Residents press planning staff after signs appear for by‑right apartment project near wetlands

Multiple residents told the District 1 town hall they were surprised to see signs advertising a proposed apartment development near Mill Creek and asked why they were not notified sooner. Planning staff and the council office said that, according to materials they had, the property was already zoned for apartments (a by‑right use) and therefore may proceed through permits without a separate council approval. Staff said the developer requested a reduction in required parking as part of a strategy to shrink the footprint because of close wetlands; that parking reduction was under review by planning and environmental staff.

Residents reported being told they had missed a meeting and asked where to direct future questions. Staff said public notification follows statutory requirements (posting and notices to property owners within a specified radius) and directed residents to Planning & Zoning and the environmental review unit for project plans and the permit schedule. The transcript includes a reference that the legal notice radius for mailings is 350 feet.

Council and planning staff encouraged residents to retrieve the project packet and contact Planning & Zoning or the council office for follow‑up. No final approvals or council votes occurred during the town hall; staff said certain planning decisions can be made administratively at the department level depending on the application.