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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025.07.17 PC Meeting PacketAGENDA PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING City Hall - Council Chambers 525 North Third Avenue Pasco, Washington THURSDAY, JULY 17, 2025 6:30 PM This meeting is broadcast live on PSC-TV Channel 191 on Charter Cable and streamed at www.pasco-wa.com/psctvlive. Audio equipment available for the hearing impaired; contact staff for assistance. Please silence your cell phones. Thank you. I. CALL TO ORDER II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGENCE III. ROLL CALL: Declaration of Quorum IV. WELCOME AND ANNOUNCEMENTS V. APPROVAL OF MINUTES • Meeting Minutes from May 15, 2025, meeting. VI. OLD BUSINESS • Comprehensive Plan Kick Off Presentation – Discussion Only Staff would like to have a follow-up discussion with the Planning Commission (PC) on this matter. C&ED Director Miller provided a kickoff presentation to the City Council on June 9, 2025, with several Planning Commissioners in the audience. The PowerPoint presentation is provided as Attachment 1 for reference. Questions for PC: o Are you interested in a future joint meeting or for the C&ED Director to be a liaison between the groups related to check-ins? o Any other comments or questions related to the kickoff? VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS • 2026 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program Allocation CDBG Fund and Proposal Summaries (Attachment 2) relating to our Community Development Block Grant Program for program year 2026. VIII. WORKSHOP • Countywide Planning Policies (CWPPs) The staff report (Attachment 3) provides an overview of the Franklin Countywide Planning Policies and recent proposed edits to align with the periodic comprehensive plan update for Franklin County and cities within Franklin County. • Comprehensive Plan Public Engagement and Outreach Plan The staff report (Attachment 4) provides an overview of the Franklin Countywide Planning Policies and recent proposed edits to align with the periodic comprehensive plan update for Franklin County and cities within Franklin County. AGENDA PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING City Hall - Council Chambers 525 North Third Avenue Pasco, Washington THURSDAY, JULY 17, 2025 6:30 PM This meeting is broadcast live on PSC-TV Channel 191 on Charter Cable and streamed at www.pasco-wa.com/psctvlive. Audio equipment available for the hearing impaired; contact staff for assistance. Please silence your cell phones. Thank you. IX. OTHER BUSINESS • Ipads X. ADJOURNMENT PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES City Hall - Council Chambers 525 North Third Avenue Pasco, Washington THURSDAY, MAY 15, 2025 6:30 PM Planning Commission Meeting Minutes Page 1 of 4 May 15, 2025 CALL TO ORDER City of Pasco Planning Commission meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m., by Vice Chair Lehrman. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Vice Chair Lehrman led the Pledge of Allegiance. ROLL CALL Commissioners Present: Pat Jones, Kim Lehrman, Dana Crutchfield, Jay Hendler, and Rachel Teel, a quorum was declared. Commissioners Excused: Jerry Cochran, Rosa Torres Staff Present: C & ED Director Haylie Miller, C & ED Deputy Director Craig Raymond, CDBG Administrator Kristin Webb, Administrative Assistant II Carmen Patrick DECLARATIONS Vice Chair Lehrman asked if there were any Planning Commission members who have a declaration at this time regarding any of the items on the agenda.  No declarations were heard. Vice Chair Lehrman asked if anyone in the audience objected to any Planning Commission member hearing any of the items on the agenda.  No declarations were heard. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Commissioner Jones moved to approval of minutes from the March 20, 2025, meeting, seconded by Commissioner Hendler, motion passed unanimously. OLD BUSINESS • Project Updates presented by Craig Raymond  Comp Plan Update, consultant Framework Craig Raymond provided an overview of initial highlights from the ongoing work with Framework. Key issues identified for the upcoming periodic update include water rates, development pressure in the Riverview area, potential map amendments by property owners, and interest in expanding retail options within Pasco to reduce retail leakage to neighboring areas. A preliminary project schedule was presented, noting the kickoff in May 2025 and projected completion by December 2026. The schedule includes planned public outreach and key project milestones, with timelines largely driven by grant requirements. Additionally, the Commissioners were shown an early preview of conceptual imaging currently under development.  Transportation System Master Plan, consultant DKS Associates The Transportation System Master Plan project is in the early stages. The contract was recently finalized, and a kickoff meeting is currently being scheduled. More detailed information will be available as the project progresses. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes Page 2 of 4 May 15, 2025  Regional Climate Planning/GHG Plan The Regional Climate Planning and Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Project is an ongoing collaborative effort involving Benton County, Richland, Kennewick, West Richland, and the City of Pasco. While regional in scope, the plan also focuses on Pasco-specific goals and policy development. Initial research has highlighted key emissions sources, including passenger vehicles (17%), industrial natural gas (16%), and freight vehicles (15%). The next steps involve refining this data, forecasting future emissions, and developing policy recommendations. These efforts will also inform the City’s comprehensive plan update. The project is also assessing regional climate vulnerabilities, with extreme heat, wildfire, and smoke identified as top concerns. Additional risks include seasonal flooding and drought. A comprehensive policy audit reviewed 13 core and 33 supporting documents, identifying 224 policies: 177 related to climate resilience, 82 to emissions reduction, and 26 to climate equity. Gaps identified include equitable access to green space, climate hazard preparedness for vulnerable populations, and support for high-density, transit-oriented housing. Next steps include finalizing the greenhouse gas analysis and developing draft policy recommendations for participating communities.  Energy Resilience Study, consultant Scott Madden Management Consultants The city selected Scott Madden Management Consultants for a fast-moving project focused on promoting and sustaining regional growth, enhancing resilience and sustainability, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. While smaller in scale than the Comprehensive Plan update, the project is advancing rapidly and is expected to conclude next month. Currently in Phase 2 of 3, consultants have completed initial data collection, document reviews, and stakeholder interviews with partners such as the Port of Pasco and Franklin PUD. They are now refining areas of focus and identifying gaps in stakeholder outreach. A preliminary draft report has been submitted and accepted. Upcoming activities include finalizing report graphics, holding additional work sessions and stakeholder check-ins, and completing the final report. The project timeline is driven by grant requirements, necessitating swift progress. Commissioner Comments/Questions: Commissioners Jones commented on the need for public restrooms in downtown Pasco. Vice Chair Lehrman noted the Planning Department’s increased workload and asked about additional staffing. She also inquired whether the agricultural community and industry are included in stakeholder engagement for the Regional Climate Planning and Energy Resilience Study. Craig Raymond answered that the consultants are a great help with the work being done and that yes, the agricultural community and industry are definitely involved. PUBLIC HEARINGS • 2025-2029 Tri-Cities Assessment of Fair Housing presented by Kristin Webb Planning Commission Meeting Minutes Page 3 of 4 May 15, 2025 Kristin Webb presented an overview of the 2025–2029 Tri-Cities Assessment of Fair Housing, a joint effort by the cities of Pasco, Kennewick, and Richland. This federally required five-year plan identifies barriers to equitable housing access and informs broader community development strategies. Key challenges identified include a limited supply of affordable and accessible housing, lack of awareness of fair housing rights, language barriers, and gaps in transportation infrastructure. Proposed actions include expanding affordable and accessible housing, increasing community outreach, enhancing language access, and improving transportation connectivity. Efforts will involve partnerships with local housing authorities, nonprofit organizations, and transit agencies. The presentation concluded with a call for feedback and continued collaboration. Commissioner Comments/Questions: Commissioner Jones commended the collaborative effort among the three cities in developing the Tri-Cities Fair Housing Assessment, noting the difficulty of compiling and aligning data across jurisdictions. They praised the honesty, transparency, and cooperative spirit reflected in the document. The commissioner expressed strong support for the proposed actions and remarked on the potential for significant positive impact if even a portion of the plan is implemented over the next five years. Additional detailed feedback and supportive comments were prepared for discussion and are attached to these minutes. Commissioner Crutchfield emphasized the importance of addressing homelessness and supporting individuals facing hardship. She also referenced a new state law that limits how much landlords can increase rent, noting its potential impact on housing affordability and tenant stability. Vice Chair Lehrman, a Pasco School District teacher, expressed appreciation for the inclusion of languages beyond Spanish—such as Burmese and Ukrainian—in the Fair Housing Plan, recognizing the city's growing linguistic diversity. They supported expanded partnerships with the school district for adult English education and recommended distributing affordable housing materials in schools to reach families and staff more effectively. She also praised Kennewick and Richland for their extensive outreach strategies and educational efforts for both landlords and residents and inquired why Pasco’s list appeared shorter by comparison—asking whether it was due to grant limitations or differing historical efforts. Kristin Webb clarified that Pasco has historically led efforts in housing programs, particularly with down payment assistance, while Kennewick and Richland are now working to catch up. Although Pasco has not completed a down payment assistance project since 2022 due to rising housing costs, staff recently supported Kennewick's first use of such funds. Efforts are ongoing to improve outreach and ensure residents are aware of available resources. Vice Chair Lehrman also reminded the public that Pasco was the first of the three cities to adopt an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) code following state legislation, crediting the Planning Department, Commission, and City Council. They inquired about the availability of ADU resources to the public, specifically asking whether standardized blueprints and a streamlined permitting process are accessible to help residents utilize this housing option. Craig Raymond stated being new to Pasco, he is not familiar with that effort but would look into it and report back to the Planning Commission. Vice Chair Lehrman opened the Public Hearing. Hearing no comments, Commissioner Jones moved to close the public hearing, seconded by Commissioner Crutchfield, motion pass unanimously. