HomeMy WebLinkAboutAdmin Report_Weston North SHPLA_16-000140DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY
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Admin Report_Weston North
A. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT & DECISION
DECISION: APPROVED APPROVED SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS DENIED
REPORT DATE: April 8, 2016
Project Name: Weston Heights North Short Plat
Owner: Awesome Yah Church, 702 Nile Avenue NE, Renton, WA 98059
Applicant: Kevin O’Brien, Weston Heights, LLC, 15 Lake Bellevue Drive, Suite 102, Bellevue, WA
98005
Contact: Scott Mesic, Site Development Associates, LLC, 1724 W Marine View Drive, Suite 120,
Everett, WA 98012
File Number: LUA16-000140
Project Manager: Jill Ding, Senior Planner
Project Summary: The applicant is requesting Preliminary Short Plat approval, a Modification to the street
standards (RMC 4-6-060) for a reduction in the required right-of-way dedication width,
and Environmental (SEPA) Review for the subdivision of an existing 107,639 square foot
(2.47 acre) site zoned Residential-4 (R-4) into 6 lots for the future construction of single
family residences. The applicant is proposing to utilize the small lot cluster provisions,
which would allow them to utilize the R-6 development standards in exchange for
setting aside 20 percent of the site as open space with a soft surface public trail. The
proposed lots would range in area from 7,173 square feet to 32,018 square feet. An
existing residence and detached outbuilding are proposed to remain on Lot 1. The
proposed short plat would also result in the creation of 3 tracts (Tracts A, B, and C) and a
Private Road C. The Private Road is proposed to provide access to the abutting Weston
Heights Plat (LUA14-000958) to the south of the project site. Access to the new lots is
proposed via residential driveways onto NE 7th Place. A Category III wetland is mapped
on the project site. A Category 3 wetland requires a 75-foot buffer. The applicant is
proposing a 25 percent buffer reduction with enhancement, which would result in a
56.25-foot wide enhanced buffer.
Project Location: 702 Nile Avenue NE (parcel nos. 112305-9002 and 947794TR-L)
Site Area: 107,639 square feet (2.47 acres)
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B. EXHIBITS:
Exhibits 1-6: Environmental Review Committee Report and Exhibits
Exhibit 7: Administrative Report and Decision
Exhibit 8: Preliminary Short Plat Map
Exhibit 9: Road, Site, & Utilities Plan
Exhibit 10: Tree Retention Plan
Exhibit 11: Revised Buffer Mitigation Exhibit
Exhibit 12: Geotechnical Engineering Report, prepared by The Riley Group, Inc., dated January 29,
2016
Exhibit 13: Technical Information Report, prepared by Site Development Associates, dated
February 24, 2016
Exhibit 14: Modification Request
Exhibit 15: CI-73 Building Height
Exhibit 16: Tree Retention Worksheet
C. GENERAL INFORMATION:
1. Owner(s) of Record:
Awesome Yah Church
702 Nile Avenue NE
Renton, WA 98059
2. Zoning Classification: Residential-4 (R-4)
3. Comprehensive Plan Land Use Designation: Residential Low Density (LD)
4. Existing Site Use: Single family residence and associated detached
accessory structures.
5. Critical Areas: Category III wetland
6. Neighborhood Characteristics:
a. North: Single family residential, R-4
b. East: Single family residential, R-4
c. South: Single family residential, R-4 (Weston Height Preliminary Plat, LUA14-000958)
d. West: Single family residential, R-4
6. Site Area: 107,639 square feet (2.47 acres)
D. HISTORICAL/BACKGROUND:
Action Land Use File No. Ordinance No. Date
Comprehensive Plan N/A 5758 06/22/2015
Zoning N/A 5758 06/22/2015
Annexation N/A 5459 07/05/2009
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E. PUBLIC SERVICES:
1. Existing Utilities
a. Water: Water service is provided by King County Water District 90. A water availability certificate
from King County Water District 90 will need to be provided.
b. Sewer: Sewer service is provided by the City of Renton. There is an existing 8” PVC sewer north of
the site in NE 7th Place that flows from east to west. The sewer discharges to a manhole (COR
Facility ID MH5572) in Nile Avenue NE. This manhole serves at the connection point to the 8” PVC
sewer in Nile Avenue NE. The sewer in Nile Avenue NE flows from south to north.
c. Surface/Storm Water: Drainage from the eastern portion of site currently flows southwest to an
existing wetland which extends into the south-central portion of the site. The western portion of
the site flows west to an existing shallow ditch along the eastern frontage of Nile Avenue NE.
Drainage from the shallow ditch flows south.
There is an existing 12” storm drain north of the site along the eastern edge of NE 7th place that
flows from east to west. This storm drain was installed as part of the Olympus Villa subdivision
(LUA12-090). The storm drain discharges to a stormwater detention pond near a low point in NE
7th Place at a Type 1 Catch Basin (COR Facility ID TED4003587). The detention pond (COR Facility
ID 178003) is located in King County Parcel No. 6389300120. The detention pond was also installed
as part of the Olympus Villa subdivision. Drainage from west of the low point of NE 7th Place is
collected by Type 1 Catch basins and conveyed east to the same detention pond.
Drainage from the detention pond is routed west along NE 7th Place to a Type 2 Catch Basin
located at the intersection of NE 7th Place and Nile Avenue NE. From this catch basin, drainage
flows south in a 15” storm drain along the eastern frontage of Nile Avenue NE.
2. Streets: The site is bounded to the north by NE 7th Place and to the west by Nile Avenue NE. Nile
Avenue NE is classified as a neighborhood collector arterial. NE 7th Place is classified as a residential
access street. Per the King County Assessor’s Map, the existing right of way for Nile Avenue NE is
approximately 60’ and the existing right of way for NE 7th Place is approximately 40’.
