Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout01252001 Min . . . CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES JANUARY 25,2001 I. CALL TO ORDER Chair Larry Harbison called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers. II. ROLL CALL Other members answering roll were Bernie Arthur and Frank Benskin. Jim Irvin, Karen Erickson, Christine Ota, and Jerry Spieckerman were excused. BCD staff members present were Jeff Randall and John McDonagh. III. ACCEPTANCE OF AGENDA Motion to accept the agenda was made by Mr. Arthur and seconded by Mr. Benskin. All were in favor. IV. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Mr. McDonagh indicated that since the minutes of November 30,2000 had not been included in Commission packets, they would therefore be reviewed for approval at the next meeting. V. UNFINISHED BUSINESS - There was none. VI. NEW BUSINESS -- Workshop: Discussion of the following Code Amendments: A. Chapter 20.01 - Administration of Land Use Regulations Background: The proposed changes would alter the way in which BCD processed Type III land use applications. As proposed, all Type III applications would be subject to a public hearing before the Hearing Examiner, rather than the Planning Commission. Mr. Arthur stated he was satisfied with the information as presented. Discussion followed regarding the benefits of a Hearing Examiner. Mr. Randall pointed out the new role of the Planning Commission would allow the Commission to do more long-range planning. He noted that the new Hearing Examiner has a good record, and he felt he would do a good job. Mr. McDonagh stated he would brief those members who are absent on the changes to the appeal process suggested by City Attorney Watts before the public hearing now scheduled for February 22, 2001. B. Chapter 18 - Land Division Background: The proposed amendments to Chapter 18 would provide longer time frames for submittal and approval of final plats and short plats. Discussion covered pitfalls that now exist and proposals for remedy. Mr. McDonagh noted the need to accommodate existing development. Both Mr. Benskin and Mr. Arthur stated they felt the changes were well done. . C. Chapter 17 - Wireless Facilities Background: The proposed amendment to Chapter 17.78 is being sought to exempt certain types of next generation wireless antennas from review under the city's code. Discussion included disposal of outdated equipment and questioning regulation other than for health and safety. Mr. McDonagh spoke of changing technology and the probability of recurring need to come back for further changes. VII. UPCOMING MEETINGS February 22,2001 - Public Hearings for Amendments to Chapters 20.01 and 18 VIII. COMMUNICATIONS - Current Mail The Peninsula Planner, January 2001 Chair Harbison suggested regarding any available conferences that the Commission identify areas of interest. Mr. Arthur expressed his interest in SEP A laws. Further discussion regarding SEP A laws followed. IX. ADJOURNMENT Motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Mr. Arthur and seconded by Mr. Benskin. All were in favor. The meeting adjourned at 8:14 P.M. . ~ . ()/\ Larry Har'bison, Chair ~~ Sheila Avis, Minute Taker . 2