2007/07/18 Council Agenda Packet

WHEREAS, notice of all proposed amendments to the comprehensive plan to fulfill the requirements of RCW36.70A.130 was sent to the Washington State Department of Community, Trade, and Economic Development at least sixty days before the amendments are to be adopted, in accordance with RCW 36.70A.106. WHEREAS,the City Council.findsrthat 1. The proposed amendments.to the Comprehensive Plan text and policies are based.upon changed circumstances, including new and updated information,new technology,project and program implementation, and revised state guidelines, which have occurred.over the years since the adoption of the Plan; and 2. That the assumptions of which these revisions are based are new and updated information, implementation of plan programs and additional citizen input; and 3. That the changes,refinement and clarification of the revised and new policies promote a more desirable growth pattern for the community by a. protecting the residential Donovan Historic District from further non-residential encroachment, b: providing for low-intensity uses in the area west of Lowell Larimer Road characterized by significant critical areas and inadequate utilities; and c. providing for school facilities to accommodate the increased population; and d. providing for transportation improvements that will accommodate the population and economic growth targeted to occur in Everett by 2025, including incorporation of non- motorized and public transportation facilities, as well as the more traditional emphasis on streets,freeways andvehicle. faeilities. 4. That the policy changes are consistent and not in conflict with existing City plan policies, as well as the Countywide Planning Policies; and WHEREAS,based upon these findings the City Council concludes that the proposed amendments: a. Are consistent with the goals,objectives and policies of the Comprehensive Plan, as well as the Countywide.Planning.Policies; and b. Are justified in that conditions have changed thorough policy implementation,new developments and growth;and the addition of new, improved and updated information;and c. Promote a more desirable growth pattern for the community as a whole; and d. Are in the best interest of the citizens of Everett and the Everett Planning Area; and WHEREAS, the City will continue to monitor the growth occurring under the Growth Management Comprehensive Plan and will periodically review and update the plan as provided by the Growth Management Act to make adjustments as needed to respond to changing circumstances and to ensure that growth in the community is of a desirable character and occurs in an orderly manner;and •