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes Page 4 of 4 May 15, 2025 Next Steps: Kristin Webb outlined the next steps for the Fair Housing Plan, which include a presentation to the City Council workshop on May 27th and formal adoption on June 2nd. The plan will then be submitted to HUD along with the Consolidated Plan, now ready following receipt of the FY25 allocation notice. Upon HUD approval, the plan will guide actions for the next five fiscal years. Staff confirmed that all Planning Commission comments will be incorporated into the final plan. WORKSHOP None OTHER BUSINESS Haylie Miller, the new Community and Economic Development Director was introduced to the Commission. Carmen Patrick shared the next Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for June 19, 2025, which is on a holiday. The Commission agreed to have the meeting in June the following week, June 26, 2025. ADJOURNMENT Vice Chair Lehrman stated with no other business, I recommend a motion to adjourn. Commissioner Jones made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Commissioner Hendler, motion carried unanimously. Meeting adjourned at 7:26 pm. YouTube link to watch full meeting: https://youtu.be/3nzd7mGnUoc Respectfully submitted, Carmen Patrick, Administrative Assistant II Community & Economic Development Department Comprehensive Plan Update City Council Presentation June 09, 2025 Agenda 1.Project team 2.Planning Context 3.Project Schedule + Public Engagement 4.Discussion Questions Project Team HOPE FREIJE PROJECT MANAGER MATT CAMPBELL PLANNING LEAD JEFF ARANGO PROJECT DIRECTOR Planning Context City Council Priorities PUBLIC SAFETY STREAMLINE CODES AND PERMITS DOWNTOWN FISCAL SUSTAINABILITY PLANNING IN RIVERVIEW HOUSING New State Legislation Housing for all Economic Segments and Addressing Disparate Impact Parking Reform and Modernization Act 5-Year Implementation Progress Report Climate Change Action, Resilience, and Environmental Justice Easing Barriers to Developing ADUs Streamlining Development Regulations SEPA Exemption for Housing HB 1220 …… (A. 2021) HB 1241 ……. (A. 2022) HB 1181 …….. HB 1293 …… SB 5412 …... *SB 5184 ….. HB 1181 …….. 2018 Plan UGA Expansion to the North Not in City Limits Downtown Pasco Master Plan Riverview Housing Allocation 18,831Pasco City + UGA new housing units 121,290 future population estimate (2046) 157 emergency housing Growth trends Franklin County + Pasco Franklin County Is the 2nd fastest growing county in WA 85.7%Avg share of county growth in Pasco since 2018 88% Growth per year in Pasco since 2018, with a general decline in yearly increase Average of 1475 Of county growth allocated to Pasco + UGA for 2046 Housing Allocation Pasco City + UGA 1,839 0-30% AMI (non-PSH) 1,833 0-30% AMI (PSH) 2,511 >30-50% AMI 3,511 >50-80% AMI 1,824 >80-100% AMI 1,618 >100-120% AMI 6,133 >120% AMI 18,831 new housing units Land Capacity 2018 Project Schedule + Engagement Timeline Draft Branding Public Engagement Plan Phase 1: Education & Awareness ●Build awareness around the Comprehensive Plan Update schedule, deliverables, and opportunities for feedback ●Create landing page for document review, surveys, and educational material ●Establish connections with stakeholder groups Stakeholders Spanish-speaking residents Low-income residents Outside Agencies Service Providers Business owners + associations Kids, seniors, students Phase 2: Survey & Visioning ●Hear from a wide swatch of residents through topic-specific surveys that will inform the development of plan element updates. ●Create a vision statement through a collaborative community process. ●Work with City Council and Planning Commission on strategies and decisions. Marketing Phase 3: Feedback & Refinement ●Gather feedback on plan elements from elected officials, stakeholder groups, and the general public. ●Host a Community Open House that brings residents and other stakeholders together to learn about and provide feedback on proposed updates. Online Tools Discussion Questions Discussions Questions ●Challenges and opportunities ●Focus areas:Downtown, Riverview, Broadmoor ●Public engagement strategies REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION City Hall – 525 North Third Avenue 1 To: Planning Commission From: Haylie Miller, Community and Economic Development Director Subject: Draft Countywide Planning Policies – Franklin County Introduction The purpose of this agenda item is to provide the Planning Commission with a summary of recent draft amendments to the Franklin County Countywide Planning Policies (CWPPs). Recommendation The Planning Commission is not required to take formal action on the CWPPs; however, the Planning Commission is welcome to provide feedback to be routed by staff to the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) for Franklin County as the authority to adopt the CWPPs. History and Facts Brief Under the Washington State Growth Management Act (RCW 36.70A), counties and cities are required to adopt Countywide Planning Policies that serve as a framework for developing and updating local comprehensive plans. CWPPs guide growth, development, transportation, and infrastructure coordination across jurisdictions. The CWPPs were updated during the last periodic cycle, in 2019. There have been no other amendments since they were first adopted in 1993. This update reflects: • Changes in state law (e.g., House Bill 1220 - housing needs planning) • 2020 Census data and growth trends • Regional climate change and equity goals • New policies on urban growth area (UGA) expansion criteria • Coordination language for the upcoming 2025 periodic update The updated CWPPs were developed in collaboration with Franklin County, and the Cities of Pasco, Mesa, Connell and Kahlotus Countywide Planning Policy Committee. The final draft prepared by County and City staff is attached for review. Attachments: 1 Draft CWPPs – clean version 2 Draft CWPPs – edited version 3 Draft BOCC Resolution for CWPPs DRAFT 6/12/25 Attachment A COUNTY-WIDE PLANNING POLICIES The following County-Wide Planning Policies were developed and adopted by Franklin County in coordination with the cities within Franklin County to establish a framework to ensure that county and city comprehensive plans are consistent with one another as required by the Growth Management Act. I. Policies to Implement RCW 36.70A.020 1. The Comprehensive Plans of Franklin County and each of its cities therein shall be prepared and adopted with the objective to facilitate economic prosperity by accommodating growth consistent with the following: A. Urban Growth: Encourage development in urban areas where adequate public facilities exist or can be provided in a cost efficient manner. B. Reduce Sprawl: Reduce the inappropriate conversion of undeveloped land into sprawling, low-density development. C. Transportation: Encourage efficient multi-modal transportation systems that may reduce greenhouse gas emissions and per capita vehicle miles traveled, and are based on regional priorities and coordinated with the comprehensive plans of Franklin County, the Cities of Pasco, Mesa, Connell and Kahlotus, the Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT), and the Benton-Franklin Council of Governments. D. Housing: Plan for and accommodate housing affordable to all economic segments of the Franklin County population and promote a variety of residential densities and housing types, and encourage preservation of existing housing stock. E. Economic Development: Encourage economic development consistent with the adopted comprehensive plans. Promote economic opportunity for all residents of the county, especially for unemployed and for disadvantaged persons, promote the retention and expansion of existing businesses and recruitment of new businesses, recognize regional differences impacting economic development opportunities, and encourage growth in areas experiencing insufficient economic growth, all within the capacities of the county's natural resources, public services, and public facilities. F. Property Rights: Private property rights shall not be taken for public use without just compensation having been made. The property rights of landowners shall be protected from arbitrary and discriminatory actions. G. Permits: Applications for permits should be processed in a timely and fair manner to ensure predictability, and through a process which provides for integrated and consolidated review. H. Natural Resource Industries: Maintain and enhance natural resource based industries including: productive agriculture (cultivation and grazing), fisheries, and mineral industries. Encourage the conservation and improvement of productive agricultural lands and discourage incompatible uses. I. Open Space and Recreation: Encourage the retention of useful open space and green space and enhance development of recreational opportunities, enhance critical fish and wildlife DRAFT 6/12/25 habitat, increase public access to natural resource lands and water, and develop parks and recreation facilities. J. Environment: Protect and enhance the environment and enhance the region’s high quality of life, including air and water quality, and the availability of water for all uses, including potable domestic requirements. K. Citizen Participation and Coordination: Encourage the involvement of citizens and tribes in the planning process, including the participation of vulnerable populations and overburdened communities, and ensure coordination between communities, tribes, and jurisdictions to reconcile conflicts. L. Public Facilities and Services: Ensure that those public facilities and services necessary to support development shall be adequate to serve development at the time the development is available for occupancy and use without decreasing current service levels below locally established minimum standards. M. Historic Preservation: Identify and encourage the preservation of lands, sites, and structures that have historical or archaeological significance. N. Climate change and resiliency. As determined to be appropriate by each jurisdiction consistent with the Growth Management Act, County and city comprehensive plans will include policies to adapt to and mitigate the effects of a changing climate; support reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and per capita vehicle miles traveled; prepare for climate impact scenarios; foster resiliency to climate impacts and natural hazards; protect and enhance environmental, economic, and human health and safety; and advance environmental justice. O. Shorelines of the State. Protect and enhance the shorelines of the state while planning for and fostering all reasonable and appropriate uses through coordinated planning efforts between the State, the County, and the cities within the County. II. Policies to Implement RCW 36.70A.110 relating to the establishment of Urban Growth Areas [RCW 36.70A.210(3)a] 1. Each city within Franklin County is included within a designated urban growth area (UGA). 