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Lake Stevens planning commission swears in two members, elects Morton as chair and hears project updates
Summary
The commission administered oaths to two new commissioners, elected Bruce Morton as chair for 2026, discussed a joint training with council, and heard director reports including a contract award for the Mill Spur Yard museum/retail building.
The Lake Stevens Planning Commission on Jan. 21 swore in two newly appointed commissioners, held its annual officer election and heard reports on local projects and interagency coordination.
Deputy clerk Caitlin Weaver administered the oath to the two newest commissioners, who introduced themselves to the body. James Sauls said he works in transportation for the City of Everett and brings 15'plus years of local government experience; Amy Lewandowski described volunteer work in the community and family ties to local schools.
During the consent and action portion of the agenda, Commissioner Connor Davis moved to approve the Dec. 3, 2025 meeting minutes; the motion was seconded and the minutes were approved by voice vote. The commission then took nominations for 2026 officers. Bruce Morton and Commissioner Duer were nominated; after a hand/voice vote Morton assumed the chair and led the remainder of the meeting.
Director Wright proposed that the commission and city council use their upcoming joint meeting for a training session covering planning basics, roles and limits of authority, and legislative versus advisory functions. Commissioners supported clarifying the boundary between commission recommendations and council discretion, and suggested including a case study of a prior council decision that diverged from commission advice.
During commissioner reports members raised pedestrian safety and connectivity concerns: repainting of downtown crosswalks, a request to coordinate a crosswalk linking the Centennial Trail and Lake Stevens Community Park, and a suggestion to publish pedestrian-route and park maps for residents. Commissioners also noted local street and sewer-project delays and asked staff to follow up with the Lake Stevens Sewer District on a pump-station schedule.
In his report, Director Wright said the city awarded a contract for a museum and retail building development called Mill Spur Yard, with a groundbreaking scheduled for Tuesday at 3 p.m. He said tenants are not yet finalized and that the city has begun limited pilots of AI tools for internal work and is evaluating AI for permit prescreening.
The commission adjourned after receiving reports and scheduling follow-up work on CAO technical details and the joint meeting training format.
