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Spokane prepares to post draft EIS and considers phased SEPA exemptions to speed housing
Summary
City staff told the commission the draft environmental impact statement will be posted next week with an anticipated ~60-day comment period; the DEIS includes proposals to raise SEPA categorical-exemption thresholds and to phase a residential infill exemption, contingent on impact-fee and mitigation measures.
City staff briefed the Spokane Planning Commission on the forthcoming draft environmental impact statement (DEIS) for the comprehensive-plan update and on proposed changes to the city's SEPA (State Environmental Policy Act) approach, including consideration of higher categorical-exemption thresholds and a phased infill exemption.
"We're looking a little more towards 60 days," staff said, explaining the statutory minimum 20-day comment window would not provide adequate public review during the holidays. The DEIS will be posted in sections and is expected to appear on the SEPA register and city notification lists.
Why it matters: The DEIS…
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