Planning staff outlines 2026 implementation work program: tree code, sign code, stormwater and development incentives

Planning staff on Jan. 14 presented the Planning Commission with the projected 2026 work program, describing 2026 as a year of implementation to align regulations and plans with Redmond 2050.

Jeff Churchill said, corrected for context to the comprehensive-plan name, that "2026 is really a focus on implementation, updating our plans and our development regulations to align with Redmond 2050." He outlined several anticipated docket items: updates to the wastewater plan, development of a stormwater and surface water system plan (the first such plan for Redmond), neighborhood connection maps carried into the Transportation Master Plan, and multiple development-regulation packages including sign code revisions and a code-cleanup package.

Staff said work on the tree code has restarted with a public draft expected in the second quarter, and that temporary noncommercial sign-code changes (including political signs) will be an early focus. Churchill described a two-track approach to the Development Incentives Program: code amendments plus behind-the-scenes implementation steps (forms and application requirements) necessary to operationalize some incentives.

Commissioners asked how the commission’s input would be captured for neighborhood planning; staff said they will use Let’s Connect questionnaires and can present community responses back to the commission. Chair Weston requested clearer conflict-of-interest guidance for small code items; staff offered to circulate resources and address the matter in an April workshop or in a future meeting.

Staff also confirmed a youth-adviser application for a high school student from Redmond will be posted, and noted the Jan. 28 meeting was canceled with the next meeting set for Feb. 11.