HomeMy WebLinkAboutHEX Decision Renton Vantage Point Site Plan LLA CAE and Street Modification v3 14-0002261
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SITE PLAN, CRITICAL AREAS EXEMPTION, STREET
MODIFICATION, AND LOT LINE ADJUSTMENT- 1
CAO VARIANCE - 1
BEFORE THE HEARING EXAMINER FOR THE CITY OF RENTON
RE: Vantage Point Apartments
Site Plan, Lot Line Adjustment,
Critical Areas Exemption and Street
Modification
LUA14-000226, LLA, SA-H, MOD,
CAE
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FINAL DECISION
Summary
The King County Housing Authority has applied for a site plan approval, a critical areas exemption, a
lot line adjustment and street modification. The site plan approval, critical areas exemption, lot line
adjustment and street modification are approved with conditions.
The applications are for the construction of a 4-story multi-family building containing 77 senior assisted
living apartment units. The vacant 5.02 acre site contains two parcels located within the Residential
Multi-Family (RMF) and Residential Manufactured Home (RMH) zoning classifications on the
southwest corner of SE 180th St and 105th Pl SW. Primary vehicular access to the site would be
provided from curb cuts along 105th Pl SE and SE 180th St.
An approved short plat (LUA08-137) vested the proposal, for up to 90 residential units, to King County
development regulations including the King County R-12 zoning development standards. The
Applicant, King County Housing Authority, has taken lead agency for the proposal's SEPA review. A
DNS threshold determination was issued on February 27, 2014.
A street modification from RMC 4-6-060 is being requested in order to maintain the existing 18-foot
wide travel lane, with a 6-foot wide sidewalk, no parking, and a 10-foot wide planting strip. A total of
60 parking spaces would be provided within surface and structured parking areas on site.
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SITE PLAN, CRITICAL AREAS EXEMPTION, STREET
MODIFICATION, AND LOT LINE ADJUSTMENT- 2
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The Applicant is proposing to re-grade approximately 8,858sf of critical slopes. KCC 21A.24.310.D.2
allows re-grading within steep slopes through an alteration process. The City of Renton does not have an
alteration process. Consequently, the Applicant has requested a Critical Area Exemption to alter the
steep slopes on site.
Finally, the Applicant is requesting a Lot Line Adjustment to revise the Native Growth Protection Tract
(Tract C-2) in order to reflect a recent survey of critical areas on site and the proposed re-grading of
critical slopes.
Testimony
Rocale Timmons, senior planner, stated that the project site is located in the south portion of Renton.
The site is west of 180th Ave SE, a principal arterial street, and contains two parcels. The site is
surrounded by multi-family uses and a Fred Meyers. The existing Vantage Point location is south of the
site and consists of single-family manufactured homes. The two parcels form an “L-shape” and are zoned
residential multi-family (RMF) and residential manufactured homes (RMH). Development would
primarily occur on the RMF zoned parcel with limited grading on the RMH zoned which is in a Native
Growth Protection Tract which contains critical slopes, landslide and erosion hazards, and a wetland.
The primary lot fronts onto public streets. Tract C-2, which abuts the site, contains 1.7 acres of open-
space area.
According to Ms. Timmons, the facility will contain 77 senior-assisted living apartments. A short plat
was approved and recorded which vests the proposal for up to 90 residential units. King County Housing
Authority took lead agency with respect to SEPA. A determination of non-significance was issued on
February 27, 2014. The comment period ended on March 13, 2014, and no appeals were filed. The 4-
story facility would contain two wings which would be connected by a single, common space. The
proposal contains 60 parking stalls including both structured and surface spaces. Primary vehicular
access to the site would be provided from 4 curb cuts along 105th Place SE and 180th Ave SE. The
structure is concentrated in the center of the site and oriented to the north. There is an approximate 80ft-
wide natural and mature, vegetative buffer which will be maintained in proposed tract C-2. There is
planned hardscaping and landscaping throughout the site. The proposed pedestrian system is adequate in
staff’s opinion. The Applicant is proposing to reduce the massing view from neighboring properties and
increase the setbacks. Staff found that the proposal complies with the King County Comprehensive Plan.
The proposal provides safe housing for people of all income-levels. The Applicant has proposed common
and open space with variation in building facades and materials. The proposal meets the County’s R-12
zoning standards as well. The staff report contains conditions regarding landscaping and refuse collection
to ensure compliance with King County Code.
Ms. Timmons added that staff is in support of the critical area exemption request if all conditions are
met. The Applicant is proposing to grade 9,000sqft in the steep slope area. The geo-tech report states that
the re-grading of the site will not increase the slope in excess of 50 percent and will not adversely impact
the site. Staff is recommending secondary review of the water seepage effects in the geo-tech report. The
site plan meets Renton’s site plan review criteria. The proposal provides adequate services and
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SITE PLAN, CRITICAL AREAS EXEMPTION, STREET
MODIFICATION, AND LOT LINE ADJUSTMENT- 3
CAO VARIANCE - 3
infrastructure. The Applicant provided a water and sewer availability certificate. In regard to drainage, a
preliminary drainage report was submitted with the application which was in accordance with the 2009
King County Water Manual. The Applicant intends to collect storm water in a series of catch basins and
route the water to detention ponds on site. Staff supports the requested street modification; however, this
is subject to future review by the Transportation Department. The proposal meets the lot line adjustment
criteria. Staff recommends approval of the proposal, subject to 8 conditions.
Applicant Testimony
Bob Johns, representing King County Housing Authority, submitted the final determination of non-
significance for the proposal (Ex. 16). The Applicant has reviewed the staff report and is in concurrence
with the recommendations. In regard to Condition 8, the city district and Applicant have agreed no
school fees are necessary because the facility is for seniors. Staff recommended that a covenant be
imposed saying no children in the facility. It is a violation of the Federal Fair Housing Act to create a
covenant requiring everyone to be a certain age; however, the Applicant plans to record a covenant that,
if a child was to live in the senior-assisted housing facility, a school impact fee would be assessed and
paid.
