wednesday, april 16, 2014 mercer island city hall april 16, 2014 mercer island city hall ......

Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Mercer Island City Hall

PLANNING COMMISSION

MEETING AGENDA

PLANNING

COMMISSIONERS

Bryan Cairns

Adam Cooper, Chair

Jon Friedman, Vice-Chair

Steve Marshall

Craig Olson

Suzanne Skone

Richard Weinman

CALL TO ORDER & ROLL CALL 7:00 PM

APPEARANCES

This is the time set aside for members of the public to speak to the Commission

about issues of concern. If you wish to speak, please consider the following points:

Speak audibly into the podium microphone State your name and address for the record Limit your comments to three minutes

The Commission may limit the number of speakers and modify the time allotted.

Total time for appearances: 15 minutes

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Minutes from April 2, 2014

SPECIAL BUSINESS 7:10 PM

Agenda Item #1:

Trellis Long Plat SUB13-014

Continuation of the April 2, 2014 Open Record Public Hearing on a long subdivision at

2960 and 2970 76th Ave SE, to create 18 townhouse lots.

Agenda Item #2:

Zoning Code Amendment for certain P zone standards ZTR14-001

Continuation of the April 2, 2014 Open Record Public Hearing on a request for a Zoning

Code Amendment to create special zoning requirements for public schools located in

the P zone.

Agenda Item #3:

Rezone Public School Properties to Public Institution (P) zone - RZN14-001

Continuation of the April 2, 2014 Open Record Public Hearing on a request for

Reclassification of Property to rezone public school properties from the Single-Family

(R-9.6) and Single-Family (R-15) zoning designations to the Public Institution (P) zone;

and 4198 West Mercer Way from the Single-Family (R-9.6) zoning designation to the

Single-Family (R-15) zoning designation.

OTHER BUSINESS Staff Comments

Planned Absences for Future Meetings

Announcements & Communications

Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting: May 7, 2014

ADJOURN

PHONE: 206-275-7729

WEB: www.mercergov.org

AGENDA TIMES ARE APPROXIMATE

CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS - MERCER ISLAND CITY HALL

9611 SE 36TH STREET; MERCER ISLAND, WA 98040

S:\DSG\Planning\Planning Commission\Minutes\2013\03-20-14.doc Page 1 of 3

CALL TO ORDER: Chair Cooper called the meeting to order at 7:13 PM in the Council Chambers at 9611 SE 36th Street, Mercer Island, Washington. ROLL CALL: Vice-Chair Jon Friedman, and Commissioners Bryan Cairns, Craig Olson, Suzanne Skone, and Richard Weinman were present. Chair Adam Cooper and Commissioner Steve Marshall were not in attendance. City staff was represented by Don Cole, Building Official; Scott Greenberg, Development Services Director; Kathy Parker, City Arborist; Katie Knight, City Attorney; Herschel Rostov, Fire Marshal; Christina Schuck, Assistant City Attorney; George Steirer, Principal Planner; and Patrick Yamashita, City Engineer. APPEARANCES: Marc Berejka (no address given), provided comment about the process for the public testimony related to agenda items #1 and #2. No one else requested to provide public testimony. MINUTES: The Commission noted that Chair Cooper was not at the March 20, 2014 meeting. Commissioner Cairns motioned to approve the minutes from March 20, 2014, with the noted change. Commissioner Skone seconded the motion. The Commission unanimously approved the amended minutes. REGULAR BUSINESS: Vice-Chair Freidman stated that the Planning Commission would hold separate open record public hearings for agenda item #1, the rezone, and #2, P zone code text amendment, and include all comments in both records. Rezone Public School Properties to Public Institution (P) zone - RZN14-001 and Zoning Code Amendment for certain P zone standards ZTR14-001 Scott Greenberg provided a staff report to the Planning Commission for the rezone and code text amendment. The Planning Commission asked Mr. Greenberg questions. Vice Chair Friedman opened the open record public hearing. Brandy Fox provided a report on the proposed code text revision on behalf of the school district. The Planning Commission asked questions of Ms. Fox.

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES APRIL 2, 2014


The Planning Commission received public testimony from the following people: Ira Appelman, 4436 Ferncroft Road Kathy Erickson, 8731 SE 52nd Pl. Jim Carden, 8741 SE 52nd Pl. Gideon Yuval 7660 81st Pl. SE Mark Lawless 7545 81st Pl. SE Patricia Benca 8124 SE 73rd St Sunil Kumar 7870 81st Pl. SE John Gebhart 7360 81st Pl. SE Gertru Vandevender 7320 81st Pl. SE Ruth Jacobs 7380 81st Pl. SE Marie Bender 7890 81st Pl. SE Robert Maas 7330 80 Pl. SE Melissa Milburn 7480 81st Pl. SE Bradley Fowler 8721 SE 52nd Pl. Marc Berejka 8125 SE 79th St. Andrea Pirzio-Biroli 4224 W Mercer Way Everett Rigsbee 7750 80th Pl.SE The Planning Commission asked questions of staff, and provided direction on additional research and options to the code change. The Planning Commission left the open record hearing open for April 16. Commissioner Weinman moved to keep the record open for the April 16, 2014 meeting. Commissioner Olson seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Vice-Chair Freidman opened the open record public hearing for the proposed rezone. The Planning Commission received public testimony from the following people: Ira Appelman, 4436 Ferncroft Road Marie Bender 7890 81st Pl. SE Everett Rigsbee 7750 80th Pl. SE John Gebhart 7360 81st Pl. SE Marc Berejka 8125 SE 79th St. Mark Lawless 7545 81st Pl. SE Andrea Pirzio-Biroli4224 W Mercer Way The Planning Commission left the open record hearing open for April 16. Commissioner Weinman moved to keep the record open for the April 16, 2014 meeting. Commissioner Olson seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Trellis Long Plat SUB13-014 George Steirer gave a summary of the proposed long plat. Don Cole and George Steirer answered questions of the Planning Commission. Vice-Chair Friedman opened the open record public hearing. Charlie Conner, of Conner Homes; Eric Beckes, former property owner; Steve Calhoon, of Pace Engineers; and Scott Regal, of Earth Solutions; represented the applicant and provided information on the application.


