Cowlitz County holds Critical Areas Ordinance hearing open until Aug. 11

Cowlitz County planning staff recommended that the Board of Commissioners hold open the public hearing on proposed updates to the county’s Critical Areas Ordinance until Aug. 11 so the planning commission can finalize its recommendation; the board approved that continuance by voice vote.

Adam Trimble, planning manager for building and planning, said the update is a decennial process intended to protect sensitive areas including wetlands, streams, steep slopes and volcanic hazards while offering nine enhanced administrative options such as a 'reasonable use' mechanism intended to preserve property owners’ ability to develop where appropriate. "My recommendation for today is gonna be that the board consider holding this hearing over till August 11," Trimble said, noting the planning commission expects to complete deliberations and produce a final draft.

Commissioners asked whether past updates ever removed regulations; Trimble said changes generally add flexibility and incorporate court guidance where necessary to avoid unlawful takings. The board moved to continue the hearing to Aug. 11 at 9:30 a.m. and approved the motion by voice vote. The county will return the item for further public comment and a formal recommendation from the planning commission on that later date.