2. Designated UGAs should include an amount of undeveloped area to adequately accommodate forecasted growth and development for the next 20 years. The size of the UGA should reflect the Comprehensive Plans of each municipality which identifies the amount of land needed to accommodate community and essential public facilities, housing, commercial and industrial activities, and enough land to prevent inflation of land costs due to market fluctuations and limited land supplies. Further, the size of UGAs should consider the provision of open space, locations for parks and recreation, and protection of Critical Areas as well as natural barriers to development. 3. Designated urban growth areas should include those portions of the county already characterized by urban growth and having existing public infrastructure, public facilities and service capacities to serve existing and future growth. 4. Designated urban growth areas should include those areas that are within the recognized utility service areas of each city. DRAFT 6/12/25 5. The size of urban growth areas will vary due to regional settings and should be adequate to promote-viable economic development strategies, promote choices in housing accommodations, and ensure adequate lands are available for associated open spaces and public purposes. 6. . 7. The County shall, in consultation with the Cities, propose a population allocation for the purposes of updating Comprehensive Plan documents, which considers the most recent population distribution as provided by the published OFM intercensal population estimates. The combined population figures for each municipality and the County must total the State's population forecast for Franklin County. The allocation shall be reconsidered during the periodic review required by RCW 36.70A.130. The County, in consultation with the Cities, may review growth projections and allocations between update cycles when circumstances have changed, (for example, actual growth rates or permitting varies from the predicted patterns, or when OFM provides a new set of projections for GMA planning). 8. Population projections used for designating urban growth areas will be based upon information provided by the Office of Financial Management (OFM). Use of the “mid” series as provided by OFM shall be used for Franklin County for the 2026 update cycle. A period of twenty years is the typical planning period. 9. Municipalities should limit the extension of water and sewer service to areas within each jurisdiction’s urban growth area. 10. Final development approval will continue to reside with the County for areas outside of City limits. 11. During the periodic update cycle, the County shall review its UGA, patterns of development, and densities. 12. Generally, applications for amendments or changes to the UGA may only be submitted by the County or a municipality within the County prior to the deadline established for the year's docketing process (with intervals coinciding with the required periodic update of the comprehensive plan). When a city or the county proposes to alter a UGA, it is the responsibility of the proponent to provide confirmation (through studies, reports, and adopted plans) that all of the requirements above have been met, as well as provide a land capacity analysis (guided by WAC 365-196-325) , and SEPA documentation; except for net zero swaps, which must meet requirements and criteria in RCW 36.70A.130(3)(c) during the periodic update and RCW 36.70A.110(8) during an annual amendment. 13. Within Urban Growth Areas, urban uses shall be concentrated in and adjacent to existing urban services, or where they are shown on a Capital Improvement Plan. 14. The extension of a UGA into an area of Agricultural Lands of Long-Term Commercial Significance (or any Resource lands) is not allowed. 15. Legal and physical availability of water must be considered when including lands into the UGAs. 16. When requesting UGA expansions, Cities shall demonstrate the ability for in-fill development to occur in existing low-density areas within the City's UGA to avoid leap-frog development patterns. DRAFT 6/12/25 17. All policies within each jurisdiction's and Franklin County’s Comprehensive Plans shall be modified to be consistent with adopted Countywide Policies. III. Policies for promotion of contiguous and orderly development and the provision of urban services to such development [RCW 36.70A.210 (3)b] 18. Joint county/city standards shall be established for development within each individual urban growth boundary, but beyond corporate limits of cities. It is in the public interest that joint standards be developed to preclude the creation of development patterns without municipal utilities and substandard infrastructure and property division that would burden the public with unnecessary costs to correct or compromise the ability of the UGA to accommodate the municipality’s 20-year population forecast. These standards should include: A. Street locations, both major and secondary; B. Street right-of-way widths; C. Street improvement widths; D. Street improvement standards; E. Lots and blocks including special lot reservation system when public sewer concurrency cannot be provided; F. Curbs and gutters; G. Sidewalks; H. Road construction standards; I. Cul-de-sac location and dimensions; J. Storm drainage facilities, quantity, quality, and discharge locations; K. Street lights, conduit, fixtures, locations; L. Sewer, septic regulations, private sewer, dry sewer facilities; M. Water, pipe sizes, locations, fire flows, uniform codes; N. All building requirements; O. Subdivision and platting requirements including density, parks, and open space; P. Collection and use of development impact fees as appropriate; Q. Residential design standards; R. Zoning standards; 19. The availability of the full range of urban governmental services will be subject to the annexation policies of the adjacent municipality. 20. The timing of utility extensions into the urban growth area should be consistent with the adopted comprehensive plan and capital facilities plan of the adjacent municipality. 21. Proposed annexations should not leave isolated “islands” of roadways or parcels left to be served by the County. Annexations should follow RCW 35.02.170 to avoid road “splitting.” 22. Proposed annexations, where reasonable, should attempt to avoid splitting parcels where ownership will lie in joint jurisdiction of both the County and the City. 23. Existing water rights should be incorporated or transferred into the city’s municipal rights whenever annexation takes place or when water will be supplied by the municipality in order to avoid relinquishment of water and/or lack of supply in the future. DRAFT 6/12/25 24. The County and Cities should execute interlocal agreements to coordinate plans for and manage growth in urban growth areas. Interlocal agreements shall acknowledge and implement the Countywide Planning Policies. IV. Policies for siting public facilities of a county-wide or state-wide nature, including transportation facilities of a statewide significance as defined in RCW 47.06.140 [RCW 36.70A.210(3)c] 25. When an appropriate issue arises, the County and Cities within, along with participation from the public, shall cooperate in a process to site essential public facilities of regional and statewide importance. The objective of the process shall be to ensure that such facilities are located so as to protect environmental quality, optimize access and usefulness to all jurisdictions, and equitably distribute economic benefits/burdens throughout the region or county. 26. No local comprehensive plan or development regulations will preclude the siting of essential public facilities, but standards may be generated to ensure that reasonable compatibility with other land uses can be achieved. 27. Essential public facilities that require urban levels of public services (e.g., public sewer) or generate urban levels of traffic and employment should be located where urban services are available consistent with the comprehensive plan. 28. Essential public facilities should not be located in Resource Lands; essential public facilities should avoid critical areas unless no other practical location exists. 29. Essential Public Facilities should be sited to allow for adequate levels of support services such as law enforcement, emergency response services, hospitals, etc. depending on the type of facility. 30. The County and Cities are encouraged to establish areas and criterion for siting of essential public facilities before proposals are submitted. V. Policies for county-wide transportation facilities and strategies [RCW 36.70A.210(3)d] 31. Maintain active county-city participation in the Benton Franklin Council of Governments in order to facilitate city, county, and state coordination in planning regional transportation facilities and infrastructure improvements to serve essential public facilities including Port District facilities and properties. 32. Comprehensive plans shall include, where applicable, the master plans of identified major transportation facilities such as airports, railroads, major freight terminals, and public transit and policies to ensure that they are reasonably accommodated and compatible with future surrounding land uses, in order to ensure the protection of regional transportation assets. 33. Where the level of service (LOS) for a locally owned transportation facility adopted in a county or city comprehensive plan cannot be maintained as a result of proposed new development, that development shall be denied, unless transportation improvements or strategies to accommodate the impacts of development are made concurrent with the development. DRAFT 6/12/25 VI. Policies that consider the need for affordable housing for all economic segments of the population and parameters for its distribution [RCW 36.70A.210(3)e] 34. The housing element of each comprehensive plan shall: A. Address the manner and the extent that demand from all segments of the housing market will be met. B. Identify sufficient capacity of land, infrastructure and services for a healthy mix of home types, sizes, and prices with ownership opportunities for the widest possible range of incomes, including but not limited to, government assisted housing for low income families, manufactured housing, multi-family housing, migrant agricultural worker housing, group homes, foster care facilities, emergency housing, emergency shelters, and permanent supportive housing and other supportive housing types. All segments of the housing market must be accommodated in appropriate numbers for the 20 year planning window. 