3. Fire Protection: City of Renton Fire Department
F. APPLICABLE SECTIONS OF THE RENTON MUNICIPAL CODE:
1. Chapter 2 Land Use Districts
a. Section 4-2-020: Purpose and Intent of Zoning Districts
b. Section 4-2-070: Zoning Use Table
c. Section 4-2-110: Residential Development Standards
d. Section 4-2-115: Residential Design and Open Space Standards
2. Chapter 3 Environmental Regulations
a. Section 4-3-050: Critical Area Regulations
3. Chapter 4 Property Development Standards
4. Chapter 6 Streets and Utility Standards
a. Section 4-6-060: Street Standards
5. Chapter 7 Subdivision Regulations
a. Section 4-7-070: Detailed Procedures for Short Subdivision
6. Chapter 9 Permits – Specific
a. Section 4-9-250: Variances, Waivers, Modifications, and Alternates
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7. Chapter 11 Definitions
G. APPLICABLE SECTIONS OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN:
1. Land Use Element
H. FINDINGS OF FACT (FOF):
1. The Planning Division of the City of Renton accepted the above master application for review on
February 25, 2016 and determined the application complete on March 10, 2016. The project complies
with the 120-day review period.
2. The project site is located at 702 Nile Avenue NE.
3. The project site is currently developed with an existing single family residence (proposed to remain)
and associated detached accessory structures. The residence is owned by the Awesome Yah Church.
There is no record of an approved Conditional Use Permit, on the project site, for the operation of a
church. Therefore, the primary use of the property is a single family residence in ownership by a
church.
4. Access to Lot 1 would remain via an existing driveway off of Nile Avenue NE. Access to Lots 2-6 would
be provided via individual driveways off of NE 7th Place.
5. The property is located within the Residential Low Density (LD) Comprehensive Plan land use
designation.
6. The site is located within the Residential-4 (R-4) zoning classification. The applicant is proposing to
utilize the cluster development standards, which allow the proposed lots to be developed to the
Residential-6 (R-6) development standards in exchange for the setting aside of 20 percent of the site as
open space with a soft surface trail available for public use. To ensure that the trail remains available
for public use, staff recommends, as a condition of approval, that a public trail easement be recorded
over the full length of the trail. Staff further recommends that signage be installed at both ends of the
trail notifying the public that the trail is available for public use.
7. There are approximately 27 trees located on site of which the applicant is proposing to retain a total of
26 trees.
8. The site is mapped with a Category III wetland. A Category III wetland has a standard buffer of 75 feet.
The applicant is proposing to reduce the width of the buffer, with enhancement, by 25 percent to 56.25
feet in width.
9. Approximately 99 cubic yards of material would be cut on site and approximately 3,229 cubic yards of
fill is proposed to be brought into the site.
10. The applicant is proposing to begin and complete construction in 2016.
11. Staff received no public comments during the 14-day public comment period.
12. Representatives from various city departments have reviewed the application materials to identify and
address issues raised by the proposed development. These comments are contained in the official file,
and the essence of the comments has been incorporated into the appropriate sections of this report
and the Departmental Recommendation at the end of this report.
13. Comprehensive Plan Compliance: The site is designated Low Density (LD) on the City’s Comprehensive
Plan Map. The purpose of the LD designation is to include lands constrained by sensitive areas, those
intended to provide transition to the rural area, or those appropriate for larger lot housing to allow for
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a range of lifestyles. The proposal is compliant with the following Comprehensive Plan Goals and
Policies if all conditions of approval are met:
Compliance Comprehensive Plan Analysis
Policy L-3: Encourage infill development of single-family units as a means to meet
growth targets and provide new housing.
Goal L-I: Utilize multiple strategies to accommodate residential growth, including:
Development of new single-family neighborhoods on large tracts of land outside
the City Center,
Development of new multi-family and mixed-use in the City Center and in the
Residential High Density and Commercial Mixed Use designations, and
Infill development on vacant and underutilized land in established neighborhoods
and multi-family areas.
Goal L-T: Create a functioning and exemplary urban forest that is managed at optimum
levels for canopy, health, and diversity.
Goal L-U: Preserve, protect, and enhance the quality and functions of the City’s
sensitive areas including: lakes, rivers, major and minor creeks, intermittent stream
courses and their floodplains, wetlands, ground water resources, wildlife habitats, and
areas of seismic and geological hazards.
Policy L-29: Minimize erosion and sedimentation in and near sensitive areas by
requiring appropriate construction techniques and resource practices, such as low
impact development.
Policy L-31: Maintain or increase the quantity and quality of wetlands. Development
activities shall not decrease the net acreage of existing wetlands.
Policy L-32: Protect buffers along wetlands and surface waters to facilitate infiltration
and maintain stable water temperatures, provide for biological diversity, reduce
amount and velocity of run-off, and provide for wildlife habitat.
Policy L-35: Ensure buildings, roads, and other features are located on less sensitive
portions of a site when sensitive areas are present.
Goal L-BB: Maintain a high quality of life as Renton grows by ensuring that new
development is designed to be functional and attractive.
Goal L-FF: Strengthen the visual identity of Renton and its Community Planning Areas
and neighborhoods through quality design and development.
Policy L-49: Address privacy and quality of life for existing residents by considering
scale and context in infill project design.
14. Zoning Development Standard Compliance: The site is classified Residential-4 (R-4) on the City’s Zoning
Map. The R-4 designation serves as a transition between rural designation zones and higher density
residential zones. It is intended as an intermediate lower density residential zone. Larger lot
subdivisions are preferred; however, “cluster development” is allowed on sites where open space
amenities are created. Resulting development is intended to be superior in design and siting than that
which would normally occur otherwise.The proposal is compliant with the following development
standards if all conditions of approval are met:
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Compliance R-4 Zone Develop Standards and Analysis
Density: There is no minimum density required in the R-4 zone. The maximum density
permitted is 4.0 dwelling units per net acre. Net density is calculated after the
deduction of sensitive areas, areas intended for public right-of-way, and private access
easements.
