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Kent adopts Phase 1 of Recode Kent to meet state housing law deadlines; staff to study historic‑district concerns
Summary
Council adopted ordinance 4517 amending Titles 12 and 15 to comply with new state housing laws and the city's comprehensive plan; staff said Phase 2 will follow and will evaluate requests concerning the Mill Creek Historic District raised during public comment.
Kent City Council adopted ordinance 4517 on June 30, amending Titles 12 and 15 of the Kent City Code to implement housing requirements required by new state legislation and to align with the city's 2044 comprehensive plan. Staff said a Phase 2 of Recode Kent will begin in the coming months to address additional, non‑statutory items.
Why it matters: the ordinance responds to recent state laws that change local residential zoning rules (middle housing, accessory dwelling units and related standards); the council adopted Phase 1 to meet the state adoption deadline and avoid noncompliance.
Assistant City Attorney Samantha Doyle summarized the Phase 1 package and said it focuses on statutory requirements and Growth Management Act updates. She said the ordinance includes provisions on middle housing, duplexes and triplexes, ADU parking standards, density bonus for religious organizations, housing within existing buildings, unit lot divisions and design review standards. Doyle said the ordinance contains only minor non‑substantive edits since the Committee of the Whole presentation and that the changes would become effective within 30 days.
During public comment earlier in the meeting, Michael Johnson spoke about rezoning and urged protections for the Mill Creek Historic District, saying he wanted zoning that would disallow demolition of historic houses while still allowing accessory dwelling units to the rear of lots. He told council, "I'm pleading with you to try and do something to protect the historic district." Doyle said staff is committed to evaluating that request during Phase 2 to ensure any local measures align with state requirements and avoid unintended consequences.
Council member moved to adopt ordinance 4517; the motion was seconded and carried 6‑0 by voice vote. Mayor and council members expressed frustration that the legislature imposed tight deadlines requiring expedited local adoption and emphasized that Phase 2 will allow deeper community engagement and follow‑up on local concerns.
Next steps: Phase 2 of Recode Kent will start in the coming months; staff will evaluate the Mill Creek Historic District requests and other community concerns for possible amendments consistent with state law.
