2018/02/07 Council Agenda Packet

OPIATE SUBSTITUTION TREATMENT FACILITY CODE AMENDMENT PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES APRIL 5, 2016 Request to initiate consideration of an amendment to the existing zoning code regulations for opiate substitution treatment facilities. MEETING MINUTES Mr. Giffen stated that the City is requesting Planning Commission to initiate consideration of an amendment to the existing zoning code regulations for opiate substitution treatment facilities. The current regulations include a definition for opiate substitution treatment facilities and only allow the facilities in the C-1 zones south of SR 526. In 2003,there was a concern about the concentration of more social services within the downtown area. The current regulations also limit the facility to not more than one opiate substitution treatment facility in the City unless such facility would happen to locate in one of the existing hospitals in the City. At that time, people were concerned about the potential impacts of this type of a facility. The current facility has operated in south Everett since without complaint or incident. Currently,the regulations would only allow for a second facility through the essential public facility siting process. Commissioner Sand asked who requested the code amendment. Mr. Giffen responded that the City would like Planning Commission to initiate based on information received through the Community Streets Initiative regarding the increased need for the services. The existing facility is serving at capacity. Commissioner Sand asked if it was possible before action to initiate,that staff could provide more information regarding the recommendation. Mr. Giffen responded that there is no recommendation at this time; however,staff would like to prepare some information in response to Planning Commission initiating the request. Commissioner Jordison stated that he was in support of initiating the request. Motion: Commissioner Lark made a motion to initiate the request. Commissioner Dunn seconded the motion. Citizen Comments John Berkedal,4236 Latonna Avenue NE in Seattle, representing Therapeutic Health Services,stated that they operate the south Everett clinic. They are a not for profit organization. They are the largest organization in the state of Washington that offers drug, alcohol,and mental health services. They have the highest level of accreditation through CARF. They run a number of programs that are available to all economic classes. They work primarily with the poor and indigent but also contract work with the Seattle Seahawks and with Group Health. Snohomish County asked them to add another clinic,so that services can be provided closer to where clients live. They have been trying to site a new clinic for the last year and a half. They have found a building acceptable for their needs at the corner of Rucker and Pacific. At that location, initially they --- -------- ------ ---------------- 1