The URL can be used to link to this page

Home My WebLink About10/09/2012 PACKET(DRAFT) AGENDA Special Meeting - Bremerton Planning Commission (Subject to PC approval) October9, 2012 5:30 P.M. th 345–6Street Meeting Chamber –First Floor I.CALL TO ORDER II.ROLL CALL (quorum present) III.APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA IVAPPROVAL OF MINUTES: September 18, 2012Regular meeting. o V.PUBLIC MEETING A. Call to the Public: Public comments on any item not on tonight’s agenda B.Public Hearing 1. 2012 Annual Comprehensive Plan Amendment Docket a. Land use designation changeof three parcels located at Burwell Street and Warren Avenue b. Revisions to the Bay Vista Subarea Plan VI.BUSINESS MEETING A. Chair Report: Chairman Jose B. Director Report: AndreaSpencer C.Old Business: D.New Business VII.ADJOURNMENT: The November2012regular meeting of the Planning Commissionhas been cancelled. The Commission will hold a special meeting on: November13,2012 Planning Commission meeting packets are available on-line at www.ci.bremerton.wa.us DRAFT Subject to October 9, 2012Approval CITY OF BREMERTON PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES OF REGULARMEETING September 18,2012 CALL TO ORDER: Chair Josecalled the regular meeting of the Bremerton Planning Commission to order at 5:31p.m. ROLL CALL Commissioners PresentStaff Present Chair JoseAndrea Spencer,Director,Department of Community Development Commissioner Albright(arrived at 5:37)Allison Daniels,Current Planner, Department of Community Development Commissioner HoellDoug McIntyre, Long Range Planner, Department of Community Development Commissioner Lambert Commissioner Tift Commissioners Absent Vice Chair Cockburn Quorum Certified APPROVAL OF AGENDA COMMISSIONER TIFT MOVED TO APPROVE THE AGENDA AS PRESENTED. COMMISSIONER HOELL SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. APPROVAL OF MINUTES COMMISSIONER LAMBERT MOVED TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF JULY 17, 2012 AS PRESENTED. COMMISSIONER TIFT SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. PUBLIC MEETING Call to the Public (public comments on any item not on the agenda) Chair Jose asked if there were any comments from citizens. Seeing none, he closed the publicportion of the meeting. Commissioner Albright arrived at the meeting at 5:37 p.m. Workshop: 2012 Annual Comprehensive Plan Amendment Docket th Mr. McIntyre to introduce the 2012 annual Comprehensive Plan reviewed that an informal workshop was held on July 17 Amendment Docket to the Commission. The purpose of this workshop is to discuss the two proposed amendments in greater detail. He reminded the Commission of the process for reviewing Comprehensive Plan amendments and described the tentative schedule for reviewing the proposed amendments. He announced that the Commission’s regular meeting of th was cancelled. Instead, the Commission would conduct a public hearing on the proposed amendments at a October 16 th special meeting on October 9.The City Council is tentatively scheduled to conduct a workshop on the proposed thth amendments on November28, with a public hearing and final action scheduled for December 5. A.Land Use Designation Change of Three Parcels Located at Burwell Street and Warren Avenue Mr. McIntyre explained that this proposed amendment is to change the land-use designation for three parcels located at the corner of Burwell Street and Warren Avenue, just outside the Downtown Regional Center Subarea. The parcels are owned by Diamond Parking and are currently occupied by vacant multifamily residential units. The intent of the amendment is to move the three parcels into the Downtown Regional Center Subarea, making them eligible for a rezone to the Warren Avenue Corridor (WC) Zone. The parcels are currently zoned R-10 (low-density residential). The Comprehensive Plan Land Use Map identifies the parcels as low-density residential, as well. Mr. McIntyre reviewed how the proposed amendment would meet the decision criteria outlined in Bremerton Municipal Code (BMC) 20.10.080 as follows: The amendment must be consistent with the Growth Management Act (GMA).Mr. McIntyre said the amendment is consistent with the GMA by being consistent with the goals and policies of the Comprehensive Plan, which was created to achieve the goals of the GMA. The amendment must be consistent with the Comprehensive Plan or other goals or policies of the City. Mr. McIntyre said the amendment is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan by furthering the Centers Concept, which is the central theme of the Comprehensive Plan. The amendment is consistent with many policies found in the land use and community character elements of the Comprehensive Plan. Also, the amendment would not change the intent or purpose of the Comprehensive Plan, and there would be no negative effect from the proposal. If the amendment was reviewed but not adopted as a part of a previous proposal, circumstances related to the proposed amendment must have significantly changed or the needs of the City must have changed to support the amendment. Mr. McIntyre noted that because the amendment is a new proposal, this criterion would not be applicable. The amendment must be compatible with existing or planned land uses and the surrounding development pattern. Mr. McIntyre advised that the amendment is compatible with existing land uses and the surrounding development pattern as it was studied in the development of the Downtown Regional Center Subarea Plan prior to adoption. The amendment must not adversely affect the City’s ability to provide urban services at the planned level of service and it must bear a reasonable relationship to benefiting the public health, safety and welfare.Mr. McIntyre said the amendment would not adversely affect the City’s ability to provide urban services because the parcels are already part of the existing urban framework characterizing the Downtown Regional Center Subarea. This is a textbook urban infill project, with an underutilized piece of property being envisioned for more density and enhancement of the pedestrian environment. Mr. McIntyre summarized that staff generally supports the proposal as it meets the five criteria outlined in BMC 20.10.080. th Mr. McIntyre recalled that at the July 