Public Testimony
Cecilia Miller noted that the Vantage Lease Agreement for her mobile home site states (Page 4 of 7), the
Housing Authority is not responsible for earth movement of the home or damages during any
improvements to the premise. She is concerned that the construction from the project will damage the
mobile homes in Vantage Glen. The new project’s site has a very high hill, and the grading will have
impacts. The Housing Authority owns the property on which the mobile homes are located, but the
individuals own the actual mobile homes.
Ms. Hill testified that she lives on the existing Vantage Glen mobile home property. She was unaware
that Vantage Glen was not owned by King County government when she moved to the property. She
does not trust that King County Housing Authority has good intentions and believes it is taking
advantage of seniors to gain money for projects. She is concerned about the steep slopes near the property
and noted that there has already been water leakage into the mobile home park.
Staff Rebuttal
Rocale Timmons stated that Renton reviewed the geo-technical report submitted by the Applicant and
found it would be beneficial to require an independent-party review of the report.
Steve Lee, Development Engineering Manager, testified that he reviewed the geotechnical report. The
geotechnical report is intertwined with the stormwater and grading review. The secondary review will
include stormwater mitigation analysis. The independent review may find the need for additional
mitigation measures or decide no work should be done on the slopes.
Rocale Timmons noted that, if the independent review found that no work could be done on the slopes,
the next steps in the permit process would depend upon how the Applicant redesigned the project, most
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SITE PLAN, CRITICAL AREAS EXEMPTION, STREET
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importantly how fire access would be handled.
Exhibits
The April 1, 2014 staff report Exhibits 1-15 identified at page 2 of the staff report itself were
admitted into the record during the hearing. Exhibit 8 was amended at the hearing. Additionally, the
Examiner admitted Exhibit 16, the Final DNS letter.
FINDINGS OF FACT
Procedural:
1. Applicant. King County Housing Authority.
2. Hearing. The Examiner held a hearing on the subject application on April 8, 2014 at 1:00 pm in
the City of Renton Council Chambers.
3. Project Description. The Applicant proposes to construct a 4-story multi-family building
containing 77 senior assisted living apartment units. 11. The 77 units (72 one-bedroom and 5 two
bedroom units) would be used for low-income, affordable senior assisted living housing. The vacant 5.02
acre site contains two parcels located within the Residential Multi-Family (RMF) and Residential
Manufactured Home (RMH) zoning classifications on the southwest corner of SE 180th St and 105th Pl
SW. Primary vehicular access to the site would be provided from curb cuts along 105th Pl SE and SE
180th St. The primary lot (Lot 2) which fronts onto the public streets is a cleared grass covered,
relatively flat site of approximately 3.3 acres. Tract C-2 contains approximately 1.7 acres which wrap
around the eastern and southern boundaries of Lot 2.
An application for the Vantage Glen Short Plat was submitted to the King County Department of
Development and Environmental Services (KC DDES) for review on October 17, 2007. Before the
application could be reviewed and a decision issued, the subject property was annexed to the City of
Renton as part of the Benson Hill Annexation (Ordinance #5327) on March 1, 2008. 13. The short plat,
vested to King County Code, was approved by the City on May 12, 2009 (Ex. 11 and 14). The approved
short plat (LUA08-137) vests the proposal, for up to 90 residential units, to King County development
regulations including the King County R-12 zoning development standards in place at the time of Short
Plat application (Ex. 12).
The existing Vantage Glen community, to the east, west and south of the subject site, consists of single-
family manufactured homes and a community center. To the north are residential multi-family and a Fred
Meyer anchored retail shopping center.
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SITE PLAN, CRITICAL AREAS EXEMPTION, STREET
MODIFICATION, AND LOT LINE ADJUSTMENT- 5
CAO VARIANCE - 5
On February 27, 2014, the King County Housing Authority, SEPA lead agency, issued a Determination
of Non-Significance for the Vantage Point Apartments (Ex. 6). A 14-day combined comment and appeal
period commenced on March 13, 2014 and ended on March 23, 2014. No appeals of the threshold
determination were filed. No public or agency comments have been received on the subject proposal.
A street modification from RMC 4-6-060 is being requested in order to maintain the existing 18-foot
wide travel lane, with a 6-foot wide sidewalk, no parking, and place a 10-foot wide planting strip behind
the sidewalk in the right of way.
The site is located within a High Erosion Hazard area and an unclassified Landslide Hazard Area.
Protected slopes, which exceed a 40 percent grade, are also located on site. The site steep slopes are
located within Tract C-2 and cover approximately 51,851sf. The northwest edge of the tract also
contains a 550 square foot Category IV wetland, as classified by the King County Code. The Applicant
is proposing to re-grade approximately 8,858sf of critical slopes. KCC 21A.24.310.D.2 allows re-
grading within steep slopes through an alteration process. However, the City of Renton does not have an
alteration process and the request to alter the steep slopes on site will be reviewed through a requested
Critical Area Exemption.
Finally, the Applicant is requesting a Lot Line Adjustment to revise the Native Growth Protection Tract
(Tract C-2) in order to reflect a recent survey of critical areas on site and the proposed re-grading of
critical slopes.
4. Adequacy of Infrastructure/Public Services. The project will be served by adequate
infrastructure and public services as follows:
A. Water and Sewer Service. The site is served by the Soos Creek Water and Sewer District for
all water and sewer service.
B. Fire and Police. Fire and police department staff have determined that existing facilities are
adequate to serve the development if the Applicant provides Code required improvements and
pays the Fire Impact Fee.
C. Drainage. City staff have determined that the conceptual drainage plan complies with the
2009 King County Surface Water Design Manual, the City’s applicable stormwater
development standards. The Applicant proposes to grade the project site to drain into catch
basins, a swale and/or a rain garden. The catch basins, swale and rain gardens would connect
to an underground infiltration system that would allow water to infiltrate into the site soils.
Stormwater from the development would be collected in a series of catch basins and swales.
Target pollution generating surfaces would be treated by on-site rain gardens to receive
Enhanced Basic Water Quality treatment. The runoff would then be routed to a detention
pond which then outlets to the City owned storm system in 105th Place SE.
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D. Parks/Open Space. The proposed development will impact the Parks and Recreation system.
