Edmonds Council committee hears Planning Board recommendations for neighborhood centers and hubs

The Edmonds City Council reviewed the Planning Board's recommendations for a permanent ordinance governing neighborhood centers and hubs to address community concerns. The Planning Board proposed commercial ground floor overlays to ensure active uses in these areas and removed a residential exception overlay to allow single-family homes. This decision aims to provide flexibility to property owners while maintaining the commercial vitality of the neighborhood. A public hearing is scheduled for July 22, with additional discussions on August 4, and the council expects to adopt the ordinance on August 12. The centers and hubs were designed to accommodate the city's growth targets in compliance with state housing laws.

Senior Planner Brad Shipley highlighted the importance of these updates for economic growth and community services. These recommendations reflect a collaborative effort between city staff and the Planning Board to meet state deadlines. The council's actions will shape the future development of Edmonds neighborhoods.