Housing, storage and home businesses among changes headed to public review

CASHMERE — Residents will have several opportunities in the coming weeks to weigh in on proposed changes to where housing, storage facilities and home-based businesses can be located as Cashmere updates its comprehensive plan and development rules.

The Cashmere Planning Commission is scheduled to hold a public hearing Nov. 2 on the draft comprehensive land use plan, zoning map and municipal code updates. After considering public comment, the commission is expected to make a recommendation to the City Council.

The council is scheduled to receive the documents and recommendation Nov. 9, then hold a public meeting Nov. 23 to discuss the proposals and consider any changes. A public hearing is tentatively scheduled for Dec. 14 if needed, with adoption also anticipated that day.

Director of Operations Steve Croci told council members Oct. 26 that the proposed changes address several topics, including accessory dwelling units, mini-storage facilities, home occupations and areas designated for multifamily housing.

Under the proposal Croci described, property owners could have two accessory dwelling units on a single-family lot, provided the units meet requirements such as setbacks and lot coverage. Accessory dwelling units are smaller homes built on the same property as a primary residence.

The draft also would limit where new mini-storage facilities are allowed. Croci said they would no longer be permitted in multifamily or downtown business zones, though existing facilities could remain.

The city placed a moratorium on new mini-storage facilities earlier this year while officials considered where they should be allowed.

Other proposed changes would expand opportunities for home-based businesses. Croci said the intent is to allow more types of work from home while maintaining limitations on employees and parking.

The proposed zoning map also identifies additional areas for multifamily housing. Croci pointed to land along East Cashmere Road near the Cashmere Museum and Rusty’s Drive-In, as well as land near Pioneer Avenue outside city limits.

The East Cashmere Road area is near a bus route, stores and other services, Croci said. Near Pioneer Avenue, he said, the possibility of multifamily development could make extending water and sewer service more feasible than it would be for a single home.

The updates also address emergency housing and shelters. Croci encouraged council members to review those provisions, along with the proposed zoning map and other changes to the city’s development code.

The draft comprehensive plan, land use map and code changes are available at cityofcashmere.org/government/plans-and-programs. Residents can review the materials ahead of the Planning Commission hearing and the council’s November discussion.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media