Planning 2018-10-25 ITEM 5 - STAFF REPORT - SHORELINE MASTER PROGRAM WORK SESSION

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�a City of Tukwila Allan Ekberg, Mayor INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM TO: Tukwila Planning Commission FROM: Nora Gierloff, Deputy DCD Director DATE: October 25, 2018 SUBJECT: Shoreline Master Program Update Work Session ISSUE Tukwila is required to periodically review and revise its Shoreline Master Program and Zoning Code Shoreline Overlay for consistency with State law and Best Available Science (BAS). BACKGROUND The Green/Duwamish River in Tukwila is categorized as a Shoreline of the State. In response to the State Shoreline Management Act (SMA) and Federal requirements, Tukwila has adopted two policy documents related to the river — the Shoreline Master Program (SMP) and land use policies in the City's Comprehensive Plan. To carry out these policies, zoning regulations have been adopted in TMC Chapter 18.44 Shoreline Overlay. Most development within 200 feet on either side of the ordinary high water mark (OHWM) requires a Shoreline Substantial Development Permit which is reviewed by the Washington State Department of Ecology after issuance by the City. The City's shoreline development regulations balance economic and residential development with enhancement and stewardship of the ecological functions of the river. DISCUSSION The City of Tukwila completed a comprehensive update to its Shoreline Master Program in 2009, with additional revisions made in 2011. Washington state law requires jurisdictions to periodically review and update their SMPs every eight years in accordance with the SMA and its current guidelines and legislative rules to attain state approval. The City of Tukwila's update started with an open house on October 9th and will be complete in 2019. This periodic update will focus on: • Reviewing relevant legislative updates since 2009 and incorporating any applicable amendments. • Ensuring consistency with recently adopted regulations for critical areas and flood hazard areas. 103