Staff Comment: The project site totals 107,639 square feet (2.47 acres). After the
deduction of 9,023 square feet of public streets, 4,059 square feet of private streets,
and 882 square feet of wetland area, the site has a net area of 93,675 square feet
(2.15 acres). The proposal for 6 lots on the project site would result in a net density of
2.79 dwelling units per acre (6 lots / 2.15 acres = 2.79 du/ac), which is less than the
maximum density permitted in the R-4 zone.
Lot Dimensions: The minimum lot size permitted in the R-4 zone is 9,000 sq. ft.,
except for cluster development where the minimum lot size of the R-6 zone, 7,000 sq.
ft., is permitted. A minimum lot width of 70 feet is required (80 feet for corner lots)
and a minimum lot depth of 100 feet is required in the R-4 zone. Cluster development
is permitted to utilize the minimum lot width and depth requirements of the R-6 zone,
which are: a minimum width of 60 feet (70 feet for corner lots) and a minimum depth
of 90 feet.
The following table identifies the proposed approximate dimensions for Lots 1-6
Proposed Lot Lot Size (sq. ft.) Lot Width (feet) Lot Depth (feet)
Lot 1 32,018 129.39 222.80
Lot 2 7,385 80.06 90.00
Lot 3 7,200 80.06 90.00
Lot 4 7,173 60.05 120.00
Lot 5 7,200 60.05 120.00
Lot 6 8,400 70.05 120.00
Tract A 5,569 N/A N/A
Tract B 17,539 N/A N/A
Tract C 2,073 N/A N/A
Private Road C 4,058 N/A N/A
Staff Comment: As proposed all lots comply with the minimum lot size, width, and
depth requirements for cluster development within the R-4 zone.
Compliant if
condition of
approval is
met
Setbacks: The required setbacks in the R-4 zone are as follows: front yard is 30 feet,
side yard is combined 20 feet with not less than 7.5 feet on either side, side yard along
the street 30 feet, and the rear yard is 25 feet. Cluster development in the R-4 zone is
permitted to utilize the setback requirements of the R-6 zone, as follows: front yard is
25 feet, rear yard is 25 feet, side yard is combined 15 feet with not less than 5 feet on
either side, and side yard along a street is 25 feet.
Staff Comment: The front yard of the existing single family residence is oriented
towards the west, facing Nile Avenue NE. The single family residence is proposed to
remain along with a detached accessory structure (Quonset Hut). A shop is proposed
for removal. The existing residence and Quonset Hut would comply with the setback
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requirements of the provided the shop is removed. Staff recommends, as a condition of
approval, that the applicant obtain a demolition permit for the removal of the shop
and complete all required inspections prior to the recording of the short plat.
Setbacks for the new residences would be verified at the time of building permit
review.
Building Standards: The R-4 zone has a maximum building coverage of 35% and a
maximum impervious surface coverage of 50%, except Cluster Development is
permitted to utilize the R-6 standards which include a maximum building coverage of
40% and a maximum impervious surface coverage of 55%. A Code Interpretation (CI-
73) (Exhibit 15) was adopted regarding building height requirements. In the R-4 zone,
a maximum building height of 2 stories with a wall plate height of 24 feet is permitted.
Roofs with a pitch equal to or greater than 4:12 may project an additional six (6)
vertical feet from the maximum wall plate height; common rooftop features, such as
chimneys, may project an additional four (4) vertical feet from the roof surface. Non-
exempt vertical projections (e.g., decks, railings, etc.) shall not extend above the
maximum wall plate height unless the projection is stepped back one-and-a-half (1.5)
horizontal feet from each façade for each one (1) vertical foot above the maximum
wall plate height. Reserved.
Wall plates supporting a roof with only one (1) sloping plane (e.g., shed roof) may
exceed the stated maximum if the average of wall plate heights is equal or less than
the maximum wall plate height allowed.
Staff Comment: The existing residence and Quonset Hut would have a building
coverage of 11% and an impervious surface coverage of 27%, which is less than the
maximum allowed. Building height, building coverage, and impervious surface
coverage for the new single family residences would be verified at the time of building
permit review.
Compliant if
Condition of
Approval is
met
Landscaping: The City’s landscape regulations (RMC 4-4-070) require a 10-foot
landscape strip along all public street frontages. Additional minimum planting strip
widths between the curb and sidewalk are established according to the street
development standards of RMC 4-6-060. Street trees and, at a minimum,
groundcover, are to be located in this area when present. Spacing standards shall be
as stipulated by the Department of Community and Economic Development, provided
there shall be a minimum of one street tree planted per address. Any additional
undeveloped right-of-way areas shall be landscaped unless otherwise determined by
the Administrator. Where there is insufficient right-of-way space or no public
frontage, street trees are required in the front yard subject to approval of the
Administrator. A minimum of two trees are to be located in the front yard prior to
final inspection for the new Single Family Residence.
Staff Comment: A Conceptual Landscape Plan (Exhibit 5) was submitted with the
application materials. The landscape plan shows a 10-foot wide landscape strip along
the Nile Avenue NE and NE 7th Place street frontages. In addition, an 8-foot wide
planting strip is proposed between the curb and sidewalk along the Nile Avenue NE
and NE 7th Place frontages. Existing landscaping installed as part of the Olympus Villa
Plat along the NE 7th Place frontage abutting the northwestern corner of the project
site is proposed to remain and would be incorporated into the 8-foot landscape strip
required between the curb and sidewalk. The proposed landscaped areas would be
vegetated with the following trees: autumn purple ash, vine maple, eastern redbud,
shore pine, and Douglas fir. The following shrubs are proposed: emerald green
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arborvitae, dwarf maiden grass, sword fern, compact strawberry tree, white rockrose,
dwarf mugo pine, Spanish lavender, daylily, and blue star juniper. The following
groundcover is proposed kinnickinnick and creeping St. John’s wort.
