The Planning Commission on Oct. 15 unanimously forwarded to City Council proposed amendments to Bothell’s middle‑housing code intended to expand housing options in single‑family residential zones.

Staff told the commission the project implements Council direction from a March resolution directing staff to develop potential amendments that would permit more than four dwelling units per lot. During the presentation staff said the drafts were prepared to allow up to six units per lot in residential zones and to expand the middle‑housing provisions into additional RL zoning categories; staff listed edits to Bothell Municipal Code sections 12.06 and 12.14 among others.

Commissioners and staff discussed the intent of the amendments to increase housing supply and highlighted outreach and implementation issues. One commissioner said the changes are “responsive to that interest” in increasing housing supply and affordable housing in the city. Commissioners asked staff to prioritize outreach so that residents can understand technical changes and to pursue partnerships for affordable housing and service delivery.

No members of the public offered comment during the Planning Commission hearing. Commissioner Robson moved to adopt the findings, conclusions, and recommendations; Commissioner Lever seconded. Commissioners Jones, Lever, Robson, Sills and the chair voted aye and the motion passed unanimously. The commission recorded gratitude to staff for the work and noted the item will go to City Council for a public hearing and decision.

Staff remarks in the packet and presentation contained an inconsistency: during the presentation staff described the drafts as raising the cap to six units per lot, while one sentence in the conclusions language in the packet referred to “allow up to 4 base units” in RL zones. Commissioners adopted the findings and recommended forwarding the draft to council; staff will reconcile the packet language for the council submittal. Several commissioners emphasized the need for clear public outreach and tracking of the amendment’s implementation once adopted by council.