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Mason County to interview planning advisory applicant and consider lowering multifamily minimum densities in Allen and Belfair
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Summary
Community Development presented one application for two openings on the Planning Advisory Commission and proposed reducing minimum multifamily density in two high-density zones from 10 units per acre to 5, while keeping maximums and allowing single-family uses; planning commission recommended the change.
Cal Rowan of Mason County Community Development told commissioners the department received one application to fill two openings on the Planning Advisory Commission and requested that the applicant be scheduled for an interview.
Rowan also said staff will place two zoning items on the May 12 action agenda: a mapping amendment previously discussed for the Skokomish Valley and a proposed change to high-density residential districts in Allen and Belfair. "Both of those districts had a minimum density of 10 units per acre... the planning commission recommended 5," Rowan said, adding the change reduces minimum density while retaining maximum allowances and still permitting single-family residences.
Commissioners discussed whether the zoning overlay had been applied to unsuitable properties (wetlands and other constraints) and whether the timing was urgent; Rowan said the item had gone to the planning commission and staff simply sought to move it forward.
Why it matters: Reducing the minimum required density in those multifamily zones could make certain parcels more usable where environmental or physical constraints make higher densities impractical. The proposed change is a regulatory adjustment and will be considered at upcoming hearings.
Next steps: Staff will place the items on the May 12 action agenda with subsequent public hearings, and commissioners agreed to interview the Planning Advisory Commission applicant.