Staff from the City’s Community Services Department have reviewed the Conceptual
Landscape Plan and have recommended that the street trees proposed along NE 7th
Place be replaced with Redmond Linden trees (Tilia americana x erchlora). Staff
recommends, as a condition of approval, that a detailed landscape plan be submitted
at the time of Utility Construction Permit review. The detailed landscape plan shall
include Redmond Linden trees (Tilia americana x erchlora) within the 8-foot landscape
strip between the curb and sidewalk along NE 7th Place. The detailed landscape plan
shall be submitted to the Current Planning Project Manager for review and approval.
Tree Retention: The City’s adopted Tree Retention and Land Clearing Regulations
require the retention of 30 percent of trees in a residential development.
Significant trees shall be retained in the following priority order:
Priority One: Landmark trees; significant trees that form a continuous canopy;
significant trees on slopes greater than twenty percent (20%); Significant trees
adjacent to critical areas and their associated buffers; and Significant trees over sixty
feet (60') in height or greater than eighteen inches ( 18") caliper.
Priority Two: Healthy tree groupings whose associated undergrowth can be preserved;
other significant native evergreen or deciduous trees; and Other significant non-
native trees.
Priority Three: Alders and cottonwoods shall be retained when all other trees have
been evaluated for retention and are not able to be retained, unless the alders and/ or
cottonwoods are used as part of an approved enhancement project within a critical
area or its buffer.
A minimum tree density shall be maintained on each residentially zoned lot. For
detached single family development, the minimum tree density is two (2) significant
trees for every five thousand (5,000) square feet. The tree density may consist of
existing trees, replacement trees, trees required pursuant to RMC 4-4-070F1, Street
Frontage Landscaping Required, or a combination.
Staff Comment: A Tree Retention Plan (Exhibit 10), Tree Retention Worksheet (Exhibit
16), and a Conceptual Landscape Plan (Exhibit 5) were included in the submitted
application materials. A total of 27 significant trees have been identified on the project
site, of those 1 is located within a private street and 6 are located within the wetland
and/or associated buffer area, resulting in 20 protected trees. Of the 20 protected
trees, 30% or 6 trees are required to be retained or replaced. The applicant is
proposing to retain all 20 protected trees, which exceeds the minimum tree retention
requirements. The Conceptual Landscape Plan (Exhibit 5) identifies the tree density
requirements for each lot. Lot 1 is required to maintain a tree density of 14 trees, Lots
2-5 are required to maintain a tree density of 3 trees and Lot 6 is required to maintain
a tree density of 4 trees. The Landscape Plan (Exhibit 5) indicates a total of 124 caliper
inches of retained trees would on Lot 1 would provide the required minimum tree
density. On Lot 2, a total of 26 caliper inches of retained trees would provide the
required minimum tree density. Lots 3-6 include the planting of additional trees to
comply with the minimum tree density requirements.
A Final Tree Retention and Land Clearing Plan would be required at the time of Utility
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Construction Permit review.
Parking: Parking regulations require that a minimum of two parking spaces be
provided for each detached dwelling.
Driveway cuts are required to be a minimum of 5 feet from property lines and new
driveways may be a maximum of 16 feet in width at the property line. Maximum
driveway slopes shall not exceed fifteen percent (15%); provided, that driveways
exceeding eight percent (8%) shall provide slotted drains at the lower end with
positive drainage discharge to restrict runoff from entering the garage/residence or
crossing any public sidewalk.
Staff Comment: Each lot contains adequate area for the provision of the required
parking spaces. Compliance with the driveway standards would be verified at the time
of building permit review.
15. Design Standards: Residential Design and Open Space Standards (RMC 4-2-115) are applicable in the R-
4, R-6, R-8 zone. The Standards implement policies established in the Land Use Element of the
Comprehensive Plan. Compliance with Site Design Standards must be demonstrated prior to approval
of the subdivision. Compliance with Residential Design Standards would be verified prior to issuance of
the building permit for the new single family homes. The proposal is consistent with the following
design standards, unless noted otherwise:
Compliance
not yet
demonstrated
Garages: One of the following is required; the garage is:
1. Recessed from the front of the house and/or front porch at least eight
feet (8'), or
2. Located so that the roof extends at least five feet (5') (not including
eaves) beyond the front of the garage for at least the width of the garage
plus the porch/stoop area, or
3. Alley accessed, or
4. Located so that the entry does not face a public and/or private street or
an access easement, or
5. Sized so that it represents no greater than fifty percent (50%) of the
width of the front facade at ground level, or
6. Detached.
The portion of the garage wider than twenty six-feet (26') across the front shall be
set back at least two feet (2').
Staff Comment: Compliance for this standard would be verified at the time of
building permit review.
Compliance
not yet
demonstrated
Primary Entry: One of the following is required:
1. Stoop: minimum size four feet by six feet (4' x 6') and minimum height
twelve inches (12") above grade, or
2. Porch: minimum size five feet (5') deep and minimum height twelve
inches (12") above grade.
Exception: in cases where accessibility (ADA) is a priority, an accessible route may be
taken from a front driveway.
Staff Comment: Compliance for this standard would be verified at the time of building
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permit review.
Compliance
not yet
demonstrated
Façade Modulation: One of the following is required:
1. An offset of at least one story that is at least ten feet (10') wide and two
feet (2') in depth on facades visible from the street, or
2. At least two feet (2') offset of second story from first story on one street
facing facade.
Staff Comment: Compliance for this standard would be verified at the time of building
permit review.
Compliance
not yet
demonstrated
Windows and Doors: Windows and doors shall constitute twenty-five percent (25%)
of all facades facing street frontage or public spaces.
Staff Comment: Compliance for this standard would be verified at the time of building
permit review.
N/A Scale, Bulk, and Character: N/A
Compliance
not yet
demonstrated
Roofs: One of the following is required for all development:
1. Hip or gabled with at least a six to twelve (6:12) pitch for the prominent
form of the roof (dormers, etc., may have lesser pitch), or
2. Shed roof.
Additionally, for subdivisions greater than nine (9) lots: A variety of roof forms
appropriate to the style of the home shall be used.
Staff Comment: Compliance for this standard would be verified at the time of building
permit review.
