Atkinson project on hold; La Conner and Skagit County share permit responsibilities, town says

During public comment a resident asked whether the Atkinson project was proceeding. Planning staff responded that, from the town's records, the applicant had not contacted Public Works to schedule the mandatory pre‑construction meeting required before starting work. Staff said building permits issued by the town have a five‑year expiration from the date of issuance; the precise permit expiration date would have to be checked in the file.

Staff explained the split in jurisdiction: the Town of La Conner reviews land‑use matters outside the building (for example, critical areas, utility connections, and exterior infrastructure). Skagit County handles internal building‑code review and permitting (International Building Code, International Fire Code, energy, mechanical and plumbing codes) because the county has the certified building examiners and officials. When the county issues a building permit it will incorporate the town’s conditions of approval; inspections and the certificate of occupancy are coordinated so both jurisdictions’ conditions are satisfied before final occupancy is issued. Staff identified Skagit County building official Randy Johnson as the county staff they coordinate with but did not have details on the county’s current review status for the Atkinson project.

Staff told the resident that the project timeline is driven by the applicant, that further information about county permit status is a public record, and suggested contacting the Skagit County permit line for status or submitting a records request. The exchange closed with acknowledgement that noise and construction timing during summer would be an appropriate public concern.