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Full Agenda Packet File
District 1 Kevin Coker Cynthia Koan Ahren Stroming District 2 Matt Sircely, Vice Chair LD Richert Michael Shultz District 3 Richard Hull, Chair Chris Llewellyn Michael Nilssen Public Comment: When the Chair recognizes you to speak, please begin by stating your name and address. Please be aware that the public comment period is three minutes. 1 AGENDA JEFFERSON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION Regular Meeting – February 7, 2024 Tri Area Community Center, 10 West Valley Road, Chimacum, Washington 98325 This will be a hybrid meeting with telephone or on-line options. The public is invited to attend in-person, with a limit of up to 50 percent of the venue' s capacity, pursuant to Resolution 24-22. You can join this meeting remotely via Zoom: Jefferson County Planning Commission Regular Meeting Time: Jan 3, 2024 05:30 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada) https://zoom.us/j/96997604223?pwd=NUJoRktHNEtOUjFHTUF1VDdSaXpXZz09 Meeting ID: 969 9760 4223 Passcode: 742684 This option will allow you to join the meeting live. You will need to enter an email address. If you wish to provide public comment, click on the hand icon at the bottom of the screen to “raise your hand.” The public comment period is managed by the Chair. Please sign on 5 to 10 minutes before the official start of the meeting to check sound and video quality. This video will be closed-captioned enabled. Meeting Materials: To access the Planning Commission folder on the county’s Laserfiche Web Portal, either navigate to the Jefferson County Planning Commission webpage & find the link there, or, click on this link Both the username and password to Laserfiche are “public” 5:30 Chair Welcome and Overview Presentation 1. Call to Order/Roll Call 2. Approval of Agenda 3. Approval of Minutes: a. January 17, 2024 Regular Meeting b. January 20, 2024 Retreat District 1 Kevin Coker Cynthia Koan Ahren Stroming District 2 Matt Sircely, Vice Chair LD Richert Michael Shultz District 3 Richard Hull, Chair Chris Llewellyn Michael Nilssen Public Comment: When the Chair recognizes you to speak, please begin by stating your name and address. Please be aware that the public comment period is three minutes. 2 GENERAL UPDATES 4. Planning Commission Updates 5. DCD Staff and Director Updates a. Revised Outreach proposal for regulations governing rentals for less than 30 days, see memo in Transmitted Information b. Printing copies of the 2018 Comprehensive Plan (CP) is cost prohibitive. PC is encouraged to access the CP from the County web page. Community Development may provide copies of portions of the CP as needed for specific reviews. c. Upcoming meetings: i. February 21 - Comprehensive Planning, 2024 Site-specific Amendments. ii. March 6 – Randy Marx, Public Environmental Health, septic & water rules; and Brent Butler, Public Hearing on Ch. 15.15 Flood Damage Prevention code. PUBLIC COMMENT – GENERAL 6. Public comments from attendees about any topic that is not on the agenda. Note that public comment on agenda items are during the agenda item’s section. 7. Transmitted Information: list any documents that were submitted as part of the agenda a. Revised Outreach proposal for regulations governing rentals for less than 30 days b. February 7, 2024, Update: Flood Damage Prevention – Jefferson County Code Chapter 15.15 c. Serial Meeting Information REGULAR BUSINESS 8. Follow-up from Planning Commission Retreat a. Synopsis The January 20, 2024 Planning Commission retreat minutes are included in this agenda packet. See Retreat minutes regarding improvements to operationalize. Process improvement for 2024 have been incorporated into this 2/7/2024 meeting agenda, including: 1) agenda format that includes with each regular business item a Synopsis, Assignment, and Options & Decision portion; 2) meeting minutes template updated; 3) Web page improvements underway. 4) The Planning Commissioners will increase communication among each other to pass along meeting reminders, provide support, assistance, and accountability for each other; but not create serial meetings. b. Assignment for Meeting: 1) Bring any questions about Serial Meeting Information that may remain after reading the materials provided. District 1 Kevin Coker Cynthia Koan Ahren Stroming District 2 Matt Sircely, Vice Chair LD Richert Michael Shultz District 3 Richard Hull, Chair Chris Llewellyn Michael Nilssen Public Comment: When the Chair recognizes you to speak, please begin by stating your name and address. Please be aware that the public comment period is three minutes. 3 2) Bring confirmation that individuals within PC Districts are in contact with each other for assistance, emergency contact, community outreach opportunities, etc. c. Options & Decisions -- TBD 9. Comprehensive Plan Periodic Update Review Project a. Synopsis Community Development is updating the Planning Commission on the CP Periodic Review update. Additional detail will be provided regarding annual amendments for the 2024 cycle, and the ongoing 18-month periodic review ending June, 2025. Initial Comprehensive Plan work by the Planning Commission is to establish a Vision Statement, which we will work on in the meeting. Please see attachment to this agenda. b. Assignment i. Demonstrate that you are able to access the Comprehensive Plan and Unified Development Code. If you have problems, contact Staff immediately. ii. Read the “Cover & TOC 2018” and “Foundation 2018” documents. (Approximately 26 pages.) iii. Bring revisions to Vision Statement, as needed, for discussion and possible adoption. c. Options & Decisions Does the Vision Statement reflect current conditions? Is the placement of the Vision Statement in the Comprehensive Plan still effective for the reader? The Planning Commission may choose to complete the Vision Statement in this meeting, continue work to the next meeting, or create an ad hoc subcommittee to advance some other approach to the Vison Statement. 10. Adjourn 621 Sheridan St. P: 360-379-4450 Port Townsend, WA, 98368 PCommissionDesk@co.jefferson.wa.us Public Comment: When the Chair recognizes you to speak, please begin by stating your name and address. Please be aware that the public comment period is three minutes. 1 MEETING MINUTES JEFFERSON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION Regular Meeting – January 17, 2024 Virtual Only Meeting 5:34 PM Welcome Chair and Overview Presentation 1. Call to Order/Roll Call District 1 District 2 District 3 Stroming (AS) Sircely (MaS) Hull (RH) Coker (KC) Shultz (MiS) absent Nilssen (MN) excused absence Koan (CK) Richert (LD) absent Llewelyn (CL) 2. Approval of Agenda: Approved 3. Approval of Minutes: 1st CK / 2nd MaS – 5 approve, 1 abstention GENERAL UPDATES 4. Planning Commission Updates: MaS: The housing subcommittee put a lot of thought into the presentation from the last meeting. Working to revise their recommendations in the pursuit of simplicity and clarity. Moving quickly. Once approved by the subcommittee, the subcommittee plans to distribute these recommendations to the Planning Commissioners for input. KC: Commissioner Sircely has done great work with the housing subcommittee. I can see the path forward. A lot of great studies on how smaller footprint housing can address multiple issues simultaneously. Appreciative of the progress that the housing subcommittee has made. 5. DCD Staff Updates: None PUBLIC COMMENT – GENERAL 6. Public comments: None 7. Transmitted Information: None at this time REGULAR BUSINESS 8. Outreach proposal for regulations governing rentals for less than 30 days – Brent Butler 9. Recommended changes to Chapter 15.15 Flood Damage Prevention in response to the December 13, 2023 FEMA Community Assistance Visit (CAV). – Brent Butler 621 Sheridan St. P: 360-379-4450 Port Townsend, WA, 98368 PCommissionDesk@co.jefferson.wa.us Public Comment: When the Chair recognizes you to speak, please begin by stating your name and address. Please be aware that the public comment period is three minutes. 2 1. Possibly add to the Planning Commission’s list of 2024 projects with completion expected in the 1st quarter of 2023. The expected kick off would be January 17, 2023 with a potential public hearing before the PC at their last meeting in February, and adoption by the BoCC on March 6th. 10. Final Preparation for January 20th Planning Commission retreat - Joel Peterson Necessary items for Planning Commissioners to provide to Joel prior to the January 20 Joint Retreat and Workshop: 1. Commissioner input and reflections on 2023 Planning Commission activities for the annual report: 2. Agenda for 1/20/2024 PC Retreat 3. Commissioner training: DOC Short Course on Local Planning, OPMA 4. Messaging to BoCC: What facilitating questions, and what direction of engagement are you wanting? It has been very important to the Planning Commission to engage the BoCC in this meeting format--what issues are you wanting to discuss? 5. Highlights of Planning Commission work that you would like to share with the BoCC. 6. Subcommittee reports: Outreach, Housing, and Stock Plan Subcommittees 7. A selfie for the Annual Report and Web page if you have not already done so. Chair Hull comment: The Planning Commission has been requesting this retreat with the BoCC for over a year. It is important that we as Planning Commissioner come prepared to Saturday’s retreat. 6:54 pm ADJOURNMENT The next Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for January 20th, 2024 at 9:00am at the Gardiner Community Center. To attend virtually please use the following link: https://zoom.us/j/96997604223?pwd=NUJoRktHNEtOUjFHTUF1VDdSaXpXZz09 Meeting ID: 969 9760 4223 Passcode: 742684 These meeting minutes were approved this ____________ day of_____, 2024. ____________________________ Richard Hull, Chair A. George Terry, Secretary 621 Sheridan St. P: 360-379-4450 Port Townsend, WA, 98368 PCommissionDesk@co.jefferson.wa.us Public Comment: When the Chair recognizes you to speak, please begin by stating your name and address. Please be aware that the public comment period is three minutes. 1 MEETING MINUTES JEFFERSON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION Special Meeting – January 20, 2024 Annual Planning Commission Retreat – 9:00am-12:00pm Gardiner Community Center – 980 Old Gardiner Road, Sequim WA 9:00 AM Welcome Chair and Overview Presentation Call to Order/Roll Call District 1 District 2 District 3 Stroming (AS) Sircely (MaS) Hull (RH) Coker (KC) (10:30am) Shultz (MiS) Nilssen (MN) Koan (CK) Richert (LD) Llewelyn (CL) 9:05-9:45 AM - Introduction & Purpose of Retreat (Joel Peterson) Celebration of our Planning Commission volunteers, discuss the 2023 year in review, identify best practices and areas of improvement, and develop work plan priorities for 2024. Review of 2023 (All) a. 2023 work outcomes. What is working well? • SMP deliberations and outcome was done well. • The agenda packets are timely—very good for PC. b. What would you like to strengthen and/or change? • Consider an individual briefing call from staff to PC members before meeting. • Use PC webpage to our advantage, such as preparing and posting information for public. • Assisting Planning Commissioners with communication between PC members. • Consider a PC Text Group for announcements which may be missed via email. c. Operationalize Ideas for 2024 Best Practices. Future goals. • DCD to provide timely information, especially what is the task—frame topics and outline options. • DCD to be more directive in requests for areas of study and completing homework. • DCD send calendar reminders. 621 Sheridan St. P: 360-379-4450 Port Townsend, WA, 98368 PCommissionDesk@co.jefferson.wa.us Public Comment: When the Chair recognizes you to speak, please begin by stating your name and address. Please be aware that the public comment period is three minutes. 2 • Planning Commission develop outreach methods within their Districts—example of community center Web page Google group postings. • There was no response or discussion about access to tools such as Comprehensive Plan, Unified Development Code, other resources. 9:45-10:00 AM - Public Comment: None 10:00–10:45 AM - Training Session a. Robert’s Rules of Order for Small Groups • Keep the simple things simple—e.g., accepting minutes by acclamation rather than going through the process of getting a “second“ for discussion. • Clear motions. When making motions, be sure to be clear & have the motion read back so all understand the motion. • For motions on large items, come to the meeting prepared with the motion written on paper—consider distribution of motion to all PC members in advance. b. Working in Subcommittees—Best Practices • Provide documentation of subcommittee work such as minutes, documentation, or other report-out for the benefit of the full Planning Commission as well as the benefit of the record upon which decisions are based. 10:45--11:45 AM - Cooperation Between Tribes and County Planning & Development Joel Peterson; Marla Powers, Environmental Planner, Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe Natural Resources Department and Misty A. Ives, THPO, Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe • Presentation on history of Tribes and treaties—Joel Peterson • Presentation on Tribal participation and Washington fish barrier culvert replacement— Marla Powers, Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe • Presentation from Misty Ives, Tribal Historic Preservation Officer, on Land Acknowledgements—internet connection lost and presentation to be continued at another time. 11:45-12:00 AM - Closing Remarks 621 Sheridan St. P: 360-379-4450 Port Townsend, WA, 98368 PCommissionDesk@co.jefferson.wa.us Public Comment: When the Chair recognizes you to speak, please begin by stating your name and address. Please be aware that the public comment period is three minutes. 3 12:00 PM ADJOURNMENT The next Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for February 7th, 2024 at 5:30pm at the Tri-Area Community Center. To attend virtually please use the following link: https://zoom.us/j/96997604223?pwd=NUJoRktHNEtOUjFHTUF1VDdSaXpXZz09 Meeting ID: 969 9760 4223 Passcode: 742684 These meeting minutes were approved this ____________ day of_____, 2024. ____________________________ Richard Hull, Chair A. George Terry, Secretary 1 JEFFERSON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION TO: Honorable Chair and Members of the Planning Commission FROM: Brent A. Butler, AICP, Chief Strategy Officer DATE: February 7, 2024 SUBJECT: Revised Outreach proposal for regulations governing rentals for less than 30 days STATEMENT OF ISSUE: As discussed in the January 17, 2024 agenda, several dates were proposed for outreach regarding Short Term Rentals, which are no longer feasible. Consequently, a new proposal is put forth for your consideration below. Table 1: Short Term Rental Outreach Geographical area Proposed Location Proposed New Date District 2 - North (including invites to District 1 members outside the city limits) Cape George Fire Station or another site March 12, 2024 District 2 Tri-Area Community Center March 13, 2024 District 3 Brinnon Community Center March 14, 2024 RECOMMENDATION: Consider the outreach proposal and confirm that the above-referenced dates meet your expectations. 1 JEFFERSON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION TO: Honorable Chair and Members of the Planning Commission FROM: Brent A. Butler, AICP, Chief Strategy Officer DATE: February 7, 2024 SUBJECT: Flood Damage Prevention – Jefferson County Code Chapter 15.15 _____________________________________________________________________________________ STATEMENT OF ISSUE: On January 17, 2024, the Chief Strategy Officer summarized proposed revisions to Jefferson County Code (JCC) Chapter 15.15 that would bring it into compliance with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) regulations as more fully set forth in FEMA’s model ordinance in a presentation to the Planning Commission (see Attachment 1 – PowerPoint presentation). As part of this presentation, the Chief Strategy Officer recommended that the Planning Commission identify how many public input sessions may be necessary and to direct staff to schedule a public hearing on the proposed revised Flood Damage Prevention ordinance. In conclusion, the Planning Commission accepted the CSO’s recommendation to schedule the public hearing at the first Planning Commission meeting in March to accept testimony from the public prior to identifying next steps, which could include among other actions, the recommended adoption of revisions to JCC Chapter 15.15. BACKGROUND: (included in the January 17, 2024 agenda). Created by Congress in 1968, the NFIP provides insurance to help reduce the socio-economic impact of floods. Flood insurance is a separate policy that can cover buildings, the contents in a building, or both. The NFIP provides flood insurance to property owners, renters, and businesses, and having this coverage helps them recover faster when floodwaters recede. The NFIP is a public-private partnership between the federal government, the property and casualty insurance industry, states, local officials, lending institutions, and property owners. The NFIP is administered by FEMA, while insurance policies are sold and serviced by a network of more than 50 insurance companies and the NFIP Direct. FEMA conducts its audit through a state agency, the Department of Ecology (“ECY”) to ensure the Floodplain Management regulations meet or exceed the minimum criteria outlined in 44 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 60.3 entitled Flood plain management criteria for flood-prone areas. In the fourth quarter, ECY conducted a field survey of the Jefferson County floodplain to identify new or substantially improved floodplain development and requested the associated permit files for auditing purposes. ECY also requested copies of all permits issued by Jefferson County over the last five years where the county authorized construction in the regulatory floodplain and met with county staff as part of the Customer Assistance Visit (“CAV”) audit that should occur once every five years. The regulatory floodplain is commonly referred to as the “area of special flood hazard,” the “special flood hazard area” (“SFHA”), areas subject to the one percent chance flood or the 100-year flood. All of these terms denote areas subject to the provisions of the attached ordinance (see Attachment 1 – JCC Chapter 15.15 Flood 2 Damage Prevention). On January 10, 2024, Jefferson County staff met with the FEMA representative at ECY to discuss fourteen required or recommended amendments to Chapter 15.15 Flood Damage Prevention. Some of these revisions are required to bring Jefferson County into compliance with one of the state’s three model flood damage prevention ordinances or, alternatively, implement the criteria of a voluntary program known as the Community Rating System, that reward communities with further reductions in flood insurance premiums commensurate with the communities’ adoption of higher regulatory standards. The Jefferson County Ordinance, JCC Chapter 15.15 responds to an earlier lawsuit, as more fully set forth below. FEMA NFIP Biological Opinion Compliance - A 2004 lawsuit held that FEMA had a responsibility to consult with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) about impacts of the NFIP on listed species under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The plaintiffs (the National Wildlife Federation) believed that the operation of the NFIP resulted in impacts on several species listed under the ESA and their critical habitats within Puget Sound. A consultation is the mechanism used to review federal programs or permitting activities and determine what is needed to address any impacts. Consultations are handled either by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) or the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). The result of that consultation was the issuance in September 2008 by NMFS of a Biological Opinion (BiOp) under the ESA. The BiOp prepared for the NFIP found that some elements "jeopardized" several ESA-listed species in the Puget Sound, including Chinook salmon and Orca whales. These elements included FEMA floodplain mapping, the community rating system and the minimum development standards. The BiOp includes "reasonable and prudent alternatives" (RPAs) that must be implemented by the federal agency The most critical element for purposes of local government administration of floodplain regulations is Element 3. This relates to FEMA's minimum development criteria, which local jurisdictions are required to adopt to participate in the NFIP. RPA Element 3 directs FEMA to significantly tighten the minimum development criteria that is used by local governments to regulate floodplain development. NMFS prepared a description in February 2011 of what is required by RPA Element 3 in the publication Reasonable & Prudent Alternative Element 3: Floodplain Management Criteria [Pdf]. Affected jurisdictions such as Jefferson County were given a deadline of September 23, 2011, to show compliance with the BiOp requirements. Jurisdictions could elect one of three “doors” to achieve compliance. See FEMA’s description of compliance options here. A jurisdiction could choose to (1) adopt a model ordinance drafted by NMFS (Door 1), (2) adopt a programmatic approach utilizing existing regulations and supplementing with new regulations and policies, as needed (Door 2), or (3) undertake a project-by-project review to determine compliance with the BiOp (Door 3). A jurisdiction operates under Door 3 (permit-by-permit) until a Door 1 or Door 2 proposal has been approved by FEMA. Jefferson County’s Response to Bi-Op Requirements - Jefferson County’s attempt to comply with the door 1 or 2 approach was unsuccessful, and Jefferson County is currently reviewing projects on a case-by- case basis (Door 3) for compliance with the BiOp, utilizing its new procedures in JCC 15.15. 