Poulsbo holds second workshop on 2025 code amendments; public hearing set for May 13

City planning staff led the second workshop on the 2025 code‑amendment package, which bundles comprehensive‑plan amendments, state‑mandated edits, and cleanup items. The package revises ADU rules, reorganizes off‑street parking sections, and includes a manufactured‑home overlay.

Staff said they are considering several commissioner suggestions — notably whether a standalone duplex should be exempt from site‑plan review — and that some duplex and RM/RH zone refinements will be evaluated in a fall amendment package. On parking, staff proposed adding language to allow exemptions or flexibility “if feasible” so that certain unique institutional or transit uses that require larger surface parking (and cannot reasonably put parking under a building) would not automatically trigger SEPA or a conditional‑use permit.

Staff outlined next steps: the Planning Commission public hearing on the code package will be held May 13; city council workshops are scheduled for May 21 and June 4 (if needed), with a council public hearing on June 18. Regional review (Puget Sound Regional Council) and Washington State Department of Commerce review of the housing element will follow, and staff said additional cleanup items may come back during the fall amendment cycle following those reviews.