Compliance
not yet
demonstrated
Eaves: Both of the following are required:
1. Eaves projecting from the roof of the entire building at least twelve
inches (12") with horizontal fascia or fascia gutter at least five inches (5")
deep on the face of all eaves, and
2. Rakes on gable ends must extend a minimum of two inches (2") from the
surface of exterior siding materials.
Staff Comment: Compliance for this standard would be verified at the time of building
permit review.
Compliance
not yet
demonstrated
Architectural Detailing: If one siding material is used on any side of the dwelling that
is two stories or greater in height, a horizontal band that measures at least eight
inches (8") is required between the first and second story.
Additionally, one of the following is required:
1. Three and one half inch (3 1/2") minimum trim surrounds all windows
and details all doors, or
2. A combination of shutters and three and one half inches (3 1/2")
minimum trim details all windows, and three and one half inches (3 1/2")
minimum trim details all doors.
Staff Comment: Compliance for this standard would be verified at the time of building
permit review.
Compliance
not yet
demonstrated
Materials and Color: For subdivisions and short plats, abutting homes shall be of
differing color. Color palettes for all new dwellings, coded to the home elevations,
shall be submitted for approval.
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Additionally, one of the following is required:
1. A minimum of two (2) colors is used on the home (body with different
color trim is acceptable), or
2. A minimum of two (2) differing siding materials (horizontal siding and
shingles, siding and masonry or masonry-like material, etc.) is used on
the home. One alternative siding material must comprise a minimum of
thirty percent (30%) of the street facing facade. If masonry siding is used,
it shall wrap the corners no less than twenty four inches (24").
Staff Comment: Compliance for this standard would be verified at the time of building
permit review.
16. Critical Areas: Project sites which contain critical areas are required to comply with the Critical Areas
Regulations (RMC 4-3-050). The proposal is consistent with the Critical Areas Regulations, if all
conditions of approval are complied with:
Compliant if
condition of
approval is
met
Wetlands: The following buffer requirements are applicable to wetlands in
accordance with RMC 4-3-050G.2:
Wetland Category Buffer Width Structure
Setback
beyond
buffer
High
Habitat
Function
(8-9
points)
Moderate
Habitat
Function
(5-7
points)
Low
Habitat
Function
(3-4
points)
All Other
Scores
15 ft.
Category I – Bogs
& Natural
Heritage
Wetlands
200 ft.
Category I – All
Others
200 ft. 150 ft. 115 ft. 115 ft.
Category II 175 ft. 150 ft. 100 ft. n/a
Category III 125 ft. 100 ft. 75 ft. n/a
Category IV 50 ft. n/a
Staff Comment: The applicant submitted a Critical Areas Report prepared by Sewall
Wetland Consulting, Inc., dated February 8, 2016 with the project application (Exhibit
2) and a Critical Area Mitigation Plan (Exhibit 3). One wetland (Wetland A) was
identified on the project site. The majority of the wetland is located offsite to the
south (within the abutting Weston Heights Plat, LUA14-000958), the northern tip of
the wetland encroaches onto the south central portion of the project site. According
to the submitted Critical Areas Report (Exhibit 2), the wetland met the criteria for a
Category III wetland with 3 habitat points. A Category III wetland with 3-4 habitat
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points would have a standard buffer of 75 feet.
Currently, the full 75-foot buffer consists of mowed lawn and provided little buffer
function. The applicant is proposing a 25 percent buffer reduction, down to a
minimum of 56.25 feet, with enhancement. The installation of woody trees and
shrubs would provide a natural barrier to intrusion into the wetland, increase forage
and species diversity for wildlife, increase a source of organic material that can
contribute to the wetland, and increase the surface water flow path as well as create
shade for the wetland. The City’s adopted Critical Areas Regulations (RMC 4-3-050)
include requirements for wetland buffer reduction with enhancement. The buffer
reduction is required where the buffer abuts the rear property line of Lot 2 and the
southwest corner of Lots 3 and 4 to ensure that these lots are able to comply with the
minimum dimensional requirements for Cluster Development in the R-4 zone. The
buffer reduction is not needed where the buffer is wholly contained within Open
Space Tracts A and B or within Lot 1. Therefore, staff recommends, as a condition of
approval, that the proposed Critical Area Mitigation Plan be amended to provide
additional enhanced wetland buffer areas as depicted in Exhibit 11. A Final Critical
Area Mitigation Plan shall be submitted at the time of Utility Construction Permit
review for review and approval by the Current Planning Project Manager.
A soft surface public trail is proposed to be constructed within Open Space Tracts A, B,
and C with a portion of the trail traversing through the wetland buffer area. The trail
is proposed to be 5 feet in width and accessible to the public. The trail would connect
Nile Avenue NE and cross over the shared driveway (Private Road C) to Tract C before
connecting to NE 7th Place. Staff previously recommended that the trail be signed and
an easement be recorded over the trail, identifying the trail for public use (see FOF 6)
17. Street Modification Analysis: The applicant is requesting a modification from RMC 4-6-060F.2
“Minimum Design Standards Table for Public Streets and Alleys” to provide a 44-foot pavement section
(one 11-foot thru lane in each direction, 12-foot two-way left turn lane, and 5-foot bike lane each
direction) centered on the right of way centerline, 0.5 curb, 8-foot planting strip, 5-foot sidewalk and 1-
foot between the back of sidewalk and the right of way line for a total of 73 feet of right of way. The
requested proposal removes the 8-foot parking on either side of the roadway and increases each lane
width by 1-foot. The resulting right of way dedication is 6.5 feet along the east side of Nile Avenue NE.
The proposal is compliant with the following modification criteria, pursuant to RMC 4-9-250D, if all
conditions of approval are met. Therefore, staff is recommending approval of the requested
modification as noted below:
Compliance Street Modification Criteria and Analysis
a. Substantially implements the policy direction of the policies and objectives of the
Comprehensive Plan Land Use Element and the Community Design Element and the
proposed modification is the minimum adjustment necessary to implement these
policies and objectives.
