HomeMy WebLinkAboutSR_ERC_Report_Bretzke_Variance_250205_v4_FINALDEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY
AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
SR_ERC_Report_Bretzke Variance_250205_v4_FINALDRAFT
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW COMMITTEE REPORT
ERC Meeting Date: February 10, 2025
Project File Number: PR23-000001
Project Name: Bretzke Variances
Land Use File Number: LUA24-000327, ECF, V-A, V-A, MOD
Project Manager: Alex Morganroth, Principal Planner
Owner: Elena Fedorouk, PO Box 53046, Bellevue, WA 98015
Applicant: Yan Lifshaz, PO Box 53046, Bellevue, WA 98015
Contact: Jeffery Jones, J.S. Jones & Associates, Inc., PO Box 1908 Issaquah, WA 98027,
jeff.jsjones@comcast.net
Project Location: (APN 1023059360)
Project Summary: The applicant is requesting Environmental (SEPA) Review, a Reasonable Use
Variance, a Setback Variance, and a Street Modification in order to construct a
new two-story, 3,180 sq. ft. single-family home (detached dwelling unit) on
parcel number1023059360. The site is approximately 11,374 sq. ft. (0.26 acres)
in size and is located in the Residential-4 du/ac (R-4) zone and Residential Low
Density (LD) Comprehensive Plan Land Use Designation. The adjacent property
to the south at 5521 NE 10th St (APN 1023059358), where mitigation is proposed
with approval of the property owner, is developed with a 1,880 sq. ft. single-
family home and associated access structure. The applicant is requesting
deviation from critical area buffer/building setback standards and deviation from
the required front yard setback for the benefit of a new detached dwelling.
According to the applicant, the residence will be located at the minimum front
and side setbacks from property lines and as far from critical areas as possible.
A setback variance is requested in order to construct the building further north
than the setback would allow. Critical areas located on the site include sensitive
slopes and a high erosion hazard. A Category II wetlands and Type F stream
(Honey Creek) buffer are located on an adjacent site and their buffers extend
onto the subject site. The applicant proposes to retain one (1) tree. Total critical
area buffer impacts are approximately 8,258 sq. ft. The applicant submitted a
Drainage Assessment, Geotech Report, Fish and Wildlife Habitat Assessment,
Critical Area Study, Analysis and Mitigation Plan, and Tree Protection Plan.
Exist. Bldg. Area SF: Vacant lot Proposed New Bldg. Area
(footprint):
Proposed New Bldg. Area (gross):
1,552 sq. ft.
3,180 sq. ft.
Site Area: 0.26 acres Total Building Area GSF: 3,180 sq. ft.
STAFF
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff Recommends that the Environmental Review Committee issue a
Determination of Non-Significance with Mitigation DNS-M.
Docusign Envelope ID: CBDFC8EF-3F03-4F7F-8428-FBBC11FD0EA2
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development
Bretzke Variances
Staff Report to the Environmental Review Committee
LUA24-000327, ECF, V-A, V-A, MOD
Report of February 10, 2025 Page 2 of 9
SR_ERC_Report_Bretzke Variance_250205_v4_FINAL
Project Location Map
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
In compliance with RCW 43.21C.240, the following environmental (SEPA) review addresses only those project
impacts that are not adequately addressed under existing development standards and environmental
regulations.
A. Environmental Threshold Recommendation
Based on analysis of probable impacts from the proposal, staff recommends that the Responsible
Officials:
Issue a DNS-M with a 14-day appeal period.
B. Mitigation Measures
1. The applicant shall comply with the recommendations found in the submitted Geotechnical
Engineering Report, prepared by GEO Group Northwest, Inc., dated December 7, 2022, and
any future addenda.
2. The applicant shall comply with the Critical Areas Impact Analysis and Mitigation Plan,
prepared by J.S. Jones and Associates, Inc., dated March 22, 2023, including invasive species
removal and replanting with native vegetation within the wetland buffer to achieve a minimum
1:1 mitigation ratio and to ensure the protection of retained trees and successful replanting
efforts.
3. The applicant shall submit draft easement documents for both the on-site and off-site native
growth protection areas, as shown in the Critical Areas Impact Analysis and Mitigation Plan,
prepared by J.S. Jones and Associates, Inc. The draft documents shall be reviewed and
approved by the Current Planning Project Manager prior to acceptance of a building permit
application. Furthermore, both native growth protection easements shall be recorded prior to
issuance of the building permit.
