HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-Staff Report 02-01-2023Joint City & County Planning Commission Meeting
February 1, 2023
Tri-Area Community Center
STAFF REPORT
STATEMENT OF ISSUE:
At the February 1, 2023 meeting, Jefferson County and Port Townsend Planning Commissions (“Joint
PC”) will continue their review and discussion of housing planning and policy terms. Our goal is to
improve consistency in use of terms between jurisdictions and to better enable housing providers to
access competitive financing.
BACKGROUND:
Housing Solutions Network (HSN) identified the need to revisit certain sections of the county ordinance
(Ordinance No. 05-061322, Adopted June 13, 2022). Given that the city, county and OlyCAP use closely
aligned definitions, staff realized it would be a good opportunity to review the terminology used to ease
project planning, access to funding and clarity for organizations seeking to develop new housing,
maintain or improve existing housing or secure funding for the foregoing purposes. A joint meeting of
the County and City Planning Commissions was held on October 19, 2022. Meeting materials for the
prior joint meeting are available on the County’s website at: 101922 Joint PC Meeting Materials
ANALYSIS
At the October 19, 2022 meeting, staff shared a spreadsheet that outlined nearly 50 terms used in local
documents (e.g., ordinances, lease(s)) and in federal and state code. Commissioners asked staff to
select the relevant terms for local use and prepare draft definitions for consideration at the next
meeting. Staff continued to refine the spreadsheet (Exhibit B, Comparison of Terms). Terms shown in
bold/italics were selected by staff for use in the county/city code – either as written or modified to
reflect local conditions. Staff met several times to discuss which of the definitions aligned for the types
of facilities found within our community. In drafting definitions, we endeavored to respond to
comments received. Draft definitions are presented in Exhibit C.
RECOMMENDATION
After listening to a presentation and public comment, Commissioners will discuss the draft definitions.
We look forward to your feedback.
EXHIBITS
A. PowerPoint Presentation
B. Comparison of Terms
C. Draft Definitions