Kirkland council debates per‑square‑foot fire and park impact fees, weighs ADU exemptions and phased inclusionary rules

Kirkland City Council members on March 18 heard a study‑session presentation and initial recommendations to change how the city charges fire and park impact fees, moving from per‑unit tiers to a per‑square‑foot method required by recent state statute changes, and discussed how accessory dwelling units (ADUs), redevelopment credits and inclusionary housing requirements should be handled.

The presentation, led by Kevin Pellstring, the city’s approved financial planning manager, and supported by the city’s development engineering manager John Burkhalter and consultants from FCS Group, explained that the state amended the impact fee statute in 2023 to require fees that reflect the “proportionate impact of new housing units” by square footage, bedrooms or trips. “Impact fees are one‑time charges on new development and redevelopment to provide key capital funding towards growth improvements that serve this growth in our community,” Pellstring said.

Councilors praised the proposed per‑square‑foot approach while pressing staff for additional detail and safeguards. Multiple council members — including Deputy Mayor Arnold, Councilmembers Falcone, Chisen and Black — said they were generally comfortable “adopting the fees as calculated,” subject to further review and outreach.…