3 ANALYSIS: Through the Department of Ecology (“ECY”), FEMA provided technical assistance to ensure Jefferson County’s compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program (“NFIP”). A specific focus is Jefferson County Code (JCC) Chapter 15.15 entitled Flood Damage Prevention. ECY’s clear and concise guidance includes how to implement best available science, as set forth in Comprehensive Plan Goal EN-G-6, which states: “Continue to implement, periodically review, and update critical area regulations under the Jefferson County Critical Areas Ordinance (CAO) consistent with GMA requirements, including best available science.” This comprehensive plan goal is implemented through Policy EN-P-6.2 which states: “Continue to protect flood hazard areas from development and uses that compromise the flow, storage, and buffering of flood water, normal channel functions, and fish and wildlife habitat, and minimize flood and river process risk to life and property under the Critical Area Ordinance (CAO). Continue to periodically review and update CAO regulations relating to flood hazards, including best available science.” Since the (14) proposed revisions to JCC 15.15 are consistent with the Comprehensive Plan, as set forth above, Jefferson County Code provisions that guide the amendment process are codified in JCC 18.45.010 (3); (3) Planning Commission Role. The Jefferson County planning commission is an advisory body that shall make recommendations to the county commissioners on all Comprehensive Plan matters, including amendments to the plan text and land use map, development regulations and subarea plans. and JCC 18.45.090 (1) (a): (1) Initiation. The text of the county’s development regulations (RCW 36.70A.030(7)) may be amended at any time, provided the amendment is consistent with the Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan and land use map…..(a) When consistent with the [comprehensive] plan, at any time at the direction of the board of county commissioners or by the planning commission pursuant to RCW 36.70.550; Based on the foregoing discussion, the CSO recommends that the Planning Commission concur with the conclusion that these changes implement Comprehensive Plan Goal EN-G-6, and recommend amendments JCC 15.15 to incorporate ‘best available science’, as set forth in Attachment 1. RECOMMENDATION: Notice the public hearing on the proposed revisions to JCC 15.15 for March 6, 2024 and mark your calendars accordingly. After opening the public hearing on March 6 and accepting public testimony, close the hearing to deliberate and approve either the proposed mandatory amendments or the optional amendments or both, and forward your recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners for action. 1 FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY Community Assistance Visit Proposed Revisions to Jefferson County Code (JCC) Chapter 15.15 Brent Alfred Butler, Chief Strategy Officer January 17, 2024 2 Mission Statement "To preserve and enhance the quality of life in Jefferson County by promoting a vibrant economy, sound communities, and a healthy environment." 1)STATEMENT OF ISSUE a)FEMA Audit conducted by Washington State Department of Ecology b)Regulatory Floodplain c)NFIP provides for insurance (building / contents) 2) BACKGROUND Why, What, When, Where, and How? 3) ANALYSIS Fourteen Revisions (CRS versus Minimum Standard) 5) RECOMMENDATION Set Public Hearing Agenda 3 Community Assistance Visit Is it required? Yes, every five years, if a government offer subsidized flood insurance Areas covered: Contents? Insurance? Agenda Item # 1 –STATEMENT OF ISSUE Field Survey & Records Request Last Five Years of Permits in Regulatory Floodplain Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance Review 4 Synonymous Terms 1)Areas of Special Flood Hazard 2)Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) 3)100 Year Flood 4)One Percent Chance Flood Agenda Item # 1 –STATEMENT OF ISSUE Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance Review –JCC 15.15 Beckett Point 2022/2023 King Tide 5 One –LAWSUIT Elevation Certificate Two-Chose one of three options Attempted Door 2 -(Door 3) What →100 year flood Where →Regulatory flood zone When →New Construction or Substantial Damage/Improvement How →Elevation Certificates and Biological Assesment Agenda Item # 2 –BACKGROUND 6 1)Definitions 2)Park Model 3)Local Administrator 4)CRS language (MG6 & MG8) 5)Storage (optional –MG7) 6)SFHA (MG9 & MG10) 7)Enclosed areas (MG11) 8)Farmhouses (MG12) 9)Other Development –optional (MG13) 10)Livestock (mandatory) Agenda Item # 3 ANALYSIS Beckett Point, 202223 King Tide 7 Schedule Public Hearing Agenda Item # 4 –Recommendation 8 Thank you Jefferson County Code Chapter 15.15 FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION Page 1/20 The Jefferson County Code is current through Ordinance 3-23, passed July 3, 2023. Chapter 15.15 FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION Sections: 15.15.010 Statutory authorization. 15.15.015 Severability. 15.15.016 General exemptions. 15.15.020 Findings of fact. 15.15.030 Statement of purpose. 15.15.040 Methods of reducing flood losses. 15.15.050 Definitions. 15.15.060 General provisions. 15.15.070 Administration. 15.15.080 Provisions for flood hazard reduction. 15.15.010 Statutory authorization. The Legislature of the State of Washington has delegated the responsibility to local governmental units to adopt regulations designed to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare of its citizenry. Therefore, Jefferson County does ordain as follows. [Ord. 5-19 § 2 (App. A)] 15.15.015 Severability. If any section, clause, sentence, or phrase of this chapter is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, then said holding shall in no way affect the validity of the remaining portions of this chapter. [Ord. 5-19 § 2 (App. A)] 15.15.016 General exemptions. To determine if a development proposal is exempt from the requirement for a flood development permit, the project proponent shall submit documentation supporting compliance with the applicable exemption below for review by the development services manager, who shall retain documentation of the decision. These exemptions are limited in scope and shall not be approved if any of the following are part of a larger development proposal. After review by the development services manager, the following may be exempt from the requirement for a flood development permit: (1) Routine maintenance of existing landscaping that does not involve grading, excavation, or filling; (2) Removal of noxious weeds, hazardous trees, and replacement of nonnative vegetation with native vegetation; provided, weed removal is based on the Jefferson County noxious weed list and is conducted in accordance with the noxious weed control board weed control guidance; (3) Normal maintenance of above-ground public utilities and facilities, such as replacing power lines and utility poles, but does not include connecting or extending lines onto private property, such as residential utility lines; (4) Normal road maintenance, such as filling potholes, repaving, installing signs and traffic signals; provided, that no expansion is proposed; (5) Normal maintenance of a levee or other flood control facility, as prescribed in the operations and maintenance plan for the facility; provided, that normal maintenance does not include repair from flood damage, any expansion of the prism, face or toe, or the addition of material for protection or armor; and (6) Plowing and other normal farm practices on legally existing agricultural areas; provided, that there are not new structures, filling, or ground clearing. [Ord. 5-19 § 2 (App. A)] 15.15.020 Findings of fact. (1) The flood hazard areas of Jefferson County are subject to periodic inundation which results in loss of life and property, health, and safety hazards, disruption of commerce and governmental services, extraordinary public Jefferson County Code Chapter 15.15 FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION Page 2/20 The Jefferson County Code is current through Ordinance 3-23, passed July 3, 2023. expenditures for flood protection and relief, and impairment of the tax base, all of which adversely affect the public health, safety, and general welfare. (2) These flood losses are caused by the cumulative effect of obstructions in areas of special flood hazards which increase flood heights and velocities, and when inadequately anchored damage uses in other areas. Uses that are inadequately floodproofed, elevated, or otherwise protected from flood damage also contribute to the flood loss. (3) Those development permits seeking to construct within critical areas and/or a flood hazard area shall be subject to this chapter. (4) Jefferson County regulates development in frequently flooded areas through critical area protection standards found in Chapter 18.22 JCC. (5) Regulations that govern development in flood hazard areas may be found in Chapter 18.25 JCC – Shoreline Master Program. (6) Regulations that govern development in flood hazard areas may be found in Chapter 15.05 JCC – Building Codes. (7) Regulations that govern development in flood hazard areas may be found in Chapter 18.30 JCC – Development Standards. (8) Regulations that govern development in flood hazard areas may be found in Chapter 8.15 JCC – On-Site Sewage Code. (9) Development is prohibited in floodways, unless expressly allowed under the floodway provisions of JCC 15.15.080(4). [Ord. 5-19 § 2 (App. A)] 15.15.030 Statement of purpose. It is the purpose of this chapter to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare; reduce the annual cost of flood insurance; and minimize public and private losses due to flood conditions in specific areas by provisions designed: (1) To protect human life and health; (2) To minimize expenditure of public money and costly flood control projects; (3) To minimize the need for rescue and relief efforts associated with flooding and generally undertaken at the expense of the general public; (4) To minimize prolonged business interruptions; (5) To minimize damage to public facilities and utilities such as water and gas mains, electric, telephone and sewer lines, streets, and bridges located in areas of special flood hazard; (6) To help maintain a stable tax base by providing for the sound use and development of areas of special flood hazard so as to minimize future flood blight areas; (7) To ensure that potential buyers are notified that property is in an area of special flood hazard; (8) To ensure that those who occupy the areas of special flood hazard assume responsibility for their actions; and (9) To ensure that those who occupy areas within the special flood hazard area participate in and maintain eligibility for flood insurance and disaster relief. [Ord. 5-19 § 2 (App. A)] 15.15.040 Methods of reducing flood losses. In order to accomplish its purposes, this chapter includes methods and provisions for: Jefferson County Code Chapter 15.15 FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION Page 3/20 The Jefferson County Code is current through Ordinance 3-23, passed July 3, 2023. (1) Restricting or prohibiting development which is dangerous to health, safety, and property due to water or erosion hazards, or which result in damaging increases in erosion or in flood heights or velocities; (2) Requiring that development vulnerable to floods, including facilities which serve such development, be protected against flood damage at the time of initial construction; (3) Controlling the alteration of natural floodplains, stream channels, and natural protective barriers, which help accommodate or channel floodwaters; (4) Controlling filling, grading, dredging, and other development which may increase flood damage; and (5) Preventing or regulating the construction of flood barriers that unnaturally divert floodwaters or may increase flood hazards in other areas. [Ord. 5-19 § 2 (App. A)] 15.15.050 Definitions. “Alteration of watercourse” means any action that will change the location of the channel occupied by water within the banks of any portion of a riverine water body. “Appeal” means a request for a review of the interpretation of any provision of this chapter or a request for a variance. “Area of shallow flooding” means a designated AO, AH, or VO zone on the flood insurance rate map (FIRM) with a one percent or greater annual chance of flooding to an average depth of one to three feet where a clearly defined channel does not exist, where the path of flooding is unpredictable, and where velocity flow may be evident. Such flooding is characterized by ponding or sheet flow. AO zones have base flood depths that range from one to three feet above the natural ground; a clearly defined channel does not exist; the path of flooding is unpredictable and indeterminate; and velocity flow may be evident. AO is characterized as sheet flow; AH indicates ponding, and is shown with standard base flood elevations. “Area of special flood hazard” means the land in the floodplain within a community subject to a one percent or greater chance of flooding in any given year. It is shown on the flood insurance rate map (FIRM) as zone A, AO, AH, AE, A99, or AR (V, VO, VE). “Special flood hazard area” is synonymous in meaning with the phrase “area of special flood hazard.” ASCE 24: THE MOST RECENTLY PUBLISHED VERSION OF ASCE 24, FLOOD RESISTANT DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION, PUBLISHED BY THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF CIVIL ENGINEERS. “Base flood” means the flood having a one percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year(also referred to as the “100-year flood”). “Basement” means any area of the building having its floor subgrade (below ground level) on all sides. “Breakaway wall” means a wall that is not part of the structural support of the building and is intended through its design and construction to collapse under specific lateral loading forces without causing damage to the elevated portion of the building or supporting foundation system. Building: See "Structure." Building Code: The currently effective versions of the International Building Code and the International Residential Code adopted by the State of Washington Building Code Council. “Coastal high hazard area” means an area of special flood hazard extending from offshore to the inland limit of a primary frontal dune along an open coast and any other area subject to high velocity wave action from storms or seismic sources. The area is designated on the FIRM as zone VE or V. “Community” means unincorporated Jefferson County, Washington. Commented [MG1]: Added definitions with an asterisk are mandatory to be in compliance with WA model flood ordinance. All other added definitions are optional. Changes made to existing definitions are mandatory to be in compliance with WA model ordinance. Jefferson County Code Chapter 15.15 FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION Page 4/20 The Jefferson County Code is current through Ordinance 3-23, passed July 3, 2023. “Critical facility” means a facility for which even a slight chance of flooding might be too great. Critical facilities include (but are not limited to) schools, nursing homes, hospitals, police, fire and emergency response installations, and installations which produce, use, or store hazardous materials or hazardous waste. “Cumulative substantial damage” means flood-related damages sustained by a structure on two separate occasions during a 10-year period for which the cost of repairs at the time of each such flood event, on the average, equals or exceeds 25 percent of the market value of the structure before the damage occurred. “Development” means any manmade change to improved or unimproved real estate, including, but not limited to, buildings or other structures, mining, dredging, filling, grading, paving, excavation or drilling operations or storage of equipment or materials. “Elevated building” means, for insurance purposes, a nonbasement building that has its lowest elevated floor raised above ground level by foundation walls, shear walls, posts, piers, pilings, or columns. “Elevation certificate” means an administrative tool of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) that can be used to provide elevation information, to determine the proper insurance premium rate, and to support a request for a letter of map amendment (LOMA) or letter of map revision based on fill (LOMR-F). Essential Facility: This term has the same meaning as “Essential Facility” defined in ASCE 24. Table 1-1 in ASCE 24-14 further identifies building occupancies that are essential facilities. “Existing manufactured home park or subdivision” means a manufactured home park or subdivision for which the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the manufactured homes are to be affixed (including, at a minimum, the installation of utilities, the construction of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads) is completed before the effective date of the floodplain management regulations adopted by a community. “Expansion to an existing manufactured home park or subdivision” means the preparation of additional sites by the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the manufactured homes are to be affixed (including the installation of utilities, the construction of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads). Farmhouse: A single-family dwelling located on a farm site where resulting agricultural products are not produced for the primary consumption or use by the occupants and the farm owner. “Flood” or “flooding” means: (1) A general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of normally dry land areas from: (a) The overflow of inland or tidal waters. (b) The unusual and rapid accumulation of runoff of surface waters from any source. (c) Mudslides (i.e., mudflows) which are proximately caused by flooding as defined in subsection (1)(b) of this definition and are akin to a river of liquid and flowing mud on the surfaces of normally dry land areas, as when earth is carried by a current of water and deposited along the path of the current. (2) The collapse or subsidence of land along the shore of a lake or other body of water as a result of erosion or undermining caused by waves or currents of water exceeding anticipated cyclical levels or suddenly caused by an unusually high water level in a natural body of water, accompanied by a severe storm, or by an unanticipated force of nature, such as flash flood or an abnormal tidal surge, or by some similarly unusual and unforeseeable event which results in flooding as defined in subsection (1)(a) of this definition. “Flood elevation study” means an examination, evaluation and determination of flood hazards and, if appropriate, corresponding water surface elevations, or an examination, evaluation and determination of mudslide (i.e., mudflow) and/or flood-related erosion hazards. Also known as a Flood Insurance Study (FIS). “Flood insurance rate map (FIRM)” means an official map of a community, on which the Federal Insurance Administration has delineated both the special hazard areas and the risk premium zones applicable to the community. A FIRM that has been made available digitally is called a “digital flood insurance rate map (DFIRM).” Jefferson County Code Chapter 15.15 FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION Page 5/20 The Jefferson County Code is current through Ordinance 3-23, passed July 3, 2023. “Flood insurance study (FIS)” means the official report provided by the Federal Insurance Administration that includes flood profiles, the flood boundary-floodway map, and the water surface elevation of the base flood. “Floodplain administrator” means the community official designated by title to administer and enforce the floodplain management regulations. Floodplain management regulations: Zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations, building codes, health regulations, special purpose ordinances (such as floodplain ordinance, grading ordinance and erosion control ordinance) and other application of police power. The term describes such state or local regulations, in any combination thereof, which provide standards for the purpose of flood damage prevention and reduction. “Floodproofing” means any combination of structural and nonstructural additions, changes, or adjustments to structures which reduce or eliminate risk of flood damage to real estate or improved real property, water and sanitary facilities, structures, and their contents. Flood proofed structures are those that have the structural integrity and design to be impervious to floodwater below the Base Flood Elevation. Floodproofing, as defined here, is limited to the nonresidential development provisions of JCC 15.15.080(2)(b); floodproofing is not applicable to residential development. “Floodway” means the channel of a river or other watercourse and the adjacent land areas that must be reserved in order to discharge the base flood without cumulatively increasing the water surface elevation more than a designated height. Also referred to as "Regulatory Floodway." “Functionally dependent use” means a use which cannot perform its intended purpose unless it is located or carried out in close proximity to water. The term includes only docking facilities, port facilities that are necessary for the loading and unloading of cargo or passengers, and ship building and ship repair facilities, and does not include long- term storage or related manufacturing facilities. “Highest adjacent grade” means the highest natural elevation of the ground surface prior to construction next to the proposed walls of a structure. “Historic structure” means any structure that is: (1) Listed individually in the National Register of Historic Places (a listing maintained by the Department of the Interior) or preliminarily determined by the Secretary of the Interior as meeting the requirements for individual listing on the National Register; (2) Certified or preliminarily determined by the Secretary of the Interior as contributing to the historical significance of a registered historic district or a district preliminarily determined by the Secretary to qualify as a registered historic district; (3) Individually listed on a state inventory of historic places in states with historic preservation programs which have been approved by the Secretary of the Interior; or (4) Individually listed on a local inventory of historic places in communities with historic preservation programs that have been certified either: (a) By an approved state program as determined by the Secretary of the Interior; or (b) Directly by the Secretary of the Interior in states without approved programs. “Lowest floor” means the lowest floor of the lowest enclosed area (including basement). An unfinished or flood- resistant enclosure, usable solely for parking of vehicles, building access, or storage in an area other than a basement area, is not considered a building’s lowest floor; provided, that such enclosure is not built so as to render the structure in violation of the applicable nonelevation design requirements of this chapter found at JCC 15.15.080(2) (i.e., provided there are adequate flood openings). “Manufactured home” means a structure, transportable in one or more sections, which is built on a permanent chassis and is designed