Ordinance 2021-94 - Laserfiche WebLink

EVERETT COMPREHENSIVE PLAN LAND USE ELEMENT document directly addresses can be generally Introduction. Everett benefits from a diverse categorized into two basic elements - earth and attractive natural environment. Many resources and water resources. Each of these components of Everett's natural environment elements is closely related to the other. are delicate resources which are sensitive to Environmentally sensitive areas are sensitive the impacts of urban development, or which because of characteristics associated with one pose hazards to the community if developed. or both of these elements. For example, These resources are termed "environmentally vegetation of a particular type exists because sensitive areas", and are comprised of aquatic of the topography, mineral and water features, geologic land forms, plant and animal resources present in that location. Wildlife life. Everett's water resources include Port habitat areas in Everett exist because of the Gardner Bay, the Snohomish River, two fresh vegetative, topographic and hydrological water lakes, ground water, and numerous characteristics present. Hydrological patterns streams and wetlands. Ravines, bluffs, hill- are influenced by the geological formations sides, and steeply sloping areas are land forms present on and below the land surface. that provide topographic variety and create Therefore, this policy section is divided into some spectacular views, which add to the these two basic categories, with related sub- natural amenity of the community. The elements of the environment, such as natural vegetation which is found in the these vegetation and wildlife habitat, addressed in areas also provides wildlife habitat, contributes each category. This document addresses only to slope and soil stability, and filters pollutants Everett's environmentally sensitive areas. It from storm water runoff. While historic does not discuss other environmental issues. development practices in Everett have converted much of the natural environment to Goals for Environmentally Sensitive Areas urban use, there are still many environmentally Land Use Policies. sensitive areas which have been only slightly or moderately disturbed. 1.15.1 To protect, sustain and improve Everett's environmentally sensitive areas Everett, being one of the major urban centers (ESA's) for the present and future generations. of the Puget Sound metropolis, can expect to experience continued population growth and 1.15.2 To protect the public health, safety urbanization. This growth will place greater and welfare by regulating development of the pressures on its environmentally sensitive geologic and soils formations in the City areas. Development in areas which are which pose potentially hazardous conditions. hazardous to life and property, such as floodplains and landslide hazard areas can also 1.15.3 To protect, improve, and maintain the create liability upon the taxpayers, public quality of Everett's water resources. services and financial resources of the City. Development patterns that avoid environ- Objectives for Environmentally Sensitive R mentally sensitive areas prevent degradation, Areas Land Use Policies. may enhance natural systems, protect water quality and wildlife habitat, and contribute to 1.15.1 Require development to protect and community aesthetics. preserve critical ESA's. The environmentally sensitive areas of the Everett community which this policy LU-49