4. The applicant shall prepare and submit an Inadvertent Discovery Plan (IDP) prior to the start
of any ground-disturbing activities. The applicant shall provide notification to Tribes’ cultural
committee prior to the start of construction.
Docusign Envelope ID: CBDFC8EF-3F03-4F7F-8428-FBBC11FD0EA2
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development
Bretzke Variances
Staff Report to the Environmental Review Committee
LUA24-000327, ECF, V-A, V-A, MOD
Report of February 10, 2025 Page 3 of 9
SR_ERC_Report_Bretzke Variance_250205_v4_FINAL
C. Exhibits
Exhibit 1: Environmental Review Committee (ERC) Report
Exhibit 2: Site Plan
Exhibit 3: Architectural Plans
Exhibit 4: Civil Plans
Exhibit 5: Construction Mitigation Description
D. Environmental Impacts
The proposal was circulated and reviewed by various City Departments and Divisions to determine
whether the applicant has adequately identified and addressed environmental impacts anticipated to
occur in conjunction with the proposed development. Staff reviewers have identified that the proposal is
likely to have the following probable impacts:
1. Earth
Impacts: The subject property at 5501 NE 10th St (APN 1023059360) is currently vacant and
primarily consists of unmaintained vegetation. The adjacent property to the south at 5521 NE 10th
St (APN 1023059358), where mitigation is proposed with approval of the property owner, is
developed on the east side of the site with a 1,880 sq. ft. single-family home and associated
access structure. The west side of the site is undeveloped and primarily consists of unmaintained
Exhibit 6: Tree Protection Plan, prepared by ABC Consulting Arborists LLC, dated December
27, 2022
Exhibit 7: Drainage Assessment, prepared by Interlaken Engineering and Design, PLLC
Exhibit 8: Geotechnical Engineering Report, prepared by GEO Group Northwest, Inc., dated
December 7, 2022
Exhibit 9: Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment, prepared by J.S. Jones and Associates, Inc.,
dated March 1, 2023
Exhibit 10: Critical Area Study for Wetlands and Streams, prepared by J.S. Jones and
Associates, Inc., dated November 15, 2022, revised March 8, 2024
Exhibit 11: Critical Areas Impact Analysis and Mitigation Plan, prepared by J.S. Jones and
Associates, Inc., dated March 22, 2023
Exhibit 12: Reasonable Use Variance Justification prepared by J.S. Jones and Associates, Inc.,
dated March 1, 2023
Exhibit 13: Duwamish Tribe Comments, prepared by Duwamish Tribal Historic Preservation,
dated December 20, 2024
Exhibit 14: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Comments, prepared by Ana Reyes, Regulatory
Project Manager, dated January 10, 2025
Exhibit 15: SEPA Environmental Checklist, prepared by Yan Lifshaz, dated August 3, 2023
Exhibit 16: Department of Fish and Wildlife Comments, prepared by Beck Sessa, dated
February 7, 2025
Docusign Envelope ID: CBDFC8EF-3F03-4F7F-8428-FBBC11FD0EA2
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development
Bretzke Variances
Staff Report to the Environmental Review Committee
LUA24-000327, ECF, V-A, V-A, MOD
Report of February 10, 2025 Page 4 of 9
SR_ERC_Report_Bretzke Variance_250205_v4_FINAL
vegetation. The applicant is proposing 500 cubic yards of grading and excavation on the site at
5501 NE 10th St to prepare the site for the construction of a two-story single-family residence,
private yard area, and new driveway. The grading and excavation is concentrated as far from the
wetlands as possible. Both the amount of grading and location of grading will be further evaluated
as part of the reasonable use variance review.