35. County and city comprehensive plans should encourage regeneration of existing housing inventories with methods such as: 1) Permitting accessory dwellings or the division of existing structures when adequate infrastructure exists; 2) Methods of protecting the inventory of manufactured home parks to avoid displacement; 3) Sponsoring housing rehabilitation programs offered by state and federal governments. 36. Consideration should be given to the provision of diversity in housing types to accommodate elderly, physically challenged, mentally impaired, and the special needs of the population, i.e. congregate care facilities. 37. Comprehensive plans shall consider the effects of public improvement development costs on housing, including impact fees. Allowance for exemption from impact fees for projects, which enhance housing for low and moderate income householders, should be considered. 38. Each community shall provide its fair share of housing affordable to low and moderate income households by promoting a balanced mix of diverse housing types. 39. Consideration should be given to implementing innovative regulatory strategies, which provide incentives for developers to provide housing affordable to low and moderate income households in order to avoid socioeconomic segregation. VII. Policies for joint county and city planning within urban growth areas [RCW 36.70A.210(3)f] 40. City and county planning efforts will be coordinated within urban growth areas. 41. County and City Plans should be consistent in order to allow for orderly expansion within the UGAs. 42. The county and each city shall jointly develop and implement development, land division and building standards, and coordinate permit procedures for the review and permitting of new subdivisions within Urban Growth Areas. DRAFT 6/12/25 VIII. Policies for county-wide economic development and employment [RCW 36.70A.210(3)g] 43. The comprehensive plan of the county and each city shall promote employment and economic opportunity 44. Consideration should be given to diversification of the economic base to provide opportunities for economic growth in all communities on a county-wide basis to ensure a healthy, stable, economic base. 45. The County and all municipalities will participate in creating a County-wide economic strategy. 46. The provision of utilities and other supporting urban governmental services to commercial and industrial areas should be coordinated and assigned a high priority by utility purveyors and service providers. 47. In order to attract new industry and provide for expansion of existing industries, the County and the cities will designate land supply of sufficient size and diversity to provide a range of suitable locations for industrial and commercial development and their buffers. The designation of this land shall be established in a way that preserves natural resource based industries and critical areas. IX. Policies for the analysis of fiscal impacts [RCW 36.70A.210(3)h] 48. Construction design and placement standards for roads, intersections and streets (with provisions for storm water conveyance), sewer, water and lighting infrastructure, should be determined based upon an analysis which identifies the most appropriate public expenditure over extended periods of time. Utilities should be incorporated into such analysis. 49. If communities consider the imposition of impact fees, said fees should be established on the basis of identifiable development impacts. 50. Capital Improvement Plans and Land Use Plans shall include fiscal analyses which identify the most cost effective uses of regional and local public services. 51. Support the development of public schools in areas where utilities are present or can be extended, is financially supportable at urban densities, where the extension of public infrastructure will protect health and safety, and the school locations are consistent with the analysis recommended by WAC 365-196-425(3)(c) as existed on the date of adoption of this document. 52. It is recognized that if the Growth Management Act and these policies are implemented to their maximum extent, County government may eventually lose the tax base needed to operate essential services, including the criminal justice function and the Offices of Treasurer, Assessor, and Auditor, which serve all jurisdictions in the area. The County and cities shall coordinate on essential services as needed to address the region’s needs. X. Policies for Participation 53. A federally recognized Indian tribe may voluntarily choose to participate in the county or regional planning process and coordinate with the county and cities, as set out in RCW 36.70.040 and RCW 36.70A.110 and RCW 26.70A.210. 54. All jurisdictions will establish procedures to ensure early and continuous participation by the public and plan for and coordinate with other agencies and districts, such as ports, schools, DRAFT 6/12/25 energy providers, etc. in the development and amendment of plans and implementation programs. DRAFT 6/12/25 Attachment A COUNTY-WIDE PLANNING POLICIES The following County-Wide Planning Policies were developed and adopted by Franklin County in coordination with the cities within Franklin County Cities to establish a framework to ensure that county and city comprehensive plans are consistent with one another as required by the Growth Management Act. I. Policies to Implement RCW 36.70A.020 1. The Comprehensive Plans of Franklin County and each of its cities therein shall be prepared and adopted with the objective to facilitate economic prosperity by accommodating growth consistent with the following: A. Urban Growth: Encourage development in urban areas where adequate public facilities exist or can be provided in a cost efficient manner. B. Reduce Sprawl: Reduce the inappropriate conversion of undeveloped land into sprawling, low-density development. C. Transportation: Encourage efficient multi-modal transportation systems that may reduce greenhouse gas emissions and per capita vehicle miles traveled, and are based on regional priorities and coordinated with the comprehensive plans of Franklin County, the Cities of Pasco, Mesa, Connell and Kahlotus, the Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT), and the Benton-Franklin Council of Governments. D. Housing: Encourage the availability of affordablePlan for and accommodate housing affordable to all economic segments of the Franklin County population and promote a variety of residential densities and housing types, and encourage preservation of existing housing stock. E. Economic Development: Encourage economic development consistent with the adopted comprehensive plans. Promote economic opportunity for all residents of the county, especially for unemployed and for disadvantaged persons, promote the retention and expansion of existing businesses and recruitment of new businesses, recognize regional differences impacting economic development opportunities, and encourage growth in areas experiencing insufficient economic growth., all within the capacities of the county's natural resources, public services, and public facilities. F. Property Rights: Private property rights shall not be taken for public use without just compensation having been made. The property rights of landowners shall be protected from arbitrary and discriminatory actions. G. Permits: Applications for permits should be processed in a timely and fair manner to ensure predictability, and through a process which provides for integrated and consolidated review. H. Natural Resource Industries: Maintain and enhance natural resource based industries including: productive agriculture (cultivation and grazing), fisheries, and mineral industries. Encourage the conservation and improvement of productive agricultural lands and discourage incompatible uses. Commented [A1]: RCW 36.70A.020(1) does not say “cost” efficient. (1) Urban growth. Encourage development in urban areas where adequate public facilities and services exist or can be provided in an efficient manner. Commented [A2]: As modified by HB 1181 (2023) Commented [A3]: As modified by HB 1220 (2021) Commented [A4]: NOTE: This was left out of last adoption, but we are adding this as it is in RCW 36.70A.020. Commented [A5]: This word is “conservation” in the rcws. (8) Natural resource industries. Maintain and enhance natural resource-based industries, including productive timber, agricultural, and fisheries industries. Encourage the conservation of productive forestlands and productive agricultural lands, and discourage incompatible uses. DRAFT 6/12/25 I. Open Space and Recreation: Encourage the retention of Encourage the retention of useful open space and green space and enhance development of recreational opportunities, conserve enhance critical fish and wildlife habitat, increase public access to natural resource lands and water, and develop parks and recreation facilities. J. Environment: Protect and enhance the environment and enhance the region’s high quality of life, including air and water quality, and the availability of water for all uses, including potable domestic requirements. K. Citizen Participation and Coordination: Encourage the involvement of citizens and tribes in the planning process, including the participation of vulnerable populations and overburdened communities, and ensure coordination between communities, tribes, and jurisdictions to reconcile conflicts. L. Public Facilities and Services: Ensure that those public facilities and services necessary to support development shall be adequate to serve development at the time the development is available for occupancy and use without decreasing current service levels below locally established minimum standards. M. Historic Preservation: Identify and encourage the preservation of landlands, sites, and structures that have historical or archaeological significance. N. Climate change and resiliency. As determined to be appropriate by each jurisdiction consistent with the Growth Management Act, County and city comprehensive plans will include policies to adapt to and mitigate the effects of a changing climate; support reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and per capita vehicle miles traveled; prepare for climate impact scenarios; foster resiliency to climate impacts and natural hazards; protect and enhance environmental, economic, and human health and safety; and advance environmental justice. O. Shorelines of the State. Protect and enhance the shorelines of the state while planning for and fostering all reasonable and appropriate uses through coordinated planning efforts between the State, the County, and the cities within the County. II. Policies to Implement RCW 36.70A.110 relating to the establishment of Urban Growth Areas [RCW 36.70A.210(3)a] 1. Each city within Franklin County is included within a designated urban growth area (UGA). 