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Kennewick council retains six‑month moratorium on less‑restrictive alternative (LRA) facilities
Summary
The Kennewick City Council unanimously affirmed findings and adopted an ordinance to retain a six‑month emergency moratorium on siting secure less‑restrictive alternative (LRA) facilities while staff reviews zoning and comp‑plan language and coordinates with neighboring jurisdictions.
The Kennewick City Council on July 21 unanimously affirmed findings and adopted an ordinance to retain a six‑month emergency moratorium prohibiting the siting of secure less‑restrictive alternative (LRA) facilities as defined under state law.
City staff presented background on state statute RCW 71.09.096 and explained the moratorium is an interim, legally binding pause intended to give staff time to draft code amendments and resolve land‑use, life‑safety and permitting questions. Ms. Beaton, the staff presenter, told council: "This moratorium is meant to be an interim temporary measure to allow staff time to review potential code provisions." The ordinance also satisfies the public‑hearing requirement under RCW 35A.63.220.
No members of the public signed up to testify during the public hearing on the moratorium. After the staff report, Mayor Pro Tem Torelli moved, and Council Member Milbauer seconded, a motion "to affirm the findings of fact and adopt the ordinance as presented." Council Member Clipper voiced support and encouraged a unanimous yes vote. The clerk started the roll and the motion passed unanimously. The council had previously established a quorum with two members absent; the council's recorded outcome was passed unanimously.
Staff told council the moratorium will allow two parallel reviews: (1) updates to the comprehensive plan’s essential public facility provisions and (2) code amendments to define secure LRA facilities and identify appropriate permitting processes and locations. Staff also said they are coordinating with other Benton and Franklin County jurisdictions to pursue consistent definitions and permitting approaches. Councilmembers indicated support for giving staff more time if needed to finish the required regulatory work.
