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Poulsbo staff propose targeted C-2 (Viking Avenue) zoning changes and large public notice signs
Summary
Planning staff proposed tailored amendments for Viking Avenue to encourage mixed-use housing (height incentives and relaxed landscaping when housing is included) and a new requirement that Type II projects post a large 4x4 public-notice sign on-site during review. Council set a public hearing for next week and generally supported advancing the package to the planning commission.
Planning staff presented a narrower approach to changing the city’s C‑2 (Viking Avenue) rules, relying on a 2013 infill/redevelopment code provision (18.80.070) to incentivize residential and mixed‑use buildings without rewriting the whole commercial code. Nicole, the planner leading the item, told council the change aims to add housing capacity on Viking while preserving the corridor’s ongoing private revitalization.
Nicole said the proposal would allow taller residential projects in exchange for housing: "In commercial only, it would stay at 35 feet," and a residential project could reach up to 55 feet; landscaping requirements would be reduced from 20% to 15% but with emphasis on canopy trees and higher-quality plantings. She also described a new public‑notice sign requirement for Type II site‑plan reviews: a noticeable 4-by-4 sign posted at the beginning of review that stays in place through notice of decision and includes architectural renderings and hearing dates.
Staff explained the amendments were developed after a planning‑commission workshop and public outreach; the planning commission held a hearing Aug. 27 and generally supported the package while asking for modest protections for adjoining residential neighborhoods (a stepback at higher heights). Nicole said the sign requirement is modeled on Portland’s approach and aims to get early public attention to projects.
Council members asked about the practical effects — parking, stepbacks and whether the changes apply only to new applications — and staff confirmed the new posting applies only to future applications and would not be retroactive. The council scheduled a public hearing next week and directed staff to notice the matter to the planning commission for formal recommendation.
