Olympia council approves Olympia 2045 comprehensive plan on first reading, sends ordinance to second reading

Olympia — The Olympia City Council on Dec. 9 approved on first reading an ordinance adopting the Olympia 2045 comprehensive plan and associated development regulation updates, a multi‑year revision staff described as emphasizing equity, climate action and housing.

Joyce Phillips, the city’s long‑range planning manager, presented the plan and told councilors the update process began in 2021 and included more than 100 public meetings and engagement opportunities. She said the plan integrates equity across chapters, strengthens climate commitments and expands housing strategies to plan for at least 20 years of growth. Phillips also noted the Critical Areas Ordinance work has an additional year and should be completed no later than 2026.

"Tonight marks a significant milestone as I'm here this evening, along with the majority of the city's comprehensive plan update team, to request adoption of the Olympia 2045 comprehensive plan," Phillips said. She praised community collaboration and singled out involvement from the Squaxin Island Tribe in the process.

Council members praised the process and the plan’s emphasis on equity, climate and housing. Council member Madrone moved to approve the ordinance on first reading and forward it to second reading; Council member Cooper seconded, and the motion passed by voice vote.

Several councilors said the update was more substantive than expected and commended staff for broad engagement with advisory bodies, the tribe and the public. Phillips said every city department participated in the update and staff will provide the required follow‑up work, including the Critical Areas Ordinance.

What’s next: The ordinance will return for a second reading where final adoption would take place; staff will also complete the Critical Areas Ordinance work tied to state requirements by 2026.

(Reporting based on City Council meeting transcript, Dec. 9, 2025.)