Leavenworth planning commission adopts triplex design language, adds city‑determined sewer availability test

The Leavenworth Planning Commission on Dec. 3 adopted amended residential design language to allow attached three‑unit homes (triplexes) while adding an explicit test for when separate water and sewer hookups are required.

Planning staff presented the Nov. 24 staff report and told the commission that "Currently, Leavenworth does not have design regulations that allow for triplex housing in our residential zones" and noted triplexes could "increase housing supply and diversity and affordable homeownership opportunities." The draft amendments add triplexes to the residential standards and incorporate the commission—s recommendations.

Why it matters: county officials told the commission that sewer connections are a practical barrier for some UGA properties, and asked that the city include a provision so middle‑housing options are not blocked where hookups are infeasible. "The sewer connection issues have been kind of ongoing," said Tina Waltlet, a county representative during public comment, who urged an exception for properties outside a reasonable hookup distance such as on East Leavenworth Road.

Staff and commissioners discussed how to make the availability test objective. Planning staff proposed language that would require "separate water and sewer utilities ... where the city determines water and or sewer services are available" or where the city provides documentation of availability. Commissioners suggested using a documented availability letter or a distance threshold (200 feet was discussed as an example) so applicants and the county have a clear administrative record.

After discussion the commission moved to adopt the amended text for Section 18.36.045.e (the proposed addition for triplexes). Elizabeth Salt is recorded as moving the amended motion and Simon seconded. Commissioners voiced approval and the chair closed the public hearing. The transcript records verbal approval but does not include a numeric roll‑call tally.

The commission and staff said the item will go to council for review; staff also noted future clean‑up in Title 14 may be needed to make this approach consistent across code chapters. The hearing was closed at 07:33.

The commission asked staff to draft final, legally reviewed wording defining how the city determines availability and to circulate the revised language to commissioners and affected agencies before the council docket meeting.