for use with or without a permanent foundation when attached to the required utilities. This Jefferson County Code Chapter 15.15 FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION Page 6/20 The Jefferson County Code is current through Ordinance 3-23, passed July 3, 2023. term includes park model manufactured homes. The term “manufactured home” does not include a “recreational vehicle.” “Manufactured home park or subdivision” means a parcel (or contiguous parcels) of land divided into two or more manufactured home lots for rent or sale. *Mean Sea Level: For purposes of the National Flood Insurance Program, the vertical datum to which Base Flood Elevations shown on a community's Flood Insurance Rate Map are referenced. “New construction” means, for the purposes of determining insurance rates, structures for which the start of construction commenced on or after the effective date of an initial FIRM or after December 31, 1974, whichever is later, and includes any subsequent improvements to such structures. For floodplain management purposes, “new construction” means structures for which the start of construction commenced on or after the effective date of a floodplain management regulation adopted by a community and includes any subsequent improvements to such structures. “New manufactured home park or subdivision” means a manufactured home park or subdivision for which the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the manufactured homes are to be affixed (including, at a minimum, the installation of utilities, the construction of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads) is completed on or after the effective date of adopted floodplain management regulations adopted by a community. One hundred year flood or 100 year flood: See "Base flood." “Reasonably safe from flooding” means development that is designed and built to be safe from flooding based on consideration of current flood elevation studies, historical data, high water marks and other reliable data known to the community. In unnumbered A zones where no flood elevation is available, “reasonably safe from flooding” means that the lowest floor is at least two feet above the highest adjacent grade. “Recreational vehicle” means a vehicle: (1) Built on a single chassis; (2) Four hundred square feet or less when measured at the largest horizontal projection; (3) Designed to be self-propelled or permanently towable by a light duty truck; and (4) Designed primarily not for use as a permanent dwelling but as temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, travel, or seasonal use. This term includes park model manufactured homes. “Start of construction” includes substantial improvement, and means the date the building permit was issued, provided the actual start of construction, repair, reconstruction, placement or other improvement was within 180 days of the permit date. The “actual start” means either the first placement of permanent construction of a structure on a site, such as the pouring of slab or footings, the installation of piles, the construction of columns, or any work beyond the stage of excavation; or the placement of a manufactured home on a foundation. Permanent construction does not include land preparation, such as clearing, grading and filling; nor does it include the installation of streets and/or walkways; nor does it include excavation for a basement, footings, piers, or foundations or the erection of temporary forms; nor does it include the installation on the property of accessory buildings, such as garages or sheds not occupied as dwelling units or not part of the main structure. For a substantial improvement, the “actual start of construction” means the first alteration of any wall, ceiling, floor, or other structural part of a building, whether or not that alteration affects the external dimensions of the building. Commented [MG2]: Added in language for park model manufactured homes. Commented [MG3]: Added in language for park model manufactured homes. Jefferson County Code Chapter 15.15 FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION Page 7/20 The Jefferson County Code is current through Ordinance 3-23, passed July 3, 2023. “Structure” means, for floodplain management purposes, a walled and roofed building, including a gas or liquid storage tank that is principally above ground, as well as a manufactured home. “Structure,” for insurance purposes, means: (1) A building, with two or more outside rigid walls and a fully secured roof, that is affixed to a permanent site; (2) A manufactured home (a manufactured home, also known as a mobile home, is a structure built on a permanent chassis, transported to its site in one or more sections, and affixed to a permanent foundation); or (3) A travel trailer without wheels, built on a chassis and affixed to a permanent foundation, that is regulated under the community’s floodplain management and building ordinances or laws. For the latter purpose, “structure” does not mean a recreational vehicle or a park trailer or other similar vehicle, except as described in subsection (3) of this definition, or a gas or liquid storage tank. “Substantial damage” means damage of any origin sustained by a structure whereby the cost of restoring the structure to its before-damaged condition would equal or exceed 50 percent of the market value of the structure before the damage occurred. “Substantial improvement” means any repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, or other improvement of a structure, the cost of which equals or exceeds 50 percent of the market value of the structure before the start of construction of the improvement. This term includes structures which have incurred substantial damage, regardless of the actual repair work performed. The term does not, however, include either: (1) Any project for improvement of a structure to correct pre-cited existing violations of state or local health, sanitary, or safety code specifications which have been previously identified by the local code enforcement official and which are the minimum necessary to assure safe living conditions; or (2) Any alteration of a historic structure; provided, that the alteration will not preclude the structure’s continued designation as a historic structure. “Variance” means a grant of relief by a community from the terms of a floodplain management regulation. “Violation” means the failure of a structure or other development to be fully compliant with the community’s floodplain management regulations. A structure or other development without the elevation certificate, other certifications, or other evidence of compliance required in 44 CFR 60.3(b)(5), (c)(4), (c)(10), (d)(3), (e)(2), (e)(4), or (e)(5) is presumed to be in violation until such time as that documentation is provided. “Water dependent” means a structure for commerce or industry that cannot exist in any other location and is dependent on the water by reason of the intrinsic nature of its operations. [Ord. 5-19 § 2 (App. A)] 15.15.060 General provisions. (1) Lands to Which This Chapter Applies. This chapter shall apply to all areas of special flood hazards within the jurisdiction of Jefferson County. (2) Basis for Establishing the Areas of Special Flood Hazard. The areas of special flood hazard identified by the Federal Insurance Administration in a scientific and engineering report entitled “The Flood Insurance Study for Jefferson County, Washington, and Incorporated Areas” dated June 7, 2019, and any revisions thereto, with an accompanying flood insurance rate map (FIRM), and any revisions thereto, are hereby adopted by reference and declared to be a part of this chapter. The flood insurance study and the FIRM are on file at Jefferson County department of community development (621 Sheridan Street, Port Townsend, Washington 98368). The best available information for flood hazard area identification as outlined in JCC 15.15.070(3)(b) shall be the basis for regulation until a new FIRM is issued that incorporates data utilized under JCC 15.15.070(3)(b). (3) Changes to Special Flood Hazard Area. If a project will alter the BFE or boundaries of the SFHA, then the project proponent shall provide the community with engineering documentation and analysis regarding the proposed change. If the change to the BFE or boundaries of the SFHA would normally require a letter of map change, then the project proponent shall initiate, and receive approval of, a conditional letter of map revision (CLOMR) prior to Jefferson County Code Chapter 15.15 FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION Page 8/20 The Jefferson County Code is current through Ordinance 3-23, passed July 3, 2023. approval of the development permit. The project shall be constructed in a manner consistent with the approved CLOMR. (4) Requirement to Submit New Technical Data. Within six months, notify FEMA of changes in the base flood elevation by submitting technical or scientific data, so that insurance rates and floodplain management requirements will be based on current data not currently found in this chapter, as required by 44 CFR 65.3. (5) Penalties for Noncompliance. No structure or land shall hereafter be constructed, located, extended, converted, or altered without full compliance with the terms of this chapter and other applicable regulations. Violations of the provisions of this chapter by failure to comply with any of its requirements (including violations of conditions and safeguards established in connection with conditions) shall constitute a misdemeanor. Any person who violates this chapter or fails to comply with any of its requirements shall be deemed to have committed a violation. Upon conviction thereof, the violator may be fined not more than $1,000 or imprisoned for not more than 90 days, or both, for each violation, and in addition shall pay all costs and expenses involved in the case. Nothing herein contained shall prevent Jefferson County from taking such other lawful action as is necessary to prevent or remedy any violation. (6) Abrogation and Greater Restrictions. This chapter is not intended to repeal, abrogate, or impair any existing easements, covenants, or deed restrictions. However, where this chapter and another ordinance, easement, covenant, or deed restriction conflict or overlap, whichever imposes the more stringent restrictions shall prevail. (7) Interpretation. In the interpretation and application of this chapter, all provisions shall be: (a) Considered as minimum requirements; (b) Liberally construed in favor of the governing body; and (c) Deemed neither to limit nor repeal any other powers granted under state statutes. (8) Warning and Disclaimer of Liability. The degree of flood protection required by this chapter is considered reasonable for regulatory purposes and is based on scientific and engineering considerations. Larger floods can and will occur on rare occasions. Flood heights may be increased by manmade or natural causes. This chapter does not imply that land outside the areas of special flood hazards or uses permitted within such areas will be free from flooding or flood damages. This chapter shall not create liability on the part of Jefferson County, any officer or employee thereof, or the Federal Insurance Administration for any flood damages that result from reliance on this chapter or any administrative decision lawfully made hereunder. [Ord. 5-19 § 2 (App. A)] 15.15.070 Administration. (1) Establishment of Development Permit. (a) Development Permit Required. A development permit shall be obtained before construction or development begins within any area of special flood hazard established in JCC 15.15.060(2). The permit shall be for all structures including manufactured homes, as set forth in the “Definitions” (JCC 15.15.050), and for all development including fill and other activities, also as set forth in the “Definitions” (JCC 15.15.050). (b) Application for Development Permit. Application for a development permit shall be made on forms furnished by the development review division of the department of community development for Jefferson County and may include, but not be limited to, plans in duplicate drawn to scale showing the nature, location, dimensions, and elevations of the area in question; existing or proposed structures, fill, storage of materials, drainage facilities, and the location of the foregoing. Specifically, the following information is required: (i) Elevation in relation to mean sea level of the lowest floor (including basement) of all structures recorded on a current elevation certificate with Section B completed by the local official; (ii) Elevation in relation to mean sea level to which any structure has been floodproofed; (iii) Certification by a registered professional engineer or architect that the floodproofing methods for any nonresidential structure meet floodproofing criteria in JCC 15.15.080(2)(b); and Jefferson County Code Chapter 15.15 FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION Page 9/20 The Jefferson County Code is current through Ordinance 3-23, passed July 3, 2023. (iv) Description of the extent to which a watercourse will be altered or relocated as a result of proposed development. (v) Where a structure is proposed in a V, V1-30, or VE zone, a V-zone design certificate; (vi) Where development is proposed in a floodway, an engineering analysis indication no rise of the Base Flood Elevation, and (vii) Any other such information that may be reasonably required by the Floodplain Administrator in order to review the application. (2) Designation of the Local Administrator. The Jefferson County Community Development Director development services manager is hereby appointed to administer and implement this chapter by granting or denying development permit applications in accordance with its provisions. The Community Development Director may appoint a designee to implement the standards of this chapter. (3) Duties and Responsibilities of the Local Administrator. Duties of the development services managerCommunity Development Director or their designee shall include, but not be limited to: (a) Permit Review. (i) Review all development permits to determine that the permit requirements of this chapter have been satisfied. (ii) Review all development permits to determine that all necessary permits have been obtained from those federal, state, or local governmental agencies from which prior approval is required. (iii) Review all development permits to determine if the proposed development is located in the floodway. If located in the floodway, assure that the encroachment provisions of JCC 15.15.080(4)(a) are met. (iv) The site is reasonably safe from flooding; (v) Notify FEMA when annexations occur in the Special Flood Hazard Area. (b) Use of Other Base Flood Data (in A and V zones). When base flood elevation data has not been provided (in A or V zones) in accordance with JCC 15.15.060(2), Basis for Establishing the Areas of Special Flood Hazard, the development service manager shall obtain, review, and reasonably utilize any base flood elevation and floodway data available from a federal, state or other source, in order to administer JCC 15.15.080(2), Specific Standards, and 15.15.080(4), Floodways. (c) Information to Be Obtained and Maintained. (i) Where base flood elevation data is provided through the flood insurance study, FIRM, or required as in subsection (3)(b) of this section, obtain and record the actual (as-built) elevation (in relation to mean sea level) of the lowest floor (including basement) of all new or substantially improved structures, and whether or not the structure contains a basement. Recorded on a current elevation certificate with Section B completed by the local official. (ii) For all new or substantially improved floodproofed nonresidential structures where base flood elevation data is provided through the FIS, FIRM, or as required in subsection (3)(b) of this section: (A) Obtain and record the elevation (in relation to mean sea level) to which the structure was floodproofed. (B) Maintain the floodproofing certifications required in subsection (1)(b)(iii) of this section. Commented [MG4]: Please make sure this language reflects the correct staff member. Jefferson County Code Chapter 15.15 FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION Page 10/20 The Jefferson County Code is current through Ordinance 3-23, passed July 3, 2023. (iii) Maintain for public inspection all records pertaining to the provisions of this chapter. (iv) Obtain and maintain documentation of the elevation of the bottom of the lowest horizontal structural member in V or VE zones. (v) Certification required by JCC 15.15.080(4). (vi) Records of all variance actions, including justification for their issuance. (vii) Improvement and damage calculations. (d) Alteration of Watercourses. (i) Notify adjacent communities and the Department of Ecology prior to any alteration or relocation of a watercourse, and submit evidence of such notification to the Federal Insurance Administration. (ii) Require that maintenance is provided within the altered or relocated portion of said watercourse so that the flood-carrying capacity is not diminished. (e) Interpretation of FIRM Boundaries. Make interpretations where needed as to exact location of the boundaries of the areas of special flood hazards (e.g., where there appears to be a conflict between a mapped boundary and actual field conditions). The person contesting the location of the boundary shall be given a reasonable opportunity to appeal the interpretation. Such appeals shall be granted consistent with the standards of Section 60.6 of the Rules and Regulations of the National Flood Insurance Program. (4) Conditions for Variances. (a) Generally, the only condition under which a variance from the elevation standard may be issued is for new construction and substantial improvements to be erected on a small or irregularly shaped lot contiguous to and surrounded by lots with existing structures constructed below the base flood level. As the lot size increases, the technical justification required for issuing the variance increases. (b) Variances shall not be issued within a designated floodway if any increase in flood levels during the base flood discharge would result. (c) Variances shall only be issued upon a determination that the variance is the minimum necessary, considering the flood hazard, to afford relief. (d) Variances shall only be issued upon: (i) A showing of good and sufficient cause; (ii) A determination that failure to grant the variance would result in exceptional hardship to the applicant; (iii) A determination that the granting of a variance will not result in increased flood heights, additional threats to public safety, extraordinary public expense, create nuisances, cause fraud on or victimization of the public, or conflict with existing local laws or ordinances. (e) Variances as interpreted in the National Flood Insurance Program are based on the general zoning law principle that they pertain to a physical piece of property; they are not personal in nature and do not pertain to the structure, its inhabitants, economic or financial circumstances. They primarily address small lots in densely populated residential neighborhoods. As such, variances from flood elevations should be quite rare. (f) Variances may be issued for nonresidential buildings in very limited circumstances to allow a lesser degree of floodproofing than watertight or dry-floodproofing, where it can be determined that such action will have low damage potential, complies with all other variance criteria except subsection (4)(b) of this section, and otherwise complies with JCC 15.15.080(1)(a), (1)(c), and (1)(d). Jefferson County Code Chapter 15.15 FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION Page 11/20 The Jefferson County Code is current through Ordinance 3-23, passed July 3, 2023. (g) Any applicant to whom a variance is granted shall be given written notice that the permitted structure will be built with its lowest floor below the base flood elevation and that the cost of flood insurance will be commensurate with the increased risk. (h) In considering variance applications, the floodplain administrator shall consider all technical evaluations, all relevant factors, all standards specified in other sections of this chapter, and: (i) The danger that materials may be swept onto other lands to the injury of others; (ii) The danger to life and property due to flooding or erosion damage; (iii) The susceptibility of the proposed facility and its contents to flood damage and the effect of such damage on the individual owner; (iv) The importance of the services provided by the proposed facility to the community; (v) The necessity to the facility of a waterfront location, where applicable; (vi) The availability of alternative locations for the proposed use which are not subject to flooding or erosion damage; (vii) The compatibility of the proposed use with existing and anticipated development; (viii) The relationship of the proposed use to the comprehensive plan and floodplain management program for that area; (ix) The safety of access to the property in time of flood for ordinary and emergency vehicles; (x) The expected height, velocity, duration, rate of rise, and sediment transport of the floodwaters expected at the site; and (xi) The costs of providing governmental services during and after flood conditions, including maintenance and repair of public utilities and facilities, such as sewer, gas, electrical, water system, and streets and bridges. [Ord. 5-19 § 2 (App. A)] 15.15.080 Provisions for flood hazard reduction. (1) General Standards. In all areas of special flood hazards, the following standards are required: (a) Anchoring. (i) All new construction and substantial improvements, including those related to manufactured homes, shall be anchored to prevent flotation, collapse, or lateral movement of the structure resulting from hydrodynamic and hydrostatic loads, including the effects of buoyancy. (ii) All manufactured homes (including park model manufactured homes) shall be anchored to prevent flotation, collapse, or lateral movement, and shall be installed using methods and practices that minimize flood damage. Anchoring methods may include, but are not limited to, use of over-the-top or frame ties to ground anchors. (b) Construction Materials and Methods. (i) All new construction and substantial improvements shall be constructed with materials and utility equipment resistant to flood damage. (ii) All new construction and substantial improvements shall be constructed using methods and practices that minimize flood damage. Commented [MG5]: Added in park model manufactured homes. Jefferson County Code Chapter 15.15 FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION Page 12/20 The Jefferson County Code is current through Ordinance 3-23, passed July 3, 2023. (iii) Electrical, heating, ventilation, plumbing, and air-conditioning equipment and other service facilities shall be designed, elevated and located at least 1 foot above the base food elevation, and/or otherwise elevated or located so as to prevent water from entering or accumulating within the components during conditions of flooding. Locating such equipment below the base flood elevation may cause annual flood insurance premiums to be increased. 