17workshop, the Commission raised a concern about the cascading affect this decision would have on future decisions for properties located further down Burwell Street to the west. He pointed out that the three parcels are bordered on the east and west sidesby two parking lots, which are 20 spaces or more. Staff does not believethe amendment, if adopted, would have a negative effect on the mixture of residential uses (multi-family, duplex, single-family) further to the west on Burwell Street. He remindedthe Commission that the intent of the zone is to have development that transitions from the higher density located in the core of the downtown to the less intense uses as you get further out. He also emphasized that design and site plan review would be required as part of the application process to ensure the end product is high quality and does not allow higher intensities that negatively affect lower-intensity residential uses. Commissioner Hoell expressed concern about the subject properties becoming part of the WC Zone when most of them are Mr. McIntyre located on Burwell Street and not Warren Avenue. said the WC Zone is envisioned as a medium-density commercial area with a mixture of uses. Allowing more of the parcels west of Warren Avenue to be included in the subarea DRAFT Bremerton Planning Commission Minutes 27 September 18, 2012 ~ Page of would enable developers to construct a product that achieves the intent of the zoning. Through the design review process, the City can require that any future development proposal must mitigate potential impacts to the residential development that is located further west onBurwellStreetand ensure that the development is oriented toward Warren Avenue. Commissioner Tift Mr. asked if the parcel to the east of the subject properties is also owned by Diamond Parking. McIntyre answered affirmatively. He said it is currently developed as a parking lot. If the proposed amendment is Commissioner Tift approved, the four parcels would be the subject of a project application. pointed out that “choke point” on Burwell Street becomes congested during the morning and eveningcommute times, and this could make ingress and egress to the subject properties difficult. He asked if a traffic study would be required as part of any future development Mr. McIntyre proposal. said that the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) and land use review processes would consider trip generation and traffic impacts. He said it is important to keep in mind that the proposed amendment would help achieve a more pedestrian-friendly environment, which could lesson some of thevehicular impact. Ron Easterday, Rice Fergus Miller, Inc., Applicant’s Agent, pointed out that the parking areas located to the east and west of the subject properties would be removed as part of any future redevelopment project. He suggested that this could help Commissioner Tift reduce traffic, as well. said he does not believe the parking lot traffic contributes significantly to the overall congestion at the intersection. The most significant congestion is a result of ferry, bus andcommuter traffic. Mr. McIntyre reminded the Commission that fulfilling the intent of the WC Zone is a huge benefit of the proposed amendment. The current zoning, which is just one parcel deep off of Warren Avenue, is prohibitive in fulfilling the intent of the zone that was created in 2007 after a lengthy public process. Commissioner Tift asked if four parcels west on Burwell Street would become the new anchor point for change to also Mr. McIntyre occur on streets located to the north and south. said staff cannot speculate about whether this expansion will Commissioner Tift occur in the future. Each proposal will be considered on a case-by-case basis. agreed with staff that having the WC Zone just one parcel deep on the west side of Warren Avenue does not contribute to a pedestrian-friendly environment, especially since traffic has been restricted through the zone. Commissioner Lambert asked if staff considered extending the WC Zone to include additional parcels to the west on other Mr. McIntyre streets besides Burwell Street. said that a private property owner approached the City with a request to amend the Comprehensive Plan regarding the three parcels. The City has not considered expanding the request to include additional Ms. Spencer properties. explained that based on staff’s limited resources, their intent is to process just the docket items that were presented and not consider additional opportunities for expansion. She reminded the Commission that the City must complete a major update of their Comprehensive Plan in 2016, and this will require several years of work. Commissioner Hoell Mr. McIntyre asked staff to explain the difference between “centers” and “corridors.” replied that the Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) designated the downtown subareaas a regional center(important for jobs, housing and population growth).The Downtown Regional Center Subareahas its own “center” where the most intense uses are Ms. supposed to be located. “Corridors” are intended to transition from the more intense uses to the less intense uses. Spencer explained that the 2004 Comprehensive Plan calls for very intensive development in the center, and then de- intensifyingdevelopment as you move outward towards the residential zones. The Comprehensive Plan anticipates the Warren Avenue Corridor to bevery dense development with transitions for setback and building height requirements as you move towards the single-family residential development, but it failed to considerhow the overall vision for the corridor would be implementedto support the core of the downtown center. Designating the west side of the corridor as just one parcel deep does not allow for full implementation. In order to achieve redevelopment oriented towards Warren Avenue, parcels to the west would ideally be at least 100 feet deep. Commissioner Hoell recalled that when the Downtown Regional Center Subarea Plan was approved, there was a great deal of discussion about how far the subarea boundaries should extend. The current boundaries were set to address significant Ms. Spencer public concern. noted that there was not a high degree of public participation related to