Bothell staff outlines possible Title 22 overhaul; board asked for scope and public discussion

City of Bothell planner Jacqueline Sampson presented a staff briefing on June 22 about a proposed update to Bothell Municipal Code Title 22, which establishes the city’s landmark preservation framework. Sampson said staff are not proposing final text today but are seeking board input on scope, regulatory flexibility, process efficiency, and opportunities to clarify code language.

Sampson listed main themes for the update: clarify and reorganize code language to improve readability, explore whether some board governance provisions should be moved to Title 2, reduce overlapping review steps where preservation review intersects with other development reviews, and ensure the code aligns with recent Washington state law and best practices (she referenced recent state legislation, including House Bill 1293). Sampson told the board staff will coordinate with the Planning Commission and City Council and return with draft amendments and public-input opportunities.

Board members suggested several additions and clarifications. One member recommended broader public discussion on downtown design standards and development of criteria for a downtown historic district; another urged staff to propose a series of public meetings and to consider board education and funding for a dedicated staff position to support preservation work. Sampson said staff will consider those suggestions as they craft the scope of the project.