5.1-3 Storage of Materials and Equipment 1) The storage or processing of materials that could be injurious to human, animal, or plant life if released due to damage from flooding is prohibited in special flood hazard areas. 2) Storage of other material or equipment may be allowed if not subject to damage by floods and if firmly anchored to prevent flotation, or if readily removable from the area within the time available after flood warning. (c) Utilities. (i) All new and replacement water supply systems shall be designed to minimize or eliminate infiltration of floodwaters into the systems; (ii) Water wells shall be located on high ground that is not in the floodway; (iii) New and replacement sanitary sewage systems shall be designed to minimize or eliminate infiltration of floodwaters into the systems and discharges from the systems into floodwaters; (iv) On-site waste disposal systems shall be located to avoid impairment to them or contamination from them during flooding. (d) Subdivision Proposals and Other Development Where 50 or More Lots Are Being Created or the Project Includes Five or More Acres. (i) All subdivision proposals shall be consistent with the need to minimize flood damage; (ii) All subdivision proposals shall have public utilities and facilities, such as sewer, gas, electrical, and water systems, located and constructed to minimize or eliminate flood damage; (iii) All subdivision proposals shall have adequate drainage provided to reduce exposure to flood damage; (iv) Where base flood elevation data has not been provided or is not available from another authoritative source, it shall be generated for subdivision proposals and other proposed developments which contain at least 50 lots or five acres (whichever is less). (e) Review of Building Permits. Where elevation data is not available either through the flood insurance study, FIRM, or from another authoritative source (JCC 15.15.070(3)(b)), applications for building permits shall be reviewed to assure that proposed construction will be reasonably safe from flooding. The test of reasonableness is a local judgment and includes use of historical data, high water marks, photographs of past flooding, etc., where available. Failure to elevate at least two feet above the highest adjacent grade in these zones may result in higher insurance rates. Commented [MG6]: Added in CRS class 8 elevation language. Commented [MG7]: "Storage of Materials and Equipment" is an optional section. Jefferson County Code Chapter 15.15 FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION Page 13/20 The Jefferson County Code is current through Ordinance 3-23, passed July 3, 2023. (2) Specific Standards. In all areas of special flood hazards where base flood elevation data has been provided as set forth in JCC 15.15.060(2), Basis for Establishing the Areas of Special Flood Hazard, or JCC 15.15.070(3)(b), Use of Other Base Flood Data. The following provisions are required: (a) Residential Construction. 1) In AE and A1-30 zones or other A zoned areas where the BFE has been determined or can be reasonably obtained, new construction and substantial improvement of any residential structure shall have the lowest floor, including basement, and all machinery, utilities and mechanical equipment elevated one foot or more above the BFE. 2) New construction and substantial improvement of any residential structure in an AO zone shall meet the requirements in 15.15.080(5). Mechanical equipment and utilities in an AO zone shall be elevated at least one feet above the depth number identified and designed so as to prevent water from entering or accumulating within the components during flooding. 3) New construction and substantial improvement of any residential structure in an Unnumbered A zone for which a BFE is not available and cannot be reasonably obtained shall be reasonably safe from flooding, but in all cases the lowest floor shall be at least two feet above the Highest Adjacent Grade. 4) New construction and substantial improvement of any residential structure in a V zone shall meet the requirements in 15.15.080(6). 5) Fully enclosed areas below the lowest floor that are subject to flooding are prohibited, or shall be designed to automatically equalize hydrostatic flood forces on exterior walls by allowing for the entry and exit of floodwaters. Designs must meet or exceed the following minimum criteria: a) Have a minimum of two openings with a total net area of not less than one square inch for every square foot of enclosed area subject to flooding. b) The bottom of all openings shall be no higher than one foot above grade. c) Openings may be equipped with screens, louvers, valves, or other coverings or devices provided that they permit the automatic entry and exit of floodwater. d) A garage attached to a residential structure, constructed with the garage floor slab below the BFE, must be designed to allow for the automatic entry and exit of flood waters. Commented [MG8]: Added in CRS class 8 elevation language. Jefferson County Code Chapter 15.15 FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION Page 14/20 The Jefferson County Code is current through Ordinance 3-23, passed July 3, 2023. Alternatively, a registered engineer or architect may design and certify engineered openings. (i) New construction and substantial improvement of any residential structure shall have the lowest floor, including basement, elevated one foot or more above the base flood elevation (BFE). (ii) Fully enclosed areas below the lowest floor that are subject to flooding are prohibited, or shall be designed to automatically equalize hydrostatic flood forces on exterior walls by allowing for the entry and exit of floodwaters. Designs for meeting this requirement must either be certified by a registered professional engineer or architect or must meet or exceed the following minimum criteria: (A) A minimum of two openings having a total net area of not less than one square inch for every square foot of enclosed area subject to flooding shall be provided; (B) The bottom of all openings shall be no higher than one foot above grade; and (C) Openings may be equipped with screens, louvers, or other coverings or devices; provided, that they permit the automatic entry and exit of floodwaters. (b) Nonresidential Construction. New construction and substantial improvement of any commercial, industrial or other nonresidential structure shall meet the requirements of subsection 1 or 2, below. 1) New construction and substantial improvement of any commercial, industrial or other nonresidential structure shall meet all of the following requirements: a) In AE and A1-30 zones or other A zoned areas where the BFE has been determined or can be reasonably obtained: New construction and substantial improvement of any commercial, industrial, or other nonresidential structure shall have the lowest floor, including basement, elevated one foot or more above the BFE, or elevated as required by ASCE 24, whichever is greater. Mechanical equipment and utilities shall be waterproofed or elevated least one foot above the BFE, or as required by ASCE 24, whichever is greater. b) If located in an AO zone, the structure shall meet the requirements in Appendix A. c) If located in an Unnumbered A zone for which a BFE is not available and cannot be reasonably obtained, the structure shall be reasonably safe from flooding, but in all cases the lowest floor shall be at least two feet above the Highest Adjacent Grade. d) If located in a V, V1-30, or VE zone, the structure shall meet the requirements in Appendix B. e) Fully enclosed areas below the lowest floor that are subject to flooding are prohibited, or shall be designed to automatically equalize hydrostatic flood forces on exterior walls by allowing for the entry and exit of Jefferson County Code Chapter 15.15 FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION Page 15/20 The Jefferson County Code is current through Ordinance 3-23, passed July 3, 2023. floodwaters. Designs for meeting this requirement must either be certified by a registered professional engineer or architect or must meet or exceed the following minimum criteria: i) Have a minimum of two openings with a total net area of not less than one square inch for every square foot of enclosed area subject to flooding. ii) The bottom of all openings shall be no higher than one foot above grade. iii) Openings may be equipped with screens, louvers, valves, or other coverings or devices provided that they permit the automatic entry and exit of floodwater. iv) A garage attached to a residential structure, constructed with the garage floor slab below the BFE, must be designed to allow for the automatic entry and exit of flood waters. Alternatively, a registered engineer or architect may design and certify engineered openings. 2) If the requirements of subsection 1 are not met, then new construction and substantial improvement of any commercial, industrial or other nonresidential structure shall meet all of the following requirements: a) Be dry floodproofed so that below one foot or more above the base flood level the structure is watertight with walls substantially impermeable to the passage of water or dry floodproofed to the elevation required by ASCE 24, whichever is greater; b) Have structural components capable of resisting hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and effects of buoyancy; c) Be certified by a registered professional engineer or architect that the design and methods of construction are in accordance with accepted standards of practice for meeting provisions of this subsection based on their development and/or review of the structural design, specifications and plans. Such certifications shall be provided to the official as set forth in Section 4.3-3(2); d) Nonresidential structures that are elevated, not floodproofed, must meet the same standards for space below the lowest floor as described in 5.2-1(5); New construction and substantial improvement of any commercial, industrial or other nonresidential structure shall either have the lowest floor, including basement, elevated one foot or more above the base flood elevation; or, together with attendant utility and sanitary facilities, shall: (i) Be floodproofed so that below one foot or more above the base flood level the structure is watertight with walls substantially impermeable to the passage of water; (ii) Have structural components capable of resisting hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and effects of buoyancy; (iii) Be certified by a registered professional engineer or architect that the design and methods of construction are in accordance with accepted standards of practice for meeting provisions of this subsection based on their Jefferson County Code Chapter 15.15 FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION Page 16/20 The Jefferson County Code is current through Ordinance 3-23, passed July 3, 2023. development and/or review of the structural design, specifications and plans. Such certifications shall be provided to the official as set forth in JCC 15.15.070(3)(c)(ii); and (iv) Nonresidential structures that are elevated, not floodproofed, must meet the same standards for space below the lowest floor as described in subsection (2)(a)(ii) of this section. (c) Manufactured Homes. All manufactured homes in the floodplain to be placed or substantially improved on sites within the special flood hazard area shall be elevated on a permanent foundation such that the lowest floor of the manufactured home and all machinery, utilties and equipmente is elevated one foot or more above the base flood elevation and be securely anchored to an adequately anchored foundation system to resist flotation, collapse and lateral movement when: (i) Outside a manufactured home park or subdivision; (ii) In a new manufactured home park or subdivision; (iii) An expansion to an existing manufactured home park or subdivision; (iv) On a site in an existing park where a manufactured home has incurred substantial damage as a result of a flood. (d) Recreational Vehicles. Recreational vehicles (including park models) placed on sites within the special flood hazard area are required to either: (i) Be on the site for fewer than 180 consecutive days; or (ii) Be fully licensed and ready for highway use, on wheels or jacking system, attached to the site only by quick disconnect type utilities and security devices, and have no permanently attached additions; or (iii) Meet the requirements of subsection (2)(c) of this section and the elevation and anchoring requirements for manufactured homes. 5.2-5 Enclosed Area Below the Lowest Floor If buildings or manufactured homes are constructed or substantially improved with fully enclosed areas below the lowest floor, the areas shall be used solely for parking of vehicles, building access, or storage. (3) AE and A1-30 Zones with Base Flood Elevations But No Floodways. In areas with base flood elevations (but a regulatory floodway has not been designated), no new construction, substantial improvements, or other development (including fill) shall be permitted within zones A1-30 and AE on the community’s FIRM, unless it is demonstrated that the cumulative effect of the proposed development, when combined with all other existing and anticipated development, will not increase the water surface elevation of the base flood more than one foot at any point within the community. (4) Floodways. Located within areas of special flood hazard established in JCC 15.15.060 are areas designated as floodways. Since the floodway is an extremely hazardous area due to the velocity of floodwaters that can carry debris, and increase erosion potential, the following provisions apply: (a) Prohibit encroachments, including fill, new construction, substantial improvements, and other development unless certification by a registered professional engineer is provided demonstrating through hydrologic and hydraulic analyses performed in accordance with standard engineering practice that the proposed encroachment would not result in any increase in flood levels during the occurrence of the base flood discharge; Commented [MG9]: Optional clarifying clause to the reader that "sites" are within the special flood hazard area. Commented [MG10]: Optional clarifying clause to the reader that "sites" are within the special flood hazard area. Commented [MG11]: "Enclosed Area Below the Lowest Floor" is a required section for compliance with WA model flood ordinance. Commented [MG12]: Please see WA Model Flood Ordinance Section 5.4-2(1) "Replacement of Farmhouses in Floodway." This is an optional provision, but we recommend including to offer consistency for replacement of farmhouses following RCW 86.16.041. Language: 1)Replacement of Farmhouses in Floodway Repairs, reconstruction, replacement, or improvements to existing farmhouse structures located in designated floodways and that are located on lands designated as agricultural lands of long-term commercial significance under RCW 36.70A.170 may be permitted subject to the following: a)The new farmhouse is a replacement for an existing farmhouse on the same farm site; b)There is no potential building site for a replacement farmhouse on the same farm outside the designated floodway; c)Repairs, reconstruction, or improvements to a farmhouse shall not increase the total square footage of encroachment of the existing farmhouse; d)A replacement farmhouse shall not exceed the total square footage of encroachment of the farmhouse it is replacing; e)A farmhouse being replaced shall be removed, in its entirety, including foundation, from the floodway within ninety days after occupancy of a new farmhouse; f)For substantial improvements and replacement farmhouses, the elevation of the lowest floor of the improvement and farmhouse respectively, including basement, is a minimum of one foot higher than the BFE; g)New and replacement water supply systems are designed to eliminate or minimize infiltration of flood waters into the system; h)New and replacement sanitary sewerage systems are designed and located to eliminate or minimize infiltration of flood water into the system and discharge from the system into the flood waters; and i)All other utilities and connections to public utilities are designed, constructed, and located to eliminate or minimize flood damage. Jefferson County Code Chapter 15.15 FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION Page 17/20 The Jefferson County Code is current through Ordinance 3-23, passed July 3, 2023. (b) Construction or reconstruction of residential structures is prohibited within designated floodways, except for (i) repairs, reconstruction, or improvements to a structure which do not increase the ground floor area; and (ii) repairs, reconstruction or improvements to a structure, the cost of which does not exceed 50 percent of the market value of the structure either (A) before the repair, or reconstruction is started, or (B) if the structure has been damaged, and is being restored, before the damage occurred. Any project for improvement of a structure to correct existing violations of state or local health, sanitary, or safety code specifications which have been identified by the local code enforcement official and which are the minimum necessary to assure safe living conditions, or to structures identified as historic places, may be excluded in the 50 percent; and (c) If subsection (4)(a) of this section is satisfied, all new construction and substantial improvements shall comply with all applicable flood hazard reduction provisions of this section. 5.5 General Requirements for Other Development All development, including manmade changes to improved or unimproved real estate for which specific provisions are not specified in this ordinance or the state building codes with adopted amendments and any {community name} amendments, shall: 1) Be located and constructed to minimize flood damage; 2) Meet the encroachment limitations of this ordinance if located in a regulatory floodway; 3) Be anchored to prevent flotation, collapse, or lateral movement resulting from hydrostatic loads, including the effects of buoyancy, during conditions of the design flood; 4) Be constructed of flood damage-resistant materials; 5) Meet the flood opening requirements of Section 5.2-1(5), and 6) Have mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems above the design flood elevation or meet the requirements of ASCE 24, except that minimum electric service required to address life safety and electric code requirements is permitted below the design flood elevation provided it conforms to the provisions of the electrical part of building code for wet locations. (5) Standards for Shallow Flooding Areas (AO Zones). Shallow flooding areas appear on FIRMs as AO zones with depth designations. The base flood depths in these zones range from one to three feet above ground where a clearly defined channel does not exist, or where the path of flooding is unpredictable and where velocity flow may be evident. Such flooding is usually characterized as sheet flow. In these areas, the following provisions apply: Commented [MG13]: "General Requirements for other development" is an optional but recommended addition. This section is a good clarifier and "catch all" for general floodplain development standards. Formatted: Indent: Left: 0" Jefferson County Code Chapter 15.15 FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION Page 18/20 The Jefferson County Code is current through Ordinance 3-23, passed July 3, 2023. (a) New construction and substantial improvements of residential structures and manufactured homes within AO zones shall have the lowest floor (including basement, utilities and mechanical equipment) elevated above the highest adjacent grade to the structure, one foot or more above the depth number specified in feet on the community’s FIRM (at least two feet above the highest adjacent grade to the structure if no depth number is specified); (b) New construction and substantial improvements of nonresidential structures within AO zones shall either: (i) Have the lowest floor (including basement) elevated above the highest adjacent grade of the building site, one foot or more above the depth number specified on the FIRM (at least two feet if no depth number is specified). Recorded on a current elevation certificate with Section E completed; or (ii) Together with attendant utility and sanitary facilities, be floodproofed to or above that level so that any space below that level is watertight with walls substantially impermeable to the passage of water and with structural components having the capability of resisting hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and effects of buoyancy. If this method is used, compliance shall be certified by a registered professional engineer or architect as in subsection (2)(b)(iii) of this section; (c) Require adequate drainage paths around structures on slopes to guide floodwaters around and away from proposed structures; and (d) Recreational vehicles placed on sites within AO zones on the community’s FIRM are required to either: (i) Be on the site for fewer than 180 consecutive days; or (ii) Be fully licensed and ready for highway use, on its wheels or jacking system, is attached to the site only by quick disconnect type utilities and security devices, and has no permanently attached additions; or (iii) Meet the requirements of subsections (5)(a) and (5)(c) of this section and the anchoring requirements for manufactured homes (subsection (1)(a) of this section). (6) Coastal High Hazard Areas. Located within areas of special flood hazard established in JCC 15.15.060(2) are coastal high hazard areas, designated as zones V1-30, VE and/or V. These areas have special flood hazards associated with high velocity waters from surges and, therefore, in addition to meeting all provisions in this chapter, the following provisions shall also apply: (a) All new construction and substantial improvements in zones V1-30 and VE (V if base flood elevation data is available) on