Concerns over Thurston County's Critical Areas Ordinance (CAO) took center stage at the September 17 Planning Commission meeting, as a local real estate broker and planning commissioner voiced frustrations about the challenges property owners face. With over 17 years of experience, the speaker highlighted the costly expert studies required for land use determinations, which are often dismissed by planning staff, leading to project delays and financial strain on property owners.

The speaker criticized the county's mapping tools, stating that inaccuracies can devalue properties by misrepresenting wetlands and buffers. This issue has driven potential buyers to neighboring counties, where regulations are perceived as more manageable. The speaker emphasized that the city of Olympia often mirrors the county's CAO policies, amplifying the impact of these challenges across jurisdictions.

While advocating for the use of best available science to protect critical areas, the speaker called for a balance between environmental stewardship and the urgent need for housing. With a housing shortage persisting since 2008, they urged the commission to streamline the CAO process to reduce barriers to responsible development. "It's time to cut the red tape," they declared, stressing that increasing housing inventory is essential for affordability in Thurston County.

The meeting underscored the pressing need for reform in the CAO to support both environmental protection and the housing needs of the community. As discussions continue, the call for a more efficient and fair approach to land use regulation remains a critical topic for Thurston County's future.