this particular Commissioner Hoell neighborhood. summarized that people expressed a general concern that the subarea boundaries would move into their neighborhood next. DRAFT Bremerton Planning Commission Minutes 37 September 18, 2012 ~ Page of Commissioner Hoell saidstaff has indicated they aregenerally in support of the proposal. She asked if staff has any Mr. McIntyre reservationsregarding the proposed amendment. said staff supports the entire proposal as it meets the five required criteria outlined in the BMC. Commissioner Albright asked if the proposed amendment would allow the property owner to demolish the existing residential units on the subject parcels to construct an additional parking lot. She said she does not want the property to be Mr. McIntyre developed as another parking lot. said the property owner’s intent is to redevelop the property to meet the Ms. Spencer intent of the WC Zone. reminded the Commission that the zoning code actually prohibits the creation of new Mr. McIntyre stand-alone parking lots. added that the proposed amendment would allow the property to be redeveloped into something more desirable that provides a great gateway into Bremerton. Bob Guyt, Rice Fergus Miller, Applicant’s Agent, commented that if the proposed amendment is denied, it is highly unlikely that a single-family residential unit would be constructed on the subject parcels. The proposed amendment would create aproperty that could be redeveloped as a single project that is consistent with the Downtown Regional Center Subarea Plan. He emphasized that the zoning code contains good design standards to address potential impacts. The applicant’s goal is to do the right thing, and the subject properties offer a perfect transition between the more intense uses located in the core of the subarea and the outlying single-family residential neighborhoods. He encouraged the Commissionto recommend approval of the proposed amendment. B.Revisions to the Bay Vista Subarea Plan Ms. Daniels reviewed that in 2004, the Comprehensive Plan identifiedthe property currently known as the Bay Vista Subarea Plan as aPublic Sector Redevelopment Sitewithhigh potential for innovative development that would have a clear benefit to the community, such as the ability to provide for unique housing needs. The West Park Subarea Plan was adopted in 2007, via an application by the Bremerton Housing Authority(BHA)and the issuance of a Housing and Urban Development (HUD) HOPE VIGrant. The Comprehensive Plan was amended in 2009 to rename the subarea to Bay Vista, clarify plan language, and add more territory. She announced that the BHAhas presented a request to amend the subarea plan further. Ms. Daniels reviewed how the proposed amendment would meet the decision criteria outlined in Bremerton Municipal Code (BMC) 20.10.080 as follows: The amendment must be consistent with the Growth Management Act (GMA).Ms. Daniels said staff finds the amendment is consistent with the GMA. She explained that the amendment was developed in consideration of the goals of the GMA andreflects a careful balancing of the goals within the local conditions of the City of Bremerton. The amendment must be consistent with the Comprehensive Plan or other goals or policies of the City. Ms. Daniels saidthe amendment is consistent with many policies in the Comprehensive Plan, in particularthose related to the Shaping of Bremerton Theme, the Community Character Goals, the Land Use Goals, and the Housing Goals. In addition, Pages 5 through 8 of the Bay Vista Subarea Plan (Attachment 2) providemore detail regarding consistency with the Comprehensive Plan. If the amendment was reviewed but not adopted as a part of a previous proposal, circumstances related to the proposed amendment must have significantly changed or the needs of the City must have changed to support the amendment. Ms. Daniels noted that this criterion is not applicable to the proposed amendment. The amendment must be compatible with existing or planned land uses and the surrounding development pattern. Ms. Daniels said the amendment is compatible with the well-integrated planned development, and all current development on the site would be conforming. All the goals and policies within the Comprehensive Plan and the original adoption of the subarea plan continue to meet today’s proposal. The amendment must not adversely affect the City’s ability to provide urban services at the planned level of service and it must bear a reasonable relationship to benefiting the public health, safety and welfare. Ms. Daniels said the amendment would not affect the City’s ability to provide urban services as the parcels are already part of the existing urban framework characterized in the Bay Vista Subarea. The developments within the Bay Vista neighborhoods are working with the City of Bremerton Public Works Department to extend and improve the existing infrastructure. The amendment would provide more flexibility to develop residential and commercial entities that will benefit the public DRAFT Bremerton Planning Commission Minutes 47 September 18, 2012 ~ Page of health, safety and welfare by promotingeasier access to jobs, transportation andurban amenities (grocery stores, parks and banks) and lead to a more pedestrian-friendly environment with walkability and access to basic services. Ms. Daniels summarized that theproposed amendment complies with the decision criteria of the BHC, and staff th recommends approval of the amendment as proposed.She noted that apublic hearing has been scheduled for October 9. Kurt Weist, Executive Director, BHA, explained thatrevitalization of the 88-acre parcel is not about what BHAis doing; it is about the community’s desirefor this large property that is the western gateway into Bremerton. He said the subarea is bounded on three sides by State Route 3, Kitsap Way and Oyster Bay Avenue. It was originally developed in 1940-41 as defense industry housing to support shipyard workers. Following World War II, the units were transformed into low-income rental housing that has been owned and operated by the Bremerton Housing Authority since 1963. At the time the original subarea plan was approved in 2007, there were 582 public housing units on the site, plus an additional 60 units of affordable senior