Planning 2024-06-27 Minutes - Tiny Home Village / Permitting Process and Compliance with Recent Legislation

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Planning Commission Minutes 6/27/24 Page 2 Public Hearing Chair Probst opened the public hearing for: File Number L24-0026 - Tiny Home Village (THV) — Zoning Code Amendment Purpose: Consider amendments to enact specific regulations for THVs and make recommendations to the City Council (CC) for their review and adoption. Location: Citywide Chair Probst asked staff to give the presentation. Director Gierloff, DCD, gave the presentation for staff. She noted that a work session was held on this topic at the last PC meeting. She said that the proposed ordinance language would adopt regulations for THVs. She explained that THVs are individual small sleeping structures with shared hygiene and kitchen facilities, which are usually run by organizations that provide social services. This is one of the many types of housing options that provide shelter and support for people to exit homelessness. Currently, there are two THVs in existence in Tukwila, which were approved under the general umbrella of emergency housing. The city would like to adopt specific regulations to make it clear that THVs is an approved use in Tukwila, so people understand the requirements for a new THV or for expanding an existing one. THVs are allowed specifically for religious organizations under RCW 35A.21.360. The city is proposing using local control to require a residential model where individuals need to be vetted prior to admission. THVs are designed as temporary housing to help individuals get on their feet, then move on to peiivanent housing within approximately six months. This is different from drop -in shelters with a daily turnover in population. In addition to stating the essential services, the city is requesting that organizations hosting or operating a THV, and the city enter into a three-way Memorandum of Agreement to set out expectations, procedures, and to create a process for dispute resolution. The city did this with the existing THVs and found it to be helpful for working out operating procedures and giving the neighbors an opportunity to have a voice. Director Gierloff explained the maximum number of units on a site is 45 as a starting point. Staff discussed the topic with the Planning and Community Development (PCD) Council Committee to arrive at this number. However, not every site will be able to accommodate that number of units. The role of facility operator was also discussed. This is often a non- profit agency. Staff recommend extending this role to other government agencies as was discussed at the work session. Director Gierloff addressed several clarifying questions from the PC. Public Comment Letter There was one public comment letter received from Jan Bolerjak, prior to 5:00 pm 6/27, which was emailed to the PC upon receipt. Phone: 206-433-1800 • Email: Mayor@TukwilaWA.gov • Website: TukwilaWA.gov