Snohomish County Council presses pause in rezoning areas, including Esperance

The Snohomish County Council voted unanimously on October 1 to pause a proposed rezoning of Esperance, which aims to alter zoning from R-8,400 for single-family homes to Low Density Multiple Residential. This proposal is part of aligning with the 2024 Snohomish County Growth Management Act Comprehensive Plan. Local representatives from the Olympic View Water and Sewer District raised alarms about potential groundwater contamination linked to increased density. Residents shared concerns about insufficient infrastructure, highlighting hazardous conditions on local roads. County Councilmember Strom Peterson acknowledged the ongoing housing crisis and emphasized the need for action.

The county's existing regulations were noted as providing high protection for critical areas. The Planning Commission had previously recommended approval of the rezoning. A final decision is expected in the coming months as the council weighs local concerns against housing needs.