These impacts will be mitigated by payment of the Parks Impact Fee for each multi-family
unit. The Applicant is proposing a total of 13,330 square feet of courtyards which exceeds the
King County recreation requirements. Proposed recreation space would include interior
community spaces, decks, patios, and other outdoor recreation areas. The Applicant is
proposing pedestrian seating throughout the site.
E. Transportation. Traffic impacts are adequately mitigated by the proposal. Level of service
standards will not be reduced below adopted levels for the proposal and traffic impact fees
will be assessed to pay for proportionate share transportation system impacts. Primary
vehicular access to the site would be provided from curb cuts along 105th Pl SE and SE
180th St. The proposal is anticipated to generate 24 weekday PM peak hour trips and 31
weekday AM peak hour trips. The relatively low trips would likely not have a significant
impact on traffic flow on the adjacent streets or to and from the arterials.
The Applicant is proposing a modification from the street standards in order to maintain and
extend the existing improvements (18-foot wide travel lane, 6-foot wide sidewalk, and no
parking) and place a 10-foot planter behind the sidewalk within the right-of–way.
There is no need for a parking lane along the frontage of the site and the existing curb could
continue to be used as the character of the road has been established without the use of
parking. Additionally, the Applicant is providing 21 more stalls than required by code on site.
The Applicant is also providing increased widths for landscaping and sidewalk within the
right of way. The requested modification meets the objective and safety of the code
requirements. The proposed street cross section would not be injurious to surrounding
property owners and can be shown to be justified for the situation intended. The No Parking
area is subject to possible revision in the future as found necessary by the City Transportation
Department.
F. Schools. The Applicant is proposing housing exclusively for the elderly. If the Applicant
records the necessary covenants or declarations of restrictions on the property to ensure no
children will reside in the development, no School Impact Fees will be required.
G. Parking. The proposal provides adequate parking. The proposed development includes an
apartment building with two four story wings connected by a central common space. The
north wing has one level of structured parking, underground. The partially underground first
floor of the south wing is mostly parking (Ex. 5). There are two surface parking areas, one
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MODIFICATION, AND LOT LINE ADJUSTMENT- 7
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associated with the north building and the other with the south wing. The Applicant is
proposing a total of 60 parking stalls.
H. Bicycle Stalls. There are no bicycle parking requirements in the King County code.
I. Vehicular Access and Internal Circulation. The subject development is proposing to take
access via four curb cuts from 105th Place SE and SE 180th St. The access road would
provide emergency access to the rear of the building complex as well as for building and site
maintenance. The proposal promotes safe and efficient circulation through the proposed
access points. The proposed pedestrian circulation system will eventually provide linkages to
Benson Drive S and SE Petrovitsky St. The proposed site plan is designed such that vehicles
are separated from pedestrian areas.
J. Pedestrian Circulation. The Applicant is proposing a pedestrian circulation system
throughout the project site which connects all opens space and parking areas spaces. The
Applicant has achieved safe and attractive pedestrian connections throughout the site.
K. Landscaping. A conceptual landscape plan was submitted with the project application (Ex.
3). The landscape plan includes a diverse planting plan. The landscaping is used to provide
transitions between the proposed development and surrounding properties to reduce noise and
glare, maintain privacy, and generally enhance the appearance of the project. The
landscaping softens the appearance of parking areas, and helps to define and enhance open
spaces, and generally works to enhance the appearance of the project. It is unclear if the
proposed landscape plan complies with spacing requirements of KCC 21A.16.050.
Landscaping square footage for parking areas was not submitted with the land use
application (KCC 21A.16.070).
L. Refuse Enclosure. The proposed facility would require an 116sf deposit area for the 77 unit
proposal. The Applicant is proposing to locate refuse and recycle utility areas within the
building at three different locations. The square footage of designated refuse and recyclable
areas were not submitted with the land use application.
M. Building Facade Modulation. The proposal includes a variety of building articulations and
modulations in order to break down the scale and massing of the structure. Though the
proposal appears to comply with the modulation requirements of the King County Code, Staff
was unable to confirm compliance.
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N. Recreation. Proposed recreation space would include interior community spaces, decks,
patios, and other outdoor recreation areas resulting in a total of 13,330sf of area. The
proposal complies with the requirements of the King County Code.
5. Adverse Impacts. There are no significant adverse impacts associated with the project. Few
adverse impacts are anticipated. Adequate infrastructure serves the site as determined in Finding of Fact
No. 4. The steep critical areas on-site are the result of past mining activity. The Critical Areas Exemption
(Modification) proposes re-grading of the site. The re-grading will not increase the existing slope
inclinations in excess of 50% and will not adversely impact slope stability. All grading will occur
outside the buffer for Wetland A. Impacts are more specifically addressed as follows:
A. Compatibility. The proposal is fully compatible with surrounding land uses. Adjoining uses
to the north are commercial with residential on all sides. The City’s extensive design and
landscaping standards assure aesthetic compatibility with the surrounding multi-family.
B. Views. According to the staff report, the proposal would not affect view corridors to
shorelines and Mount Rainer. Territorial views to the south enjoyed by the multi-family
residential use to the north of the site may be impacted. The primary structure is proposed to
be sited in the center of the site. However, the scale and bulk would be reduced as viewed
from neighboring properties due to the increase in the setbacks (Ex. 2). The scale and bulk of
the building is also visually reduced through the use of differing materials, building
articulation and modulation and differing roof profiles (Ex. 5). Additionally, a natural and
mature vegetated buffer with an approximate average width of 80-foot will be retained along
the western and southern portion of the site within the Critical Area Tract.
C. Lighting. The Applicant did not provide an on-site lighting plan. A condition of approval
will require the Applicant to provide such a plan.
D. Screening. Landscaping has been thoughtfully incorporated into the site plan in order to
screen parking areas (Ex. 3). All mechanical units and refuse and recyclable areas are
proposed to be located within the building and would not be visible from the public.
E. Privacy and Noise. Noise impacts are adequately mitigated. Staff anticipates most of the
noise impacts would occur during the construction phase of the project. The Applicant has
submitted a Construction Mitigation Plan that provides measures to reduce construction
impacts such as noise, control of dust, traffic controls, etc. In addition, the project would be
required to comply with the City’s noise ordinance regarding construction hours.
