Port Townsend, Washington Development News
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Development News from the latest meeting
City Council Begins Discussing Succession Plan for City Manager Position
The City Council initiated a discussion on succession planning for the City Manager position, prompted by the City Manager's finalist status in another city's search. The council expressed the need for a clear plan, considering interim options (internal or external), the scope and timeline of a search process, and the selection of a search consultant. Council members emphasized predictability for staff and the community, the importance of a structured process, and the need to avoid conflicts of interest in hiring the City Manager's successor. A workshop meeting, potentially on July 27th, was suggested to further explore these options.
Two Developers Shortlisted for Evans Vista Affordable Housing Project
The City of Port Townsend is moving forward with the development of the Evans Vista neighborhood. After issuing a Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI), two developers, Edlin Co. and Related Northwest, have been shortlisted to advance to the Request for Proposals (RFP) stage. The project aims to create affordable and mixed-income housing, with specific goals for income-restricted units, diverse housing typologies, and mixed-use commercial spaces. The selection process involved evaluating project teams, site development concepts, housing affordability plans, financial feasibility, and community amenities.
City Council Considers Ordinance to Update Municipal Fund Structure
The City Council is considering an ordinance (3367) to update Chapter 3.04 of the Municipal Code, which outlines the city's fund structure. This is primarily a housekeeping measure to remove inactive funds (like ARPA, street vacations) and add previously authorized funds (like Transportation Benefit District, 1% Arts Program, Urban Forestry) that were inadvertently omitted. The ordinance does not create new financial obligations or change fund purposes, but aims to improve clarity and administrative efficiency in financial reporting and budgeting. This ordinance passed its first reading.
Local Artist Jesse Joshua Watson Selected for Skate Park Mural Project
The City Council approved the recommendation to select Jesse Joshua Watson as the artist for the Seamus Sims Skate Park mural project. Watson's concept, featuring an underwater theme with potential futuristic or dystopian elements and local landmarks, was praised by the selection panel and the Arts Commission. The project, funded primarily by a Creative District Capital Grant and supplemented by the Municipal Art Fund and private donations, aims to create a significant public art piece on the park's 1700 linear feet of walls. Watson will engage the community, particularly skaters, to refine the concept before implementation, with a goal of completion before the rainy season.
Rideshare Services Like Uber Now Available in Port Townsend Following State Law Clarification
The council discussed the availability and regulation of rideshare services (Uber and Lyft) within Port Townsend. It was clarified that state law (RCW 70.276) preempts city regulation of rideshare companies, meaning cities cannot prohibit them from operating. However, cities can still impose business licenses and business and occupation (B&O) taxes on drivers and companies exceeding certain thresholds. It was discovered that Uber had inadvertently disabled service in Port Townsend due to an outdated local regulation layer, which has now been corrected. Lyft's status is still being investigated. The discussion highlighted the community's need for such services, particularly for seniors and those unable to drive, and the potential economic benefits for drivers.
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Historic Preservation Committee
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Special Session Civil Service Commission Meeting
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Parks Recreation Trees and Trails Advisory Board
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