housing. Mr. Weist explained that the subarea planning that took place in 2006 and 2007 included an exhaustive public process to determine the best and highest use for the site. The process included public meetings, a design charrette, stakeholder meetings, workshops and public hearings. He emphasized that the proposed amendment would not change the goals and objectives identified in the original subarea plan. He said the intent of the BHA’s redevelopment plan, as represented in the approved Bay Vista Subarea Plan, is to replace the large concentration of low-income public housing with a new neighborhood that is representative of other neighborhoods in Bremerton (rental housing,owner-occupied housing, multi- family housing, commercialdevelopment, public parks and open space).Other significant goals of the subarea plan are to promote economic development through non-residential development and integrate low-impact development approaches into the site master plan where possible and practical. Mr. Weist reviewed the housing authority’s progress to date, specifically noting their success in meeting the goals and objectives of the subarea plan. He reported that in 2007, Bay Vista Commons, a 72-unit assisted living building, was completed. They were awarded a $20 million Housing and Urban Development (HUD) HOPE VI Public Housing and Revitalization Grant, an American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) Grant, Housing Trust Funds, and Low-Income Housing Tax Credits. These funds have been used to stimulate the change that has occurred on site. He said that all of the former public housing residents were successfully relocated so that demolition of the West Park units could move forward, and 220 new affordable rental housing units (The Summit, Bay Vista West and Bay Vista South) have been completed. Land sales for commercial and residential uses include WinCo Foods, Habitat for Humanity, Kitsap Credit Union and single- family, owner-occupied dwellings. They have also begun significant improvement to the public open space known as the Bay Vista Preserve, which will include improved trails for greater public access. Mr. Weist said the BHAis proposing an amendment to the Bay VistaSubarea Plan to address significant changes in the economic environment since the plan was approved in 2007, particularly in real estate investment and value. There is a need for greater flexibility to achieve the vision, goals and objectives stated in the original plan. Fine-tuning the plan is necessary in response to local, regional and national market conditions. The proposed changes include: Reallocating Village Commercial and multi-family locations and detail, but not the square footage of those activities on the site. Revising the allowed and disallowed land uses to reflect condensed land use zones. Allowing greaterflexibility in landscaping, signage and parking. Removing design standards, which are reivewedby the BHA’s design review committee. Removing complexity in land use to conform to City code. Mr. Weist said he recently reviewed the goals and policies of the Comprehensive Plan, particularly those related to affordable housing. One goal was to disperse below-market housing throughout the City to avoid concentrations and another was to locate public-assisted housing in areas that would provide eligible households with greater geographical choices. He briefly described each of the projects that have been or will be developed as part of the overall redevelopment plan. He provided a graphical representation to illustratethe net gain of 320 affordable housing units that would result from redevelopment. He noted that these additional units vary in type and help accomplish the BHA’s core mission of providing safe, decent and affordable housing in a way that is consistent with the Bay Vista Subarea Plan. DRAFT Bremerton Planning Commission Minutes 57 September 18, 2012 ~ Page of Commissioner Hoell invited Mr. Weist to clarify how many low-income residential units would be located on the Bay Vista Nancy site. She noted that at the July workshop it was discussed that there are currently 179 public housing units on site. Austin, Director of Real Estate and Contracts, BHA, said 179 isthe number of public housing units that would be replaced as required bythe HOPE VI grant. 142 units arelocated at Bay Vista West and South and the remaining 37 are part of the off-site component. All of the previous units (582) were public housing, which is very low income. Only142 of the new units will be very low income. Chair Jose Ms. requested clarification of the fenestration requirements outlined on Page 28 of the Bay Vista Subarea Plan. Austin Chair Jose explained that some of the commercial development would be located alongOyster Bay Avenue. summarized that the maximum sill height would apply to the Village Commercial area along Bay Vista Boulevard and all Ms. Daniels other commercial streets. agreed to review this section and suggest revisions as appropriate prior to the public hearing. Commissioner Hoell recalled that at the July workshop, Ms. Austin indicated that the subarea plan allows for up to 183,000 square feet of commercial development, and 59,000 square feet has already been developed. She further stated that they Ms. Austin anticipate that only about half of the allowed commercial space would actually be developed. explained that the current subarea plan allows for up to 183,000 square feet of commercial development, and WinCo has constructed 55,000 square feet. The credit union has indicated their plan to construct a modest 2,500 square foot structure. Early plans from a potential buyer indicate a desire for a “village” type development with smaller footprints and more street trees, etc. She summarized that they anticipate the actual amount of commercial space will be well under the 183,000 square feet allowed in the original subarea plan. She said the goal is to spread the commercial space over a larger area, but the space would not be Ms. Spencer nearly as concentrated and intense as originally anticipated. clarified that the environmental work that went along with the original Bay Vista Subarea Plan studied the larger intensity. Anything less would have fewer impacts and would be covered bythe previous environmental