Member urges review after unnotified planning item proposes hill elevator near open space

Marika Bergson, a committee member, told the Parks & Open Space Committee she recently learned a planning commission item scheduled for the next day requested "a variance and a revocable license from the city, across the open space at the bridal lots," and said the committee had not been given an opportunity to review the documents or provide input.

"I wanted to raise, an issue that came to my attention, in this week of a item that I think that's coming before the planning commission tomorrow that is relevant to this committee's work, because it involves, a request for variance and a revocable license from the city, across the open space at the bridal lots," Bergson said. Chair Charlie Harrington agreed the proposal falls within the committee's purview and said he would follow up with staff and the planning department to determine next steps.

Tony Boyd, public works director, told the committee that because the matter was not on the agenda the committee could not take formal action that day but offered to work with members and planning staff to assess impacts and improve interdepartmental notification going forward. "As far as today goes, because this wasn't on the agenda, I think, there's no action that this committee can take," Boyd said.

Committee members also raised questions about whether the proposed elements would affect existing public access and whether the landing would occupy open-space versus city-owned land. Council liaison Jane Cooper said the landing appeared to be on city-owned land (not designated open space) and that the project may be replacing former stairs rather than creating new access points. The chair and staff committed to reviewing the planning commission packet and reporting back so the committee can provide informed comment if needed.