According to City of Renton (COR) Maps, a high erosion hazard and sensitive slopes are present
on the site. As such, the applicant submitted a Geotechnical Engineering Report, prepared by
GEO Group Northwest, Inc., dated December 7, 2022 (Exhibit 8). On August 8, 2006, GEO Group
Northwest, Inc. conducted a subsurface soil investigation on and near the site property by
excavating and logging two (2) exploratory test pits, TP-4 and TP-5. A backhoe was used to
complete the excavations, reaching depths of five and one-half feet (5.5’) and seven and one-half
feet (7.5’) below ground surface, respectively. Test pit TP-4, located just east of the southeastern
part of the site, revealed approximately five and one-half feet (5.5’) of medium dense to dense
silty sand fill. Beneath this layer, about one and one-half feet (1.5’) of mottled, medium dense
sandy silt to silty sand, which the consultant interpreted as weathered native soil, was
encountered. At the bottom of the test pit at seven feet (7’), dense silty sand with gravel glacial till
was present. In test pit TP-5, situated in the northwest part of the site, loose to medium dense
silty sand extended to a depth of four feet (4’). Below this, dense silty sand with gravel glacial till
was encountered, continuing to the bottom of the test pit at five and one-half feet (5.5’). No
groundwater seepage was observed in the test pits. However, groundwater levels may fluctuate
seasonally due to factors such as rainfall, surface runoff, and other environmental conditions.
According to the published geologic mapping for the local area, subsurface soils at the site
consist of glacial till (Qgt) in the upland area, and lake bottom and bog type deposits (Qlp) in the
lower wetland area. The glacial till deposits typically consists of compact, unsorted mixtures of
silt, sand, gravel, and cobbles deposited and directly overridden by the Puget Lobe glacier. The
bog deposits typically are composed of soft peat, organic silt, and clay.
Grading and excavation activities are expected to involve cut-and-fill operations to create a level
building pad and stable foundation. The geotechnical report recommends performing grading
during the dry season to reduce erosion risks. Recommendations include performing grading
during the dry season, using silt fencing, erosion control blankets, and straw mulch to stabilize
disturbed areas and control sedimentation.
The report includes comprehensive recommendations for site preparation, earthwork,
foundation design, retaining wall construction, drainage, and structure flooring. Key
recommendations include installing silt fences, preventing water accumulation in areas
designated for foundations, slabs, or pavements, limiting the slopes of temporary excavations,
ensuring proper compaction of fill beneath the driveway and future home, and incorporating a
vertical drain mat behind foundation walls. As such, staff recommends as a mitigation measure,
the applicant shall comply with the recommendations found in the submitted Geotechnical
Engineering Report, prepared by GEO Group Northwest, Inc., dated December 7, 2022, and any
future addenda.
Mitigation Measures:
1. The applicant shall comply with the recommendations found in the submitted Geotechnical
Engineering Report, prepared by GEO Group Northwest, Inc., dated December 7, 2022, and
any future addenda.
Nexus: State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) Environmental Review; City of Renton
Comprehensive Plan Policy L-35; RMC 4-3-050 Critical Areas Regulations; and RMC 4-4-060
Grading, Excavation, and Mining Regulations.
Docusign Envelope ID: CBDFC8EF-3F03-4F7F-8428-FBBC11FD0EA2
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development
Bretzke Variances
Staff Report to the Environmental Review Committee
LUA24-000327, ECF, V-A, V-A, MOD
Report of February 10, 2025 Page 5 of 9
SR_ERC_Report_Bretzke Variance_250205_v4_FINAL
2. Water
a. Wetland, Streams, Lakes
Impacts: Due to the presence of a wetland and Type F stream (Honey Creek) on the adjacent
sites to the south and west (APN 921101TR-G and 1023059358), the applicant submitted a
Critical Area Study for Wetlands and Streams, prepared by J.S. Jones and Associates, Inc.,
dated November 15, 2022, revised March 8, 2024 (Exhibit 10) and an Critical Areas Impact
Analysis and Mitigation Plan, prepared by J.S. Jones and Associates, Inc., dated March 22,
2023 (Exhibit 11). These studies included an analysis of existing conditions and the potential
impacts of the proposed development on the wetland and its associated buffer.
