Resolution 3710 - Laserfiche WebLink

A combination of fencing and landscaping normally is required only in the event that a commercial zone abuts a residential zone, or when a commercial use is located within a residential zone. By requiring both landscaping and fencing in the MDNS, city staff is attempting to mitigate the visual impacts of the proposal. Conclusions: The conditions in the MDNS requiring screening of the proposed outdoor storage use are consistent with the screening requirements in the Zoning Code. In fact, the MDNS requirements exceed the zoning requirements in that entrance points to the site must be screened by a site- obscuring gate. The MDNS requirements represent a balance between protecting the existing residential uses abutting the property, and recognizing that these properties could be redeveloped with commercial uses. Proper implementation of these conditions will ensure that the site is surrounded by an effective visual screen. C. ISSUE - INSTALLATION OF FENCING - TIME LIMITATIONS Shockey Appeal The Shockey appeal objects to the requirement for fencing the entire site perimeter and indicates that installation of screening should not be required within three months as stipulated in the MDNS. In addition, the appeal maintains that there are more effective methods of providing perimeter treatment. Findings: The site is currently open and is used for storage of dumpsters and containers. The neighborhood has commented on the poor appearance of the site, and potential public safety hazard as a result of the site not being secured. The City and Snohomish Health District have found that a potential hazard may exist and that the current use of the site is in violation of City codes. The intent of the screening requirements is to secure the site from any potential safety hazard and to provide a visual buffer from the use. Once the fencing is installed around the site's perimeter, additional site work can still be performed because there will be access gates off of Everett Avenue and the alleys abutting the site. Conclusion: Implementation of the fencing requirements in the MDNS will provide mitigation of visual and potential safety hazards and provide a clear time frame for ensuring that future uses of the site are screened from view. Neighborhood Appeal - Time limitations on fencing improvements was not an appealed issue.