Planning staff provided an overview of the process and timeline for a periodic update of Edmonds' Critical Areas Ordinance, emphasizing the need to align local code with state requirements and the best available science.

Staff reminded the board that the code is reviewed at regular intervals and that the last broad amendment was adopted in 2016, with wetlands and recharge-area updates added in 2018, 2023 and 2024. The CAO update will focus on incorporating updated science, clarifying ambiguous code language, and ensuring consistency with the recently adopted comprehensive plan policies.

Key points and timeline provided by staff:
- Staff has completed the Department of Commerce CAO checklist and found Edmonds largely compliant, with some minor definition and science updates anticipated.
- Between the July meeting and Aug. 13 staff will complete scoping and provide draft text; the board will see redline/strikeout language on Aug. 13.
- A public hearing will follow the August review; staff expects to transmit a recommendation to city council with an adoption goal by the end of the calendar year.
- If significant changes are proposed, staff may convene a technical advisory committee that could include tribal representatives, local environmental organizations and regional agencies.

Board members asked staff to flag substantive policy changes and provide clear justifications (science updates, state law changes, or other reasons) when redline language is presented. Staff committed to a clearer presentation of the "why" behind proposed edits and to coordinating with engineering and parks where technical topics (for example, stormwater and CARA—critical areas for recharge) are involved.

The board did not vote on the CAO introduction; staff will return with draft language and outreach plans at the next meeting.