work. Commissioner Lambert asked if the housing identified as “home ownership” development includes Habitat for Humanity Ms. Austin homes. answered that there will be six Habitat for Humanity homes, three of which are already built and occupied. The remaining three are currently under construction. There are 21 lots platted off of Oyster Bay Avenue for affordable home ownership. She noted this is a requirement of the HUD HOPE VI grant. She said five lots have already beensold to a builder. They are closing on their first home, and they have offers on two more. The BHA hasa pending deal with another developer to purchase 12 additional lots. She briefly reviewed the programs available to help prospective owners purchasethe homes. BUSINESS MEETING Chair Report Chair Jose noted Commissioner Mosiman resigned and expressed appreciation for hisservice. He encouraged Commissioners to seek out potential candidates to fill the vacant position. Commissioner Lambert At the request of Chair Jose, reported that she represented the Planning Commission on the City’s Grant Recommendation Committee, which just completed their work. The group was divided into two teams: capital and social services. She participated on the capital team that reviewed 18 proposal and conducted interviews. She said she enjoyed the opportunity and hopes to participate again next year. Director Report Ms. Spencer announced that Commissioner Mosiman resigned from the Commissiondue to beginning work with a new employer, and he expressed his regrets at having to resign and appreciation for the work of the Commission. She said she encouraged him to considerparticipating on the Commission again at some point in the futurewhen his schedule allows. DRAFT Bremerton Planning Commission Minutes 67 September 18, 2012 ~ Page of Ms. Spencer said she recently attended the annual Washington State Planning Director’s Conference. There were afew sessions related to working with boards and commissions, and she heard some scary stories. She thanked the Commission for being very thoughtful, reading their packets to prepare for meetings, and working well with and being respectful to staff. Ms. Spencer announced that the South Kitsap Industrial Area (SKIA) Subarea Plan was unanimously adopted by the City Council. Staff will meet tomorrow with representatives from the Port of Bremerton to discuss opportunities for working with property owners to identify funding options for the cross SKIA connectorroadway. Ms. Spencer advised that October is National Planning Month. Staff is trying to encourage the community to participate in th , the Mayor will present an official proclamation identifying October as National creating their future. On September 19 Planning Month. She encouraged the Commissioners to invite members of the public to participate in the planning process. th Ms. Spencer has been cancelled and replaced with a reminded the Commission that the regular meeting of October 16 th . special meeting on October 9 Old Business No old business was scheduled on the agenda. New Business No new business was scheduled on the agenda. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 6:38 p.m. Respectively Submitted by: ____________________________________________________________ Andrea L SpencerGreg Jose AICP, Executive SecretaryChair, Planning Commission DRAFT Bremerton Planning Commission Minutes 77 September 18, 2012 ~ Page of Commission Meeting Date:October 9,2012Agenda Item: V.b.2 CITY OF BREMERTON, WASHINGTON PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA ITEM AGENDA TITLE: Public Hearing on the2012Comprehensive Plan Amendments DEPARTMENT: Department of Community Development PRESENTED BY: Allison Daniels, City Planner; Doug McIntyre,CityPlanner EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The City adopted an updated Comprehensive Plan in December 2004. Comprehensive Plan amendments are processed on an annual cycle to allow for changes to the Plan that reflect current conditions that may not have been addressed prior to the Plan’s adoption. Amendments to the City’s Comprehensive Plan are regulated by BMC 20.10. The 2012 Annual Comprehensive Plan Amendment Docket includes two proposals, resulting from two separate applications submitted by landowners. The two amendments are included for the Planning Commission’s consideration in 2012 and are summarized herein. A tentative schedule for the remaining meetings has been set with the following dates: October 9, 2012 at 5:30 p.m. –Planning Commission Public Hearing November 28, 2012at 5:00 p.m. –City Council Workshop December 5, 2012 at 5:30 p.m. –City Council Public Hearing to adopt the docket The following discussion outlines the two proposals comprisingthe 2012 Annual Comprehensive Plan Amendment Docket. Amendment 1, Land Use Designations Change of Three Parcels: On April 2, 2012, Rice Fergus Miller Inc., acting as agent for the property owner,submitted a request for land use change. Three parcels, located at 1008, 1016, and 1018 Burwell Street (at the corner of Burwell Street and Warren Avenue, see Attachment I), currently designated Low- Density Residential,are proposed to be included in the Downtown Regional Center boundaries. Development in the Downtown Regional Center is guided by the Downtown Regional Center Subarea Plan (adopted on December 19, 2007 by Ordinance 5034). TheDowntown Regional Center Subarea Plandirects focused, mixed growth according to the City's Comprehensive Plan vision fordowntown as the "Metropolitan Center ofthe West Puget Sound." The Subarea Plan includes design standards, zoning, and streetscape standards for the greater downtown area. The development of the Downtown Regional Center Subarea Plan included a focus on the Warren Avenue Corridor, located alongthe west edge of the center. This corridor was envisioned to provide a commercial district of medium intensityto transition to lower scaled uses outside of the downtown, as specified by the Warren Avenue Corridor zone (WC zone). However, implementation of this vision is difficult with the existing boundaries because the western side of the Warren Avenue Corridor is only one parcel deep, inhibiting, in many cases, the ability to build medium density uses as specifiedby the WC zone. To better implement what was envisioned for this