2. Designated UGAs should include an amount of undeveloped area to adequately accommodate forecasted growth and development for the next 20 years. The size of the UGA should reflect the Comprehensive Plans of each municipality which identifies the amount of land needed to accommodate community and essential public facilities, housing, commercial and industrial activities, and enough land to prevent inflation of land costs due to market fluctuations and limited land supplies. Further, the size of UGAs should consider the provision of open space, locations for parks and recreation, and protection of Critical Areas as well as natural barriers to development. 3. Designated urban growth areas should include those portions of the county already characterized by urban growth and having existing public infrastructure, public facilities and service capacities to serve existing and future growth. Commented [A6]: As modified by HB 1181 (2023) Commented [A7]: As modified by HB 1181 (2023) Commented [A8]: As modified by HB 1181 (2023) Commented [A9]: As modified by HB 1181 (2023) Commented [A10]: RCW 36.70A.020(15) Shorelines of the state. For shorelines of the state, the goals and policies of the shoreline management act as set forth in RCW 90.58.020 shall be considered an element of the county's or city's comprehensive plan. HB 1181 (2023) DRAFT 6/12/25 4. Designated urban growth areas should include those areas that are within the recognized utility service areas of each city. 5. The size of urban growth areas will vary due to regional settings and should be adequate to promote-viable economic development strategies, promote choices in housing accommodations, and ensure adequate lands are available for associated open spaces and public purposes. 6. Population projections used for designating urban growth areas will be based upon information provided by the Office of Financial Management (OFM). Use of the “mid” series as provided by OFM is preferred, but the Counties and Cities may determine to use different estimates ("high" or low") based on coordination and mutual agreement. A period of twenty years is the typical planning period. 7. The County shall, in consultation with the Cities, propose a population allocation for the purposes of updating Comprehensive Plan documents, which considers , based upon the most recent ratio of population distribution as provided by the published OFM intercensal population estimates. The combined population figures for each municipality and the County must total the State's population forecast for Franklin County. The allocation shall be reconsidered during the periodic review required by RCW 36.70A.130. The County, in consultation with the Cities, may review growth projections and allocations between update cycles when circumstances have changed, (for example, actual growth rates or permitting varies from the predicted patterns, or when OFM provides a new set of projections for GMA planning). 8. Population projections used for designating urban growth areas will be based upon information provided by the Office of Financial Management (OFM). Use of the “mid” series as provided by OFM shall be used for Franklin County for the 2026 update cycle. A period of twenty years is the typical planning period. 8.9. Municipalities should limit the extension of water and sewer service to areas within each jurisdiction’s urban growth area. 9.10. Final development approval will continue to reside with the County for areas outside of City limits. 11. During the periodic update cycle, the County shall review its UGA, patterns of development, and densities. 12. Generally, applications for amendments or changes to the UGA may only be submitted by the County or a municipality within the County in even-numbered years prior to the deadline established for the year's docketing process (with intervals coinciding with the required periodic update of the comprehensive plan). When a city or the county proposes to alter a UGA, it is the responsibility of the proponent to provide confirmation (through studies, reports, and adopted plans) that all of the requirements above have been met, as well as provide a land capacity analysis (guided by WAC 365-196-325) , and SEPA documentation; except for net zero swaps, which must meet requirements and criteria in RCW 36.70A.130(3)(c) during the periodic update and RCW 36.70A.110(8) during an annual amendment. 10.13. Within Urban Growth Areas, urban uses shall be concentrated in and adjacent to existing urban services, or where they are shown on a Capital Improvement Plan. to be available within six years. Commented [A11]: Reviewing patterns of development is a new requirement enacted by ESSB 5593 which amended RCW 36.70A.130. Commented [A12]: ESSB 5593 (2022) amended RCW 36.70A.130 which authorizes net zero swaps during the periodic update, and contains criteria and requirements. SSB 5834 (2024) amended RCW 36.70A.110 which authorizes net zero swaps during an annual review, and contains criteria and requirements. DRAFT 6/12/25 14. The extension of a UGA into an area of Agricultural Lands of Long-Term Commercial Significance (or any Resource lands) is not allowed. Lands with no existing commercial agriculture use or production should be considered for UGA expansion prior to the addition of lands with existing commercial agriculture. However, the availability of water rights may also factor into the selection of lands to be included into UGAs, and the availability of water rights shall be factored in for consideration of approval. 11.15. Legal and physical availability of water must be considered when including lands into the UGAs. 12.16. When requesting UGA expansions, Cities shall demonstrate the ability for in-fill development to occur in existing low-density areas within the City's UGA to avoid leap-frog development patterns. 13.17. All policies within each jurisdiction's and Franklin County’s Comprehensive Plans shall be modified to be consistent with adopted Countywide Policies. III. Policies for promotion of contiguous and orderly development and the provision of urban services to such development [RCW 36.70A.210 (3)b] 14.18. Joint county/city standards shall be established for development within each individual urban growth boundary, but beyond corporate limits of cities. It is in the public interest that joint standards be developed to preclude the creation of development patterns without municipal utilities and substandard infrastructure and property division that would burden the public with unnecessary costs to correct or compromise the ability of the UGA to accommodate the municipality’s 20-year population forecast. These standards should include: A. Street locations, both major and secondary; B. Street right-of-way widths; C. Street improvement widths; D. Street improvement standards; E. Lots and blocks including special lot reservation system when public sewer concurrency cannot be provided; F. Curbs and gutters; G. Sidewalks for secondary streets; H. Road construction standards; I. Cul-de-sac, location and dimensions; J. Storm drainage facilities, quantity, quality, and discharge locations; K. Street lights, conduit, fixtures, locations; L. Sewer, septic regulations, private sewer, dry sewer facilities; M. Water, pipe sizes, locations, fire flows, uniform codes; N. All building requirements; O. Subdivision and platting requirements including density, parks, and open space; P. Collection and use of development impact fees as appropriate; Q. Residential design standardsMobile home and manufactured home regulations as appropriate; R. Zoning standards; DRAFT 6/12/25 15.19. The availability of the full range of urban governmental services will be subject to the annexation policies of the adjacent municipality. 20. The timing of utility extensions into the urban growth area should be consistent with the adopted comprehensive plan and capital facilities plan of the adjacent municipality. 21. Proposed annexations should not leave isolated “islands” of roadways or parcels left to be served by the County. Annexations should follow RCW 35.02.170 to avoid road “splitting.” 22. Proposed annexations, where reasonable, should attempt to avoid splitting parcels where ownership will lie in joint jurisdiction of both the County and the City. 23. Existing water rights should be incorporated or transferred into the city’s municipal rights whenever annexation takes place or when water will be supplied by the municipality in order to avoid relinquishment of water and/or lack of supply in the future. 16.24. The County and Cities should execute interlocal agreements to coordinate plans for and manage growth in urban growth areas. Interlocal agreements shall acknowledge and implement the Countywide Planning Policies. IV. Policies for siting public facilities of a county-wide or state-wide nature, including transportation facilities of a statewide significance as defined in RCW 47.06.140 [RCW 36.70A.210(3)c] 17.25. When an appropriate issue arises, the County and Cities within, along with participation from the public, shall cooperate in a process to site essential public facilities of regional and statewide importance. The objective of the process shall be to ensure that such facilities are located so as to protect environmental quality, optimize access and usefulness to all jurisdictions, and equitably distribute economic benefits/burdens throughout the region or county. 26. No local comprehensive plan or development regulations will preclude the siting of essential public facilities, but standards may be generated to ensure that reasonable compatibility with other land uses can be achieved. 27. Essential public facilities that require urban levels of public services (e.g., public sewer) or generate urban levels of traffic and employment should be located where urban services are available consistent with the comprehensive plan. 28. Essential public facilities should not be located in Resource Lands; essential public facilities should avoid critical areas unless no other practical location exists. 29. Essential Public Facilities should be sited to allow for adequate levels of support services such as law enforcement, emergency response services, hospitals, etc. depending on the type of facility. 18.30. The County and Cities are encouraged to establish areas and criterion for siting of essential public facilities before proposals are submitted. V. Policies for county-wide transportation facilities and strategies [RCW 36.70A.210(3)d] 19.31. Maintain active county-city participation in the Benton Franklin Council of Governments in order to facilitate city, county, and state coordination in planning regional transportation Commented [A13]: Cities can get a fixed amount of water when a exempt well is decommissioned and no longer in use without going through an elaborate process per RCW. Adding this water stretches the municipal supply into the future. Any water right can be transferred through the transfer process and changed for municipal supply, or kept as its original purpose, but again would keep the cities from being water short into the future. DRAFT 6/12/25 facilities and infrastructure improvements to serve essential public facilities including Port District facilities and properties. 