the community’s FIRM shall be elevated on pilings and columns so that: (i) The bottom of the lowest horizontal structural member of the lowest floor (excluding the pilings or columns) is elevated one foot or more above the base flood level or meets the elevation requirements of ASCE 24, whichever is higher; and (ii) The pile or column foundation and structure attached thereto is anchored to resist flotation, collapse and lateral movement due to the effects of wind and water loads acting simultaneously on all building components. Wind and water loading values shall each have a one percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year (100-year mean recurrence interval). A registered professional engineer or architect shall develop or review the structural design, specifications and plans for the construction, and shall certify that the design and methods of construction to be used are in accordance with accepted standards of practice for meeting the provisions of subsections (6)(a)(i) and (ii) of this section; (b) Obtain the elevation (in relation to mean sea level) of the bottom of the lowest structural member of the lowest floor (excluding pilings and columns) of all new and substantially improved structures in zones V1-30, VE, and V on the community’s FIRM and whether or not such structures contain a basement. The development service manager shall maintain a record of all such information; Jefferson County Code Chapter 15.15 FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION Page 19/20 The Jefferson County Code is current through Ordinance 3-23, passed July 3, 2023. (c) All new construction within zones V1-30, VE, and V on the community’s FIRM shall be located landward of the reach of mean high tide; (d) Provide that all new construction and substantial improvements within zones V1-30, VE, and V on the community’s FIRM have the space below the lowest floor either free of obstruction or constructed with nonsupporting breakaway walls, open wood lattice-work, or insect screening intended to collapse under wind and water loads without causing collapse, displacement, or other structural damage to the elevated portion of the building or supporting foundation system. For the purposes of this section, a breakaway wall shall have a design safe loading resistance of not less than 10 and no more than 20 pounds per square foot. Use of breakaway walls which exceed a design safe loading resistance of 20 pounds per square foot (either by design or when so required by local or state codes) may be permitted only if a registered professional engineer or architect certifies that the design proposed meets the following conditions: (i) Breakaway wall collapse shall result from water load less than that which would occur during the base flood; and (ii) The elevated portion of the building and supporting foundation system shall not be subject to collapse, displacement, or other structural damage due to the effects of wind and water loads acting simultaneously on all building components (structural and nonstructural). Maximum wind and water loading values to be used in this determination shall each have a one percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year (100-year mean recurrence interval). If breakaway walls are utilized, such enclosed space shall be usable solely for parking of vehicles, building access, or storage. Such space shall not be used for human habitation; (e) Prohibit the use of fill for structural support of buildings within zones V1-30, VE, and V on the community’s FIRM; (f) Prohibit manmade alteration of sand dunes within zones V1-30, VE, and V on the community’s FIRM which would increase potential flood damage; (g) All manufactured homes to be placed or substantially improved within zones V1-30, V, and VE on the community’s FIRM on sites: (i) Outside of a manufactured home park or subdivision; (ii) In a new manufactured home park or subdivision; (iii) In an expansion to an existing manufactured home park or subdivision; or (iv) In an existing manufactured home park or subdivision on which a manufactured home has incurred “substantial damage” as the result of a flood; shall meet the standards of subsections (6)(a) through (f) of this section and manufactured homes placed or substantially improved on other sites in an existing manufactured home park or subdivision within zones V1- 30, V, and VE on the FIRM shall meet the requirements of subsection (2)(c)(ii) of this section; and (h) Recreational vehicles placed on sites within zones V1-30, V, and VE on the community’s FIRM either: (i) Be on the site for fewer than 180 consecutive days; or (ii) Be fully licensed and ready for highway use, on its wheels or jacking system, attached to the site only by quick disconnect type utilities and security devices, and have no permanently attached additions; or (iii) Meet the requirements of JCC 15.15.070(1)(a) (Development Permit Required) and subsections (6)(a) through (f) of this section. Jefferson County Code Chapter 15.15 FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION Page 20/20 The Jefferson County Code is current through Ordinance 3-23, passed July 3, 2023. (7) Critical Facility. Construction of new critical facilities shall be, to the extent possible, located outside the limits of the special flood hazard area (SFHA) (100-year floodplain). Construction of new critical facilities shall be permissible within the SFHA if no feasible alternative site is available. Critical facilities constructed within the SFHA shall have the lowest floor elevated three feet above BFE or to the height of the 500-year flood, whichever is higher. Access to and from the critical facility should also be protected to the height utilized above. Floodproofing and sealing measures must be taken to ensure that toxic substances will not be displaced by or released into floodwaters. Access routes elevated to or above the level of the base flood elevation shall be provided to all critical facilities to the extent possible. (8) Appurtenant Structures (Detached Garages and Storage Structures). In A zones (A, AE, A1-30, AH, AO), appurtenant structures used solely for parking of vehicles, storage, or access may be constructed such that the floor is below the BFE, provided the structure is designed and constructed in accordance with the following requirements: (a) Use of the appurtenant structure must be limited to parking of vehicles or storage; (b) The portions of the appurtenant structure located below the BFE must be built using flood-resistant materials; (c) The appurtenant structure must be adequately anchored to prevent flotation, collapse, and lateral movement; (d) Any machinery or equipment servicing the appurtenant structure must be elevated or floodproofed to or above the BFE; (e) The appurtenant structure must comply with floodway encroachment provisions in subsection (4)(a) of this section; and (f) The appurtenant structure must be designed to allow for the automatic entry and exit of floodwaters in accordance with subsection (2)(a)(ii) of this section. Detached garages, storage structures, and other appurtenant structures not meeting the above standards must be constructed in accordance with all applicable standards in subsection (1)(b) of this section. Upon completion of the structure, certification that the requirements of this section have been satisfied shall be provided to the floodplain administrator for verification. [Ord. 5-19 § 2 (App. A)] 5.7 Livestock Sanctuaries Elevated areas for the for the purpose of creating a flood sanctuary for livestock are allowed on farm units where livestock is allowed. Livestock flood sanctuaries shall be sized appropriately for the expected number of livestock and be elevated sufficiently to protect livestock. Proposals for livestock flood sanctuaries shall meet all procedural and substantive requirements of this chapter. Commented [MG14]: "Livestock Sanctuary" is a required section for compliance with WA model flood ordinance. Search... SECTIONS Ask MRSC Home >Stay Informed >MRSC Insight Blog >November 2020 > What Constitutes a Serial Meeting under the OPMA? What Constitutes a Serial Meeting under the OPMA? November 23, 2020 by Oskar Rey Category: Open Public Meetings Act The concept of “serial,” “rolling,” or “chain” meetings under the Washington Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA) is not new, but the dangers of serial meetings that violate the OPMA have expanded over time with the advent of new forms of communication. This blog article will review the basics of GO Back to top MRSC - What Constitutes a Serial Meeting under the OPMA? https://mrsc.org/stay-informed/mrsc-insight/november-2020-1/what-is-a... 1 of 6 2/2/2024, 2:06 PM serial meetings and recent developments in case law. A serial meeting occurs when a majority of members of a governing body have a series of smaller gatherings or communications that results in a majority of the body collectively taking action even if a majority is never part of any one communication. Such a meeting violates the OPMA because it amounts to taking “action” — as defined in RCW 42.30.020(3) — outside an open meeting. Serial meetings can occur with or without technology, but the range of communication options available nowadays to members of a governing body increases the risk. The Basics of Serial Meetings One of the earliest cases addressing serial meetings is Wood v. Battle Ground Sch. Dist., 107 Wn. App. 550, 27 P.3d 1208 (2001), which involved a five- member school district board. Shortly after three newly elected board members took the oath of office, they exchanged a series of emails between themselves and the other two members about the superintendent’s job performance. The Court of Appeals noted that the emails involved the active exchange of information and opinions between members as opposed to the “mere passive receipt of information,” which, by itself, would not be a violation of the OPMA. Under RCW 42.30.120, a member of a governing body who knowingly violates the OPMA is subject to a civil fine of $500 for the first violation and $1,000 for each violation thereafter. In Wood, the court noted that although the defendants submitted declarations stating they did not know their emails violated the OPMA, at least one member raised OPMA concerns in the emails themselves. It should be noted that Wood was decided before the adoption of OPMA training requirements for elected officials in RCW 42.30.205. The Washington Supreme Court later confirmed that a serial meeting requires a “collective intent to meet” by the participants in the case Citizens Alliance v. San Juan County, 184 Wn.2d 428, 359 P.3d 753 (2015). The court found that an email and telephone exchange that included a majority of county commissioners was not a violation of the OPMA when there was no indication that the commissioners were aware that the communications included a majority of the governing body. Concerns about serial meetings arise when the communications, viewed as a whole, are between a majority of the governing body and amount to action Back to top MRSC - What Constitutes a Serial Meeting under the OPMA? https://mrsc.org/stay-informed/mrsc-insight/november-2020-1/what-is-a... 2 of 6 2/2/2024, 2:06 PM under the OPMA. A more recent case, City of Seattle v. Kaseburg, 13 Wn. App. 2d 322, 467 P.3d 115 (2018), clarifies that communications between individual councilmembers and members of the broader community do not trigger serial meeting concerns. Since these were emails between individual councilmembers and the public, there was no evidence in Kaseburg that a majority of the governing body communicated with each other or took action outside an open public meeting. Serial Meetings over Multiple Forms of Communication In September 2020, the Washington Court of Appeals decided Egan v. City of Seattle, 471 P.3d 899 (2020), a case that illustrates the potential complexity of serial meeting scenarios. In Egan, the plaintiffs alleged that the repeal of a recently-adopted employee head tax violated the OPMA because the decision to do so was the result of a serial meeting. The case details over two dozen communications between individual councilmembers as well as city staff during a three-day period leading up to repeal of the head tax. Those communications included: • In-person meetings, • Emails, • Phone calls, • Text messages, and • Distribution of hard copies of a draft press release regarding repeal of the head tax. In addition, as part of its opinion, the court included a copy of a vote tally sheet prepared by an aide to one of the councilmembers. The court found that the in-person meetings, e-mails, phone calls, and text messages between and among the city council members could constitute a “meeting” under the OPMA if there was evidence that at least five members (a majority of the nine-member Seattle City Council) participated in and were aware that four others were participating in conversations about repealing the head tax. Under this test, none of the communications during the first two days constituted a “meeting” because there was no quorum participating in any of these communications and no evidence that any councilmember was aware of the communications between other councilmembers and with members of the mayor’s staff. Back to top MRSC - What Constitutes a Serial Meeting under the OPMA? https://mrsc.org/stay-informed/mrsc-insight/november-2020-1/what-is-a... 3 of 6 2/2/2024, 2:06 PM However, the press release issued on the third day raised the possibility there was a serial meeting in violation of the OPMA. A draft of the release reviewed and agreed to by seven of the nine councilmembers stated: We heard you. It is time to hit reset. This week, instead of prolonging a fight, we are moving forward with legislation to repeal the current tax on large businesses to address the homelessness crisis – this bill has the support of a majority of the City Council. [emphasis added] The final press release did not contain the underscored language — it may have been removed on advice of legal counsel. At any rate, the court found that prior agreement between members on how they will vote is “action” under the OPMA, stating: We thus conclude if a quorum of a legislative body, such as the city council, collectively commits or promises to each other to vote — as a group — in favor of or in opposition to a piece of pending legislation at a future public meeting, then such a commitment may be evidence that a majority of the body attended a “meeting” with the collective intent to take an “action” in violation of the OPMA. The court remanded the case for further proceedings on whether there was a collective decision to vote on the head tax repeal outside a public meeting. The Role of the Public Records Act and the Importance of Open Government Training The Public Records Act (PRA) is a powerful tool when members of the public believe that a governing body has taken action in violation of the OPMA. Officials subject to the OPMA need to be aware that their written and electronic communications relating to agency business are public records and will be subject to disclosure under the PRA unless a specific exemption applies. Using personal devices or accounts to exchange information with other members of the governing body will not cloak such communications from public view. Washington courts have established procedures by which public records on personal devices or accounts may be retrieved and disclosed. We live in a world where the options for communicating are increasing rapidly. Social media is prevalent, as are applications such as Slack, and platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and GoToMeeting. During a Back to top MRSC - What Constitutes a Serial Meeting under the OPMA? https://mrsc.org/stay-informed/mrsc-insight/november-2020-1/what-is-a... 4 of 6 2/2/2024, 2:06 PM Sample Documents Topics pandemic in which in-person meetings are restricted or prohibited, these forms of communications have become central to how we talk to one another. As a result, understanding the requirements of the OPMA is of vital importance. MRSC has additional information on OPMA-related training and avoiding OPMA violations: • OPMA and PRA Training Requirements for Government Officials. • Tips for Avoiding OPMA Violations. • You’ve Been Elected, Now What? MRSC is a private nonprofit organization serving local governments in Washington State. Eligible government agencies in Washington State may use our free, one-on-one Ask MRSC service to get answers to legal, policy, or financial questions. About Oskar Rey Oskar Rey has practiced municipal law since 1995 and served as Assistant City Attorney for the City of Kirkland from 2005 to 2016, where he worked on a wide range of municipal topics, including land use, public records, and public works. Oskar is a life-long resident of Washington and graduated from the University of Washington School of Law in 1992. VIEW ALL POSTS BY OSKAR REY Budgets Contracts/Agreements Fee/Rate Schedules Forms Franchises Economic Development Environment Finance Governance Legal Back to top MRSC - What Constitutes a Serial Meeting under the OPMA? https://mrsc.org/stay-informed/mrsc-insight/november-2020-1/what-is-a... 5 of 6 2/2/2024, 2:06 PM Stay Informed Subscribe to E-Newsletters MRSC Insight Blog Related Services www.mrscrosters.org MRSC is a statewide resource that provides general legal, finance, and policy guidance to support local government entities in Washington State pursuant to chapter 43.110 RCW. MRSC website content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice, nor as a substitute for the legal advice of an attorney. You should contact your own legal counsel if you have a question regarding your legal rights or any other legal issue. © 2024 Municipal Research and Services Center of Washington (MRSC). All rights reserved. Privacy & Terms. Follow us: Job Descriptions Ordinances/Resolutions Other Documents Policies/Procedures RFP/RFQ/Bid Documents Management Parks and Recreation Personnel Planning Public Safety Public Works and Utilities Transportation Back to top MRSC - What Constitutes a Serial Meeting under the OPMA? https://mrsc.org/stay-informed/mrsc-insight/november-2020-1/what-is-a... 6 of 6 2/2/2024, 2:06 PM OPMA – ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS PRACTICE TIPS FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENTS Page 1 of 2 OPMA – ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS Practice Tips FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENTS These practice tips are intended to provide practical information to local government officials and staff about how electronic communications are treated under the Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA), chapter 42.30 RCW. For more information and resources visit mrsc.org/opma. ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS CAN CREATE AN ILLEGAL “SERIAL” MEETING If you, as a member of the governing body (e.g., city council, board of commissioners, planning commission), communicate with other members of the governing body by electronic means (email, chat, text message, or using social media), keep in mind that exchanges involving a majority of members of the governing body can be considered an illegal “meeting” under the OPMA. What types of electronic exchanges can constitute a meeting? If a majority of the members of the governing body takes “action” on behalf of the agency through email or other electronic means, that would constitute a meeting under the OPMA. “Action” under the OPMA includes mere discussion of agency business. The participants in the email or other electronic exchange don’t have to be participating in that exchange at the same time, because a “serial” or “rolling” meeting happens when a majority of the body are eventually involved in the exchange. However, the participants must collectively intend to meet to conduct agency business. Tips: As a member of the governing body, consider the following to avoid potential OPMA violations: • Passive receipt of information is permissible, but discussion of issues by any means by a majority of the governing body can constitute a meeting. • A message to a majority or more of your colleagues on the governing body is allowed if the message is to provide only documents or factual information, such as emailing a document to all members for their review prior to the next meeting. • If you want to provide information or documents via email to a majority of members of the governing body, especially regarding a matter that may come before the body for a vote, have the first line of the email clearly state: “For informational purposes only. Do not reply.” Consider also using the “BCC:” email line to prevent other members from replying to all recipients. • Unless for informational purposes only, don’t send an email to all or a majority of the governing body, and don’t use “reply all” when the recipients are all or a majority of the members of the governing body. • Have a designated staff member provide documents for meetings electronically or provide hard copies to each member. A staff member can communicate via email with members of the governing body in preparation for a meeting as long as the staff member does not share any replies with the other members of the governing body as part of the exchange. OPMA – ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS PRACTICE TIPS FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENTS Page 2 of 2 PHONE CALLS AND VOICE MESSAGES CAN CONSTITUTE A MEETING If a majority of the members of the governing body takes “action” through a series of phone calls or voice mail exchanges, that would constitute a meeting. Such a “telephone tree” occurs, for example, when members call each other to form a majority decision. These calls and messages can constitute a serial or rolling meeting if the members collectively intend to meet and conduct agency business. Tip: Be on the look out for mixed media. A conversation need not be held entirely in the same format for a rolling or serial meeting to occur. For example, an in-person conversation might be continued on by email and then transition to text messages or comments on a social media site. KEY EXCEPTION TO CALLING A SPECIAL MEETING Under RCW 42.30.080, a special meeting (in contrast to a regular meeting) may be called at any time by the presiding officer of the governing body or by a majority of the members of the governing body. Because the statute says “at any time” we believe a majority of the members of the governing body can confer outside of a public meeting for the sole purpose of discussing whether to call a special meeting. This includes conferring for that purpose via phone or any electronic means. USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA CAN IMPLICATE THE OPMA If members of the governing body use social media (e.g., through a Facebook page or Twitter feed) to host a discussion about issues related to the agency and the discussion includes comments from a majority of the members of the governing body, that discussion could constitute a public meeting under the OPMA. There’s no authority under the OPMA regarding what would constitute adequate public notice – if that’s even possible – for this kind of virtual meeting, so it’s best to avoid this type of discussion on social media. Tip: Social media can be an effective tool to solicit comments from the public, but social media shouldn’t be used by your agency’s governing body to collectively formulate policy or accept public testimony. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE OPMA CAN BE COSTLY Violation of the OPMA can result in personal liability for officials who knowingly violate the OPMA and can invalidate agency actions taken at a meeting at which an OPMA violation occurred. Attorney fees and court costs are awarded to successful OPMA plaintiffs. OPMA violations can also lead to a loss of public trust in the agency’s commitment to open government. DISCLAIMER: These practice tips are meant to provide practical information to local government officials and staff about electronic records and requirements under the OPMA. The tips aren’t intended to be regarded as specific legal advice. Consult with your agency’s attorney for guidance on specific situations. WEB-23-0048: UPDATED JUNE 2023 1.800.933.6772 MRSC@MRSC.org MRSC.org Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan December 2018 Photos courtesy of the Collection of the Jefferson County Historical Society, Carolyn Gallaway, and Jefferson County. CONTENTS Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan December 2018 TABLE OF CONTENTS VISION STATEMENT PLAN FOUNDATION i Introduction i Planning Area ii Comprehensive Plan Purpose iv Why Plan? iv Guiding Land Use & Growth Decisions iv The Growth Management Act vi The County-wide Planning Policy viii Jefferson County’s Compliance Strategy ix Planning Process & Public Participation x Planning Since 1991 x Considering Alternative Futures xi Plan Creation & Amendment xii Public Involvement xii Vision Statement xiii Framework Goals xiv Using This Comprehensive Plan xvii Comprehensive Plan Contents xvii Related Plans xviii Community Plans xviii Wayfinding: Western Jefferson County xviii Plan Implementation & Monitoring xix The Decision-Making Process xix Limitations in County Finance Structure to Implement Plan xix Volunteerism xx Amending this Comprehensive Plan xx Comprehensive Plan Amendment Appeals xxii Growth Management Hearings Board Review xxii Judicial Review xxii Monitoring xxii CONTENTS Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan December 2018 1 LAND USE 1–1 1.1 Framework 1–1 Land Use Typologies 1–2 Population Projections 1–4 Land Use, Health, & Surface Water Analysis 1–8 Land Use Inventory & Analysis 1–8 Land Use & Public Health 1–10 Review of Surface Water Conditions & Existing Polluted Discharges 1–14 Land Use Strategy 1–15 Land Use & Zoning Designations 1–15 Rural Designations 1–19 Resource Land Designations 1–23 Master Planned Resort Designations 1–24 Urban Growth Area Designations 1–26 Public Designations 1–27 Major Industrial Development & Industrial Land Banks 1–28 Legal Nonconforming Uses & Lots 1–28 Establishing Allowed Uses & Regulations Within Land Designations 1–28 From Rural Character to Development Regulations 1–28 Rural Character & Review of Regulations for Land Uses, Development Patterns, & Nuisances 1–29 Community Planning Efforts 1–31 County-wide Planning Policies 1–34 Rural Areas Policies 1–34 Urban Growth Areas & Services 1–34 Overarching Land Use Goals & Policies 1–36 General Land Use 1–36 Land Use Consistency with Naval Base Kitsap 1–37 Industrial Development 1–39 Housing 1–39 Public Purpose Lands 1–40 Transportation 1–40 Environment 1–41 Drainage, Flooding, Stormwater Management, & Polluted Discharges 1–43 Flood Hazards 1–44 Groundwater 1–44 Legal Nonconforming Uses 1–46 Permit Processing 1–47 1.2 Rural 1–48 Rural Character 1–48 CONTENTS Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan December 2018 Limited Areas of More Intensive Rural Development 1–50 Rural Centers, Crossroads, & MPRs 1–50 Rural Commercial Areas: Centers & Crossroads 1–52 Master Planned Resorts 1–69 Evaluation of Rural Commercial Boundaries 1–73 Periodic Review of LAMIRDs & GMA Implementation Challenges in Rural Counties 1–77 Rural Industrial Lands 1–82 Forest Resource-Based Industrial Zones 1–92 Economic Activities Outside of Rural Commercial Areas 1–94 West Jefferson County 1–95 Rural Goals & Policies 1–96 Rural Character 1–96 Rural Centers, Crossroads, & MPRs 1–99 Rural Industrial Lands 1–104 Economic Activities Outside of Rural Commercial Areas 1–105 Capital Facilities in Rural Areas 1–107 1.3 Resource 1–109 Resource Lands of Long-Term Commercial Significance under the GMA 1–109 Forest 1–109 Mineral 1–109 Agriculture 1–110 Resource Conservation 1–110 Resource Lands Goals & Policies 1–111 1.4 Urban 1–112 Urban Growth Areas 1–112 Municipal & Unincorporated 1–112 Port Hadlock / Irondale Urban Growth Area 1–113 History of Planning 1–113 Phased Implementation 1–119 Alternative Phasing Sewer Policy 1–120 Land Use Map & Zoning Designations 1–121 Dwelling Unit & Population Holding Capacity Analysis 1–124 Housing Variety & Affordability 1–124 Urban Growth Area Goals & Policies 1–125 Urban Level Capital Facilities 1–129 Stormwater Management 1–130 Transportation 1–132 Green Space Planning in Urban Growth Area 1–133 1.5 Action Plan 1–134 CONTENTS Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan December 2018 2 NATURAL RESOURCES 2–1 2.1 Purpose 2–2 2.2 Trends & Opportunities 2–3 Conditions & Trends 2–3 Forest Lands 2–3 Mineral Lands 2–4 Agricultural Lands 2–6 Aquaculture Resources 2–7 Challenges & Opportunities 2–7 Forest Lands 2–7 Mineral Resources 2–8 Agriculture 2–9 2.3 Natural Resources Plan 2–11 Forest Lands 2–11 Mineral Lands 2–12 Agricultural Lands 2–14 Aquaculture Resources 2–18 2.4 Goals & Policies 2–23 2.5 Action Plan 2–29 3 HOUSING 3–1 3.1 Purpose 3–2 3.2 Trends & Opportunities 3–2 Housing Affordability & Attainability 3–10 Assisted Housing Programs & Resources in Jefferson County 3–11 Homelessness 3–12 3.3 Housing Plan 3–13 3.4 Goals & Policies 3–15 3.5 Action Plan 3–19 4 OPEN SPACE, PARKS & RECREATION, HISTORICAL & CULTURAL PRESERVATION 4–1 4.1 Purpose 4–2 4.2 Trends & Opportunities 4–2 Conditions & Trends 4–2 Challenges & Opportunities 4–4 CONTENTS Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan December 2018 4.3 Open Space, Parks & Recreation, Historical & Cultural Preservation Plan 4–5 Jefferson County Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan 4–5 Open Space 4–6 Historical & Cultural Resource Preservation 4–7 4.4 Goals & Policies 4–8 4.5 Action Plan 4–12 5 ENVIRONMENT 5–1 5.1 Purpose 5–1 5.2 Trends & Opportunities 5–2 Environmental Considerations 5–2 Watershed Planning & Fish Habitat Recovery 5–2 Designating & Protecting Critical Areas 5–4 Regulating Shorelines 5–4 Addressing Environmental Impacts in Conditional Use & the State Environmental Policy Act 5–4 Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions & Addressing Climate Change 5–5 Environmentally Friendly Development Techniques 5–6 Environmental Nuisance Factors 5–6 Balancing Environmental Protection With Community Needs 5–7 5.3 Environment Plan 5–8 Critical Areas Maps 5–8 5.4 Goals & Policies 5–14 Water Resources 5–14 Shorelines 5–16 Environmental Nuisance Factors (Excessive Light, Glare, Odor, & Noise) 5–17 Critical Areas Regulated Under the Critical Areas Ordinance 5–17 5.5 Action Plan 5–19 6 TRANSPORTATION 6–1 6.1 Purpose 6–1 6.2 Trends & Opportunities 6–3 Conditions & Trends 6–3 County-wide Conditions 6–3 Challenges & Opportunities 6–8 CONTENTS Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan December 2018 County Roads & State System 6–8 6.3 Transportation Plan 6–9 Roadway Level of Service 6–9 Concurrency 6–10 Transit Level of Service 6–11 Non-motorized Trail & Standards 6–11 Transportation Demand Management Strategies 6–15 Safety, Maintenance, & Preservation 6–15 Active Living 6–15 County-wide Transportation Improvement Program 6–16 Irondale/Port Hadlock Urban Growth Area 6–16 6.4 Goals & Policies 6–19 6.5 Action Plan 6–28 7 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 7–1 7.1 Purpose 7–3 7.2 Trends & Opportunities 7–4 Conditions & Trends 7–4 Unemployment Rate 7–4 Age 7–5 Wages 7–6 Taxable Sales Trends 7–9 Educational Attainment 7–10 Economic Sectors 7–12 Challenges & Opportunities 7–13 Strengths & Challenges 7–14 Jefferson County Economic Development Organizations 7–15 EDC Team Jefferson 7–15 Port of Port Townsend 7–16 Washington State University 7–17 The Chamber of Jefferson County 7–17 North Hood Canal Chamber of Commerce 7–17 North Olympic Development Council (NODC) 7–17 County-wide Planning Policies 7–19 7.3 Economic Development Plan 7–20 Workforce Development 7–20 Industrial & Manufacturing Businesses 7–20 Place-making for Visitors & Residents 7–21 Sustainable, Innovative Agricultural & Food Businesses 7–21 Infrastructure Improvements as Economic Development Strategy 7–21 CONTENTS Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan December 2018 7.4 Goals & Policies 7–24 7.5 Action Plan 7–29 8 CAPITAL FACILITIES & UTILITIES 8–1 8.1 Purpose 8–1 8.2 Capital Facilities 8–2 Overview 8–2 County-wide Planning Policies 8–5 Summary of Trends & Opportunities 8–6 8.3 Essential Public Facilities 8–6 Overview 8–6 Essential Public Facilities & Public Purpose Lands 8–7 Essential Public Facility Designations in Jefferson County 8–8 County-wide Planning Policies 8–9 Summary of Trends & Opportunities 8–10 8.4 Utilities 8–11 Electric Utilities 8–11 Providers 8–11 Duty to Serve 8–11 JPUD Inventory 8–12 Electricity: Future Capacity Needs & Requirements 8–14 Telecommunication Utilities 8–15 Telecommunications Systems Types & Regulations 8–15 Conventional Telephone 8–16 Cellular Service 8–16 Broadband 8–16 Telephone: Future Capacity Needs & Requirements 8–17 County-wide Planning Policies 8–18 Summary of Trends & Opportunities 8–19 8.5 Capital Facilities & Utilities Plan 8–20 Capital Facilities 8–20 Essential Public Facilities 8–20 Utilities 8–20 8.6 Goals & Policies 8–21 Capital Facilities 8–21 General 8–21 Potable Water 8–27 Sewer & Wastewater 8–28 Solid Waste 8–29 CONTENTS Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan December 2018 Surface Water Management 8–31 Essential Public Facilities 8–31 Utilities 8–37 General Capacity & Conservation 8–37 Telecommunication & Internet Utilities 8–39 Electrical Utilities 8–40 8.7 Action Plan 8–41 REFERENCES, PHOTOS, ACRONYMS, & GLOSSARY APPENDICES Appendix A: Community Engagement Summary Vision 2038 Appendix B: Resolution #38-15, Population Forecast & Allocations Appendix C: Transportation Technical Document Appendix D: Capital Facilities Plan Technical Document Appendix E: Port Hadlock/Irondale Land Capacity Analysis CONTENTS Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan December 2018 LIST OF EXHIBITS PLAN FOUNDATION I Exhibit A Jefferson County Planning Area iii Exhibit B Relationship: County-wide Planning Policies & Elements viii Exhibit C Comprehensive Plan Update Process Diagram xii 1 LAND USE 1–1 Exhibit 1-1 General Land Use Categories 1–3 Exhibit 1-2 Jefferson County & City of Port Townsend 20-year Population Projection & Distribution (2018-2038) 1–4 Exhibit 1-3 Population Shares 2010 & 2038 1–5 Exhibit 1-4 Employment: Quimper Peninsula Travel Demand Model Updated 2018 1–7 Exhibit 1-5 Current Land Use Map, 2018 Assessor Information 1–9 Exhibit 1-6 Current Land Use, 2018 Assessor Information 1–10 Exhibit 1-7 Recreation Trail Connections to Schools and Parks of the Irondale-Port Hadlock UGA and Chimacum 1–13 Exhibit 1-8 Land Use / Zoning Map 1–16 Exhibit 1-9 Land Use Designations / Zoning Districts & Acreage 1–17 Exhibit 1-10 Planned Residential Densities 1–18 Exhibit 1-11 Summary of Rural Land Use & Zoning Designations 1–19 Exhibit 1-12 Summary of Overlay Land Use & Zoning Designations 1–21 Exhibit 1-13 Summary of Resource Land Use & Zoning Designations 1–23 Exhibit 1-14 Summary of Master Planned Resort Land Use & Zoning Designations 1–25 Exhibit 1-15 Port Hadlock/Irondale Urban Growth Area Land Use & Zoning Designations 1–26 Exhibit 1-16 Public Land Use Designations & Zoning 1–27 Exhibit 1-17 Community Planning Areas 1–33 Exhibit 1-18 Location of Rural Commercial Areas & Master Planned Resorts 1–51 Exhibit 1-19 Rural Commercial Area Total Acreage & Infill Acreage 1–75 Exhibit 1-20 Location of Rural Industrial Lands 1–83 Exhibit 1-21 Transitional Rural Zoning 1–122 Exhibit 1-22 Irondale & Port Hadlock Urban Zoning 1–123 CONTENTS Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan December 2018 Exhibit 1-23 Estimated Total Dwelling Unit & Population Holding Capacity 1–124 Exhibit 1-24 Land Use Action Plan 1–134 2 NATURAL RESOURCES 2–1 Exhibit 2-1 NRCS Potential Mineral Source Soils 2–5 Exhibit 2-2 Jefferson County Farmland Classifications 2–6 Exhibit 2-3 Forest Lands Zoning 2–12 Exhibit 2-4 Map of Forest Resource Lands 2–20 Exhibit 2-5 Map of Mineral Resource Lands 2–21 Exhibit 2-6 Map of Agricultural Resource Lands 2–22 Exhibit 2-7 Natural Resources Action Plan 2–29 3 HOUSING 3–1 Exhibit 3-1 Housing Units by Type, 2017 3–6 Exhibit 3-2 Household Type, County-wide 3–7 Exhibit 3-3 Age, 2016 & 2040 3–8 Exhibit 3-4 Median Household Income 3–9 Exhibit 3-5 Unemployment Rate, Jan 2014-Dec 2016 3–9 Exhibit 3-6 Poverty, 2011-15 3–9 Exhibit 3-7 Housing Action Plan 3–19 4 OPEN SPACE, PARKS & RECREATION, HISTORIC & CULTURAL PRESERVATION 4–1 Exhibit 4-1 Jefferson County Parks 4–3 Exhibit 4-2 Open Space, Parks & Recreation, Historical & Cultural Resources Action Plan 4–12 5 ENVIRONMENT 5–1 Exhibit 5-1 Critical Aquifer Recharge Areas 5–9 Exhibit 5-2 Hydrography: Streams, Wetlands, & 1998 FEMA Flood Zones 5–10 Exhibit 5-3 Geologic Hazards 5–11 Exhibit 5-4 Critical Areas: Fish-Bearing Inventory & Primary Association Habitats 5–12 Exhibit 5-5 Seawater Intrusion Protection Zones 5–13 Exhibit 5-6 Environment Action Plan 5–19 6 TRANSPORTATION 6–1 Exhibit 6-1 Functional Classification Map 6–4 Exhibit 6-2 Transit Passenger Trips & Service Hours 6–6 Exhibit 6-3 On-Road Bicycle Routes 6–13 Exhibit 6-4 Multi-Purpose Paths 6–14 CONTENTS Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan December 2018 Exhibit 6-5 2018-2023 Six-year Transportation Improvement Program 6–16 Exhibit 6-6 Port Hadlock/Irondale Area Improvement Projects 6–18 Exhibit 6-7 Transportation Action Plan 6–28 7 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 7–1 Exhibit 7-1 Unemployment Rate 7–4 Exhibit 7-2 Population by Age 7–5 Exhibit 7-3 Comparison of Population by Age, 2016, 2040 7–6 Exhibit 7-4 Average Annual Wage by Sector, 2016 7–7 Exhibit 7-5 Employment Share by Sector & Inflation Adjusted Average Wage 7–8 Exhibit 7-6 Inflation Adjusted Annual Taxable Retail Sales 7–9 Exhibit 7-7 Inflation Adjusted Quarterly Taxable Retail Sales 7–10 Exhibit 7-8 Adult Educational Levels 7–11 Exhibit 7-9 Adult Educational Levels by Age Group 7–11 Exhibit 7-10 Economic Development Action Plan 7–29 8 CAPITAL FACILITIES & UTILITIES 8–1 Exhibit 8-1 Capital Facilities & Public Services Provided 8–2 Exhibit 8-2 Relationship of Capital Facilities Plan to County-wide Planning Policies 8–5 Exhibit 8-3 Distinguishing Public Purpose Lands from Essential Public Facilities 8–8 Exhibit 8-4 JPUD Electrical Income by Customer Class 8–13 Exhibit 8-5 Residential Population Electricity Demand 8–14 Exhibit 8-6 Overhead & Underground Fiber Optic System Location 8–17 Exhibit 8-7 Capital Facilities, Essential Public Facilities, & Utilities Action Plan 8–41 VISION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan December 2018 Vision Statement OUR HOME Jefferson County, Washington encompasses approximately 1,814 square miles of land, bound on the north and east by the shores of the vast Salish Sea, with the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Hood Canal to the southeast. The terrestrial borders of Jefferson County join with Clallam County to the north and west, and Mason and Grays Harbor Counties to the south. Approximately 80% of the land within the total County acreage is in non-county public ownership. Jefferson County stretches across Olympic National Park and Olympic National Forest, and encompasses spectacular rainforests and mighty rivers including the Queets, Quinault, Hoh, Bogachiel, Quilcene, Dosewallips, Duckabush, and hundreds of miles of shoreline. The first inhabitants of this vast region were indigenous people belonging to a number of different groups who lived here for millennia, including who we now refer to as the Chemakum, S’Klallam, Klallam, Twana, Kilcid (“Quilcene”), Skokomish, Suquamish, Makah, Quinault, Queets, Quileute, and Hoh. Collectively, many of the early indigenous people are referred to as the Twana society, a name given to the Coast Salish peoples who were identified by their use of Salish languages. These people and tribal nations reside in Jefferson County and/or have affirmed treaty rights under the provisions of their “usual and accustomed grounds and stations” within Jefferson County and include the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe, Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe, Lower Elwah Klallam Tribe, Skokomish Indian Tribe, Suquamish Tribe, Makah Tribe, Quinault Indian Nation, Quileute Tribe, and Hoh Tribe . Early European settlements began in the mid-1800s. Today’s towns and villages, rural crossroads, and tribal nations in Jefferson County grew from early-established imprints of urban, commercial, and cultural centers. Snapshots of our history include the establishment of the city of Irondale in 1879, leading the way for development of the iron smelter of Puget Sound Iron Co., later to become Western Steel Company. The 1870s to 1890s represents the time in our nation’s history of extensive railroad construction and the Collectively, many of the early indigenous people are referred to as the Twana society, a name given to the Coast Salish peoples who were identified by their use of Salish languages. However, the Chemakum were not a part of the Salish language ethno-linguistic group. Although geographically isolated from each other, the Chemakum were linguistically related to the Quileute rather than the local Salish speaking people. The Chemakum are now considered to be extinct as an ethnological group and tribe, and the Coast Salish peoples in the northern-mid Puget Sound region are now subsumed into surviving groups and organized tribes. Federal treaties, formal tribal recognition, and movements to established reservation areas have also played a role in how the region’s indigenous groups have become the organized tribes of today. The Twana Society VISION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan December 2018 anticipation that Port Townsend, a well-known seaport, would be the railroad terminus and prosper—coining the term “City of Dreams”. During that time in 1884, the large sawmill of Western Mill and Lumber Company was built in Hadlock. An oil boom in western Washington was underway in 1885 and the plat of Oil City in western Jefferson County was registered in 1911, and the same year the alcohol distillery plant making methanol from sawdust, was constructed in Port Hadlock. Irondale was a bustling boom town. World War I was on the heels of this time, starting in 1914. Jefferson County’s geographical setting contributed to strategic military installations on our shorelines and corresponding economic development from World Wars I and II. The post-war decommissioning of coastal defense systems at Forts Warden, Townsend, and Flagler began a turn away from the military’s contribution to the economy; and the industrial facilities that constructed them were largely gone. The short-lived steel plant had already closed in 1891, and Western Mill and Lumber Co. had closed in 1907 when the bottom fell out of the lumber market. 