area, a proposal to add three parcels to the Downtown Regional Center boundaries would allow ample space to accommodate development intended to occur under the original Subarea Plan. The three parcels are currently developed with vacant multi-family residential units and the current zoning designation is R-10;the Comprehensive Plan Land Use designation is Low- Density Residential. The underutilized nature of the properties presents an opportunity, if re- designated, to revitalize the edge of the downtown core by allowing aredevelopment pattern to occur that the current Low Density Residential designationdoes notallow. Impacts on neighboring parcels along Burwell Street are anticipated tobe minimal, due to the sparse nature of development on the block as well as the mix ofexistinguses, including single-family, multi- family, parking, and undeveloped lots.Additionally, the WC Zone is intended to provide a commercial district of medium intensityto transition to lower-scaled uses outside of the downtown core, which will ensure that development on the subject parcels will be done in a mannerthat minimizes impacts on the surroundings. Once included in the Downtown Regional Center Subarea Plan, these three parcels will be eligible for rezoning tothe WC zoning designation as set forth in the Subarea Plan. Staff is supportive of the proposal forcomprehensive plan amendment. Please see Attachment V “Findings and Conclusions” for a discussion of how the proposal is consistent with the BMC requirements for Comprehensive Plan Amendment. For questions regarding this land use change please call Doug McIntyre at(360)473-5845. Amendment 2, Bay Vista Subarea Plan revision: The second amendment to this docket is the revisions to the Bay Vista Subarea Plan. Originally this plan was called the West Park Subarea Plan and was adopted in 2007. In 2009, the applicant, the Bremerton Housing Authority (BHA), revised the subarea plan and is now known as the Bay Vista SubareaPlan. The Bay Vista Subarea Plan was created in consultation with stakeholders, residents, and neighbors. It used an intensive design charette process and numerous community meetings. Development of the Subarea Plan also used environmental analysis, including preparation of a SEPA/NEPA environmental Impact Statement (EIS), and an EIS addendum, to inform master planning of the site consistent with environmental constraints and opportunities. However, as the site is being developed, market conditions and site constraints have made the regulations of the existing Subarea Plan difficult to implement. BHA is proposing amendments to the Bay Vista SubareaPlan that includes: reallocation of Village Commercial and multi-family locations, revise permitted land uses to reflect land use zones that are being condensed, revise complex Code requirements in Subarea Plan to more resemble the City of Bremerton Zoning Code, and alter landscaping, signage and parking requirements which will still comply with overall policies and goals of the existing Bay Vista SubareaPlan. These proposed comprehensive plan amendments have been included in the previous Planning Commission Workshop packet as Attachment II –Bay Vista Subarea Plan Draft –September 2012. To be conscience of printing, this Planning Commission packet does not include the Draft Subarea plan as previously handed out but only the altered page 28 as Attachment III. If the Planning Commission would like to review the previous Subarea Plan draft,it can be located on the City of Bremerton website under Planning Commission Agendas/Packets for October 9, 2012, http://www.ci.bremerton.wa.us/display.php?id=907. If you would like to see the existing Bay Vista Subarea Plan, it can be located at the City’s website: http://www.ci.bremerton.wa.us/display.php?id=955or see a hard copy at the Department of Community Development.To identify the changes from the existing Bay Vista Subarea Plan to today’s revisions and rationale, please see Attachment IV, the Comparison Matrix. Staff is supportive of the proposal for comprehensive plan amendment. Please see Attachment V “Findings and Conclusions” for a discussion of how the proposal is consistent with the BMC requirements for Comprehensive Plan Amendment. For questions regarding this amendmentplease call Allison Daniels at (360) 473-5289. ATTACHMENTS Attachment I:Amendment 1Land Use Change Proposal Attachment II: Bay Vista Subarea Plan Draft—September 2012 (Hard copies sent in 9/18 MeetingPacket; available electronically here) Attachment III:Altered Page 28 of the Bay Vista Subarea Plan Draft –September 2012 Attachment IV: Comparison Matrix of the changes to the Bay Vista Subarea Plan Attachment V: Planning Commission Findings and Conclusions for 2012 Comprehensive Plan Amendment Docket. OPTIONS 1.Recommend that the City Council adopt the Comprehensive Plan Amendment Docket as drafted by staff and presented in AttachmentsI, II, and III 2.Recommend that the City Counciladopt the 2012Amendment Docket as modified by the Commission 3.Recommend denial of the 2012Comprehensive Plan Amendment Docket STAFF RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the Planning Commission conduct a public hearing on the 2012 Comprehensive Plan annual amendments, consider public testimony, and formulate a recommendation for the City Council’s consideration. STAFF RECOMMENDED MOTION Move to recommend that the City Council adopt the amendments to the Comprehensive Plan as detailed in Attachment I, II,and III, based on the Findings & Conclusions in Attachment V Attachment I: ß³»²¼³»²¬ × Ô¿²¼ Ë» Ý¸¿²¹» Ð®±°±¿´ Attachment II: Bay Vista Subarea Plan Draft—September 2012 Available Online Attachment III: Altered Page 28 of the Bay Vista Subarea Plan Draft—September 2012 ß¬¬¿½¸³»²¬ ××× úõ÷î÷êûðø÷æ÷ðíìï÷îè ÚéËÇÛÊ×ÉÍÊÌÐÛÂÛÉ éèûîøûêøé ÙèÊÛÓÐÉÌ×ÊÆÓÍÇÉÍÊÓÏÌ×ÊÆÓÍÇÉÖÍÊÎÍÎÏÍÈÍÊÓÂ×ØÇÉ× ØéÙÔÍÍÐÉÛÎØÌÐÛÃÕÊÍÇÎØÉ õ×Î×ÊÛÐø×Æ×ÐÍÌÏ×ÎÈéÈÛÎØÛÊØÉÉÔÛÐÐÚ×ÓÎÛÙÙÍÊØÛÎÙ× ÅÓÈÔÈÔ×ÉÈÛÎØÛÊØÉÍÖúïù ÛÎØ ÅÓÈÔÈÔ× ×ïÛÓÎÈ×ÎÛÎÙ×ÖÛÙÓÐÓÈÓ×ÉÎÍÈ×ÄÙ××ØÓÎÕ ÉËÇÛÊ×Ö××È ÖÍÐÐÍÅÓÎÕÛØØÓÈÓÍÎÉÛÎØ ÍÊÊ×ÆÓÉÓÍÎÉ ÖïÛÓÎÈ×ÎÛÎÙ×ÍÖÈÊ××ÉÆ×Õ×ÈÛÈÓÍÎÛÎØÐÛÎØÉÙÛÌÓÎÕ ÔóÊÊÓÕÛÈÓÍÎÉÃÉÈ×ÏÉ ïòÚÛÒÛÍÌÎßÌ×ÑÒ Óú×ÎÙÔ×ÉÌÓÙÎÓÙÈÛÚÐ×ÉÌ×ÊÕÍÐÛÉÉÓÏÓÐÛÊÛÏ×ÎÓÈÓ×É ÛÌÌÐÃÈÍæÓÐÐÛÕ×ùÍÏÏ×ÊÙÓÛÐÛÐÍÎÕúÛÃæÓÉÈÛ ÒöÍÇÎÈÛÓÎÉÉÙÇÐÌÈÇÊ×ÛÎØÛÊÈÅÍÊÑ úÍÇÐ×ÆÛÊØ ÑéÈÍÊÏÅÛÈ×ÊÏÛÎÛÕ×Ï×ÎÈÖÛÙÓÐÓÈÓ×É ·òÍ¬®ª_Ãª£_Æ±±Æ`«ZÃ«k«Ã±±ÆÃÐÆ ÐçÈÓÐÓÈÓ×ÉÛÎØÇÈÓÐÓÈÃÉÈÊÇÙÈÇÊ×É £`ÆÐ£kª£Ã_±´£ø1.