Kenmore Planning Commission advances PROS element, schedules public hearing after debate over project list and trails

The Kenmore Planning Commission on Sept. 23 reviewed a draft Parks, Recreation and Open Space (PROS) element and its companion Capital Facilities Plan (CFP) project list, debated the scope and cost assumptions for parks and trails, and directed staff to prepare the chapter for a public hearing Oct. 7. Commissioners raised concerns about the level of detail and potential environmental effects of trails through wetlands and asked staff to remove several tributary corridor items pending further study.

The discussion centered on whether the CFP should present an unconstrained “menu” of projects or a prioritized, finance-ready program. Todd Hall, principal planner, told commissioners the project list and cost estimates are in 2025 dollars and intended to support grant applications and future budgeting: “These cost estimates include not only construction of all the improvements … they also include the design, the permitting, the engineering, and the contingencies.”

Commissioners questioned specific line items, cost precision and environmental impacts. Commissioner Vanderlyn called the draft an “unrestrained list” and warned the public and council could interpret items as commitments.…