20.32. Comprehensive plans shall include, where applicable, the master plans of identified major transportation facilities such as airports, railroads, major freight terminals, and public transit and policies to ensure that they are reasonably accommodated and compatible with future surrounding land uses, in order to ensure the protection of regional transportation assets. 21.33. Where the level of service (LOS) for a locally owned transportation facility adopted in a county or city comprehensive plan cannot be maintained as a result of proposed new development, that development shall be denied, unless transportation improvements or strategies to accommodate the impacts of development are made concurrent with the development. VI. Policies that consider the need for affordable housing for all economic segments of the population and parameters for its distribution [RCW 36.70A.210(3)e] 22.34. The housing element of each comprehensive plan shall: A. Address the manner and the extent that demand from all segments of the housing market will be met. B. Assess Identify sufficient capacity of the ability to provide sufficient land, infrastructure and services to for a healthy mix of home types, sizes, and prices with ownership opportunities for the widest possible range of incomes, each housing segment including but not limited to, government assisted housing for low income families, manufactured housing, multi-family housing, migrant agricultural worker housing, and group homes, foster care facilities, emergency housing, emergency shelters, and permanent supportive housing and other supportive housing types. All segments of the housing market must be accommodated in appropriate numbers for the 20 year planning window. . 35. Individual County and city comprehensive plans should encourage regeneration of existing housing inventories with methods such as: 1) Permitting accessory dwellings or the division of existing structures when adequate infrastructure exists; 2) Methods of protecting the inventory of manufactured home parks to avoid displacement; 3) Sponsoring housing rehabilitation programs offered by state and federal governments. 23. To the extent possible each plan should promote the construction of affordable housing, particularly for low and moderate income segments of the population. DRAFT 6/12/25 24.36. Consideration should be given to the provision of diversity in housing types to accommodate elderly, physically challenged, mentally impaired, and the special needs of the population, i.e. congregate care facilities. 25.37. Comprehensive plans shall consider the effects of public improvement development costs on housing, including impact fees. Allowance for exemption from impact fees for projects, which enhance housing for low and moderate income householders, should be considered. 26.38. Each community shallis encouraged to provide its fair share of housing affordable to low and moderate income households by promoting a balanced mix of diverse housing types. 27.39. Consideration should be given to implementing innovative regulatory strategies, which provide incentives for developers to provide housing affordable to low and moderate income households in order to avoid socioeconomic segregation. VII. Policies for joint county and city planning within urban growth areas [RCW 36.70A.210(3)f] 28.40. City and county planning efforts will be coordinated within urban growth areas. 41. County and City Plans should be consistent in order to allow for orderly expansion within the UGAs. 42. The county and each city shall jointly develop and implement development, land division and building standards, and coordinate permit procedures for the review and permitting of new subdivisions within Urban Growth Areas. VIII. Policies for county-wide economic development and employment [RCW 36.70A.210(3)g] 43. The comprehensive plan of the county and each city shall promote employment and economic opportunity for all citizensconsistent with the current Benton-Franklin Council of Governments Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). 29.44. Consideration should be given to diversification of the economic base to provide opportunities for economic growth in all communities on a county-wide basis to ensure a healthy, stable, economic base. 30.45. The County and all municipalities will participate in creating a County-wide economic strategy. 46. The provision of utilities and other supporting urban governmental services to commercial and industrial areas should be coordinated and assigned a high priority by utility purveyors and service providers. 31.47. In order to attract new industry and provide for expansion of existing industries, the County and the cities will designate land supply of sufficient size and diversity to provide a range of suitable locations for industrial and commercial development and their buffers. The designation of this land shall be established in a way that preserves natural resource based industries and critical areas. IX. Policies for the analysis of fiscal impacts [RCW 36.70A.210(3)h] 32.48. Construction design and placement standards for roads, intersections and streets (with provisions for storm water conveyance), sewer, water and lighting infrastructure, should be determined based upon an analysis which identifies the most appropriate public expenditure over extended periods of time. Utilities should be incorporated into such analysis. Commented [A14]: 2022 law change: (g) Policies for county- wide economic development and employment, which must include consideration of the future development of commercial and industrial facilities; DRAFT 6/12/25 33.49. If communities consider the imposition of impact fees, said fees should be established on the basis of identifiable development impacts. 34.50. Capital Improvement Plans and Land Use Plans shall include fiscal analyses which identify the most cost effective uses of regional and local public services. 51. Support the development of public schools in areas where utilities are present or can be extended, is financially supportable at urban densities, where the extension of public infrastructure will protect health and safety, and the school locations are consistent with the analysis recommended by WAC 365-196-425(3)(bc) as existed on the date of adoption of this document. 52. It is recognized that if the Growth Management Act and these policies are implemented to their maximum extent, County government may eventually lose the tax base needed to operate essential services, including the criminal justice function and the Offices of Treasurer, Assessor, and Auditor, which serve all jurisdictions in the area. The County and cities shall coordinate on essential services as needed to address the region’s needs. X. Policies for Participation 53. A federally recognized Indian tribe may voluntarily choose to participate in the county or regional planning process and coordinate with the county and cities, as set out in RCW 36.70.040 and RCW 36.70A.110 and RCW 26.70A.210. 54. All jurisdictions will establish procedures to ensure early and continuous participation by the public and plan for and coordinate with other agencies and districts, such as ports, schools, energy providers, etc. in the development and amendment of plans and implementation programs. Commented [A15]: HB 1717 (2022) DRAFT FRANKLIN COUNTY RESOLUTION ____________________ BEFORE THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF FRANKLIN COUNTY, WASHINGTON Adoption of the revised County-Wide Planning Policies in support of the County’s Periodic Update to the Comprehensive Plan IN THE MATTER OF COUNTY PLANNING – COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING WHEREAS, Franklin County is a “fully planning” county within the context of the State of Washington Growth Management Act (GMA) and a “periodic” review and update of the comprehensive plan is required pursuant to RCW 36.70A.130; and WHEREAS, the last Franklin County Growth Management Comprehensive Plan was adopted DATE via Resolution XXXX-XXX; and WHEREAS, Franklin County is in the process of adopting updates to its Comprehensive Plan and Development Regulations, as part of the periodic update process, and the update commenced on April 30, 2025 with the passage of Resolution 2025-106; WHEREAS, pursuant to RCW 36.70A.210(3), the GMA requires that Counties adopt County-Wide Planning Policies (CWPPs) in coordination with cities located within the County’s boundaries, to guide growth, investments, and outline processes and procedures related to growth management items; and WHEREAS, the Franklin County-Wide Planning Policies were first adopted in 1993 (Res. 93-015) and then updated in 2019 (Res. XXXX-XXX); and WHEREAS, add info about notice to tribes; and WHEREAS, County Staff and Consultant circulated a draft set of revised CWPPs in Date, including proposed amendments for conformance to the GMA; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a workshop on the matter on XXX; and WHEREAS, staff received suggestions and comments on the revised CWPPs from the public; and WHEREAS, changes were made in response to comments, and comments and the County staff’s response was recorded in a response matrix; and WHEREAS, on XXX the Planning Commission met and preliminarily recommended approval for a second revised version of the CWPPs; and WHEREAS, on staff from the Cities of Pasco, Mesa, Connell and Kahlotus were involved…continued; and WHEREAS, the County received additional feedback from AGENCIES and made additional changes to the document; and WHEREAS, on XXX, the Planning Commission held a public hearing on a draft of the proposed CWPPs and voted to forward the Franklin County Board of Commissions a positive recommendation, to adopt the CWPPs as revised; and WHEREAS, the County finds it in the public interest to update the policies; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the County-Wide Planning Polices be updated as shown in Attachment A; and BE IT ALSO RESOLVED, that the CWPPs shall be used by Franklin County, the City of Pasco, the City of Connell, the City of Kahlotus and the City of Mesa, in development or revisions to their Comprehensive Plans; and APPROVED THIS XX DAY OF DATE, YEAR. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS FRANKLIN COUNTY, WASHINGTON ______________________________________ Chair ______________________________________ Chair Pro-Tem Attest:_______________________ ______________________________________ Clerk of the Board Member REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION City Hall – 525 North Third Avenue 1 To: Planning Commission From: Haylie Miller, Community and Economic Development Director Subject: 2046 Comprehensive Plan – Public Engagement Plan Introduction Staff is implementing the Public Engagement Plan to support the City’s Comprehensive Plan Update, scheduled for adoption in fall 2026. The plan focuses on inclusive participation throughout the process, with an emphasis on reaching underrepresented populations. Recommendation Staff would appreciate any questions, input, or suggestions you may have on the plan or outreach strategy. Discussion Key elements of the engagement strategy include: • Language Equity: Materials and meetings will be available in both English and Spanish, with a target of at least 25% of engagement responses coming from Spanish-speaking residents. • Inclusive Outreach: Engagement will include a wide range of stakeholder groups, such as seniors, youth, business owners, service providers, non-city agencies, and housing industry representatives. • Community Education: We aim to build public understanding around what a Comprehensive Plan is, how it impacts day-to-day life in Pasco, and the City’s responsibilities under the Growth Management Act. • Phased Approach: o Phase 1 – Education & Awareness (May–Sept 2025): Outreach through existing events and partnerships (e.g., Farmers Market tabling, stakeholder meetings, bilingual radio ads). o Phase 2 – Survey & Visioning (Oct 2025–Jan 2026): Topic-based surveys and community visioning workshops, both in-person and virtual. o Phase 3 – Feedback & Refinement (Feb–June 2026): Public comment period on draft plan elements, hybrid open house events, and continued engagement. o Phase 4 – Review & Adoption (June–Nov 2026): Final review, plan refinement, and presentation to Council for adoption. A project landing page will serve as the central hub for information, surveys, and draft documents. Marketing will utilize flyers, signage, social media, and partner distribution channels to drive participation. Attachments: A Public Engagement Plan – Pasco Comprehensive Plan July 7, 2025 City of Pasco COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE PUBLIC PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT ENGAGEMENT PLANPLAN 2 3Pasco Comprehensive Plan Update Draft Public Engagement Plan Engagement Goals A successful public engagement effort can mean many things. Overall, the hope is to engage with as many people as possible, but specifically we aim to engage with those whose voices are typically left out of the conversation and to hear from a sample that represents the diverse demographics of the City. Further, this breadth should be supplemented by depth, with opportunities for meaningful conversations with stakeholders representing a variety of perspectives. Three key goals for this process include: Engage with a comparable number of English and Spanish Speakers Over half of Pasco residents speak Spanish. Engaging a representative sample of the population will thus mean that approximately half of responses should be in Spanish or from Spanish speakers. This will entail not only translating materials into Spanish and offering meetings in Spanish, but also ensuring that marketing efforts reach and attract Spanish speakers. Engage with a wide variety of stakeholder groups and non-city agencies Receiving feedback from a wide variety of stakeholder groups will help to ensure that the updated Comprehensive Plan includes the diverse perspectives of Pasco residents. Tapping into groups who meet regularly, host events, and/or have communication networks can also help with marketing engagement opportunities. The stakeholder list on page 15 lists groups and entities representing a variety of positions and interests who shall be engaged during this process. Achieve a Broad Understanding of the Comprehensive Planning Process Understanding the requirements and outcomes of the City's Comprehensive Plan will help residents and other stakeholders provide meaningful and informed feedback. If residents understand that there are targets for housing and jobs that the City must meet, it will be a successful indication that educational materials were widely disseminated and understood. Overview The City of Pasco is undergoing a major update to its Comprehensive Plan, scheduled for adoption in fall 2026. These updates will guide where and how new growth shapes Pasco over the next 20 years, impacting the city’s transportation system, its parks and neighborhoods, utilities, and more. It is important that Pasco residents are able to participate and provide feedback throughout the process, that the final plan reflects their collective needs and goals. Engaging with the public is also an opportunity to provide education on the Comprehensive Planning process and build community trust and investment in the final product. The Washington State Growth Management Act (GMA) mandates public participation throughout the planning process, starting with a Public Participation Program that outlines a plan for achieving this. This Program outlines where and when residents and other stakeholders will have opportunities to provide input, and strategies the project team will use to ensure accessible avenues for engagement that invite feedback from a wide swath of residents. The process is framed as three phases focusing on educating the public about the planning process, collaborating on a shared vision for Pasco’s future, and refining plan deliverables based on continued feedback from the public and elected officials. Framework worked with Pasco on their Downtown Master Plan, adopted 2023. Pictured right, a public engagement workshop asks attendees to weigh in on Lewis Street. 4 5Pasco Comprehensive Plan Update Draft Public Engagement Plan Stakeholder Groups The term stakeholder is outdated, but is used to describe people who have an interest in the results of a planning process. For a Comprehensive Plan, everyone is a stakeholder; everyone in Pasco will be impacted by decisions related to housing, transportation, parks, economic development, and public services. The use of the term stakeholder may be used to describe those who will be most directly impacted by plan outcomes, those with investments in local assets, and those who have historically been left out of public participation processes. The table on page 15 is an inexhaustive list of stakeholder groups that the City plans to engage with as part of the Comprehensive Plan Update. Stakeholders include: • All Pasco residents • Spanish speakers • Low-income residents • People involved in housing production • Service providers • Non-City agencies • Business owners • Seniors • Students Tracking Engagement Success Successful engagement is difficult to measure. Overall, the goal is to reach as many residents and stakeholders as possible and provide them with an opportunity to provide input to inform a plan the represents their vision for the future. To gauge project success in a more quantitative way, we have outlined the following measures: Engagement Strategies The below strategies summarize a few key strategies for achieving the goals on the previous page. Meet People Where They Are It’s unrealistic to expect that a broad swath of residents–who have jobs, children, and other obligations–will be willing and able to take time out of their schedules to attend public meetings. This plan thus identifies opportunities to attend existing meetings and events so people can be informed and provide feedback without having to take additional time out of their lives. Further, this plan prioritizes online engagement, which has the best chance of engaging a significant portion of Pasco’s population Some opportunities to “meet people where they are”: • Table at Farmers Market • Attend meetings of local boards and commissions • Host meetings online so people can attend from home Broad + Creative Marketing To get people to respond to surveys, attend events, and read educational materials, we need to get them to click a link and visit the project landing page. The strategies below are aimed at catching the attention of a broad swatch of the population. • Use of radio and social media platforms to efficiently get the word out about the Comprehensive Planning process and direct people to opportunities to provide feedback. • Bespoke activities that prompt fun and thoughtful feedback. • Work with partners to utilize their marketing channels. Engage People in Multiple Languages Pasco residents speak English, Spanish, Russian, and other languages at home. Providing materials and meetings in multiple languages will help to encourage participation from a demographic sample that represents the people of Pasco. Goal Tracking 25% or more of engagement responses in Spanish • # of survey responses • # attendees at Visioning Meetings Engagement with a variety of Stakeholder Groups • # of distinct stakeholder groups engaged • # of underrepresented groups engaged Achieve broad understanding of the Comprehensive Planning Process # of clicks on QR codes represents 10% of the population size 6 7Pasco Comprehensive Plan Update Draft Public Engagement Plan Engagement Phasing and Schedule The following pages outline a phased approach to providing education and opportunities for feedback on Pasco's Comprehensive Plan Update. The phases are as follows: • Education & Awareness • Survey & Visioning • Feedback & Refinement • Review & Adoption 8 9Pasco Comprehensive Plan Update Draft Public Engagement Plan Phase 1: Education & Awareness May - September 2025 This phase of the plan focuses on getting the word out about the Comprehensive Planning process to as many people as possible, and building relationships with stakeholder groups such as non-city agencies and community organizations. During this phase, we will educate people on Pasco's planning context, helping to build understanding of Comprehensive Planning deliverables and requirements for meeting state mandates. Activities during this phase are meant to be fun, draw people in, and build an awareness of the project branding and timeline. Some activities focus on kids, knowing that in addition to their own wisdom, they bring with them parents who can weigh in and get involved. Overview: • Develop marketing materials including educational content and branded materials. • Build awareness around the Comprehensive Plan Update schedule, deliverables, and opportunities for feedback. • Educate the public about what a Comprehensive Plan is, how this planning cycle is impacted by State Legislation, and the City’s responsibility for meeting housing targets. • Establish connections with stakeholder groups. Deliverables: • Project landing page: As an efficient and cost effective method for creating an information hub for the project, this plan will use a simple landing page to direct residents to online surveys, educational resources, and draft documents for review. This is a web format that many are familiar with, and will allow residents and other stakeholders to easily access opportunities to provide feedback. • Comp Planning 101: Project schedule, information about Comp Planning, housing targets, and other information displayed graphically for use in presentations and on project landing page. • Marketing Materials: Branded materials will direct people to the landing page, These may include fliers, yard signs, bar coasters, stickers, and other items that can be widely disseminated throughout the City. Events • Presentation to City