ÃªÆÈ ÏóÎÈ×ÊÌÊ×ÈÓÆ×ÉÓÕÎÉÛÎØØÓÉÌÐÛÃÉ îò¸ñâñÛùôñùô¼ ···òÞ¿YÃÉ`ÜªÐ«ªÉ±ªÈ ûÏÛÎÛÕ×Ï×ÎÈÌÐÛÎÅÓÐÐÚ×ÌÊ×ÌÛÊ×ØÖÍÊÈÔÓÉ ÅÓÈÔÙÍÏÏÇÎÓÈÃÓÎÌÇÈÛÎØÅÓÐÐÛØØÊ×ÉÉÆ×Õ×ÈÛÈÓÍÎ ÏÛÎÛÕ×Ï×ÎÈÉ×Ð×ÙÈÓÆ×ÈÔÓÎÎÓÎÕÈÍÊ×ÏÍÆ×ÇÎÔ×ÛÐÈÔÃ È úÃÐk®3 ÈÊ××ÉÛÎØÓÎÆÛÉÓÆ×ÉÌ×ÙÓ×ÉÛÎØÈÔ×ÛÌÌÊÍÌÊÓÛÈ×ÈÃÌ×ÉÍÖ ÓÏÌÊÍÆ×Ï×ÎÈÉ 32øÈ íò¸ñâñÛùÂ¼ßÝÕÍ ·òÎø£¼±®3ªÃYÃ«ªÃ£ª±ÂªÈ øéèê÷÷èééóø÷åûðñéûîø Attachment IV: Comparison Matrix of the changes to the Bay Vista Subarea Plan Attachment V: Planning Commission Findings and Conclusions for 2012 Comprehensive Plan Amendment Docket ß¬¬¿½¸³»²¬ Ê FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS OF THE CITY OF BREMERTON PLANNING COMMISSION 2012Annual Comprehensive Plan Amendment Docket I. FINDINGS OF FACT 1. Project Description The City adopted an updated Comprehensive Plan in December 2004. Comprehensive Plan amendments are processed on an annual cycle to allow for changes to the Plan that reflect current conditions that may not have been addressed prior to the Plan’s adoption. Amendments to the City’s Comprehensive Plan are regulated by BMC 20.10. Two applications for amendments are included for the Planning Commission’s consideration in 2012 and are summarized herein. 2. Procedural History 2.1 The Bremerton Municipal Code (BMC) allows applications for Comprehensive Plan Amendments annually between January 1 and the first business day of April. 2.2 On April 2, 2012, Rice Fergus Miller, acting as agent for the owner Diamond Parking, applied for land use change to three parcels. This item is known as Docket Amendment 1. 2.3 On March 29, 2012, Bremerton Housing Authority applied for Comprehensive Plan Amendments related to the Bay Vista Subarea Plan. This item is known as Docket Amendment 2. 2.4 On July 11, 2012the Draft Amendment Docket was available for public review on the City of Bremerton’s website. 2.5On July 17, 2012 Planning Commission held an informal public workshop to introduce the 2012 Annual Comprehensive Plan Amendment Docket. 2.6 On September 5, 2012 staff notified the Washington State Department of Commerceof the intent to adopt two amendments to the Comprehensive Plan. 2.7On September 8, 2012 a notice of Planning Commission public workshop was published in the Kitsap Sun and the public was invited to comment. 2.8 On September 18, 2012 Planning Commission held a public workshop to discuss the 2012 Annual Comprehensive Plan Amendment Docket. 2.9On September 20, 2012Staff published the SEPA Determination of Non- significance in the Kitsap Sunfor Amendment 1. On September 26, 2012, Staff published the SEPADetermination of Non-significance in the Kitsap Sun for Amendment 2. 2.10 On September 29, 2012a notice of Planning Commission public hearing was published in the Kitsap Sun and the public was invited to comment. 2.11On October 9, 2012Planning Commission conducted a public hearing on the 2012Comprehensive Plan docket. 3. Public Comment ß¬¬¿½¸³»²¬ Ê 3.1 Individuals submitting written comments: a. ________________________________________________________ b. ________________________________________________________ c. ________________________________________________________ 3.2 Individuals providing verbal testimony at Planning Commission public hearing: a. ________________________________________________________ b. ________________________________________________________ c. ________________________________________________________ 4. SEPA Determination A Determination of Non Significance (DNS) was issued for Docket Amendment 1 on September 20, 2012with anappeal deadline of October 4, 2012 . The adoption of existing environmental documentationpursuant to WAC 197-11- 600 was issued for Docket Amendment 2 on September 26, 2012. The environmental documents adopted were the West Park Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) approved May 2007 and the EIS Addendum in January 2008. No appeals were filedfor either environmental document. 5. Consistency Amendments to the Comprehensive Plan shall meet the decision criteria outlined in BMC 20.10.080. The Planning Commission may recommend, and the City Council may adopt or adopt with modifications, an amendment to the comprehensive plan if the criteria outlined below are met. 5.1 BMC 20.10.080(b)(1) The amendment is consistent with the Growth Management Act (GMA) . : Amendment 1 (Land use designation change)The amendment was developed in consideration of the goals of the Growth Management Act (GMA) for the development of local comprehensive plans, as codified at RCW 36.70A.020.This amendment is further consistent with the GMA by meeting the criteria of the Comprehensive Plan which was created to achieve thegoals of the GMA. Amendment 2: (Bay Vista Subarea Plan)The revisionswere developed in consideration of the goals of the Growth Management Act (GMA) for the development of local comprehensive plans, as codified at RCW 36.70A.020, and reflect a carefulbalancing these goals within the local conditions of City of Bremerton. The proposalisconsistent with the GMA. 5.2 BMC 20.10.080(b)(2) The amendment is consistent with the comprehensive plan or other goals or policies of the City. Amendment 1: (Land use designation change)The amendment is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan by furthering the Centers Concept—the central theme of the Comprehensive Plan—because the ß¬¬¿½¸³»²¬ Ê amendment aims to better implement the original vision of the Downtown Regional CenterSubarea Plan. This amendment is consistent with many goals and policies of the Comprehensive Plan, reproduced here is a selection of these policies: Shaping Bremerton Themes: (2)Enticing new development, with a focus on the Downtown Regional Center; (4) Improved Accessibility, especiallyfor the Pedestrian. Community Character Goals: CC2—Assure that new development relates to surrounding uses and provides for urban livability; CC3—Provide for a safe, pleasant,and rich pedestrian experience. Land Use Goals: LU1—Identify and enhance distinctiveneighborhoods, communities, andcentersthroughout the city; LU3—Create an environment that will promote growth; LU4—Provide for walkabilitythroughout Centers and neighborhoods; LU5 Designate neighborhood,district, and employment Centers on the Land Use Map that provide mixed-use environments which serve as theprimary