Staff Comment:
The Community Design Element has applicable policies listed under a separate section
labeled Streets, Sidewalks and Streetscapes. These policies address walkable
neighborhoods, safety and shared uses. Two specific policies support the decision to
modify the street standards to a modified Collector Arterial street in this residential
area. These policies are Policy CD-102 and Policy CD-103 which state that the goal is to
promote new development with “walkable places,” “support grid and flexible grid street
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and pathway patterns,” and “are visually attractive, safe, and healthy environments.”
The requested street modifications are consistent with these policy guidelines.
b. Will meet the objectives and safety, function, appearance, environmental
protection and maintainability intended by the Code requirements, based upon
sound engineering judgment.
Staff Comment:
The City’s Public Works Transportation section and Community and Economic
Development section reviewed Nile Avenue NE and the surrounding area and have
determined that the modified Collector Arterial street section is more suitable for this
location of Nile Avenue NE. This determination was based on the fact that the roadway
is directly adjacent to single family residences and there is insufficient space between
the existing right of way and the existing homes to expand the roadway section to meet
the full Collector Arterial street standards.
c. Will not be injurious to other property(ies) in the vicinity.
Staff Comment:
The modified Collector Arterial street standards will meet the requirements for safe
vehicular and pedestrian use within the existing right of way.
d. Conforms to the intent and purpose of the Code.
Staff Comment:
This modification provides a safe pedestrian route in and around the existing
neighborhood.
e. Can be shown to be justified and required for the use and situation intended; and
Staff Comment:
The modified Collector Arterial street standards provide a safe design for vehicles and
pedestrians.
f. Will not create adverse impacts to other property(ies) in the vicinity.
Staff Comment:
There are no identified adverse impacts from this modification to modify Nile Avenue NE
from the Collector Arterial street standards to the modified Collector Arterial street
standards.
18. Compliance with Subdivision Regulations: RMC 4-7 Provides review criteria for the subdivisions. The
proposal is consistent with the following subdivision regulations if all conditions of approval are
complied with:
Compliance Subdivision Regulations and Analysis
Access: Each lot must have access to a public street or road. Access may be by a shared
driveway per the requirements of the street standards.
The maximum width of single loaded garage driveways shall not exceed nine feet (9')
and double loaded garage driveways shall not exceed sixteen feet (16').
Staff Comment: Access to Lot 1 is currently provided via a residential driveway off of
Nile Avenue NE, the proposed short plat would retain this existing access. Access to Lots
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Admin Report_Weston North
2-6 is proposed via residential driveways off of NE 7th Place. A 26-foot wide shared
driveway (Private Road C) is proposed to provide access to three lots proposed as part of
the Weston Heights subdivision to the south of the project site (LUA14-000958). The
creation of a shared driveway access in this location was required as a condition of
approval for the Weston Heights subdivision.
N/A Blocks: Blocks shall be deep enough to allow two tiers of lots.
Staff Comment: N/A
Lots: The size, shape, orientation, and arrangement of the proposed lots comply with
the requirements of the Subdivision Regulations and the Development Standards of the
R-4 zone and allow for reasonable infill of developable land. All of the proposed lots
meet the requirements for minimum lot size, depth, and width.
Staff Comment: The proposed lots are rectangular in shape and comply with the
minimum lot size, width, and depth requirements for Cluster Development in the R-4
zone.
Streets: The proposed street system shall extend and create connections between
existing streets per the Street Standards outlined in RMC 4-6-060 Street Standards.
Staff Comment: The site is bounded to the north by NE 7th Place and to the west by Nile
Avenue NE. Nile Avenue NE is classified as a neighborhood collector arterial. NE 7th
Place is classified as a residential access street. Per the King County Assessor’s Map, the
existing right-of-way for Nile Avenue NE is approximately 60’ and the existing right-of-
way for NE 7th Place is approximately 40 feet.
Per RMC 4.6.060, the minimum right of way for a neighborhood collector arterial (Nile)
with two lanes is 83 feet. A 0.5-foot curb, 8-foot planting strip, and 8-foot sidewalk is
required along the entire project frontage. The minimum pavement width is 46 feet
with 30 feet as travel lanes and 8 feet of parking on both sides. A bicycle facility is
required. The required turning radius for a collector arterial is 35 feet.
The applicant submitted a formal modification request dated February 18, 2016 (Exhibit
14) regarding the street standard along the Nile Avenue frontage. The applicant is
proposing to use a half street section of 22 feet of pavement, a 0.5-foot curb, 8-foot
planting strip, 5-foot sidewalk, and 1-foot clear behind the sidewalk along the Nile
Avenue NE frontage. This is the same modification request the City received and
approved for the Weston Heights Plat to the south. City staff is recommending approval
of the applicant’s modification request (see FOF 17).
The City will require a modified half street section composing of 22 feet of pavement, a
0.5-foot curb, 8-foot planting strip, 5-foot sidewalk, and 1-foot clear behind the
sidewalk. This matches the proposed street section for the Weston Heights Plat.
The curb radius shown at the corner of NE 7th Place and Nile Avenue NE on the
Preliminary Road Plan is shown as 25 feet. This does not meet the City’s street
standards. The required turning radius for an intersection involving a collector arterial
is 35 feet. Compliance with the appropriate turning radius requirement will be verified
during the Utility Construction Permit Review.
Per RMC 4 6 060, the minimum right of way for a residential access street (NE 7th) is 53
feet. A 0.5-foot curb, 8-foot planting strip, and 5-foot sidewalk is required along the
entire project frontage. The minimum pavement width is 26 feet with 20 feet as travel
lanes and 6 feet of parking on one side. The proposed street section for NE 7th Place
meets the street standards for residential access streets.
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Relationship to Existing Uses: The proposed project is compatible with existing
surrounding uses.
