Public Works proposes development‑review fee schedule and flags SEPA mitigation cost in Circle by Belfair

Public Works presented proposed updates to the county fee schedule to recover costs for plan review of private development, grading and hydraulic permits, and related services.

Staff said the proposed development‑review fee schedule would place modest, targeted fees (staff indicated a $100–$200 range depending on the work) into the county code so the county can recover staff costs for reviewing engineering drawings, grading plans and pipeline/cable franchise work. Commissioners voiced support for adopting the fees so developers bear review costs rather than taxpayers subsidizing reviews.

Staff also highlighted SEPA mitigation fees associated with the Circle by Belfair project; staff said the mitigation amounts are substantial and that developers must cover required improvements rather than shifting those costs to taxpayers.

No formal adoption vote was held; staff will return to place ordinance language into code for formal consideration if directed.