focus for growth; LU9—Create a framework for the initial implementation of Centers; LU11—Provide for the viability of communities, neighborhoods, and Centers through strategic land use designationsand infrastructure provisions; LU 13—Achieve a vibrant and active downtown. General Policies for Downtown: (1)New development shall reinforce pedestrian activity at the street level; Housing Goals: H3—Provide a variety of housing types and densities to meet changing needs of Bremerton residents H4—Provide housing in mixed-use centers for a variety of incomes, age groups, and household types The amendment continues to uphold the objectives and goals of the Comprehensive Plan. The amendment does not change the intent or purpose of the Comprehensive Plan and further progresses implementation of the Downtown Regional Center Subarea Plan. Amendment 2 (Bay Vista Subarea Plan):The amendment is consistent with the comprehensive plan or other goals or policies of the City; ß¬¬¿½¸³»²¬ Ê This amendment is consistent with many policies of the Comprehensive Plan as described below. In addition, further analysis has been defined in the draft Bay Vista Sub-Area Plan within Section II: Purpose, Process & Consistency Part B “Consistency of the Sub-Area Plan with Bremerton’s Comprehensive Plan” pages 5 through 8. Shaping Bremerton Theme: (1) Distinctive Growth, with Viable Neighborhoods and Centers that provide greater choice and convenience; (2)Enticing new development, with a focus on center; (5) Quality housing, with boarder choice; (6) Business support, with increased opportunity (9) Design Review: Advancing Quality Urban Development Community Character Goals: (1)Demonstrate excellent urban design qualities in new development; (2)Assure that new development relates to surrounding uses and provides for urban livability; (3)Promote the development of areas of special character, encouraging a diversity of communities within the City Land Use Goals: (1)Identify and enhance distinctive neighborhoods, communities, and centers throughout the City; (3)Create an environment that will promote growth; (4)Provide for walkability throughout Centers and neighborhoods; (11)Provide for the viability of communities, neighborhoods, and Centers through strategic land use designations and infrastructure provisions Housing Goals: (3)Provide a variety of housing types and densities to meet changing needs of Bremerton; (4)Provide housing in centers for a variety of incomes, age groups, and household types; (5)Promote access to quality, affordable homes for all Bremerton residents, regardless of their economic capabilities or special needs. The amendment continues to uphold the objectives and goals of the Comprehensive Plan. The amendment does not change the intent or purpose of the Comprehensive Plan. 5.3 BMC 20.10.080(b)(3) If the amendment was reviewed but not adopted as a part of a previous proposal, circumstances related to the proposed amendment have significantly changed, or the needs of the City have changed, which support an amendment. ß¬¬¿½¸³»²¬ Ê Amendment 1: (Land use designation change)This provision is not applicable to Amendment 1, as it is a new proposal. Amendment 2 (Bay Vista Subarea Plan):This provision is notapplicable to Amendment 2, as the amendments are new proposals. 5.4BMCThe amendment is compatible with existing or 20.10.080(b)(4) planned land uses and the surrounding development pattern. Amendment 1: (Land use designation change)The amendment is compatible with existing land uses and the surrounding development pattern and it allows a logical transition from the downtown core to the surrounding low-density residential uses. Amendment 2 (Bay Vista Subarea Plan):This amendment is compatible with existing or planned land uses and the surrounding development pattern;this is the second revision to the Bay Vista Sub-Area Plan (original plan adopted in 2006; first Comprehensive Plan amendment in 2009)and remains consistent with the vision established in the City’s Comprehensive Plan and ensures compatibility of land uses throughout Bay Vista. The amendment will not adversely affect the 5.5 BMC 20.10.080(b)(5) City’s ability to provide urban services at the planned level of service and bears a reasonable relationship to benefiting the public health, safety and welfare. Amendment 1: (Land use designation change)The amendment will not adversely affect the City’s ability to provide urban services because the parcels are already part of the existing urban framework characterizing the downtown regional center. Furthermore, allowing these parcels to be included in the downtown regional center will help fulfill the intent of the WC zone ofhaving medium intensityuses. Facilitating the development of higher density uses will be beneficial to public health, safety, and welfare because it promotes easier access to jobs and transportation, urban amenities such as restaurants, museums, galleries, and parks, and leads to a more pedestrian-friendly environment with walking access to basic services. Amendment 2 (Bay Vista Subarea Plan):The amendment will not adversely affect the City’s ability to provide urban services because the parcels are already part of the existing urban framework characterizing the Bay Vista area. The developments of the Bay Vista neighborhoods are in the process with the City of Bremerton Public Works Department in extending and improving the existing infrastructure. With this proposal, the Sub-Area Plan will provide more flexibility to develop residential and commercial entities that will benefit public health, safety, and welfare as it will promote easier access to jobs and transportation, urban amenities ß¬¬¿½¸³»²¬ Ê such as grocery stores, banks, and parks, and leads to a more pedestrian- friendly environment with walking access to basic services. II. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATION Based on the findings above, Planning Commission concludes that the 2012 Comprehensive Plan Amendment Docket has met the criteria for amendments to the plan as detailed in BMC 20.10.080 and therefore recommends adoption by the City Council. Respectfully submitted by: Approved by: __________________________ __________________________ Andrea L Spencer, AICP Greg Jose, Chair Executive Secretary Planning Commission