Staff Comment: The project site is surrounded by R-4 zoned properties developed with
single family residences to the north, south, east, and west. The Weston Heights Plat
(LUA14-000958), which abuts the project site to the south and Olympus Villa (LUA10-
090), which is located to the north across NE 7th Place, were both approved utilizing the
Cluster Development standards. The proposed lots are consistent in area to the lots
approved as part of the Weston Heights North and Olympus Villa subdivisions.
19. Availability and Impact on Public Services:
Compliance Availability and Impact on Public Services Analysis
Police and Fire: Police and Fire Prevention staff indicates that sufficient resources exist
to furnish services to the proposed development; subject to the condition that the
applicant provides Code required improvements and fees. Fire impact fees are
applicable at the rate of $495.10 per single family unit. This fee is paid at time of
building permit issuance.
Schools: It is anticipated that the Issaquah School District can accommodate any
additional students generated by this proposal at the following schools: Apollo
Elementary, Maywood Middle School and Liberty High School. Any new students from
the proposed development would be bussed to their schools. The stop is located at the
northwest corner of the site at the intersection of NE 7th Place and Nile Avenue NE. The
proposed project includes the installation of frontage improvements along the Nile
Avenue NE and NE 7th Place frontage, including sidewalks. Students would walk along
the sidewalks along NE 7th Place and Nile Avenue NE to the bus stop at the intersection
of NE 7th Place and Nile Avenue NE at the northwest corner of the project site.
A School Impact Fee, based on new single-family lots, will be required in order to
mitigate the proposal’s potential impacts to the Issaquah School District. The fee is
payable to the City as specified by the Renton Municipal Code. Currently the fee is
assessed at $4,635.00 per single family residence.
Parks: A Park Impact Fee would be required for the future houses. The current Park
Impact Fee is $1,887.94. The fee in effect at the time of building permit application is
applicable to this project and is payable at the time of building permit issuance.
Storm Water: An adequate drainage system shall be provided for the proper drainage
of all surface water.
Staff Comment: A Technical Information Report (TIR) prepared by Side Development
Associates, dated February 24, 2016 was submitted with the project application (Exhibit
12). The site is approximately 2.47 acres in area and is located in the City’s Flow Control
Duration Standard (Forested Conditions). The site is located in the Lower Cedar River
drainage basin. The site contains multiple natural discharge locations that combine
together as part of one Threshold Drainage Area (TDA) within a quarter mile
downstream of the site.
According to the submitted TIR (Exhibit 12), the west half of the project site generally
slopes to the west, discharging to the road side ditch along the east side of Nile Avenue
NE. The ditch is primarily grasses, but has been stabilized with quarry spalls in some
locations, and contains a number of culvert crossings beneath various intersections and
driveways. The east half of the project site generally drains to the west and into
Wetland A, then flows west where it is intercepted by the public storm drainage system
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Admin Report_Weston North
in Orcas Avenue W, then is conveyed to the Nile Avenue NE roadside ditch.
The project is proposing to detain surface runoff through three separate facilities to
meet the City’s Flow Control standards. The majority of the western portion of the site
where the existing home sits will remain undisturbed. Disturbed areas in the western
portion of the site along Nile Avenue NE will drain south to an underground detention
vault that is being designed as part of the Weston Heights Plat. The detention vault will
discharge south to a new storm drain and ultimately to a swale along the eastern
frontage of Nile Avenue NE. The eastern portion of the site will drain south to a pond
that is being designed as part of the Weston Heights Plat. The pond will discharge west
to the existing wetland via a flow spreader. The northern frontage of the site along NE
7th Place will drain north to the existing Olympus Villa detention pond. The flow control
structure for the Olympus Villa detention pond will be reconfigured to accommodate the
historic release rates of the new area discharging to it. The wetland in the south-central
portion of the site will remain undisturbed. The design maintains the natural discharge
locations of the site.
The project is proposing to use wetpools to meet the City’s standards for Basic Water
Quality treatment. The detention vault and pond that are proposed as part of the
Weston Heights Plat are both designed to contain wetpools. The existing Olympus Villa
detention pond also contains a wetpool.
Storm facilities designed and permitted as part of the Weston Heights Plat would need
to be installed prior to construction of the Weston Heights North Short Plat.
The project will also require individual lot Flow Control BMPs. Please see section 1.2.3.3
and Section C.1.3.1 of the City amendments to the KCSWDM for Flow Control BMP
requirements. All core and special requirements shall be addressed in the updated TIR.
The preliminary TIR is missing discussion of Special Requirement #6.
Drainage improvements along all street frontages shall conform to the City’s street
standards. Storm drains should be located outside of the planter and the sidewalk.
Required horizontal and vertical separation from other utilities shall be provided.
The updated drainage plan and TIR will be required as part of the utility permit
submittal. The final sizing and design of the proposed drainage improvements would be
reviewed for compliance with the adopted 2009 King County Surface Water Design
Manual and City of Renton amendments during Utility Construction Permit review.
Water: Water service is provided by King County Water District 90. A water availability
certificate from King County Water District 90 will need to be provided. Review of the
water plans will be conducted by King County Water District 90 and the City of Renton
Fire Department. Plans approved by King County Water District 90 shall be routed to
the City for final review prior to permit issuance.
Sanitary Sewer: Sewer service is provided by the City of Renton. There is an existing 8”
PVC sewer north of the site in NE 7th Place that flows from east to west. The sewer
discharges to a manhole (COR Facility ID MH5572) in Nile Avenue NE. This manhole
serves at the connection point to the 8” PVC sewer in Nile Avenue NE. The sewer in
Nile Avenue NE flows from south to north.
An extension of the proposed 8” sewer main in Nile Avenue NE being permitted under
the Weston Heights Plat (U15 006162) will be required to serve 703 Nile Avenue NE.
This extension will be reviewed under U15 006162. Sewage from the existing house at
702 Nile Avenue NE is managed by a private on site system. The preliminary utility plan
shows that this private system will remain for lot 1. A sewer stub will need to be
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Admin Report_Weston North
installed to serve this lot.
The development is subject to a system development charge (SDC) for sewer service.
