Ordinance 3454-15 with Exhibits A- C

EVERETT COMPREHENSIVE PLAN C. Land Use Policies The section headings listed within the body of policies are those topics that the Growth Management Act requires in the Land Use Element or are topics Everett has chosen to address in the Land Use Element. Each policy also attempts to be consistent with the direction given by the Growth Management Act, VISION 2040 Regional Growth Strategy, and Countywide Planning Policies. The policies also address pertinent land use issues for the Everett Planning Area, and recognize the need for coordination and integration with the other elements of the Comprehensive Plan. 2.1 Residential Land Use Policies The residential policies and land use designations of the Land Use Element are responsible to implement, to a great extent, the City's Population Growth Objectives and many of the policies of the Housing Element. The Land Use Element must designate enough land at sufficient densities to accommodate the projected population of the Everett Planning Area, and to provide housing opportunities for all economic segments of the community. Policy 2.1.1 Assure a wide range of housing opportunities throughout the entire community, while preserving and creating distinct residential neighborhoods. Designate on the Land Use Map areas appropriate for various types of housing at specified density ranges, but without major changes in most residential areas to the existing land use designations. Policy 2.1.2 Promote increased densities and infill housing types in all residential neighborhoods through appropriate design standards that reinforce the single family character of areas zoned single family, and which assure that multiple family developments integrate with and enhance the neighborhoods in which they are permitted. Policy 2.1.3 Strongly discourage the conversion of residential areas to nonresidential uses. Discourage the encroachment of commercial uses into residential zones, except in the following circumstances: (a) consider allowing a very limited amount of small scale, compatible neighborhood retail uses within walking distance of all homes in a neighborhood, that serve and enhance the neighborhoods in which such use is located, and which are spaced at least one-quarter to one-half mile from any existing commercial zone or other neighborhood retail use. Ensure that noise and traffic impacts of commercial activities do not negatively affect adjoining residential areas. (b) a limited amount of small scale office or retail uses in mixed use buildings in multiple family zones, if such development provides new and affordable housing units in conjunction with the nonresidential office or retail use. (c) home occupations as a subordinate and clearly accessory use to the permitted residential use, as regulated by the zoning code, and limit or restrict non-resident traffic related to home occupations in residential neighborhoods. (d) conversion of residentially designated properties to commercial use may be permitted for the redevelopment of existing commercial uses where (i) the redevelopment is necessary to LAND USE ELEMENT 21