Lakewood schedules Feb. 17 public hearing on zoning changes for breweries, distilleries and tasting rooms

The Lakewood City Council set a public hearing for Feb. 17 to consider amendments to the municipal code that would update where breweries, distilleries and tasting rooms may operate in Lakewood.

Jeff Remack, Director of Planning and Public Works, told the council the draft updates are intended to align with Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board regulations and the city's comprehensive and sub-area plans. Staff recommended allowing permanent breweries, distilleries and tasting rooms in the Station District (MF-3(1)) because that sub-area plan contemplates higher-density, mixed-use development with ground-floor commercial activity.

Remack said staff identified existing MF-3 locations (including Springbrook, Oakbrook and a northern MF-3 pocket near Meadow Park) and determined that much of the MF-3 acreage is already built out; the Station District offers some underutilized parcels suited to mixed-use uses. He said a draft ordinance and supporting materials will be included in the meeting packet for the Feb. 17 council meeting, and that public testimony received up to one hour before the hearing will be provided to council.

Staff reported limited advance written testimony on the zoning amendments (two items in the packet) and no in-person sign-ups specifically for the zoning amendment that evening; the council closed public comment on the matter that night and scheduled the formal hearing.

Next steps: Council will consider the draft ordinance on Feb. 17 after the public hearing; staff will include a draft ordinance and mapping showing the MF-3 areas and the Station District recommendation in the meeting packet.