The Anacortes Planning Commission convened on October 1, 2025, to discuss several proposed amendments aimed at enhancing development in the city's marine mixed-use zone. A significant focus of the meeting was on residential use standards, particularly concerning rooming houses and other residential developments.

One of the key discussions revolved around the introduction of indoor recreation facilities in light manufacturing and industrial zones. The commission considered requests from property owners to allow smaller-scale indoor recreation, such as fitness centers and martial arts studios, in these areas. The proposed regulations would limit these facilities to a maximum of 10,000 square feet and restrict occupancy to 20 people to minimize potential conflicts with existing industrial operations.

However, during the meeting, several commissioners expressed concerns about the practicality of the 20-person limit. They argued that this restriction could hinder the economic viability of such facilities, especially for activities that typically attract more participants, like team sports. Suggestions were made to increase the occupancy limit to 30 or to allow the director discretion in determining occupancy based on specific circumstances.

The discussion highlighted the balance the commission aims to strike between allowing recreational uses in industrial zones while ensuring that these activities do not disrupt the primary industrial functions of the area. The proposed amendments are seen as a way to utilize existing spaces creatively, potentially converting unused warehouses into community-friendly facilities.

As the meeting concluded, the commission agreed to refine the proposed language to incorporate flexibility regarding occupancy limits, allowing for a more adaptable approach to future developments in the marine mixed-use zone. This decision reflects the commission's commitment to fostering a vibrant community while respecting the needs of existing industrial operations.