The wetland, identified as ‘Wetland A’, has been classified as a Category II wetland,
consistent with the Washington State Wetland Rating System. The wetland scores ‘7’ for
water quality, ‘8’ for hydrology, and ‘6’ for habitat, for a total score of 21. A Category II has a
critical area buffer width of 150 feet (150’) and a structure setback beyond the buffer of 15 feet
(15’). According to the Critical Area Study for Wetlands and Streams Report, field observations
confirm that this wetland is a palustrine forested wetland, a non-tidal wetland dominated by
trees, shrubs, and other plants. No portion of the wetland extends onto the site, but
approximately 8,260 sq. ft. of buffer extends onsite. Wetland A features at least two (2) small
ponds and provides significant flood retention and mediation. Its habitat functions are
moderate due to the developed nature of the surrounding development, which limits
connectivity to other habitats. The wetland contains numerous snags and woody debris,
offering shelter, feeding, nesting, and roosting opportunities for wildlife. A quarter-acre area
of seasonally inundated vegetation and woody branches supports amphibian egg-laying. The
report notes that Wetland A and its surrounding uplands do not serve as habitat for any priority
species, with no priority habitats beyond those within the wetland itself.
According to the reports, Honey Creek follows the same drainage pattern as the wetland, but
no defined stream channel exists within the wetland west of the subject parcel. The wetland
experiences seasonal flooding up to its delineated boundary. For a Type F stream, the
required buffer width is 150 feet (150’) and a structure setback beyond the buffer of 15 feet
(15’). The stream buffer may be interpreted as extending to the seasonal flood limit but does
not exceed the wetland buffer, as both share the same 150-foot (150’) boundary.
The proposed development impacts the wetlands buffer due to the construction of the home,
driveway, walkway, and frontage improvements, which combined total 8,260 sq. ft. of
permeant buffer impacts. The entire parcel is located within the wetland and stream buffer,
which align due to the stream’s (Honey Creek) location at the eastern boundary of the
wetlands and identical buffer requirement of 150 feet (150’). At the closest point, the structure
would be located approximately 32 feet (32’) from the edge of the wetland and stream,
equating to a buffer encroachment of approximately 118 feet (118’). Honey Creek and a
tributary of Honey Creek flow through Wetland A. However, there is no defined stream
channel for Honey Creek in the wetland.
As compensation for the impacts to both the stream and wetlands buffer, the applicant is
proposing enhancement of approximately 8,260 sq. ft. of wetland and stream buffer in order
to increase plant diversity and to improve wildlife forage opportunities in the wetland,
including the removal of invasive species and replanting with native vegetation. See
‘Vegetation’ section for additional discussion of plantings. The applicant has proposed both
on-site mitigation and off-site mitigation. The off-site mitigation, which includes invasive
species removal and installation of native plants, is proposed on the parcel at 5521 NE 10th St
(APN 1023059358). The off-site area is primarily wooded and does not contain any structures
Docusign Envelope ID: CBDFC8EF-3F03-4F7F-8428-FBBC11FD0EA2
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development
Bretzke Variances
Staff Report to the Environmental Review Committee
LUA24-000327, ECF, V-A, V-A, MOD
Report of February 10, 2025 Page 6 of 9
SR_ERC_Report_Bretzke Variance_250205_v4_FINAL
or other improvements. In order to ensure the stream and wetland mitigation area is protected
in perpetuity, staff recommends as a mitigation measure, that the applicant submit draft
easement documents for both the on-site and off-site native growth protection areas, as
shown in the Critical Areas Impact Analysis and Mitigation Plan, prepared by J.S. Jones and
Associates, Inc. The draft documents shall be reviewed and approved by the Current Planning
Project Manager prior to acceptance of a building permit application. Furthermore, both
native growth protection easements shall be recorded prior to issuance of the building permit.
All restoration work would follow the five-year monitoring and maintenance plan to ensure the
establishment of native vegetation and the removal of invasive regrowth. Therefore, staff
recommends as a mitigation measure, the applicant shall comply with the Critical Areas
Impact Analysis and Mitigation Plan, prepared by J.S. Jones and Associates, Inc., including
invasive species removal and replanting with native vegetation within the wetland buffer to
achieve a minimum 1:1 mitigation ratio and to ensure the protection of retained trees and
successful replanting efforts.
A comment from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, prepared by Ana Reyes, Regulatory Project
Manager, dated January 10, 2025, was submitted during the review period (Exhibit 14). The
comment indicated that a Corps permit may be required due to impacts to aquatic features.
While impacts are only proposed to buffers and not the aquatic features themselves, staff
sent the comment to the applicant and recommended they contact the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers to confirm whether or not a federal permit is needed.
