Tuesday, December 4, 2018
Presiding: Mayor Thomas K. Butt · Called to order: 8:50 p.m. · 3 items · 16 votes · 21 public comments
What happened
- Approved 11 routine items including $500,000 state grant for Carlson Crosstown Connection project.
- Approved updated cell tower rules to match federal law after hearing public comments.
- Adopted formal policy requiring racial equity analysis in all city decisions.
- Approved zoning law updates to fix errors and match state requirements.
Auto-generated summary from agenda items and vote records
View official: MinutesAttendance
Governance(2 items)
Update cell tower and wireless equipment rules to match federal law
In Plain English
The city's current rules for cell towers and wireless equipment need updating to match federal regulations. Federal law requires cities to allow small wireless facilities like 5G equipment on utility poles. If approved, the city adopts clearer rules that comply with federal requirements while maintaining local oversight.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Votes
Said ordinance received the first reading and was laid over for two weeks for the second reading with text added to section 15.04.164.040(c)(4): 'In addition, the director shall make publicly available an inventory of small wireless facilities that shows the location of each such facility deployed within the city and categorized by neighborhood'; adopted Resolution No. 92-18; and directed staff to provide the City some authority over cell tower installation aesthetics and to study the possibility of electromagnetic (EMF) monitoring and periodic readings
7 to 0
Adopt formal decision to use racial equity analysis in city decisions
In Plain English
The city council wants to formally commit to analyzing how city policies and spending affect different racial groups. This means staff would review new proposals through a racial equity framework before bringing them to council. If approved, the city joins other municipalities that have adopted similar approaches to address disparities in city services and outcomes.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Votes
Adopted Resolution No. 93-18
7 to 0
Zoning(2 items)
Update zoning law to fix errors and match state requirements
In Plain English
The city's zoning rules contain technical errors and conflicts that need correction. Some provisions don't match state law or the city's General Plan. If approved, the updated law clarifies confusing language and ensures all zoning decisions follow consistent rules.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Votes
Said ordinance received the first reading with additional revisions, and was laid over for two weeks for the second reading
7 to 0
Rezone Northshore area to allow different types of development
In Plain English
The city created 13 areas for potential development changes when it updated the General Plan. This rezoning affects the Northshore district and changes what types of buildings and businesses can be built there. If approved, developers can propose projects that weren't previously allowed in this area.
Auto-generated summary. Source: official agenda documents.
Approved as a group without individual discussion.