The building has a primary orientation to the northeast. The open space and courtyard areas
have been thoughtfully located throughout the site and are located in areas that allow
residents to enjoy territorial views to the south and west.
The approximate 80-foot wide natural and mature vegetated buffer to be retained along the
western and southern portions of the site would assist in the provision of privacy for the
residents of the proposal in addition to increased setbacks from the north and the east.
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F. Natural Features. King County Code 16.82.156 ‘Significant Trees’ requires that significant
trees located in the interior of the development proposal, excluding critical areas or their
buffers, shall be retained in an apartment or townhouse development at the rate of ten trees
per acre or five percent of the trees, whichever is greater (Ex. 12). The tree retention plan
provided does not demonstrate compliance with the tree retention requirements of the King
County Code.
The site is located within a High Erosion Hazard Area and an unclassified Landslide Hazard
Area. The slope gradients on site vary from 40 percent to approximately 60 percent with a
change in elevation from 30-45 feet. The slopes on site meet the definition for steep slope
geologic hazard areas as defined by KCC 21.A.24. The existing steep slope area currently
totals 51,851 square feet. The grading of the steep slope is estimated at 8,858 square feet and
would occur in the upper zone of the steep slope area.
KCC 21.A.24.200 requires a building setback of 15 feet be established from all critical area
buffers (Ex. 12). The following improvements are allowed within the building setback:
landscaping, uncovered decks, building overhangs not more than 18-inches, impervious
ground surfaces, and utilities. The Applicant is proposing an access drive aisle, sidewalks,
and drainage utilities within the required 15-foot setback. The proposal appears to comply
with the Critical Area building setback requirements.
The proposed impervious area of the site would be 99,799 square feet, on the 214,900 square
foot project site (after street dedications), resulting in an impervious cover of 46.4 percent.
The proposal complies with the impervious cover requirements of the zone. The proposed
building would have a gross area of approximately 99,087 square feet and building footprint
of 27,597 square feet resulting in a building lot coverage of approximately 12.8 percent. The
proposal complies with the building standards of the zone.
On site soil removal would be required. The approximate volume of cut would be 23,000
cubic yards and 1,100 cubic yards of fill will be brought to the site for net 21,900 cubic yards
of cut.
G. Critical Areas. The site is located within a High Erosion Hazard Area and an unclassified
Landslide Hazard Area. The Applicant provided a geotechnical report, prepared by
GEODesign, Inc., on February 18, 2014 in addition to a Geologic Hazard Report (Ex. 13).
The reports concluded that the subject site and surrounding parcels have been extensively
graded during past aggregate mining activities on the property and that the slopes were
created as a result of mining activity. Re-grading of the steep slope areas is allowed by the
vested King County Code (KCC21A.24.310.D.2) through a Critical Area Alternation. The
City does not have a Critical Area Alteration process. Alternatively, the applicant is
requesting a Critical Area Exemption (also a Tier I permit) to re-grade within the steep
slopes.
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The geotechnical report states that proposed re-grading of the site would not increase the
existing slope inclinations in excess of 50-percent and would not adversely impact the slope
stability of the site. The proposed re-grading is also not anticipated to impact the slope
stability on adjacent properties of the Steep Slope Hazard Areas. The report recommends that
slopes should be graded to drain back from the top of slopes.
The main considerations noted in the geotechnical reports include the existence of moisture
sensitive clay soils, anticipated water seepage, the height of proposed cuts, the presence of a
weathered and fractured upper soil zone and associated risk of shallow soil movements.
There is concern regarding the potential for instability if water seepage is allowed on the
slope both during and after construction. Additionally, the reports mention that the
discharge of groundwater along the slopes and excessive groundwater levels near the slopes
could cause a reduction in slope stability. The scope of services did not include any
environmental assessment or evaluation regarding the presence or absence of wetlands or
hazardous or toxic material in the soil, surface water, groundwater, air, and on or below or
around the site.
The Applicant also provided a wetland report, prepared by ESA, in January of 2014 (Ex. 15).
One wetland was delineated on the subject property. Wetland A is an unmapped palustrine
forested wetland located at the northeast end of 104th Ave SE and is approximately 550sf in
size. The Category IV wetland is located next to the base of the steep slope and requires a 25-
foot buffer beyond the toe of the slope. There is a break in the steep slope approximately 40-
feet upslope from the wetland. Extending the 25-foot wetland buffer from the break in the
slope results in a buffer that is slightly larger than 50-feet. There are no impacts proposed to
Wetland A and the proposed grading would occur outside of its buffer.
Conclusions of Law
1. Authority. Assisted Living facilities are permitted in the Residential Multi-family zone (RMF)
but not in the Residential Manufactured Home zone (RMH) (RMC 4-2-060(C). The proposal is vested
to the King County Code and therefore subject to the King County’s R-12 zoning designation
development standards. KCC 21.A provides development standards for development within the R-12
zoning classification for which the project is vested (Ex. 12). Pursuant to KCC21.A.08, Senior Citizen
Assisted Living uses are outright permitted within the KC R-12 zoning classification.
The Applicant has requested site plan review, a lot line adjustment and modifications to the critical areas
ordinance and to the street standards. Lot Line Adjustments and Street Modifications are Type 1
Administrative Decisions (RMC 4-8-080(G)). Site Plan Review is a Type II Administrative Decision
(RMC 4-8-080(G)). Because the slopes on the subject site are manmade, the critical areas exemption is a
Type I decision (RMC 4-8-070(D)(3)(b), RMC 4-9-050(D)(4)(b)(i)(d), and RMC 4-9-
050(N)(2)(a)(ii)(a)).
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The Environmental Review Committee has significant concerns related to the proposed re-grading of the
steep slope. Because significant environmental concerns remain, a public hearing by the Hearing
Examiner is required (RMC 4-9-200(D)(2)(a)). If the environmental concerns did not remain, the entire
process would be an administrative decision. The requirement for a public hearing held by the Hearing
Examiner grants the Examiner the authority to hold a hearing and issue a final decision on the permit
requests, subject to closed record appeal to the City Council (RMC 4-8-080(G) and RMC 4-9-
200(F)(9)).
