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Council authorizes $30,000 appraisal for DNR land in South Aberdeen to explore housing and mitigation options
Summary
The council authorized the mayor to sign an agreement with the Washington Department of Natural Resources to obtain an appraisal of several parcels in South Aberdeen; staff said the appraisal is the first step toward potential acquisition to support housing, flood mitigation and wetland credits.
Aberdeen’s City Council on Wednesday authorized the mayor to sign a contract with the Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to fund an appraisal—estimated at $30,000—of land in South Aberdeen that staff said could support housing development and provide wetlands mitigation credit.
Economic-development discussion at the meeting noted the city and a private developer had discussed using the land near the South Shore mall for mixed-use housing projects built with off-site, manufactured housing pods. Staff said DNR ownership and leasing policies make municipal acquisition a potential prerequisite for development and that owning nearby wetland acreage could help meet mitigation requirements for other city projects.
Councilmembers asked whether the appraisal obligates the city to purchase the land; staff said it does not obligate a purchase. Staff explained the intent: to determine market value and then evaluate options, including negotiating resale of the highest-value parcel to the mall owner so the city could recoup costs while retaining mitigation acreage and flood-control benefits. Staff also said the property includes a sewer easement and that surface flooding in parts of South Aberdeen is linked to changes made around the creek; city ownership could enable more direct repair and maintenance.
A motion to authorize the mayor to sign the appraisal contract passed by voice vote. Staff said they will return with the appraisal results and any recommended next steps, including potential partnership or sale terms, before the council would consider a purchase.
