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Council gives first reading to pre‑annexation R‑7 zoning for Davis properties
Summary
After a second statutorily required public hearing, the Monroe City Council voted 7‑0 to give first reading to an ordinance that would establish R‑7 pre‑annexation zoning for roughly 23 acres known as the Davis properties; staff said adoption would not by itself annex the land.
The Monroe City Council on May 19 gave first reading to Ordinance 003/2026, which would adopt pre‑annexation zoning of residential‑seven (R‑7) for about 23 acres commonly called the Davis properties.
Planning staff told the council the action is the second of two required public hearings under state law and SEPA review. "We are here for the second required public hearing as required by the Revised Code of Washington 35A.14.330," staff said, noting the matter follows a planning commission recommendation to prezone the site R‑7 and that any future annexation would be a separate decision.
Staff summarized public comments received earlier in the process, saying most speakers raised concerns about density, school capacity, traffic and environmental impacts; the planning commission nonetheless recommended the R‑7 prezoning. Community Development Director Lance Bailey and planning staff explained that pre‑annexation zoning sets the regulatory framework a property would follow if it later becomes part of the city, but does not itself annex the land.
Before public testimony, staff asked council members a series of voluntary disclosure questions about financial interest, proximity, bias and ex parte communications. Several council members acknowledged having received emails, information packets or having walked the property with interested parties; staff told the public the disclosures would be part of the hearing record and that speakers would have an opportunity to rebut any disclosed communications.
No members of the public signed up to speak at the May 19 hearing, and the mayor closed the hearing. Council Member Bowmont moved and Council Member Gamble seconded approval of first reading of Ordinance 003/2026; the motion passed unanimously, recorded as 7‑0 in favor.
If the council moves forward after first reading, staff said a tentative second reading and final adoption is scheduled for the June 9 meeting, after any required comprehensive plan steps and county certification.
