SUMMARY STATEMENT
City staff presented a draft ordinance to the City Council on May 21 that would remove a requirement to hold a public election when considering selling or otherwise disposing of designated park lands. Following public comment and Council discussion, staff made a second brief presentation to the Council on July 9, asking for a continuance to a following meeting.
BACKGROUND
- Item was introduced as a standalone ordinance revision designed to streamline the process of transfer of park property on May 21.
- Proposed change spurred by a Pre-application review of a project located adjacent to Hal Ramaley Memorial Park.
- Original project called for single-story development and parking lot.
- Subsequent staff discussion with applicant centered around minimum density projects and need for additional housing and potential for larger projects.
- Proposed change spurred by a Pre-application review of a project located adjacent to Hal Ramaley Memorial Park.
- Revised project consisted of hotel and associated site improvements and included a boundary line adjustment to accommodate parking and access routes.
- Proposed change spurred by a Pre-application review of a project located adjacent to Hal Ramaley Memorial Park.
- Staff and proponent discussion evolved to a draft development agreement that was reviewed by City attorney staff who identified the election requirement
STAFF DISCUSSION
- Comprehensive planning and downtown development
- Hotel or similar project to bring visitors and potential customers to downtown businesses
- Economic development
- A hotel/conference center project will kickstart revitalization of downtown area similar to projects in Anacortes
- Draft Development Agreement reviewed by Legal Staff -
- Requirement for an election for any transfer of park designated land
- Standalone ordinance revision was introduced to City Council on May 21
- Public Hearing held
- The public was able to comment on the proposal and the topic of the specific project was brought up
- Written comments received
- Staff relayed concerns about election requirement
- Council discussion
- July 9, Staff asked for continuance of item
- Related ordinance to specific project
- Public Hearing held
- The public was able to comment on the proposal and the topic of the specific project was brought up
- Written comments received
- Staff discussion and drafting of options for moving forward
- Address concerns and Council discussion:
- Removal of election requirement
- Donations and deed statements
- Potential of having a 1 for 1 standard for any park land disposal
- Environmental standards
- Park land per capita concerns
- Relocation/expansion of food forest
- Additional considerations beyond Hal Ramaley Memorial Park
Public Hearing will be on August 13th. Council will take public comment during this public meeting.