Commission debates whether plan should 'encourage' or 'require' developer actions

A major portion of the meeting focused on whether policy statements in the subarea plan should 'encourage' developer practices or instead direct the county to 'require' certain actions through ordinance. Several committee members argued for stronger language to protect long-term outcomes — for example, requiring maintenance of street trees and open space — while staff cautioned that the comprehensive plan itself is not a regulatory document and that the county attorney may advise against using 'require' in the plan text.