Thursday, March 28, 2024

Leavenworth Council receive Development Services mid-year report

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At the July 9 Study Session, Development Services Manager Lilith Vespier provided  mid-year report on the department's activities.

Vespier explained the department has been busy these past seven months and in the meantime put together some goals.

She noted that Building and Code Inspector II Mark Barnes will be out on inspections and as will Assistant Planner Maggie Boles. Vespier added that Barnes has helped build Boles' confidence during residential inspections.

"It may not alleviate the need for a part-time person moving forward," Vespier said.

Vespier said land use permits and land adjustments have increased.

Staff also went out for a request for proposal for permit tracking system. Vespier said the city has received three proposals, which staff will evaluate, and they range from enhanced excel sheet to an integrated website where folks can submit applications. They are also examining the number of permits they receive and the cost of each system.

"We have to weigh our need, ease for the community and the council’s desire on the type of system they want," she added.

Council member Jason Lundgren said having a permit tracking system would increase the efficiency for the departments and make it easier for residents submitting permit applications. A new system will provide the city for more transparency.

Vespier continued with her report, explaining that business licenses were the same number as last year. Staff also created new applications for site development permits and placed them online, and new inspection cards. There is also a new sign compliance sheet that shows the location, violation and process.

Vespier added that the department is working with Flo Analytics for GIS maps and converting the city website, which may take a couple of more weeks.

Another objective that was accomplished, according to Vespier, is staff has posted the Planning Commission's agenda and packet items online before meetings, and commission packets are added to council’s binder.

Vespier also went over the Planning Commission's mandatory updates.

She explained the Planning Commission was tasked with reviewing and updating development and critical area regulations in accordance to state law. The commission is working through the amendments and will forward a recommendation in the coming months.

In other business, Corrine Hoffman, Chumstick Wildfire Stewardship Coalition (CWSC) Director gave a follow-up presentation to the council.

Hoffman recommended different roles community members could take in helping the city to prevent wildfires.

She explained Civic leaders can require defensible spaces, follow safety codes and regulate building, materials and locations. Hoffman also suggested the city work with other municipalities to learn their efforts, and contact the state legislature for regulatory requirements and solutions. She also encouraged officials to brainstorm ongoing creative solutions.

The city could also provide education and outreach to raise awareness, garner interest, and provide assistance and guidance.

Hoffman said there  are also partnership opportunities with city engagement and bolstering marketing, outreach and education. The city could also coordinate yearly events like wood debris recycling days, chipper programs and community workshops. Officials could also develop a website or section with wildlife prevention information and resources.

The CWSC director is looking at making a learning partnership with the city and suggested officials could put together a webinar or conference call where the council can ask questions. 

Lundgren suggested the city contact the city of Chelan about the measures they have taken for a firewire in a community. He would also like the city to adopt the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Fire Codes.

Mayor Cheri Farivar said the city is in the process of developing the plan with Hoffman looking into into potential consultants. 

leavenworth, city council

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