The SDC for sewer service is based on the size of the domestic water service. The
current SDC for sewer service with a 1” water meter installation is $2,242 per
installation. Fees are payable at time of permit issuance.
This site is in the East Renton Interceptor Special Assessment District (SAD) and the fee
is $316.80 per lot. Fees are payable at time of permit issuance.
I. CONCLUSIONS:
1. The subject site is located in the Residential Low Density (LD) Comprehensive Plan designation and
complies with the goals and policies established with this designation, see FOF 13.
2. The subject site is located in the R-4 zoning classification and complies with the zoning and
development standards for Cluster Development established with this designation provided the
applicant complies with City Code and conditions of approval see FOF 14.
3. The proposed short plat complies with the Residential Design and Open Space Standards provided the
applicant complies with City Code and conditions of approval see FOF 15.
4. The proposed short plat complies with the Critical Areas Regulations provided the applicant complies
with City Code and conditions of approval, see FOF 16.
5. The proposed short plat and street modification complies with the Modification Criteria provided the
applicant complies with City Code and conditions of approval see FOF 17.
6. The proposed short plat complies with the subdivision regulations as established by City Code
and state law provided all advisory notes and conditions are complied with, see FOF 18.
7. The proposed short plat and street modification complies with the street standards as
established by City Code, provided the project complies with all advisory notes and conditions
of approval contained herein, see FOF 18.
8. There are safe walking routes to the school bus stop, see FOF 19.
9. There are adequate public services and facilities to accommodate the proposed short plat, see
FOF 19.
J. DECISION:
The Weston Heights North Short Plat and Street Modification, File No. LUA16-000140, as depicted in Exhibit
8, is approved and is subject to the following conditions:
1. A public trail easement shall be recorded over the full length of the soft surface trail proposed within
the Open Space tracts (Tracts A and B). Signage shall be installed at both ends of the trail notifying the
public that the trail is available for public use.
2. The applicant shall obtain a demolition permit for the removal of the shop and complete all required
inspections prior to the recording of the short plat.
3. A detailed landscape plan shall be submitted at the time of Utility Construction Permit review. The
detailed landscape plan shall include Redmond Linden trees (Tilia americana x erchlora) within the 8-
foot landscape strip between the curb and sidewalk along NE 7th Place. The detailed landscape plan
shall be submitted to the Current Planning Project Manager for review and approval.
4. The proposed Critical Area Mitigation Plan shall be amended to provide additional enhance wetland
buffer areas as depicted in Exhibit 11. A Final Critical Area Mitigation Plan shall be submitted at the
time of Utility Construction Permit review for review and approval by the Current Planning Project
Manager.
CityofRentonDepartmentofCommunity&EconomicDevelopmentWESTONHEIGHTSNORTHSHORTPLATApril8,2016DATEOFDECISIONONLANDUSEACTION:SIGNATURE:JenniiHenning,PIunningDirectorTRANSMITTEDthis8tt1day01Apr11,2016totheOwner/Applicant/Contact:AdministrativeReport&DecisionLUA16-000140Page18of19DateOwner:AwesomeYahChurch702NileAvenueNERenton,WA98059Applicant:KevinO’Brien,WestonHeightsLLC,15LakeBellevueDrive,Suite102Bellevue,WA98005Contact:ScottMesic,SiteDevelopmentAssociates,LLC1724WMarineViewDrive,Suite120Everett,WA98012TRANSMITTEDthis8thdayofApril,2016tothePartiesofRecord:KimberlyRacine653PascoPlaceNERenton,WA98059JonNewman8070LangstonRoadSSeattle,WA98178TRANSMITTEDthis8thdayofApril,2016tothefollowing:ChipVincent,CEDAdministratorBrianneBonnworth,DevelopmentEngineeringManagerJanConklin,DevelopmentServicesVanessaDolbee,CurrentPlanningManagerFireMarshalK.LANDUSEACTIONAPPEALS,REQUESTFORRECONSIDERATION,&EXPIRATION:Theadministrativelandusedecisionwillbecomefinalifthedecisionisnotappealedwithin14daysofthedecisiondate.APPEAL:ThisadministrativelandusedecisionwillbecomefinalifnotappealedinwritingtotheHearingExamineronorbefore5:00PMonApril22,2016.Anappealofthedecisionmustbefiledwithinthe14-dayappealperiod(RCW43.21.C.075(3);WAC197-11-680),togetherwiththerequiredfeetotheHearingExaminer,CityofRenton,1055SouthGradyWay,Renton,WA98057.RMC4-8-110.BgovernsappealstotheHearingExaminerandadditionalinformationregardingtheappealprocessmaybeobtainedfromtheCityClerk’sOffice,(425)430-6510.EXPIRATION:Theadministrativeshortplatdecisionwillexpiretwo(2)yearsfromthedateofdecision.Asingleone(1)yearextensionmayberequestedpursuanttoRMC4-7-070.M.RECONSIDERATION:Within14daysofthedecisiondate,anypartymayrequestthatthedecisionbereopenedbytheapprovalbody.Theapprovalbodymaymodifyhisdecisionifmaterialevidencenotreadilydiscoverablepriortotheoriginaldecisionisfoundorifhefindstherewasmisrepresentationoffact.Afterreviewofthereconsiderationrequest,iftheapprovalbodyfindssufficientevidencetoamendtheoriginaldecision,therewillbenofurtherextensionoftheappealperiod.Anypersonwishingtotakefurtheractionmustfileaformalappealwithinthe14-dayappealtimeframe.AdminReportWestonNorth
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Admin Report_Weston North
THE APPEARANCE OF FAIRNESS DOCTRINE: provides that no ex parte (private one-on-one) communications
may occur concerning the land use decision. The Doctrine applies not only to the initial decision, but to Appeals
to the Hearing Examiner as well. All communications after the decision/approval date must be made in writing
through the Hearing Examiner. All communications are public record and this permits all interested parties to
know the contents of the communication and would allow them to openly rebut the evidence in writing. Any
violation of this doctrine could result in the invalidation of the appeal by the Court.