2010-10-26_PWETC_Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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5. Land Use Review Role of PWETC Community Development Director Patrick Trudgeon was present to discuss land use application approval process, timelines per state statute, and to discuss areas where the PWET Commission could provide input in the process. Mr. Trudgeon provided several bench handouts for reference during the discussion, further detailing the land use application and approval process and the role of the Planning Commission in accordance with State Statute and City Code; and Public Hearings held at the Planning Commission level in accordance with City Code; all within the proscribed 60 -day review period allowed by statute for land use applications. Mr. Trudgeon reviewed the City's "One -Step Land Use Application Process" and the types of applications reviewed administratively by staff and those requiring the more formal review and public hearing process before the Planning Commission, with mailed and published public notices. Mr. Trudgeon reviewed a sample application and the approximate time line to precede with the 60 -day application/review process for land use applications, with few exceptions; and ramifications in not meeting that approval deadline through arbitrary automatic approval indicating the City didn't meet due process for the applicant. Mr. Trudgeon noted that the City could request extension for an additional 60 days; or the applicant could waive the review time or voluntarily extend the review time for special projects or unique issues. Mr. Trudgeon provided some items for discussion and /or considerations in determining a role for the PWET Commission in becoming involved in land use cases: The 60 -day review rule How will adding another layer of review or adding another commission to the approval process compromise the ability to make a timely decision, depending on meeting schedules and ensuring all meeting deadlines are met? Are we adding another level of bureaucracy Are we making the process user friendly for the applicant; whether homeowners or big developers? Mission of the PWET Commission In the City Council's charge to and in defining the role of the PWET Commission, with land use applications already reviewed by Planning Department staff, the Design Review Committee (DRC representing management staff of each City Department), and potentially the Planning Commission, and ultimately the City Council in determining compatibility of the land use application with City Code and the Comprehensive Plan, would the PWET Commission's review of land use cases detract from their other agenda items and interests? Focus on specific transportation and /or environmental interests o Traffic Studies Mr. Trudgeon noted that every land use or change impacts roadways in some way; with some major developments or redevelopments requiring Page 3 of 14