Edmonds adopts interim zoning for four Westgate parcels after mapping error; staff to revisit in 2026

The council on Oct. 28 unanimously adopted an interim zoning ordinance to place four Edmonds Way parcels that lacked an official zoning designation into Planned Business (BP) while staff and council examine longer-term options.

Planning Director Mike Clugston told council the parcels became zoneless after a neighborhood-centers and hubs code update inadvertently removed the old Westgate Mixed Use (WMU) designation for four parcels that had a different underlying comprehensive-plan labeling. To avoid regulatory uncertainty for sign permits, renovations or other applications staff recommended an interim rezone to BP and a work plan to return in 2026 to consider whether the parcels should carry the NCH (neighborhood center/hub) designation or another zone aligned with the comprehensive plan.

Council President Tibbitt moved and council approved the interim ordinance without objection. Clugston said staff will evaluate edge conditions and return to council with options and any recommended comp-plan amendments.

Why it matters: The interim rezone is procedural and temporary. It ensures property owners and tenants have a clear zoning classification for permits and code enforcement while the city conducts a fuller review next year. The ordinance does not itself change the comprehensive-plan designation or guarantee a permanent rezoning.