The City of Anacortes Planning Commission convened on October 1, 2025, to discuss several key zoning and land use issues affecting the community. The meeting focused on permitted uses in various zones, particularly concerning adult concessions, the manufacturing and shipping (MS) zone, and animal care facilities in the Central Business District.

The first agenda item addressed the regulations surrounding adult concessions. Staff presented findings from a comprehensive review conducted in 2013, which established the current zoning laws. The analysis highlighted constitutional considerations and court precedents that restrict outright prohibitions on certain uses. Staff recommended maintaining the existing regulations, noting that significant changes in state or federal law since 2013 have not necessitated a reevaluation of these provisions.

Next, the commission examined the MS zone, specifically the area along Commercial Avenue. Staff clarified that development in this zone is generally exempt from many building and site design standards. However, a proposal to extend the storefront block frontage designation from Third Street to Second Street would require compliance with specific design standards aimed at enhancing the pedestrian experience. These standards include requirements for window transparency and minimum heights for ground-level commercial spaces.

The final discussion point involved animal care facilities, such as veterinary clinics and grooming services, in the Central Business District. Currently classified as conditional uses, staff proposed changing these to permitted uses, provided that all activities occur indoors. This change aims to streamline the approval process for such facilities, reducing unnecessary public hearings and requirements.

Overall, the meeting concluded with a consensus on the proposed changes, reflecting the commission's commitment to balancing community needs with regulatory frameworks. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential formal recommendations to the city council based on the commission's findings.