2. Zoning/Comprehensive Plan Designations. The subject property is in two zones. A portion of the
project is zoned Residential – Manufactured Home (RMH). The other portion of the project is zoned
Residential- Multi-family (RMF). The comprehensive plan land use designation is Residential Multi
Family (RMF). However, the proposal is vested to the King County Code and therefore subject to King
County’s R-12 zoning designation development standards. KCC 21.A provides development standards
for development within the R-12 zoning classification for which the project is vested (Ex. 12). Pursuant
to KCC21.A.08, Senior Citizen Assisted Living uses are outright permitted within the KC R-12 zoning
classification.
3. Review Criteria. Site plan review standards are governed by RMC 4-9-200(E)(3). Street
modifications are governed by RMC 4-9-250(C)(5). Critical Areas Exemptions are governed by RMC 4-
9-050. Lot Line Adjustments are governed by RMC 4-7-060. The Vantage Glen Short Plat vested to
King County Code on May 12, 2009. In addition to the applicable City of Renton Codes, the following
King County Codes apply: KCC 21A.08 Permitted Uses; KCC 21A.12 Development Standards, Density
and Dimensions; KCC 21A.14 Development Standards, Design Requirements; KCC 21A.16
Development Standards, Landscaping and Water Use; KCC 21A.18 Development Standards, Parking
and Circulation; and KCC 21A.24 Critical Areas. All applicable criteria are quoted below in italics and
applied through corresponding conclusions of law.
King County Code
4. King County Code 21A.12 Bulk and Dimensional Standards. King County Code 21A.12.030
allows a base density of 12 units/acre in the R-12 zone. The maximum density is 18 dwelling units/acre.
The minimum density is 80% of the base density. The minimum density for the subject site is a based on
a calculation of the total site area of the Vantage Glen Short Plat (Ex. 11) and is further noted in Note 21
recorded on the face of the short plat (Ex. 14). The maximum density for the subject site is limited to 90
dwelling units. The proposal for 77 units complies with the density requirements of the zone (KCC.
21A.12.030).
5. There is a 30-foot minimum lot width requirement. There are no other minimum lot size or
depth requirements in the R-12 zone. The proposed lot line adjustment would comply with the lot
dimension requirements of the King County Code.
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6. The R-12 zoning designation requires a minimum street setback of 10 feet to the building. The
minimum side yard setback is 5 feet. There are no minimum rear yard setbacks in the R-12 zone. The
front yard setback of 22’3” and the side yard setback of 165’ comply with the setback requirements of
the R-12 zone.
7. The building height is restricted to 60 feet. The allowed impervious surface coverage is 85
percent. The height of the proposed structure is 51’ at the highest point. The proposed impervious area of
the site is 99,799sf, on the 214,900sf project site (after street dedications), resulting in an impervious
cover of 46.4%. The proposal complies with the impervious cover requirements of the zone. The
proposed building would have a gross area of approximately 99,087sf and building footprint of 27,597sf
resulting in a building lot coverage of approximately 12.8%. The proposed building height and
impervious coverage comply with the King County Code.
KCC 21A.16.050. 10 feet of Type III landscaping shall be provided for a commercial or
attached/group residence development. Type III landscaping shall minimally consist of: A mix of
evergreen and deciduous trees generally interspersed throughout the landscape strip and spaced to
create a continuous canopy; at least 70 percent deciduous trees; trees provided at the rate of one per
linear 25 feet of landscape strip and spaced no more than 30 feet apart on center; shrubs provided at
the rate of one per four linear feet of landscape strip and spaced no more than 8 feet apart on center.
8. As noted in Findings of Fact No. 4(K), a conceptual landscape plan was submitted with the
project application (Ex. 3). The landscape plan includes a diverse planting plan. It is unclear if the
proposed landscape plan complies with spacing requirements of KCC 21A.16.050. Landscaping square
footage for parking areas was not submitted with the land use application (KCC 21A.16.070). In order to
ensure consistency with the landscaping requirements, a condition of approval will require the Applicant
to submit a detailed landscape plan demonstrating compliance with KCC 21A.16. The detailed landscape
shall be submitted to and approved by the Current Planning Project Manager prior to building permit
approval.
KCC 21A.14.090. Apartment and townhouse developments and all group residences shall provide
building facade modulation on facades exceeding 60 feet and facing abutting streets or properties
zoned R-1 through R-4. The following standards shall apply:
A. The maximum wall length without modulation shall be 30 feet; and
B. the sum of the modulation depth and the modulation width shall be no less than eight feet.
Neither the modulation depth nor the modulation width shall be less than two feet.
9. As noted in Findings of Fact No. 4(M), the proposal includes a variety of building articulations
and modulations in order to break down the scale and massing of the structure. Though the proposal
appears to comply with the modulation requirements of the King County Code, Staff was unable to
confirm compliance. In order to ensure consistency with the building facade modulation requirements of
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the King County Code, as a condition of approval, the Applicant will be required to submit to the Current
Planning Project Manager length and depth detail for the building modulation in accordance with KCC
21A.14.090 prior to building permit approval.
KCC 21A.14.180.
A. Residential developments of more than four units in the UR and R-4 through R-48 zones ...
shall provide recreation space for leisure, play and sport activities as follows.
...
4. Apartments and townhouses developed at a density of greater than eight units per
and mixed use:
a. Studio and on bedroom: ninety square feet per unit
b. Two bedrooms: one hundred and seventy square feet per unit.
10. Indoor recreation areas may be credited towards the total recreation space requirement, if the
director determines that the areas are located, designed and improved in a manner that provides
recreational opportunities functionally equivalent to those recreational opportunities available outdoors.
For senior citizen assisted housing, indoor recreation areas need not be functionally equivalent but may
include social areas, game and craft rooms, and other multipurpose entertainment and education areas
(KCC 21A.14.180.D). The proposed facility would require 7,330sf of recreation area for the 77 unit
facility. Proposed recreation space would include interior community spaces, decks, patios, and other
outdoor recreation areas resulting in a total of 13,330sf of area. The proposal complies with the
requirements of the King County Code.
