary change or zone change shall be accompanied by an accurate map showing the affected property and all other properties 300 feet in all directions from the property lines. A complete list of all owners of record of all property on the map shall also be submitted.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997)
§ 17.96.030 Review process.
A site-specific zone map or text amendment shall be subject to a Type IV review consistent with CMC § 17.108.120.
An amendment to the comprehensive plan and/or area-wide development regulation shall be subject to a Type V review consistent with CMC § 17.108.130.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997; Ord. 1324 NS § 10, 2004)
§ 17.96.040 Action of review authority.
Whenever there is a proposed rezoning being reviewed where public hearing is advertised and held, if after hearing testimony and considering the facts involved, the commission finds that a more restrictive zone classification than that requested and advertised or that a rezoning of less land than that advertised would be in the public interest and constitute good zoning practice, the commission may recommend the more restrictive zone or smaller land area without readvertising and rehearing. For the purpose of this provision, the single-family suburban district (R-1-S) shall be interpreted as being the most restrictive zone district.
The commission shall not recommend approval of or the city council approve an amendment to the comprehensive plan or any implementing ordinance or regulation unless it first makes the following findings and conclusions:
The proposed amendment is consistent with the intent and goals of the Colville comprehensive plan and meets the requirements and intent of the Colville Municipal Code, including the type and intensity of development, and the protection of critical resources areas.
The proposed amendment is consistent with applicable federal and state laws and regulations.
The city and other responsible agencies and special districts will be able to supply the development resulting from the amended comprehensive plan or implementing ordinance with adequate roads and streets for access and circulation, water supply, storm drainage, sanitary sewage disposal, emergency services, and environmental protection.
The amendment adequately mitigates impacts identified through the SEPA review process, if applicable.
The amendment is beneficial to the public health, safety, and welfare, and is in the public interest.
(Ord. 1160 NS § 1, 1997)
§ 17.96.050 Intent of provisions.
Citizen participation is an important element of the Growth Management Act (GMA). The comprehensive plan development and amendment process, as well as the development and amendment of implementation regulations, should be a "bottom up" effort, involving early and continuous public participation (RCW 36.70A.140 and WAC 365-195-600).
The city of Colville will encourage citizen involvement that goes beyond the minimum legal public notification requirements found in the GMA. The city's basic framework for achieving an interactive dialogue between local decision makers, city staff, and the public will be formed through this article and will apply throughout the local planning process including the adoption and development of the comprehensive plan, amendments thereto, and the adoption of development regulations which implement the comprehensive plan of the city.
Cities and counties planning under the GMA must establish procedures "providing for early and continuous public participation in the development and amendment of comprehensive land use plans and development regulations implementing such plans" (RCW 36.70A.140). These procedures shall include opportunities for public review of proposals and alternatives, opportunity for written comment, public meetings after effective notice, provision for open discussion, communications programs, information services, and consideration of and response to public comments. While a public participation program is required under the GMA, cities may determine their own methods of soliciting public participation in accordance with RCW 36.70A.035 and 36.70A.140.
The following guidelines reflect the basis for public participation related to GMA and the city of Colville's local planning process.
(Ord. 1322 NS § 1, 2004)
§ 17.96.060 Notification methods.
The city of Colville will publicize public workshops and hearings to ensure that the community is made aware of the opportunities to become involved in the planning process. At a minimum, the requirements of Chapter 36.70A RCW pertaining to public hearings and notification will be satisfied.
The city of Colville will inform citizens through various techniques including, but not limited to, the following:
Posting the property using appropriate signage for site-specific proposals.
Publishing notice in the Colville Statesman-Examiner. Such notice will be accompanied by a news release to provide more information to the public.
Sending notice to all citizens and community organizations that sign up on a mailing list. Citizens may request to be included on the mailing list to receive notice of planning commission or other planning-related public meetings in either an electronic mail or regular mail format. Names will be removed on the last business day of the calendar year if no response is received from an invitation to re-enroll sent by December 15th. An invitation to re-enroll will be included on notices prior to the end of the year.
Providing press releases to KCRK/KCVL radio and other media outlets.
Meeting notices and minutes from the Colville planning commission and technical review committee will be posted on-line along with notices of applications including actions reviewed under the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) process.
Compiling, on an ongoing basis, a list of parties interested in the GMA and local planning issues. Names should come from meetings and hearings, sign-in sheets, written correspondence, and known community groups, as well as specific requests to be included. Notice will be sent to all parties who reasonably appear to have an interest in the matter being considered, where such determination is not possible.
Issuing press releases, public service announcements, and media packets as appropriate to inform the public about GMA issues, local planning activities, availability of documents, or meeting and hearing dates.
(Ord. 1322 NS § 2, 2004)
§ 17.96.070 Citizen review methods.