Mitigation Measures:
1. The applicant shall comply with the Critical Areas Impact Analysis and Mitigation Plan,
prepared by J.S. Jones and Associates, Inc., including invasive species removal and
replanting with native vegetation within the wetland buffer to achieve a minimum 1:1
mitigation ratio and to ensure the protection of retained trees and successful replanting
efforts.
2. The applicant shall submit draft easement documents for both the on-site and off-site
native growth protection areas, as shown in the Critical Areas Impact Analysis and
Mitigation Plan, prepared by J.S. Jones and Associates, Inc. The draft documents shall be
reviewed and approved by the Current Planning Project Manager prior to acceptance of a
building permit application. Furthermore, both native growth protection easements shall
be recorded prior to issuance of the building permit.
Nexus: State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) Environmental Review; RMC 4-3-050 Critical
Areas Regulations; and RMC 4-4-130 Tree Retention and Land Clearing Regulations.
b. Storm Water
Impacts: The proposed development would add approximately 2,282 sq. ft. of new
impervious surfaces, triggering Simplified Drainage Review under the 2022 Renton Surface
Water Design Manual (RSWDM). As such, the applicant submitted a Written Drainage
Assessment, prepared by Interlaken Engineering and Design, PLLC (Exhibit 7). The report
evaluated the feasibility of on-site Best Management Practices (BMPs) including full
dispersion, full infiltration, limited infiltration, rain gardens, bioretention, and permeable
pavement. Due to characteristics of the site related to the type of soil and topography, the
report concludes that only basic dispersion is feasible. Therefore, stormwater runoff
generated by the new impervious surfaces, including from the driveway and proposed single-
family home, would be managed using the basic dispersion method designed to meet Core
and Special Requirements outlined in the RSWDM.
Docusign Envelope ID: CBDFC8EF-3F03-4F7F-8428-FBBC11FD0EA2
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development
Bretzke Variances
Staff Report to the Environmental Review Committee
LUA24-000327, ECF, V-A, V-A, MOD
Report of February 10, 2025 Page 7 of 9
SR_ERC_Report_Bretzke Variance_250205_v4_FINAL
The drainage plan, included in the submitted Civil Plans (Exhibit 4, sheet 2), proposes the use
of two (2) infiltration trenches near the rear of the home footprint and the driveway to mitigate
stormwater impacts. The trenches are located outside the reduced wetland buffer area.
These features are designed to reduce impact to the wetlands while reducing runoff. It is
anticipated that the requirements set forth by the 2022 City of Renton Surface Water Design
Manual (2022 RSWDM), or a future stormwater manual adopted by the City of Renton, would
be sufficient to mitigate stormwater impacts generated by the proposed development and no
specific mitigation measures are recommended.
Mitigation Measures: No further mitigation is recommended.
Nexus: Not applicable.
3. Vegetation
Impacts: The proposed development would require the removal of vegetation within the wetland
buffer to accommodate the construction of the driveway and associated grading activities.
According to the Critical Areas Impact Analysis and Mitigation Plan, prepared by J.S. Jones and
Associates, Inc., dated March 22, 2023 (Exhibit 11), the project site contains eight (8) trees, all
eight (8) of which would be retained. The trees proposed for retention include a cottonwood
(Populus species), a Western red cedar (Thuja plicata), and six (6) red alders (Alnus rubra). Two
(2) of the trees are classified as “landmark” trees including a 35-inch (35”) DBH Western red cedar
and a 29.79-inch (29.79”) red alder.
The wetland buffer is currently dominated by invasive vegetation, primarily Himalayan blackberry,
which has reduced its ecological functions, contributed to soil erosion, and prevented the
establishment of native species. The Critical Areas Impact Analysis and Mitigation Plan proposes
removing invasive vegetation and replanting native species in an 8,260 sq. ft. area. Species
proposed include Douglas fir, Western red cedar, vine maple, salmonberry, sword fern, Oregon
grape, salal, and other natives, the planting of which will improve habitat quality, stabilize soils,
and enhance the wetland buffer’s ecological functions. Combining invasive vegetation removal
with significant restoration efforts will support long-term ecological health. Therefore, no further
mitigation is being proposed.
Mitigation Measures: No further mitigation is recommended.
Nexus: Not applicable.