1913 marked the closure of the short-lived Alcohol Plant. While many people chose to leave for a more stable economic future, those who stayed found opening doors to other economic opportunities. The Paper Mill was constructed in 1920 and today is the largest private employer in the County. Remnants of our industrial past have become parks and points of interest. Over thirty-thousand people now live in small communities skirting the Olympic Mountains to the west and east. As both a refuge from metropolis surroundings, and a destination for economic opportunity, Jefferson County has stood out as a place where fishers, farmers, hunters, mariners, artists and artisans, foresters and outdoor enthusiasts, as well as independent and innovative entrepreneurs of every kind have subsisted and thrived in this working landscape. Jefferson county residents, throughout history rise to the occasion working to mark a new stories for them, their families, and the County. While County residents may be developing a new entrepreneurial idea, just trying to get by and survive, or working to build a new future together on the edge of this rural wilderness, they form a diverse community with a distinctive and collective Jefferson County identity forging a future together. VISION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan December 2018 OUR VISION FOR 2038 The communities of Jefferson County embrace a balance of tradition and innovation while preserving the rural character of our land and lifestyles. Land use priorities have protected open spaces, forests, and farmland for long-term management and conservation, while also embracing innovations that foster opportunities for increased synergy between natural and built environments. Jefferson County believes that investing in our local economy, culture, and ecosystem yields benefits for current residents and future generations. Low-impact techniques, localized environmental remediation, and other innovations in housing and industry benefit overall ecosystem vitality and biodiversity while aiding ecological restoration and adapting to climate disruption. The vibrant community fabric offers opportunity for all residents, including working-class individuals and families; as well as those who struggle to live, thrive, and age with dignity. Jefferson County values creativity and life-long learning and reveres constitutional rights, personal independence and privacy; as well as working cooperatively as a community on issues that affect all. Jefferson County embraces diversity. We respect and honor tribal treaty rights and tribal sovereignty. Policies are in place to ensure that government-to-government collaboration and consultation is regular and ongoing. The County values high-quality education, public services, and facilities. Emphasis on community spaces and networks of non- motorized trails, bike lanes, and paths encourages interactive communities of healthy individuals. Community members of all ages have access to safe and active environments, healthcare— including preventative, mental health, and long-term care—as well as fresh and abundant local food. Jefferson County citizens value the strengths and resiliencies found in volunteerism, taking an active role in local government and participation in organizations and institutions supporting our communities. Volunteer initiatives and private services provide additional opportunities and forward momentum in communities when there are limited public funds and capacity, or when identified needs are outside of the purview of county government. Jefferson County enjoys a healthy and diverse local economy with wisely- considered economic development and balanced growth. Though people inevitably leave their mark on the natural landscape, through Public Health An additional value could be included regarding public health matching GMA’s encouragement for planning for active living per staff suggestions: “Jefferson County values: Environments that foster health for the entire population. We place emphasis on creating places that make it easy to lead physically active lifestyles and where there is access to nutritious foods.” Balancing Competing Interests Jefferson County’s setting, character, and economy attracts visitors and new residents alike. However, the County’s limited affordable housing supply presents challenges attracting and retaining families. This Comprehensive Plan establishes goals and policies balancing competing interests, such as affordable housing, economic development, and protection of environmentally sensitive areas. Together, Jefferson County can be a place of opportunity for all, while maintaining its character and environment. Additional Ideas VISION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan December 2018 responsible planning, we are intentional with the type of mark we create, maintaining our character while allowing communities to develop and thrive. Sectors including food system development, marine trades and craftsmanship, healthcare and education, resource management, high- tech and science-based trades; and sectors relating to tourism, art and cultural events, among others, support our robust economy. We believe that investing in human potential and the resilience of our local economy, including improved infrastructure networks, yields benefits for current residents and future generations. Jefferson County honors and respects the natural world as integral to our health and lifestyles. The County protects open spaces, shorelines, forests, clean air and clean water, wildlife and wildlife habitat so that future generations may also practice stewardship of the land, the seas, and the communities of Jefferson County. VISION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan December 2018 [ This page intentionally blank ] Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan i December 2018 Plan Foundation INTRODUCTION This Comprehensive Plan is the foundation for ensuring our community values are preserved while we proactively plan for future growth. This Comprehensive Plan considers the voice, vision, and future of the Jefferson County community in the Jefferson County Planning Area through the year 2038. This Chapter describes: ▶ The Jefferson County planning area. ▶ The purpose of this Comprehensive Plan. ▶ The planning process and public involvement ▶ The Vision Statement and Framework Goals that guide this Comprehensive Plan. ▶ Use of this Comprehensive Plan in decision-making. ▶ How this Comprehensive Plan is amended and monitored. Carolyn Gallaway PLAN FOUNDATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan ii December 2018 PLANNING AREA Jefferson County is in the north-central portion of Washington’s Olympic Peninsula. The County is bounded on the west by the Pacific Ocean, and on the east by the waters of the Admiralty Inlet and Hood Canal. Clallam County and the Strait of Juan de Fuca define the northern border, while Mason and Grays Harbor Counties define the southern boundaries. Jefferson County comprises approximately 1,814 square miles of land area and approximately 2,187 square miles within the full county boundary, which includes offshore water areas. It is the eighteenth largest of the State’s thirty-nine counties. The Olympic National Park and National Forest, which bisect the County into western and eastern halves, comprise approximately 60% of the County’s 1.16 million acres of land. About another 20% of land is under the jurisdiction of other federal and state agencies. Most of the County’s population—nearly 96%—resides in eastern Jefferson County. Jefferson County largely is a rural county with one incorporated city, Port Townsend—the largest community and a de facto Urban Growth Area (UGA) under the Growth Management Act. Jefferson County has one other Urban Growth Area (UGA), defined by the unincorporated communities of Port Hadlock and Irondale. These areas meet UGA criteria because they have pre-Growth Management Act (GMA) development patterns characteristic of urban growth. However, at this time the UGA relies entirely on septic systems for wastewater treatment. To comply with GMA, the Port Hadlock/Irondale UGA cannot be developed at planned urban densities without a sanitary sewer system. A zoning overlay of Transitional Zoning is in place, implementing lower density development until sanitary sewer service is available. There are two Master Planned Resorts (MPR), Port Ludlow and the designated, yet undeveloped, Pleasant Harbor MPR in the Brinnon Community. The bulk of the County’s population is located primarily in the northeast portion of the county, in the communities of Port Townsend, the Tri-Area (Irondale, Port Hadlock and Chimacum), and Port Ludlow. Quilcene and Brinnon are the largest communities in the southern portion of the county. The county is comprised primarily of forest lands, along with a smaller portion of agricultural lands. Clusters of small residential developments are found along waterways and rural roads, a reflection of settlement along Puget Sound, early transportation routes, and a resource-based economy. This rural quality of life is what attracts many residents and tourists to the county and is what most residents have expressed a desire to protect. PLAN FOUNDATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan iii December 2018 EXHIBIT A Jefferson County Planning Area Source: Jefferson County Community Development, BERK Consulting, 2018. PLAN FOUNDATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan iv December 2018 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN PURPOSE This Comprehensive Plan is a legal document that serves as a decision- making guide for both officials and citizens. This Comprehensive Plan serves as a tool for making decisions about future growth and development in Jefferson County over the next 20 years. This Comprehensive Plan outlines goals and policies that help define, direct and guide future growth and development throughout the county. Why Plan? Comprehensive land use planning is a systematic process designed to define a long-range community vision. The process unites a clear understanding of existing conditions within a community with the development of goals and policies that enable that community to make decisions from which its long-range vision will be addressed. The process is a powerful tool for turning promising possibilities into long-term realities. Planning enhances the ability to weigh competing needs in the community and make judicious allowances for each. It affords the opportunity to balance the demands of development with benefits of economic development and protection of human health and the environment. It provides tools for supplying family wage jobs and affordable housing without compromising our rural character. In addition, it prepares for harnessing the rewards of a growing population while simultaneously meeting the challenge of providing safe, healthy, and convenient community services for everyone. Planning enables addressing the current needs of the community before development begins and then directs how and where that growth should occur. Guiding Land Use & Growth Decisions This Comprehensive Plan provides a legally recognized framework for making decisions about land use in the unincorporated areas of Jefferson County. This Comprehensive Plan manages growth by directing more intensive development to appropriate areas while protecting public health and conserving environmentally sensitive areas and natural resource, rural, and open space lands. It is also intended to PLAN FOUNDATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan v December 2018 provide an educational and a policy implementation tool for a broad range of public and private users, including community groups, Jefferson County officials, and other government agencies. This Comprehensive Plan helps these users in several ways: ▶ This Plan is the framework for other plans and regulations that govern the location and intensity of land uses throughout unincorporated Jefferson County. This Comprehensive Plan’s policies provide the basis for updating community plans (subarea, local, and functional), for evaluating proposed changes in zoning development regulations, and in reviewing proposals for development projects such as land divisions. It also indicates to the public how Jefferson County would likely review and approve changes in plans, zoning, or other regulations that apply to an area or a specific parcel. ▶ It guides the provision of public facilities and services by integrating land use, infrastructure, and delivery of human services. This Comprehensive Plan provides the framework for decisions about public facilities and services (such as where facilities should be located to support planned growth). This Comprehensive Plan also directs public spending to areas where growth is targeted. ▶ It provides regional coordination and consistency with other jurisdictional planning efforts. It is intended that other public agencies (local, regional, state, federal, and tribal), in cooperation with Jefferson County, use this Comprehensive Plan in conjunction with the County-wide Planning Policy as regional perspectives or county-wide viewpoints when other plans and growth policies are developed and when making project decisions. ▶ It allows for citizen participation and involvement. Comprehensive planning is an evolving process which allows for periodic review and updates in response to changing community goals and vision as articulated by citizens, businesses, and interested organizations. ▶ It allows us to thoughtfully plan the future and create a place where we are happy to live. Carolyn Gallaway PLAN FOUNDATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan vi December 2018 The Growth Management Act Through the Growth Management Act (GMA), the State of Washington provides a new framework for land use planning and the regulation of development in response to challenges posed to the health and quality of life by rapid growth. Within the framework established by the GMA, a wide diversity of local visions for the future can be accommodated; however, certain procedural criteria must be met. Recognition of the variations and diversity in local communities is implicit in the framework of GMA. A “Bottom-Up” approach to planning is recommended. “Bottom- Up” planning originates at the community level with the articulation of a vision statement, which encompasses the values of as many different community members as possible. The vision is then translated into goals and policies, and eventually regulations. The main requirement is that the vision is consistent with the goals and intent of the GMA. It is important to note that a “Bottom-Up” approach does not mean that procedural and regulatory constraints may be ignored. Successful “Bottom-Up” planning is predicated on allowing a community to choose the appropriate “tools” for the job, provided that those selected are located entirely within a “tool box” defined by the GMA. It is critical in the planning process for a jurisdiction to provide sufficient guidance so that a community understands the need to avoid selecting “tools” which are found outside of the “GMA toolbox.” Failure to provide adequate guidance will likely result in inappropriate choices being made. The GMA establishes several requirements for local comprehensive planning. The Act identifies specific goals for all Comprehensive Plans, prescribes the elements each plan is to contain, provides requirements for interim regulations, mandates the establishment of Urban Growth Areas (UGAs), requires local governments to demonstrate how they will pay for the improvements and facilities called for in their plans, and mandates extensive public participation in the planning process. The GMA changed the process for developing Comprehensive Plans in several important ways: ▶ It established 14 statewide goals with which local Comprehensive Plans and regulations must be consistent. See sidebar. ▶ In addition to the mandated goals, local Comprehensive Plans must contain the following elements per RCW 36.70A.070: — Land Use Element The Growth Management Act provides goals that guide the development and adoption of comprehensive plans and development regulations. See RCW 36.70A.020, for full goals; in summary goals address: ▶Urban Growth ▶Reduce Sprawl ▶Transportation ▶Housing ▶Economic Development ▶Property Rights ▶Permits ▶Natural Resource Industries ▶Open Space and Recreation ▶Environment ▶Citizen Participation and Coordination ▶Public Facilities and Services ▶Historic Preservation The goals and policies of the Shoreline Management Act in RCW 90.58.020 were added as one of the goals of the Growth Management Act. See RCW 36.70A.480. Growth Management Act Goals PLAN FOUNDATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan vii December 2018 — Housing Element — Capital Facilities Plan Element — Utilities Element — Transportation Element — Rural Element for counties — Economic Development Element, when state funds are available — Park and Recreation Element, when state funds are available ▶ Local governments must adopt policies and regulations to protect critical areas and natural resource lands. ▶ Local governments must demonstrate how the capital facilities necessary to support the development envisioned by their Comprehensive Plan will be provided and paid for as development occurs, or within a specified time thereafter. ▶ The Comprehensive Plans of counties, and cities or towns within those counties, must be consistent with one another (e.g. alignment with growth allocations and Countywide Planning Policies, not local policies). ▶ In consultation with cities, Counties must adopt population allocations for the 20-year planning period. ▶ Counties and cities must agree on UGAs "within which urban growth shall be encouraged and outside of which growth can occur only if it is not urban in nature." The UGA must be able to accommodate the allocated growth that is expected to occur over 20 years. ▶ Counties and cities must jointly adopt County-wide Planning Policies which establish guidelines on how their Comprehensive Plans will be developed to be consistent. The GMA requires that Jefferson County and any city within it prepare comprehensive plans every eight years to manage population and employment growth for 20–year planning horizons. (RCW 36.70A.130(5)(b)). As long as the population of Jefferson County population is less than fifty thousand and has had its population increase by no more than 17% in the ten years preceding the deadline, the County has an additional twenty-four months following the eight-year deadline. (RCW 36.70A.130(7)(a)). The County has worked to meet this mandate with extensive public involvement and community outreach. PLAN FOUNDATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan viii December 2018 The County-wide Planning Policy On December 21, 1992, Jefferson County and the City of Port Townsend adopted a joint resolution establishing the County-wide Planning Policies (CWPPs) as a policy framework to guide the development of comprehensive plans. CWPPs are designed to ensure that county and city comprehensive plans are consistent with one another and consistent with regional growth management planning. According to the Growth Management Act, each local Comprehensive Plan should demonstrate that such policies have been followed in its development. (RCW 36.70A.210(1) and WAC 365-196-510). The CWPPs recognized the need for counties, cities, special purpose districts, and those agencies and jurisdictions involved in the delivery of public services, to coordinate the independent development of Comprehensive Plans. The implementing legislation to the GMA required that counties and cities agree upon policy statements in eight subject areas, including: urban growth areas, contiguous and orderly development and the provision of urban services, joint county and city planning, siting of essential public facilities, county-wide transportation facilities and strategies, affordable housing for all economic segments of the population, county-wide development and employment, and rural areas. In addition, the City of Port Townsend and Jefferson County agreed to include policies pertaining to: fiscal impacts associated with the impacts of growth and how to use the CWPPs. Exhibit B offers a guide to the relationship between the County-wide Planning Policy and the Comprehensive Plan Elements. Compliance with the County-wide Planning Policies has been integral to the development of individual elements of this Comprehensive Plan, and each element provides an overview of consistency with relevant CWPPs. EXHIBIT B Relationship: County-wide Planning Policies & Elements County-wide Planning Policy Comprehensive Plan Element 1. Policy to Implement RCW 36.70A.110 Urban Growth Areas (UGAs) Land Use 2. Contiguous and Orderly Development and Provision of Urban Services Capital Facilities, Essential Public Facilities, and Utilities 3. Joint County and UGA Representation Planning within UGA Land Use 4. The Siting of Essential Public Facilities of County or Statewide Significance Capital Facilities, Essential Public Facilities, and Utilities Element PLAN FOUNDATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan ix December 2018 County-wide Planning Policy Comprehensive Plan Element 5. County-wide Transportation Facilities and Strategies Transportation Capital Facilities, Essential Public Facilities, and Utilities 6. Affordable Housing Housing 7. County-wide Development and Employment Economic Development 8. Rural Areas Land Use 9. Fiscal Impacts Analysis Capital Facilities, Essential Public Facilities, and Utilities 10. County-wide Planning Policy: Use and Amendment Plan Foundation Source: Jefferson County, 2018. Jefferson County’s Compliance Strategy This Comprehensive Plan has been designed based on four fundamental sources of support and guidance. Together, they provide the framework for this Comprehensive Plan, which is responsive to local needs and regionally unique land use patterns and follows the goals and requirements of the GMA. ▶ Compliance with the goals and procedural criteria of the GMA and its implementing regulations. ▶ Compliance with CWPPs, adopted jointly by the City of Port Townsend and Jefferson County, to ensure that local plans are consistent with each other and with the GMA (e.g. alignment with growth allocations and Countywide Planning Policies, not local policies). ▶ Continuous, open public participation in the planning process. ▶ Analysis and compliance with the Growth Management Hearings Board decisions and decisions made by Washington State courts. The GMA goals and procedural criteria, and the Growth Hearings Board and court decisions, set the State-wide framework. The County-wide Planning Policy and public participation supply local detail for realizing the broader GMA goals within Jefferson County. PLAN FOUNDATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan x December 2018 PLANNING PROCESS & PUBLIC PARTICIPATION Planning Since 1991 The State legislature, responding to the Growth Strategies Commission Report on Long-Range Planning in the State of Washington, adopted the Growth Management Act (GMA) in 1990. Jefferson County Commissioners voted to “opt-in” to the GMA in late 1991. Public involvement in the planning process began immediately with the formation of citizen task forces to develop Interim Critical Area, Mineral Land, and Forest Resource Land Ordinances. Concurrently, the County developed a questionnaire, titled Jefferson 2000, which surveyed County residents’ opinions about their vision for the future. Jefferson 2000 also asked residents to rank “values,” such as economic growth, environmental protection, visual beauty, and the accessibility of services. The County convened the Jefferson 2000 Strategic Planning process, which involved 26 separate taxing districts and service providers responsible for water, fire protection, libraries, and similar services to County residents. Jefferson 2000 Strategic Planning used information generated by the Jefferson 2000 questionnaire and analysis of existing services, facilities, and long-range plans of the service providers to begin capital facilities planning required by the GMA. The Joint Growth Management Steering Committee was created in 1991 to oversee the development of GMA planning in Jefferson County. The Steering Committee consisted of three representatives from the City of Port Townsend, the only incorporated city in Jefferson County, and the three County Commissioners. The Steering Committee was formed with a provision that, should additional UGAs be designated, the Steering Committee would be expanded to accommodate representation from the newly designated UGA. The County-wide Planning Policy (CWPP) was developed cooperatively between City and County staff consistent with the requirements and procedural criteria of the GMA, and was reviewed by the Joint Growth Management Steering Committee. Public hearings were held on the CWPP, and both City and County government adopted these policies by resolution on December 21, 1992. PLAN FOUNDATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan xi December 2018 Considering Alternative Futures To assist citizens and decision-makers in formulating a new long-range