The city of Colville will provide citizens the opportunity to review documents, analyze alternatives, and provide feedback to ensure the community has the opportunity to become involved in the planning process. These methods include the following:
Pertinent documents will be available for review in a timely manner at the department of building and planning, located in Colville City Hall at 170 S. Oak Street. Copies will be made available for the cost of reproduction.
At least two public hearings will be conducted prior to making an official decision on a comprehensive plan, a development regulation implementing the plan, or an amendment to either. The city council may hold additional public hearings if deemed necessary.
Public meetings and hearings shall be advertised at least 14 days before the scheduled date.
Notices for public meetings and hearings shall include the name and address of the person to whom written comments should be sent, along with a deadline for submittal.
All written comments and public testimony at meetings or hearings shall be considered by the decision-makers, and addressed as time permits. Relevant comments will be addressed in the findings-of-fact portion of the decision-maker's written decision or recommendation.
Two-way communication between the public and planning staff will be encouraged.
As appropriate, given the specific proposal, public workshops should be hosted prior to public hearings as a means to involve and educate the public and solicit their opinions, reactions, or suggestions. The number of workshops should be based upon the specific circumstances of the case.
The public shall also have the opportunity to attend regular or special meetings to observe and aid in discussion topics.
(Ord. 1322 NS § 3, 2004)
§ 17.96.080 Citizen participation – Planning process.
The city of Colville will seek opportunities to work directly with citizens throughout the planning process to ensure their concerns are understood and considered, and provide opportunities for open discussion.
The planning commission will host periodic public meetings in each of Colville's three council wards. At least one council representative from the ward will be encouraged to attend. An opportunity for public comment and discussion will be provided at each meeting.
The department of building and planning will host topical workshops on matters of local concern at least once annually. Topics may include affordable housing, transportation alternatives, community development projects, and other subjects of broad public interest.
The city will invite citizens to serve on local boards, committees, and commissions through local newspaper or web page announcements.
(Ord. 1322 NS § 4, 2004)
§ 17.96.090 Citizen participation – Adoption and amendment of comprehensive plan and development regulations.
The city of Colville will provide an opportunity for citizens to participate in the adoption and amendment of the city's comprehensive plan and the development regulations which implement the plan as set forth in this article and the following procedures:
One informational meeting shall be held by the planning commission, at least 30 days prior to the first public hearing, at a neighborhood or community center in the affected council ward(s) or at Colville City Hall, the location at the discretion of the director of building and planning. The meeting shall be announced using methods described in CMC § 17.96.060.
A description of the proposal will be presented to the public. Discussion between the public, staff members and the planning commission will be encouraged.
No decisions or recommendations on the outcome of the proposal will be made during the informational meeting.
The planning commission or staff members shall provide the public a copy of the hearings process, and proposed hearing dates if known.
(Ord. 1322 NS § 5, 2004)
§ 17.96.100 Application procedure.
The city shall give public notice to announce that applications to amend the comprehensive plan or development regulations can be made to the city until a specified date, to be considered during the current annual review cycle. Notice will also be given that amendments may be submitted at any time and will be docketed for consideration during the next annual cycle.
The applicant will be given procedures describing the comprehensive plan amendment docketing process, applicable fees, and annual submission deadline date. A suggested non-site-specific amendment requires no fee. Anyone may suggest an amendment, which shall be submitted in writing to the director of building and planning. These will be added to the list of proposed amendments to be considered during the annual review process.
(Ord. 1323 NS § 1, 2004)
§ 17.96.110 Annual department review.
The department of building and planning will review and evaluate comprehensive plan amendment proposals annually. Submittal deadline shall be September 30th, or the next business day following this date.
(Ord. 1323 NS § 2, 2004)
§ 17.96.120 Amendment proposals additional to annual review.
The city of Colville may consider comprehensive plan amendment proposals more frequently than once per year under the following circumstances: the initial adoption of a subarea plan; the adoption or amendment of a shoreline master program under the procedures set forth in Chapter 90.58 RCW; and the amendment of the capital facilities element of a comprehensive plan that occurs concurrently with the adoption or amendment of a county or city budget.
(Ord. 1323 NS § 3, 2004)
§ 17.96.130 Emergency amendment.
The city of Colville reserves the right to adopt amendments or revisions to its comprehensive plan whenever an emergency exists or to resolve an appeal of a comprehensive plan filed with a growth management hearings board or with the court, after appropriate public participation.
(Ord. 1323 NS § 4, 2004)
§ 17.96.140 Staff review – Cumulative effect of proposals.
All docketed comprehensive plan amendments will be reviewed by staff at one time to determine the cumulative effect of the proposals.
(Ord. 1323 NS § 5, 2004)
§ 17.96.150 Public participation – Appeals.
All amendments shall be processed in accordance with the public participation guidelines adopted by the city under Article II of this chapter. Appeals of comprehensive plan amendments shall be made within 60 days of publication to the Eastern Washington Growth Management Hearings Board, as provided by law.
(Ord. 1323 NS § 6, 2004)