4. Wildlife
Impacts: The proposed development is expected to cause temporary disturbances to wildlife
during construction activities, including noise, vibrations, and human presence. According to the
Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment, prepared by J.S. Jones and Associates, Inc., dated March 1,
2023 (Exhibit 9), the long linear north-south forest, associated with Honey Creek, is a biodiversity
corridor, which is classified as a terrestrial habitat. The definition of Biodiversity Area: “the area is
within a city or an urban growth area (UGA) and contains habitat that is valuable to fish or wildlife
and is mostly comprised of native vegetation” (WDFW, 2008).
According to the assessment, surrounding high-intensity land use and the presence of multiple
stormwater ponds suggest that the wetland plays a role in improving water quality by filtering
pollutants such as hydrocarbons, heavy metals, fertilizers, and pesticides. Additionally, its
forested nature may help regulate water temperatures, benefiting downstream fish populations.
Honey Creek has the potential to support fish habitat, particularly if downstream obstructions
and pipe sections are removed. Coho salmon have been documented downstream in Honey
Creek. While Coho are not state-listed, their federal status applies specifically to fish runs in the
Lower Columbia River. Additionally, Coho are classified as an ESA Species of Concern and a
Docusign Envelope ID: CBDFC8EF-3F03-4F7F-8428-FBBC11FD0EA2
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development
Bretzke Variances
Staff Report to the Environmental Review Committee
LUA24-000327, ECF, V-A, V-A, MOD
Report of February 10, 2025 Page 8 of 9
SR_ERC_Report_Bretzke Variance_250205_v4_FINAL
candidate species for the Puget Sound Region, as indicated in the Salmonscape Coho Fish
Distribution Map included in the report.
The wetland may also provide habitat for beavers, though no signs of activity were observed. The
report notes that bird populations are seasonally abundant, with both resident and migratory
species present. Snags and large woody debris are scattered throughout the area, but no large
stick nests were found during the consultant’s on-site observations. The report notes that dense
Himalayan blackberry growth in riparian areas negatively impacts overall wildlife habitat quality.
No threatened or endangered species were identified within the site boundaries. The report
concludes that the loss of the degraded buffer would be offset ecologically by restoring the buffer
along the same side of the critical area and that the proposed residence would have no
measurable impact on Honey Creek or its associated wetland. Improvements to the buffer area
are expected to result in long-term benefits for wildlife by increasing habitat complexity and
supporting diverse species. Therefore, no further site-specific mitigation is proposed.
Mitigation Measures: No further mitigation is recommended.
Nexus: Not applicable.
5. Historic and Cultural Preservation
Impacts: The project site is located within the ancestral lands of the Duwamish people.
According to the SEPA Environmental Checklist, prepared by Yan Lifshaz, dated August 3, 2023
(Exhibit 15), no known cultural or archaeological resources are currently documented on the
property. However, the Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation (DAHP) and the
Duwamish Tribal Historic Preservation Office have identified the area as culturally significant with
a moderately low probability of encountering unknown archaeological deposits. However, due to
its proximity to a historical waterway like Honey Creek and presence of two (2) historical and
ancestral Duwamish place names within approximately one and one-half (1.5) miles of the
project location, the Tribe ranks the risk as higher per their comment letter (Exhibit 13).
The letter submitted by the Duwamish Tribe emphasizes the cultural importance of the area and
recommend an Inadvertent Discovery Plan (IDP), especially for activities disturbing native soils
below fill or impervious surfaces. Additionally, the Tribe expressed concerns about potential
impacts to mature native trees, which they consider culturally significant, and recommended
their preservation where possible. The Tribe supports the use of native vegetation for landscaping,
removal of invasive species, and dark-sky-compliant lighting to reduce light pollution and
preserve favorable conditions for traditional practices. Staff notes the applicant has already
proposed replanting with native vegetation according to the Critical Area Analysis and Mitigation
Plan (Exhibit 11). As such, staff recommends as a mitigation measure that the applicant prepare
and submit an Inadvertent Discovery Plan (IDP) prior to the start of any ground-disturbing
activities. The applicant shall provide notification to Tribes’ cultural committee prior to the start
of construction.