11. Pursuant to KCC 21A.14.210, multi-family developments require a minimum of 1.5sf per
dwelling unit for refuse deposit areas. Additionally, at least one deposit area/collection point for every 30
dwelling units is required. As noted in Finding of Fact No. 4(L), the proposed facility would require a
116sf deposit area for the 77 unit proposal. The square footage of designated refuse and recyclable areas
were not submitted with the land use application. In order to ensure consistency with the square footage
requirements staff recommends, as a condition of approval, the Applicant is required to submit to the
Current Planning Project Manager sizing detail for the refuse and recyclable deposit areas prior to
building permit approval. Additionally, the Applicant is required to demonstrate how refuse and
recyclables would be picked up and where these would be located on pick-up day to the satisfaction of
the Current Planning Project Manager.
12. KCC 21A.18.030 requires one parking space per two dwelling units for Assisted Senior Living
Residential Units. Based on the use, 39 parking spaces would be required in order to meet code. The
Applicant proposed to provide a total of 60 spaces. The parking conforms to the minimum requirements
for drive aisle and parking stall dimensions and the provision of ADA accessible parking stalls pursuant
to KCC 21A.18.110.
13. As noted in Finding of Fact No. 5(F), King County Code 16.82.156 ‘Significant Trees’ requires
that significant trees located in the interior of the development proposal, excluding critical areas or their
buffers, shall be retained in an apartment or townhouse development at the rate of ten trees per acre or
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five percent of the trees, whichever is greater (Ex. 12). The tree retention plan provided does not
demonstrate compliance with the tree retention requirements of the King County Code. A condition of
approval will require the Applicant to submit a tree retention plan in compliance with KCC 16.82.156
‘Significant Trees’.
Site Plan
RMC 4-9-200(E)(3): Criteria: The Administrator or designee must find a proposed project to be in
compliance with the following:
a. Compliance and Consistency: Conformance with plans, policies, regulations and approvals,
including:
i. Comprehensive Plan: The Comprehensive Plan, its elements, goals, objectives, and
policies, especially those of the applicable land use designation; the Community Design
Element; and any applicable adopted Neighborhood Plan;
ii. Applicable land use regulations;
iii. Relevant Planned Action Ordinance and Development Agreements; and
iv. Design Regulations: Intent and guidelines of the design regulations located in RMC 4-
3-100.
14. The proposal is consistent with applicable comprehensive plan policies, City of Renton and King
County zoning regulations and design guidelines as outlined in Findings 24(a)-(k) of the staff report,
which is adopted by this reference as if set forth in full, including the findings and conclusions.
RMC 4-9-200(E)(3)(b): Off-Site Impacts: Mitigation of impacts to surrounding properties and
uses, including:
i. Structures: Restricting overscale structures and overconcentration of development on a
particular portion of the site;
ii. Circulation: Providing desirable transitions and linkages between uses, streets,
walkways and adjacent properties;
iii. Loading and Storage Areas: Locating, designing and screening storage areas,
utilities, rooftop equipment, loading areas, and refuse and recyclables to minimize views
from surrounding properties;
iv. Views: Recognizing the public benefit and desirability of maintaining visual
accessibility to attractive natural features;
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v. Landscaping: Using landscaping to provide transitions between development and
surrounding properties to reduce noise and glare, maintain privacy, and generally
enhance the appearance of the project; and
vi. Lighting: Designing and/or placing exterior lighting and glazing in order to avoid
excessive brightness or glare to adjacent properties and streets.
15. The assisted living units are necessarily concentrated on one portion of the site due to the
topography, but the impacts of this concentration are negligible given the small portion of the site that is
occupied by buildings and the large setbacks and significant amount of landscaping that separates the
facility from adjoining uses. The facility could not be considered “overscale” considering the relatively
small amount of area occupied by buildings. As determined in Finding of Fact No. 5, lighting and view
impacts are adequately mitigated and landscaping, as conditioned, is effectively used to protect
adjoining properties from noise and glare and to maintain privacy and enhance the appearance of the
project. The project will be conditioned to provide for adequate screening of refuse and recyclables and
to provide screening from utilities and rooftop structures. As determined in Finding of Fact No. 5, the
project provides screening of loading areas to minimize views from surrounding properties.
RMC 4-9-200(E)(3)(c): On-Site Impacts: Mitigation of impacts to the site, including:
i. Structure Placement: Provisions for privacy and noise reduction by building placement,
spacing and orientation;
ii. Structure Scale: Consideration of the scale of proposed structures in relation to natural
characteristics, views and vistas, site amenities, sunlight, prevailing winds, and pedestrian
and vehicle needs;
iii. Natural Features: Protection of the natural landscape by retaining existing vegetation
and soils, using topography to reduce undue cutting and filling, and limiting impervious
surfaces; and
iv. Landscaping: Use of landscaping to soften the appearance of parking areas, to
provide shade and privacy where needed, to define and enhance open spaces, and
generally to enhance the appearance of the project. Landscaping also includes the design
and protection of planting areas so that they are less susceptible to damage from vehicles
or pedestrian movements.
16. As determined in Finding of Fact No. 5, landscaping has been well designed to provide for
privacy and noise reduction. There is nothing in the record to reasonably suggest that the scale, spacing
and orientation of the project could be modified to provide for more privacy and noise reduction
without unreasonably interfering with the objectives of the facility. The scale of the facility will not
create any adverse impacts as discussed and is compatible with vehicle and pedestrian circulation as
determined in Finding of Fact No. 5. In addition, there is nothing in the record to reasonably suggest
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that the scale of the project is incompatible with sunlight, prevailing winds or natural characteristics.
Impervious surfaces are significantly less than those authorized by applicable zoning regulations.
RMC 4-9-200(E)(3)(d): Access and Circulation: Safe and efficient access and circulation for
all users, including:
i. Location and Consolidation: Providing access points on side streets or frontage streets
rather than directly onto arterial streets and consolidation of ingress and egress points on
the site and, when feasible, with adjacent properties;
ii. Internal Circulation: Promoting safety and efficiency of the internal circulation system,
including the location, design and dimensions of vehicular and pedestrian access points,
drives, parking, turnarounds, walkways, bikeways, and emergency access ways;
iii. Loading and Delivery: Separating loading and delivery areas from parking and
pedestrian areas;
iv. Transit and Bicycles: Providing transit, carpools and bicycle facilities and access; and
v. Pedestrians: Providing safe and attractive pedestrian connections between parking
areas, buildings, public sidewalks and adjacent properties.
