As the clock struck 6 PM, the Anacortes Planning Commission convened for a special meeting, albeit without its usual chairman. In a light-hearted moment, a commissioner stepped in, likening the situation to a pinch hitter in baseball, setting a friendly tone for the evening. With a quorum confirmed, the meeting quickly moved through procedural motions, including excusing two absent commissioners and reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

The agenda was sparse, with no public comments or hearings scheduled. However, the heart of the meeting lay in the ongoing discussions about the 2025 Comprehensive Plan update. This update includes proposed amendments to Title 19 of the municipal code, which were released for public review on September 17. The public comment period is set to continue until October 22, culminating in a public hearing during the next regular meeting.

Planning Manager Libby Grage took the floor to guide the commission through the remaining amendments, emphasizing the importance of community input in shaping the city’s development regulations. With updated materials provided earlier that day, the commission was poised to delve deeper into the specifics of the proposed changes.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the commission is committed to ensuring that the voices of Anacortes residents are heard and considered in the planning process. The discussions will continue, with the next meeting promising to bring further insights and community engagement as the city moves forward with its comprehensive planning efforts.