Mitigation Measures:
1. The applicant shall prepare and submit an Inadvertent Discovery Plan (IDP) prior to the start
of any ground-disturbing activities. The applicant shall provide notification to Tribes’ cultural
committee prior to the start of construction.
Nexus: State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) Environmental Review; RCW 27.53 Archaeological
Sites and Resources; RCW 27.44 Indian Graves and Records; City of Renton Comprehensive
Goals and Policies, L-AA, L-44, and L-45; and Duwamish Tribe Comment, dated December 20,
2024.
Docusign Envelope ID: CBDFC8EF-3F03-4F7F-8428-FBBC11FD0EA2
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development
Bretzke Variances
Staff Report to the Environmental Review Committee
LUA24-000327, ECF, V-A, V-A, MOD
Report of February 10, 2025 Page 9 of 9
SR_ERC_Report_Bretzke Variance_250205_v4_FINAL
E. Comments of Reviewing Departments
The proposal has been circulated to City Department and Division Reviewers. Where applicable, their
comments have been incorporated into the text of this report and/or “Advisory Notes to Applicant”.
✓ Copies of all Review Comments are contained in the Official File and may be attached to this
report.
The Environmental Determination decision will become final if the decision is not appealed within the
14-day appeal period (RCW 43.21.C.075(3); WAC 197-11-680).
Environmental Determination Appeal Process: Appeals of the environmental determination must be
filed in writing on or before 5:00 p.m. on February 24, 2025. Appeals must be submitted electronically to
the City Clerk at cityclerk@rentonwa.gov or delivered to City Hall 1st floor Lobby Hub Monday through Friday.
The appeal fee, normally due at the time an appeal is submitted, will be collected at a future date if your
appeal is submitted electronically. The appeal submitted in person may be paid on the first floor in our
Finance Department. Appeals to the Hearing Examiner are governed by RMC 4-8-110 and additional
information regarding the appeal process may be obtained from the City Clerk’s Office,
cityclerk@rentonwa.gov.
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CITY OF RENTON
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
STAFF REPORT TO THE ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW COMMITTEE
EXHIBITS
Project Name:
Bretzke Variances
Land Use File Number:
LUA24-000327, ECF, V-A, V-A, MOD
Date of Meeting:
February 10, 2024
Staff Contact:
Alex Morganroth
Principal Planner
Project Contact:
Jeffery Jones, J.S. Jones and
Associates, Inc., PO Box
1908 Issaquah, WA 98027,
jeff.jsjones@comcast.net
Project Location:
(APN 1023059360)
The following exhibits are included with the ERC Report:
Exhibit 1: Environmental Review Committee (ERC) Report
Exhibit 2: Site Plan
Exhibit 3: Architectural Plans
Exhibit 4: Civil Plans
Exhibit 5: Construction Mitigation Description
Exhibit 6: Tree Protection Plan, prepared by ABC Consulting Arborists LLC, dated December
27, 2022
Exhibit 7: Drainage Assessment, prepared by Interlaken Engineering and Design, PLLC
Exhibit 8: Geotechnical Engineering Report, prepared by GEO Group Northwest, Inc., dated
December 7, 2022
Exhibit 9: Fish & Wildlife Habitat Assessment, prepared by J.S. Jones and Associates, Inc.,
dated March 1, 2023
Exhibit 10: Critical Area Study for Wetlands and Streams, prepared by J.S. Jones and
Associates, Inc., November 15, 2022, revised March 8, 2024
Exhibit 11: Critical Areas Impact Analysis and Mitigation Plan, prepared by J.S. Jones and
Associates, Inc., dated March 22, 2023
Exhibit 12: Reasonable Use Variance Justification, prepared by J.S. Jones and Associates, Inc.,
dated March 1, 2023
Exhibit 13: Duwamish Tribe Comments, prepared by Duwamish Tribal Historic Preservation,
dated December 20, 2024
Exhibit 14: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Comments, prepared by Ana Reyes, Regulatory
Project Manager, dated January 10, 2025
Exhibit 15: SEPA Environmental Checklist, prepared by Yan Lifshaz, dated August 3, 2023
Exhibit 16: Department of Fish and Wildlife Comments, prepared by Beck Sessa, dated
February 7, 2025
Docusign Envelope ID: CBDFC8EF-3F03-4F7F-8428-FBBC11FD0EA2