117. The proposal provides for adequate access and circulation as required by the criterion above for
the reasons identified in Finding of Fact No. 4(I) and (J).
RMC 4-9-200(E)(3)(e): Open Space: Incorporating open spaces to serve as distinctive project
focal points and to provide adequate areas for passive and active recreation by the occupants/users
of the site.
18. The proposal provides for open space that serves as distinctive project focal points and also
provides for recreation as determined in Finding of Fact No. 4(N).
RMC 4-9-200(E)(3)(f): Views and Public Access: When possible, providing view corridors to
shorelines and Mt. Rainier, and incorporating public access to shorelines.
19. There are no view corridors to shorelines or Mt. Rainier affected by the proposal.
RMC 4-9-200(E)(3)(g): Natural Systems: Arranging project elements to protect existing natural
systems where applicable.
20. As noted in Finding of Fact No. 5(F), the site is located within a High Erosion Hazard Area and
an unclassified Landslide Hazard Area. The slope gradients on site vary from 40 percent to
approximately 60 percent with a change in elevation from 30-45 feet. The slopes on site meet the
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definition for steep slope geologic hazard areas as defined by KCC 21.A.24. The existing steep slope
area currently totals 51,851 square feet. The grading of the steep slope is estimated at 8,858 square
feet and would occur in the upper zone of the steep slope area. The grading is the subject of the Critical
Areas Exemption – Modification below (See Conclusion of Law No. 23).
KCC 21.A.24.200 requires a building setback of 15 feet be established from all critical area buffers
(Ex. 12). The Applicant is proposing an access drive aisle, sidewalks, and drainage utilities within the
required 15-foot setback. The proposal appears to comply with the Critical Area building setback
requirements.
RMC 4-9-200(E)(3)(h): Services and Infrastructure: Making available public services and
facilities to accommodate the proposed use.
21. The project is served by adequate services and facilities as determined in Finding of Fact No. 4.
RMC 4-9-200(E)(3)(i): Phasing: Including a detailed sequencing plan with development phases
and estimated time frames, for phased projects.
22. The project is not phased.
Critical Areas Exemption - Modification
RMC 4-8-070(D)(8)(b): Authority: The Community and Economic Development Administrator shall
review and act on the following:
...
8. Modifications:
...
b. Modification of geologic hazard regulations for manmade slopes;
RMC 4-9-050(D)(4)(b)(i)(d): Review Authority – Geologic Hazards, Habitat Conservation, Streams
and Lakes, and Wetlands: The Administrator is authorized to make the following administrative
allowances and determinations:
...
i. Geologic Hazards.
...
(d) Grant a modification for created slopes per subsection N2 of this Section.
23. As determined in Finding of Fact No. 5(G), the site is located within a High Erosion Hazard Area
and an unclassified Landslide Hazard Area. The Applicant provided a geotechnical report, prepared by
GEODesign, Inc., on February 18, 2014 in addition to a Geologic Hazard Report (Ex. 13). The reports
concluded that the subject site and surrounding parcels have been extensively graded during past
aggregate mining activities on the property and that the slopes were created as a result of mining activity.
RMC 4-8-070(D)(8)(b) and RMC 4-9-050(D)(4)(b)(i)(d) allow for modification of geologic hazard
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regulations for manmade slopes. Re-grading of the steep slope areas is also allowed by the vested King
County Code (KCC21A.24.310.D.2) through a Critical Area Alternation. The City does not have a
Critical Area Alteration process. Alternatively, the applicant is requesting a Critical Area Exemption to
re-grade within the steep slopes.
RMC 4-9-050(N)(2)(a)(ii)(a): Geologic Hazards – Modifications: An applicant may request that the
Administrator grant a modification to allow:
(a) Regrading of any slope which was created through previous mineral and natural resource
recovery activities or was created prior to adoption of applicable mineral and natural
resource recovery regulations or through public or private road installation or widening
and related transportation improvements, railroad track installation or improvement, or
public or private utility installation activities;
The following procedures shall apply to any of the above activities:
(1) The applicant shall submit a geotechnical report describing any potential impacts of
the proposed regrading and any necessary mitigation measures;
(2) All submitted reports shall be independently reviewed by qualified specialists selected
by the City at the applicant’s expense;
(3) The Department Administrator may grant, condition, or deny the request based upon
the proposal’s compliance with the applicable modification criteria of RMC 4-9-250D;
and
(4) Any slope which remains forty percent (40%) or steeper following site development
shall be subject to all applicable geologic hazard regulations for steep slopes and
landslide hazards, in this Section.
(5) In addition to the criteria of RMC 4-9-250D, Modification Procedures, the following
criteria shall apply: The proposed modification is based on consideration of the best
available science as described in WAC 365-195-905; or where there is an absence of
valid scientific information, the steps in RMC 4-9-250F are followed.
24. As noted in Finding of Fact No. 5(G), the geotechnical reports concluded that the subject site and
surrounding parcels have been extensively graded during past aggregate mining activities on the property
and that the slopes were created as a result of mining activity. The site therefore qualifies for a Geologic
Hazards Modification pursuant to RMC 4-9-050(N)(2)(a)(ii)(a).
The main considerations noted in the geotechnical reports include the existence of moisture sensitive clay
soils, anticipated water seepage, the height of proposed cuts, the presence of a weathered and fractured
upper soil zone and the associated risk of shallow soil movements. There is concern regarding the
potential for instability if water seepage is allowed on the slope both during and after construction.
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Additionally, the reports mention that the discharge of groundwater along the slopes and excessive
groundwater levels near the slopes could cause a reduction in slope stability. This concern was also
expressed my members of the public during the public hearing. The GEODesign scope of services did not
include any environmental assessment or evaluation regarding the presence or absence of wetlands or
hazardous or toxic material in the soil, surface water, groundwater, air, and on or below or around the
site.
