HomeMy WebLinkAbout7b attachment 2-Press Releases BButler Feb 15 2024Jefferson County cordially invites participation in learning about the
Port Hadlock Urban Growth Area Regulations
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jefferson County, WA, February 15, 2024 - Throughout March, April, and May, Jefferson County
will be conducting a series of developer charrettes aimed at disseminating information
regarding urban regulations slated to take effect upon the completion of the sewer system in
the Port Hadlock Urban Growth Area. Charrettes serve as a collaborative planning process that
engages the expertise and enthusiasm of all concerned parties to facilitate the development of
projects aligning with the community's needs and aspirations. Following the inaugural event on
Wednesday, March 27, 2024, from 5:30 to 7 pm, additional charrettes are scheduled for
Thursday, April 25, 2024, and May 30, 2024, from 2 to 5 pm. Further details regarding the sewer
system can be found online at: Jefferson County - Hadlock Wastewater System.
During these charrettes, property owners and individuals interested in the development of
"missing middle" housing will collaborate to identify obstacles hindering the construction of
multifamily dwellings that harmonize with their surroundings. "Missing middle" housing
encompasses a variety of multifamily units designed to complement detached single-family
homes in terms of scale and design, with the aim of seamlessly integrating into the existing
community. These housing options, along with the necessary infrastructure, are crafted to
foster a pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly neighborhood conducive to individuals of all ages, from
eight to eighty. Among the objectives of these meetings are to: (1) Expand the availability of
housing, (2) Foster the creation of housing accessible to varying income levels within Jefferson
County, and (3) Eliminate barriers preventing developers or current property owners from
constructing housing or enhancing their properties in accordance with local economic
considerations. Commissioner Heidi Eisenhour comments: “These events will be a great
opportunity for local residents to learn what development regulations will be turned on with
the sewer, what will be allowed and not allowed - and frankly what Port Hadlock will look like
once the sewer is ready to go.”
The primary focus of the initial charrette will be a comprehensive review of the urban
regulations that will be in force upon the completion of phase 1 of the sewer/wastewater
project, aimed at ensuring that new community members are well-informed about what to
expect. This session is scheduled for the evening of March 27 to accommodate individuals who
may be working during the day. Subsequent charrettes will center on local economic factors, as
Agenda Item 7B - Attachment 2 - 1
it is imperative to ensure that developers and existing landowners engage in building or
partnering with others to address the community’s housing needs. Consequently, the second
and third charrettes are slated for regular business hours when developers are typically
available.
For additional information, please contact Brent Butler at bbutler@co.jefferson.wa.us.
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Agenda Item 7B - Attachment 2 - 2
Public invited to help shape regulations regarding rentals for less than 30 days,
like Airbnb and HIP Camp
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jefferson County, WA, February 15, 2024 - Jefferson County is holding three public sessions on
March 12th at the Cape George Fire Station, March 13th at the Tri-Area Community Center, and
March 14th at the Quilcene Community Center. All sessions start at 5:30pm.
Airbnb and HIP Camp represent the two ends of the rental spectrum for transient or tourist
accommodations of less than 30 days since one is typically within a single-family residence and
the other may be in a tent outside, for example. While tent camping is approved through a
public hearing process leading to a conditional use permit (CUP) to determine the appropriate
infrastructure such as septic and parking, rentals within an existing single-family home are only
required to document life safety compliance such as smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
and a way to escape in the event of a fire (egress).
Because rentals for less than 30 days reduce workforce housing, generally defined as long term
rentals serving Jefferson County’s work force, e. g. caregivers, teachers, firefighters, the County
requests your input. At these sessions, staff will explain current regulations, expanded
enforcement options regarding unpermitted rentals, and share how other counties such as San
Juan and Chelan counties balance the need for tourist housing against long term rentals serving
the workforce. Commissioner Kate Dean comments: “The goal is to determine if and how to
change existing regulations.”
For additional information, please contact Brent Butler at bbutler@co.jefferson.wa.us.
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Agenda Item 7B - Attachment 2 - 3
Opening on the Water Utility Coordinating Committee – County seeks an interested party
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jefferson County, WA, February 15, 2024 - The Jefferson County Board of County
Commissioners is actively seeking a community member who operates a water system serving
fewer than 50 users to join the Water Utility Coordinating Committee (WUCC).
Established to address issues such as uncoordinated water planning, inadequate water quality,
or unreliable service, the WUCC has been in operation since 1983. Its inception was prompted
by concerns that Jefferson County's water resource needs were not being adequately met.
Consequently, the Board of County Commissioners designated a Critical Water Supply Service
Area covering the entire county, recognizing the potential benefits of a Coordinated Water
System Plan (CWSP) for all residents. However, the current CWSP is in need of updating.
"We're looking for a dedicated individual to join the Water Utility Coordinating Committee and
help shape the future of water management in Jefferson County," said Commissioner Greg
Brotherton. "Your involvement will be crucial in addressing the challenges faced by smaller
water systems and ensuring reliable and sustainable water services for our community."
As a member of the WUCC, you would play a vital role in the development of this updated plan,
particularly in identifying the challenges and requirements specific to smaller water purveyors.
Anticipated commitments include quarterly 90-minute meetings over the next 18 months,
during which you would collaborate closely with the hired consultant to guide the plan's
evolution.
For details, please visit: Jefferson County Water Utility Coordinating Committee (WUCC)
For additional information or to express interest, please contact Brent Butler at
bbutler@co.jefferson.wa.us.
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Agenda Item 7B - Attachment 2 - 4