In a recent government meeting, city officials provided a comprehensive update on the ongoing periodic review of land use and zoning regulations, highlighting significant developments in urban planning and housing policies. The discussion was organized into three primary tracks, with a proposal to add a fourth track focusing on development regulations.

The first track centers on land use and zoning maps, which are crucial for defining the city's urban form. These maps include the comprehensive plan's future land use map, zoning map series, and building height regulations. Officials emphasized the importance of these maps in guiding development regulations, capital projects, and major city initiatives.

A notable point of discussion was the introduction of \"middle housing,\" which affects a substantial portion of the city's land designated for housing. This new category is significant enough to warrant its own track in the planning process. Additionally, staff presented a \"punch list\" of approximately 130 code amendments that have been identified since the last update, ranging from minor clarifications to substantial changes.

The meeting also addressed the review of alternative growth strategies, with three options under consideration: current plans extended, concentrated growth, and dispersed growth. Staff are working towards a formal environmental impact statement, expected to be released later this year, which will document the review of these alternatives.

Another key topic was the development of an updated centers hierarchy, which includes various types of centers and nodes within the city. The core of downtown Everett is identified as a prime area for significant growth, with discussions around increasing building heights to accommodate future development.

Council members raised questions about harmonizing city planning with surrounding communities and the processes for public input on proposed changes. Officials encouraged community engagement and emphasized that all stakeholders, including the public and council members, can submit requests for changes to the comprehensive plan.

As the city moves forward with these planning efforts, officials are committed to ongoing outreach and engagement with the community, aiming for a final comprehensive plan by early next year. The next steps include further discussions on housing elements and urban form, with opportunities for public input continuing throughout the year.