The geotechnical report states that proposed re-grading of the site would not increase the existing slope
inclinations in excess of 50% and would not adversely impact the slope stability of the site. The proposed
re-grading is also not anticipated to impact the slope stability on adjacent properties of the Steep Slope
Hazard Areas. The report recommends that slopes should be graded to drain back from the top of slopes.
Pursuant to RMC 4-9-050(N)(2)(a)(ii)(a)(2) a condition of approval will require the Applicant to
provide an independent review of the submitted geotechnical report and the geologic hazard report prior
to construction permit approval. The independent analysis shall be paid at the Applicant’s expense, and
the Administrator shall select the third-party review professional. Additionally, the drainage report may
have to be updated based on the results of the secondary review of the geotechnical report and geologic
hazard report. If the independent review determines the re-grading of the site would harm the public
health, welfare or safety, the Critical Areas Exemption shall be denied.
Lot Line Adjustment
RMC 4-7-060: PRINCIPLES OF ACCEPTABILITY:
A lot line adjustment shall be consistent with the following principles of acceptability:
1. Correcting: Adjust lot lines including the elimination of a common lot line in order to
correct property line or setback encroachments;
2. Improving: Create better lot design, or improve access;
3. Conforming: Conform to Applicable Zoning: See chapter 4-2 RMC, subdivision and other
code requirements pertaining to lot design, building location, and development standards.
25. The Applicant is proposing a Lot Line Adjustment in order to adjust the lot line between Lot 2
and Tract C-2. The original lot line was created in order reflect a survey of the critical areas on the site.
The Applicant is proposing re-grading approximately 8,858sf within upper zone of the steep slope area.
Once the re-grading is accomplished, the boundary of the critical areas and associated buffers will
change. The lot line adjustment will correct the setback encroachments for the revised critical areas
boundaries. The new lot line will improve the lot design by setting the critical areas boundaries. The
proposal complies with the applicable King County Zoning regulations therefore meeting all principles
of acceptability.
Street Modification
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RMC 4-9-250(D)(2): Whenever there are practical difficulties involved in carrying out the
provisions of this Title, the Department Administrator may grant modifications for individual cases
provided he/she shall first find that a specific reason makes the strict letter of this Code
impractical, that the intent and purpose of the governing land use designation of the
Comprehensive Plan is met and that the modification is in conformity with the intent and purpose of
this Code, and that such modification:
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;
b. Will meet the objectives and safety, function, appearance, environmental protection and
maintainability intended by the Code requirements, based upon sound engineering judgment;
c. Will not be injurious to other property(ies) in the vicinity;
d. Conforms to the intent and purpose of the Code;
e. Can be shown to be justified and required for the use and situation intended; and
f. Will not create adverse impacts to other property(ies) in the vicinity.
26. The criterion above are met for the requested modification to RMC 4-6-060 for the reasons
identified in Finding of Fact No. 4(E). There is no need for a parking lane along the frontage of the site
and the existing curb could continue to be used as the character of the road has been established without
the use of parking. Additionally, the applicant is providing 21 more stalls than required by code on
site. The applicant is also providing increased widths for landscaping and sidewalk within the right of
way. The requested modification meets the objective and safety of the code requirements. The
proposed street cross section would not be injurious to surrounding property owners and can be shown
to be justified for the situation intended.
DECISION
The site plan, street modification, critical areas exemption, and lot line adjustment are approved subject
to the following conditions.
1. The Applicant shall be required to submit a detailed landscape plan demonstrating compliance
with KCC 21A.16.050 for landscape spacing. The detailed landscape shall be submitted to and
approved by the Current Planning Project Manager prior to building permit approval.
2. The Applicant shall be required to submit to the Current Planning Project Manager length and
depth detail for the building modulation in accordance with KCC 21A.14.090 prior to building
permit approval.
3. The Applicant shall be required to submit to the Current Planning Project Manager sizing detail
for the refuse and recyclable deposit areas prior to building permit approval. Additionally, the
Applicant would be required to demonstrate how refuse and recyclables would be picked up
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and where it would be located on pick-up day to the satisfaction of the Current Planning Project
Manager
4. The Applicant shall be required to submit a detailed landscape plan demonstrating compliance
with KCC 21A.16.070 for parking area square footage landscaping. The detailed landscape
shall be submitted to and approved by the Current Planning Project Manager prior to building
permit approval.
5. The Applicant shall provide an independent review of the submitted geotechnical report and the
geologic hazard report prior to construction permit approval. The independent analysis shall be
paid at the Applicant’s expense, and the Administrator shall select the third-party review
professional. Additionally, the drainage report may have to be updated based on the results of
the secondary review of the geotechnical report and geologic hazard report. If the independent
review determines the re-grading of the site likely result in harm to the public health, welfare or
safety, the Critical Areas Exemption shall be denied.
6. The Applicant shall be required to submit a tree retention plan in compliance with KCC
16.82.156 Significant Trees. The tree retention plan shall be submitted to, and approved by,
the Current Planning Project Manager prior to building permit approval.
7. The Applicant shall be required to submit a revised drainage plan depicting a five-foot
separation between all stormwater structures and property lines. The revised drainage plan
shall be submitted to, and approved by, the Plan Reviewer prior to construction permit
approval.
8. The Applicant shall be required to record the necessary covenants or declarations of restrictions
on the property to ensure that no children will reside in the development. The recorded
documents shall be submitted to by the Current Planning Project Manager prior to building
permit approval.
DATED this 22nd day of April, 2014.
City of Renton Hearing Examiner
Appeal Right and Valuation Notices
RMC 4-8-110(E)(9) provides that the final decision of the hearing examiner is subject to appeal to the
Renton City Council. RMC 4-8-110(E)(9) requires appeals of the hearing examiner’s decision to be
filed within fourteen (14) calendar days from the date of the hearing examiner’s decision. A request
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for reconsideration to the hearing e examiner may also be filed within this 14 day appeal period as
identified in RMC 4-8-110(E)(8) and RMC 4-8-100(G)(4). A new fourteen (14) day appeal period
shall commence upon the issuance of the reconsideration. Additional information regarding the appeal
process may be obtained from the City Clerk’s Office, Renton City Hall – 7th floor, (425) 430-6510.
Affected property owners may request a change in valuation for property tax purposes notwithstanding
any program of revaluation.