Comprehensive Plan for Jefferson County and to comply with the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), Chapter 43.21c RCW, the County commissioned and issued an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The EIS contained an analysis of existing conditions and land use needs and demands and compared and analyzed the possible environmental impacts of the Comprehensive Plan alternatives. Alternatives evaluated were developed by the planning staff and Planning Commission with input from the County’s community groups and residents. The four alternative “Growth Scenarios” analyzed in the Draft EIS were: ▶ The Focused Growth Alternative ▶ The Dispersed Growth Alternative ▶ The Moderate Growth Alternative ▶ The Preferred Growth Alternative The 1997 Draft EIS evaluated environmental impacts that may result from the implementation of the proposed alternative plans. The alternatives explored the meaning of rural character, and the distribution of growth in urban areas, rural centers, and resorts, together with the balancing of GMA goals and CWPPs. The Draft EIS and the Draft Comprehensive Plan were considered in the public review and adoption process. The Final Environmental Impact Statement (Final EIS) of May 27, 1998 included additional analysis and findings resulting from public comments on the Draft EIS. The Final EIS included all comments received in writing along with County responses to the comments. The Final EIS, together with the Draft EIS it completes, provides a foundation of land use and environmental analysis for subsequent Comprehensive Plan periodic updates and amendments and implementation measures such as development regulations and projects. The Final EIS has been supplemented and addended since 1998. The Preferred Alternative, evaluated in the Final EIS was adjusted and integrated into the 1998 Comprehensive Plan. The 2018 Comprehensive Plan Update completed addressing the 2038 planning horizon draws on and benefits from the exploration of alternatives in the Final EIS, including the definition of rural character, approaches to distributing growth primarily in urban areas, and suggested environmental policies and mitigation. PLAN FOUNDATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan xii December 2018 Plan Creation & Amendment Exhibit C below describes how the various pieces of the comprehensive planning process fit together. Concurrent with environmental review, public hearings and workshop meetings have been held by both the Jefferson County Planning Commission and the Board of County Commissioners. EXHIBIT C Comprehensive Plan Update Process Diagram Public Involvement Public involvement is the cornerstone of long-range comprehensive planning for any community. Complying with the requirements of the GMA in Jefferson County has engaged community leaders, interested citizens, developers, property rights advocates, environmentalists, and neighborhoods in a dynamic, active public process. Public participation has occurred not only through citizen participation in task forces and goals-setting workshops, but also under the auspices of the Planning Commission. Consistent with the Planning Enabling Act, Chapter 36.70 RCW, the Planning Commission has been involved in comprehensive planning in Jefferson County. The Planning Commission has advertised its activities in the local newspapers and held open houses on a variety of issues. Port Ludlow Open House Meeting, July 2016, Jefferson County Community Visioning Inventory & Analysis Discussion Draft Elements Public Outreach, Consultation with Tribes, State, & Other Governments, & Planning Commission Review Draft Plan & SEPA Environmental Review Planning Commission Public Hearing & Recs. Board of County Commissioners Public Hearing & Adoption PLAN FOUNDATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan xiii December 2018 Draft Plan Open House in Quilcene (left) and Chimacum (right), April 2018, BERK Public involvement in comprehensive planning is required for compliance with the GMA and has been identified by the Growth Management Hearings Board as essential to proper development and adoption of plans. In addition, public participation is essential in adopting a Comprehensive Plan which preserves the character of Jefferson County as envisioned by community residents. With the 1998 adoption and with other periodic and annual amendment cycles, the County has conducted public engagement efforts. Appendix A documents the 2018 Comprehensive Plan periodic update community involvement efforts. VISION STATEMENT Comprehensive Planning in Jefferson County has matured in the quarter century since the Growth Management Act (GMA) was passed, and the diverse viewpoints shared during participation of the community has shaped a meaningful and enduring vision that is pragmatic and responsible. Jefferson County’s vision statement is prominently located at the beginning of this plan following the table of contents. This vision guides and directs the Comprehensive Plan element goals and policies. Board of County Commissioners Meeting, BERK PLAN FOUNDATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan xiv December 2018 FRAMEWORK GOALS This Comprehensive Plan represents a synthesis between a thorough analysis of existing conditions, the history of development patterns, anticipated population growth, the requirements of the GMA, the opportunities for new land uses, and the Vision Statement. Community engagement described in Appendix A shaped the following framework goals, which echo the county-wide vision statement. They are the heart of this Comprehensive Plan and provide a bridge from the Vision Statement to the Element-specific goals and policies. Although these goals are not listed in priority order, they are interrelated, provide structure in the document, and are to be balanced with each other to support the desired future of Jefferson County. Framework Goal I Preserving Rural Character Conserve Jefferson County’s functioning rural way of life, agricultural and forest working lands, shoreline and mountain vistas, and natural ecosystems, not just to be preserved to provide scenery, but to be preserved as a living, working, and sustaining rural landscape with which the community has a living/working relationship. Carolyn Gallaway Framework Goal II Sustainable and Suitable Growth Patterns Maintain a rural landscape by smartly growing in urban areas, resorts, and established rural centers and crossroads. Plan for infrastructure needed to care for these communities. Consider environmental, economic, and fiscal sustainability when investing in infrastructure and adding new development in rural and urban places. Carolyn Gallaway PLAN FOUNDATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan xv December 2018 Framework Goal III Enhancement of the Rural Economy Grow a robust economy with living wage jobs based on resource lands, manufacturing, tourist and recreation-oriented services, and evolving technologies that allows our communities to thrive; through a concept of a sustainable rural economy – benefiting the county’s clean environment, and benefiting from the county’s clean environment. Jefferson County Framework Goal IV Housing Variety and Affordability Create opportunities for innovation and flexibility in housing types affordable and attainable across incomes, ages, and abilities. Promote an adequate supply of quality year-round housing for the work- force, seasonal housing for farmworkers, and recreational homes or accommodations for visitors. PHA, Port Hadlock Zillow, Quilcene Framework Goal V Allocation of Land and Investment to Meet Anticipated Needs Meet projected community needs for housing, commercial, and industrial growth through appropriate zoning and capital facility investment. To be consistent with urban growth and rural character goals, focus higher densities in urban growth areas and secondarily within resorts, rural centers and crossroads. Zillow, Port Hadlock Property Framework Goal VI Environmental Conservation Foster environmental stewardship, preserve clean air and water, and protect fish and wildlife habitat. Anticipate and respond to climate change with mitigation and adaptation strategies. Carolyn Gallaway PLAN FOUNDATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan xvi December 2018 Framework Goal VII Mobility Provide a transportation system where residents, workers, and visitors have safe, comfortable, and interconnected ways to travel in Jefferson County whether as a driver, bicyclist, or pedestrian. Kitsap Sun, Olympic Discovery Trail, Port Townsend Framework Goal VIII Active and Healthy Living Promote community health and safety by fostering built environments that increase access to nutritious foods, active lifestyles and community services that are convenient to where residents live, work, learn and play. Chimacum Market, Jefferson County Public Health Framework Goal IX Continuous and Ongoing Public Involvement Provide opportunities for meaningful public involvement. Engage diverse stakeholders. Jefferson County Tri-Areas Open House Meeting Framework Goal X Compliant with GMA Maintain a Comprehensive Plan consistent with GMA goals, requirements, case law, and the County-wide Planning Policies, and within this framework, strive to provide leadership and collaborative work with the State on legislative and local solutions to the challenges met with GMA by rural counties. Carolyn Gallaway PLAN FOUNDATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan xvii December 2018 USING THIS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Comprehensive Plan Contents This Comprehensive Plan is organized in the following elements: ▶ Plan Foundation ▶ Element 1 Land Use ▶ Element 2 Natural Resources ▶ Element 3 Housing ▶ Element 4 Open Space, Parks & Recreation, Historical & Cultural Preservation ▶ Element 5 Environment ▶ Element 6 Transportation ▶ Element 7 Economic Development ▶ Element 8 Capital Facilities & Utilities Appendices provide additional detail and supporting materials, as follows: ▶ Appendix A: Community Engagement Summary Vision 2038 ▶ Appendix B: Resolution #38-15, Population Forecast & Allocations ▶ Appendix C: Transportation Technical Document ▶ Appendix D: Capital Facilities Plan Technical Document ▶ Appendix E: Port Hadlock/Irondale Land Capacity Analysis Each element includes assessments of existing conditions containing baseline data for key areas. Individual “elements” of this Comprehensive Plan describe goals and policies that have been developed to provide clear policy direction for land use decision-making in the future. Each element also includes strategies that implement the goals and policies. The Unified Development Code (UDC) provides detailed regulations for implementation of these goals and policies. Vision: A community’s best desired future. Framework Goal: Framework goals are an extension of a vision and form the foundation for the goals and policies contained in other elements of the Comprehensive Plan. Goal: A goal is a direction-setter. It is an ideal future end, condition or state related to the public health, safety, or general welfare toward which planning and implementation measures are directed. A goal is a general expression of community values and, therefore, is abstract in nature. Consequently, a goal is generally not quantifiable, time-dependent, or suggestive of specific actions for its achievement. Policy: A policy is a specific statement that guides decision-making. It indicates a clear commitment of the local legislative body. A policy is based on a comprehensive plan’s goals and the analysis of the data. A policy is put into effect through implementation measures such as zoning, land division, and environmental ordinances. Terms PLAN FOUNDATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan xviii December 2018 Related Plans The following related plans address shorelines, subarea, and parks important to meeting Growth Management Act (GMA) requirements for required or optional elements, and are hereby incorporated by reference as amended: ▶ Shoreline Master Program Goals and Policies (2014) ▶ Brinnon Subarea Plan (2004) ▶ Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan (2015) Community Plans Prior to the development of its initial Comprehensive Plan, Jefferson County invited communities to help prepare area-specific plans. The general content and direction of these community plans provided information for development of the 1998 Comprehensive Plan. The community plans were incorporated into the goals and policies of the 1998 Comprehensive Plan. The community plans have no further standing as individual community plans. Following are the plans completed through that process: ▶ Brinnon Community Development Plan (original 1982) ▶ Coyle Community Development Plan (1977) ▶ Gardiner Community Development Plan (1989) ▶ Marrowstone Community Development Plan (1978) ▶ Tri-Area Community Development Plan (1982) Both Planning Commission and Department of Community Development staff reviewed Community Plans. The results of the Community Planning Process and the Community Plans have been integral to the identification of goals and policies included in this Comprehensive Plan. Additional information can be found in the Land Use Element—Community Planning Efforts. Wayfinding: Western Jefferson County Existing conditions, goals, and policies related to western Jefferson County are denoted with a “W” icon and corresponding text in the sidebar throughout this plan, as shown at right. While all elements pertain to western Jefferson County, the Land Use, Natural Resources, Related to western Jefferson County PLAN FOUNDATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan xix December 2018 Open Space, Parks, and Recreation, Historical & Cultural Preservation, Environment, and Economic Development elements include information specific to the area. PLAN IMPLEMENTATION & MONITORING The Decision-Making Process Planning decisions must be consistent with the intent of this Comprehensive Plan. This Comprehensive Plan is a legal, binding document and cannot be disregarded; it is also a document designed to adapt to changing trends and circumstances. This Comprehensive Plan serves as the basis for land use decisions. Over time this Comprehensive Plan’s policies may change to ensure that the development pattern occurring in the county remains consistent with both the intent of the Vision Statement, and the Comprehensive Plan’s goals and objectives. Limitations in County Finance Structure to Implement Plan To carry out county duties and other duties required by the state, the State Constitution enables a county to collect taxes for municipal purposes. Levying taxes on assessed properties provides these funds. State law limits the property tax levy on the regular rate and annual increases. Although there are various sources of state funds that come to local jurisdictions and, at times, grant funding is available, Jefferson County is limited in its ability to provide funds and financing to implement policies in the Comprehensive Plan. This forces the County to make hard decisions when developing budgets. The county must prioritize what can be done or must delay project phases when there are inadequate funds. The County’s budget must fund many items to provide local governance. This includes services like health and emergency services, water quality protection, sheriff, the court system, correctional facilities, assessor, parks and recreation, and auditor functions including elections. These and many other basic services need funding to allow the County to function. PLAN FOUNDATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan xx December 2018 The Comprehensive Plan recognizes these funding limitations and the need to balance aspirational policies with the need to identify where funds will come from. Alternative methods of accomplishing goals and policies are important in light of revenue collection challenges. Levies outside of this regular limit are “excess” or “special” levies that may be elected to fund specific community needs like school and fire districts, or funds for housing programs. Volunteerism Tremendous actions have been accomplished by an active and energized community. There are countless examples of creative and motivated citizens filling the gaps between identified needs which may be outside of the County’s purview or needs that suffer from chronically unfunded or underfunded programs. Our County can harness a collective spirit and collective responsibility, to overcome funding hurdles. Jefferson County supports and embraces community involvement and volunteerism as a community development strategy. Amending this Comprehensive Plan This Comprehensive Plan addresses long-range and County-wide issues that are beyond the scope of decisions on subarea, local or functional plans or individual development proposals. This Comprehensive Plan serves as a vital guide to the future and provides a framework for managing change. It is important that amendments to this Comprehensive Plan retain the broad perspectives articulated in the community vision statements, satisfy the goals, policies, and strategies of this Comprehensive Plan, and remain consistent with the intent of the Growth Management Act (GMA). There are typically two means of addressing Comprehensive Plan Amendments: through an annual docket review or periodic review per RCW 36.70A.130. Amendments are to be justified through findings from monitoring of “growth management indicators” (see following section). Amendments to this Comprehensive Plan must also conform to the following: a. The requirements of the Washington State Growth Management Act, Chapter RCW 36.70A and the State Planning Enabling Act, Chapter RCW 36.70, and the GMA implementing rules at Chapter 365-196 WAC. b. Any proposed amendments to this Comprehensive Plan must be submitted by the County to the Washington State Department of PLAN FOUNDATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan xxi December 2018 Commerce at least 60 days prior to final adoption by the Board of County Commissioners (RCW 36.70A.106). c. Planners should refer to: Sources of law at all levels of government, including federal and state constitutions, federal and state statutes, federal and state administrative regulations, and judicial interpretations for proposed Comprehensive Plan amendments (WAC 365-196-720-745); this Comprehensive Plan’s Vision Statement, Framework Goals, and Community Vision Statements; the County- wide Planning Policy, related plans, and the comprehensive plans of other counties or cities with which the County has, in part, common borders or regulated regional issues (WAC 365-196-010] and 365 196- 510). d. Proposed amendments to this Comprehensive Plan will be considered on an annual basis (no more frequently than once per year), except when the following circumstances apply: (i) the initial adoption of a subarea plan that does not modify this Comprehensive Plan policies and designations applicable to the subarea, and (ii) the adoption or amendment of a shoreline master program pursuant to RCW 90.58. Other exceptions to the annual process are stated in RCW 36.70A.130(2)(a). All proposals will be considered concurrently so the cumulative effect of the various proposals can be ascertained (WAC 365-195-620[3]). The County may consider adopting amendments more frequently than once per year if a declared emergency exists. e. Consistent with the timelines contained in the GMA (RCW 36.70A), the County must review all UGA boundaries, as well as the densities permitted within both the incorporated and unincorporated portions of each UGA. If necessary, the UGA boundaries will be revised to accommodate the urban growth projected to occur in the county for the succeeding 20-year period. f. Amendments or changes to natural resource lands and critical area designations should be based on consistency with one or more of the following criteria: — Change in circumstances pertaining to this Comprehensive Plan or public policy. — A change in circumstances beyond the control of the landowner pertaining to the subject property. — An error in designation. — New information on natural resource land or critical area status (WAC 365-190-485). Details of the amendment process are contained in Jefferson County Code Chapter 18.45. PLAN FOUNDATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan xxii December 2018 Comprehensive Plan Amendment Appeals Growth Management Hearings Board Review A petition for review to challenge an amendment to this Comprehensive Plan or related plans that are within the jurisdiction of the Growth Management Hearings Board must be filed with sixty days of publication of the amendment per RCW 36.70A.280-290. Judicial Review Any judicial action to review any decision concerning the amendment of this Comprehensive Plan, including related plans, shall be commenced in superior court within sixty days from the date of the final decision of the Growth Management Hearings Board per RCW 36.70A.300(5). Pursuant to RCW 36.70A.295, direct review of an amendment to a Comprehensive Plan is possible if all the parties to the proceedings before the Growth Management Hearings Board agree to direct review by the superior court. Monitoring The monitoring of growth management indicators such as those listed below improves the effectiveness of public policy and allows progress in achieving the goals and objectives behind that policy to be measured: ▶ population growth, actual v. projected, ▶ land capacity, actual v. projected, ▶ economic indicators, property values/comparative sales compared to statewide averages and local trends, ▶ public health and safety ▶ natural resource consumption, ▶ changes in technology, ▶ needs, ▶ omissions or errors, or ▶ a declared emergency. PLAN FOUNDATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan xxiii December 2018 Use of growth management indicators assures accountability to the public. It demonstrates how effectively the County is moving toward identified goals. Ongoing monitoring allows public resources to be prioritized to meet goals and, if the desired outcome is not achieved, to consider modifying the goals or implementing regulations. Growth management indicators work well with the public participation process of the planning cycle. Using growth management indicators, citizens and decision-makers can review growth management policy and make changes that reflect present day realities. These indicators are considered during the regular periodic review of this Comprehensive Plan or may be considered during annual review dockets where appropriate. PLAN FOUNDATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan xxiv December 2018 [ This page intentionally blank ]