Council: City staff and consultant will present to City Council to brief them and receive guidance on planning context, project schedule, public engagement strategies, and overall planning goals and direction. • Table at Farmers Market: Staff will bring educational posters, project logo stickers, and a mapping activity that asks people to identify challenges and opportunities in Pasco. • Stakeholder Meetings: Staff will meet with non-City agencies and attend meetings with community groups to establish connections, notify them about project timelines, and solicit early feedback. • Quarterly ad: Ads in English and Spanish will run on Apple Valley and Townsquare radio stations, announcing the Comprehensive Plan and directing people to the landing page. Activities • "Hidden Gems": This activity starts to get people thinking about places that make Pasco what it is. Participants mark on a map to show their favorite spots around town. This can be done in person at events as well as online. The resulting map can be a source of information for the project team, who may learn about additional locations for public engagement. It will also be rendered into an illustrative graphic that can be used in further engagement activities and used in the final plan document. Me m o r i a l P a r k 1. Franklin County Courthouse 2. Volunteer Park & Baldwin Locomotive 3. Pasco City Hall 4. Franklin County Historical Museum 5. Peanut Park / Pasco Farmer Market 6. Pasco Post Office 7. Specialty Kitchen 8. Empire Theater DOWNTOWN PASCO VISIONARY MAP WELCOME TO PASCO, COME TO THE DOWNTOWN: Experience a blossoming of arts & cultural activities Explore the district showcasing history Enjoy the stunning natural beauty of eastern Washington via the new connections to the Columbia River Easy trip to additonal City destinations close to Downtown (12-15) 9. Ed Hendler Bridge 10. Lewis Street Overpass 11. Amtrak Pasco Station 12. Port of Pasco 13. Sacajawea Historical State Park 14. Mid-Columbia Libraries - Pasco Branch 15. Edgar Brown Stadium N 4T H A VEN 5T H AVE N 3R D AVEW SYLVESTER ST W SHOSHONE ST W BONNEVILLE ST W CLARK ST W LEWIS ST W COLUMBIA STS 1 0 T H A V E W W A S H I N G T O N S T C O L U M B I A R I V E R W A I N S W O R T H S T W B ST W A ST COME TO DOWNTOWN COME TO DOWNTOWN COME TO DOWNTOWN DOWNTOWN COREWELCOME TO PASCO CIVIL & HISTORIC DISTRICT CONNECT TO THE RIVER SACAGAWEA HERITAGE TRAIL Volu n t e e r P a r k Sylv e s t e r P a r k Mercie r P a r k Cable Brid g e P a r k R i v e r v i e w P a r k Wayside P a r k 1 2 3 4 6 5 78 12 13 10 11 9 14 15 Graphic from Downtown Master Plan showing current and potential future features in Pasco's Downtown 10 11Pasco Comprehensive Plan Update Draft Public Engagement Plan Marketing Materials Throughout the planning process, residents and other stakeholders will need a way to stay informed about proposed plan updates and opportunities to provide feedback. Given limited project resources, this Program's proposed strategy is the use of a Link Tree or Bitly site to serve as the project landing page. These platforms act as low-cost landing pages that require little design, yet provide an easy and familiar user experience. The graphic below shows how materials distributed throughout the City will direct back to a landing page where residents can stay up-to-date on project deliverables and opportunities for feedback. Phase 2: Survey & Visioning October 2025 - January 2026 During this phase, residents and other stakeholders will begin to give more formal input on plan elements. Topic-specific surveys will prompt them to report on conditions related to housing, transportation, and parks, and engagement activities will be more focused on gathering information about challenges and opportunities. Visioning workshops will bring residents and stakeholders together to have conversations about the future of the City, resulting in a Vision Statement to guide the plan. Overview: • Hear from a wide swatch of residents through topic-specific surveys that will inform the development of plan element updates. • Create a vision statement through a collaborative community process. • Attend community events to spread information and collect feedback. • Work with stakeholders to shape plan elements and to disseminate information about surveys, meetings, and events. Deliverables: • Topic-Specific Surveys: Surveys may focus on transportation, housing, and neighborhoods such as Riverview and Downtown. • Vision Statement: Community Visioning Meetings will result in a paragraph that frames the goals of the planning process and creates an image of Pasco 20 years from now. This statement will be accompanied by an illustrative graphic that can be used during later public engagement activities as well as in the plan document. • Visioning Workshop Summary: Document providing a summary of feedback gathered during online Visioning Workshops, including a vision statement and illustrative graphic depicting it. 12 13Pasco Comprehensive Plan Update Draft Public Engagement Plan Events + Activities: • Visioning Workshops: Hybrid meetings held in English and in Spanish will bring members of the public together to talk about what they envision for the next 20 years in Pasco. Meetings will start with a presentation, including live polling questions that can be answered in-person and online. • Presentations at Stakeholder Meetings: City staff will meet with stakeholders to provide education about the Comprehensive Planning context and schedule, solicit feedback and direction, and establish a pathway for ongoing feedback on project deliverables. • Presentations to City Council and the Planning Commission to report back on Visioning Meetings and solicit guidance for Plan Elements. • Other Events: City Staff will attend additional events, such as the Fiery Foods Festival and farmers markets to advertise the survey and Visioning Workshops. 16 | Buckley Comprehensive Plan 2044 Vision & Community Layout Introduction The Comprehensive Plan is the City’s framework for the future. It is the plan that directs the future our residents want. This plan identifies strategies to make the best possible town that we can make. Through this plan we assert that our City’s residents aren’t just numbers – we are family and friends. Community Vision The City is committed to ensuring that the components that contribute to its quality of life including affordable housing, a healthy natural environ- ment, good schools, efficient govern- ment, and excellent infrastructure are available for all residents and for future generations. Buckley residents want this city to become a more vibrant and attractive place to live, work, and play by finding a balance between support for economic devel- opment and population growth while retaining and protecting the City’s small-town charm and amazing enir- ronmental assets. Example Vision Statement with illustrative graphic Phase 3: Feedback & Refinement February - June 2026 Phase 3 invites the public to weigh in on drafts of plan elements using online tools like Konveio. At an online and in-person Open House, key aspects of Plan Element drafts are presented for feedback. Draft elements are posted online for public comment. Overview: • Gather feedback on plan elements from elected officials, stakeholder groups, and the general public. Deliverables: • Plan element drafts: Plan Elements will be made available for comment online and at a Community Open House. Events: • Presentation to City Council and the Planning Commission. • Community Open House: Following a public review period of draft Plan Elements, a Community Open House will serve as a venue for conversation and feedback on the drafts. Hybrid Meetings will provide • Cinco de Mayo: Staff will table at Cinco de Mayo with boards showing summaries of draft Plan Elements and an activity that invites the public to weigh in. Mapping activity invites Sultan residents to use legos to show their visions for parks, housing, and other elements. 14 15Pasco Comprehensive Plan Update Draft Public Engagement Plan Phase 4: Review and Adoption June - November 2026 During Phase 4, the project team incorporates feedback into an updated plan draft, which is presented to City Council for Adoption. Overview: • Present the final plan for adoption and show how feedback from engagement phases has been incorporated. Deliverables: • Final Plan: Feedback received online, at Open House, and from elected officials will be incorporated into an updated Comprehensive Plan document. • State Environmental Policy Action SEPA) Review, Noticing, and Public Comment Events: • Public Hearings with City Council and the Planning Commission. Stakeholder Group Stakeholders Non-City Agencies Port of Pasco Ben Franklin Transit Franklin PUD Pasco School District Housing Providers + Industry Homebuilders Association Tri-cities Housing Authority of the City of Pasco and Franklin County City Association of Realtors Community + Economic Development Groups Pasco Kennewick Rotary Club Pasco Chamber of Commerce Visit Tri-Cities Tri-Cities Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Colima-Pasco Friendship & Collaboration Association Service Providers Benton & Franklin Department of Human Services (BDDHS) Benton Franklin Community Action Connections Advocacy Groups Bike Tri-cities Columbia Ability Alliance Seniors First Avenue Center Youth + Students Columbia Basin College Pasco Boys & Girls Club Appendix: Stakeholder List Mural painted onto a building in Downtown business brings art and history to the area 16 17Pasco Comprehensive Plan Update Draft Public Engagement Plan Activity Description Partners/ Locations Date Send emails through partner marketing channels. By including messages about Pasco's Comprehensive Plan in emails sent by partner organizations, more residents and other stakeholders will have a chance to learn about and weigh in on the plan. The project team will provide materials to partners to include in their communications. Pasco School District Multiple Pasco Chamber of Commerce Columbia Basin College Tabling at Community Events City staff will bring activities meant to draw people in and solicit feedback. Consultant will prepare materials. Farmers Market Aug & Sep 2025; May & Apr 2026 Fiery Foods Festival Sep 2025 Cinco de Mayo May 2026 Attending stakeholder meetings City staff will attend meetings held by stakeholder groups in order to form relationships, share the schedule and key themes for the Comprehensive Plan, and let them know about opportunities to provide feedback. Ben Franklin Transit Multiple Pasco Kennewick Rotary Club Pasco Chamber of Commerce Appendix: Activity Plan Appendix: Logo + Branding Primary Colors: Secondary Colors: The logo and colors depicted below are meant to create a brand that will allow residents and other stakeholders to recognize when surveys, ads, or other materials they are seeing are related to the Comprehensive Plan. The branding is meant to be optimistic, depicting the bright future of Pasco while maintaining an official presence. Colors were chosen to play off of the Downtown Master Plan and Farmers Market branding.