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Island County approves Keystone Farm and Forest Preserve as special review district
Summary
Island County commissioners voted to create the Keystone Farm and Forest Preserve special review district, a zoning designation that establishes a site‑wide permitting framework for conservation, agriculture demonstrations and a conservation center on the property owned by the Whidbey Camano Land Trust.
Island County commissioners voted to adopt an ordinance establishing the Keystone Farm and Forest Preserve as a special review district, a zoning designation that allows a single, site‑wide review and set of permitted uses tailored to the property.
John Lanier of Island County planning told the board the Whidbey Camano Land Trust applied in 2024 to create the Keystone preserve; staff said the preserve will protect about 216 acres and roughly 3,500 feet of shoreline. The county’s special review district criteria (Island County Code 17.03.160) were discussed and staff said the property meets the standards for the designation.
Lanier described three areas within the preserve: a natural area intended for conservation and trails; a farm area intended for sustainable agriculture demonstrations, possibly including a greenhouse or processing buildings; and a conservation center to house the land trust’s offices and potential future improvements such as a commercial kitchen, barnstand, workshop and, with separate permitting, possible workforce housing. Lanier said the trust has already restored about 1,000 feet of stream channel, removed 300 feet of creosoted bulkhead and removed an approximately 3,000‑square‑foot residence along the shoreline.
Commissioners asked about legal review and community benefits. Lanier said the ordinance had been reviewed and signed by the prosecuting attorney. He identified community benefits including expanded public access (trails, fishing), ecological restoration and opportunities for tribal engagement, education partnerships, and hosting events under the county’s normal special‑events permitting process.
Commissioners characterized the action as a process decision to create a site‑specific permitting framework — a single, overarching review path that will allow the land trust to proceed with future projects under an approved master plan rather than seeking multiple one‑off permits. Staff said activities such as special events or housing would still require individual permits and review where appropriate.
The board moved to adopt the ordinance establishing the Keystone Farm and Forest Preserve special review district, the motion was seconded and commissioners voted in favor. The county will now administer the property under the new special review district standards and the land trust may seek permits under the district’s master plan.
