Poulsbo staff propose 50% discount on ADU impact fees, scaled charges for utilities; council to consider code changes

City staff presented proposed changes July 2 to how Poulsbo will charge impact fees and general facilities charges (GFCs) for accessory dwelling units, and recommended council move a draft code change to the business agenda for July 16.

Why it matters: state law limits what cities can charge on newly permitted ADUs; staff said their proposal balances the Legislature’s 50% cap on certain impact fees with the city’s interest in protecting utility ratepayers from unfunded demand. Councilmembers said they support encouraging ADUs as an affordable, middle‑housing option but want to avoid shifting costs onto existing utility ratepayers unnecessarily.

What staff proposed - Impact fees (transportation and parks): charge up to 50% of the single‑family impact fee for new ADUs, consistent with state statute cited by staff. - General…