Larry Hamlin, of 2980 76th Ave SE, President of the HOA for the Mercerdale Park Condominiums, provided testimony. The Planning Commission asked questions of applicant representatives and staff. Alan Boeker, of Conner Homes, also provided information on the application. The Planning Commission left the open record hearing open for April 16, 2014. Commissioner Olson moved to keep the record open for the April 16, 2014 Planning Commission meeting. Commissioner Weinman seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. STAFF COMMENTS: There were no staff comments.

PLANNED ABSENCES FOR FUTURE MEETINGS: No Commissioner stated they would be absent on April 16, 2014. ANNOUNCEMENTS AND COMMUNICATIONS: None. NEXT REGULAR MEETING: The next regularly scheduled Planning Commission meeting is April 16, 2014. ADJOURNMENT: The Planning Commission meeting was adjourned at 10:59 PM. Respectfully submitted by George Steirer, Principal Planner.

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To: Planning Commission From: George Steirer, Principal Planner Subject: Agenda Item 1 SUB13-014 Trellis Long Plat Date: April 10, 2014 for the April 16, 2014 Planning Commission Meeting Background: At the April 2, 2014 meeting, the Planning Commission held a public hearing on the proposed Trellis 18 lot long plat, and kept the record open. There were questions about the geotechnical analysis that was performed for the property. As of the date this memorandum was written, the applicant and the peer reviewer for the city were scheduled to have the more complete geotechnical analysis by the April 16th meeting. The staff report and original set of exhibits were provided as part of the April 2, 2014 meeting packet. Please bring the packet to the April 16, 2014 meeting, use the online version available on the Planning Commissions web site, or contact staff if you need another printed copy. The Commission continued the public hearing to April 16, 2014. No other information or comments were submitted between April 2, 2014 and April 10, 2014 regarding the Trellis Long Plat. The geotechnical report and peer review will be forwarded to the Planning Commission as soon as it is complete. Hard copies will also be provided to the Planning Commission at the April 16, 2014 meeting. If the geotechnical report demonstrates, to the satisfaction of the Building Official and third party peer reviewer, that the site would meet the code requirements for a building pad, per MICC 19.09.090, staff would recommend approval. Otherwise, staff would recommend additional information be provided or recommend denial. Planning Commission Action: Continue the public hearing if needed or make a recommendation to the City Council. Possible Motion 1: Move to recommend that the City Council approve the Trellis Long Plat (SUB13-014) as depicted in Exhibit 4, and the recommended conditions of approval, of the Staff Report dated April 2, 2014, and to authorize the Chair of the Planning Commission to sign the recommendation to the City Council on behalf of the Planning Commission. Possible Motion 2: Move to recommend that the City Council approve the Trellis Long Plat (SUB13-014) as depicted in Exhibit 4, and the recommended conditions of approval, of the Staff Report dated April 2, 2014, and to authorize the Chair of the Planning Commission to sign the recommendation to the City Council on behalf of the Planning Commission, provided that the additional recommended conditions of approval shall be included: [describe condition]. Possible Motion 3: Move to recommend that the City Council deny the Trellis Long Plat (SUB13-014) as depicted in Exhibit 4 of the Staff Report dated April 2, 2014, and to authorize the Chair of the Planning Commission to sign the recommendation to the City Council on behalf of the Planning Commission.

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To: Planning Commission From: Scott Greenberg, Development Services Group Director Subject: Agenda Item 2 Zoning Code Amendment for Certain P Zone Standards ZTR14-001 Date: April 10, 2014 for the April 16, 2014 Planning Commission Meeting Exhibits: 1. Original Staff Report 2. Original Proposed Ordinance 3. Revised Draft Ordinance 4. Summary of Proposed Revisions to March 20, 2014 Proposal 5. Additional Written Information and Public Comments Background: On April 2, 2014, the Planning Commission held an open record public hearing on proposed Zoning Code text amendments related to public schools in the Public Institution (P) Zone. The Commission continued the open record public hearing to April 16, 2014. The original staff report and set of exhibits were provided as part of the April 2, 2014 meeting packet. The staff report is attached as Exhibit 1 and the original proposed Ordinance is Exhibit 2. Due to their volume, the original exhibits are not attached to this memo. Please bring the April 2, 2014 packet to the April 16, 2014 meeting, use the online version on the School Zoning webpage or Planning Commission webpage, or contact staff if you need another printed copy. The purpose of this memo is to add new information into the hearing record, including a revised proposal. The new information includes a revised proposal; written public comments received at or following the April 2, 2014 public hearing; and graphics shown at the hearing by the Mercer Island School District. Questions From Planning Commission At the end of the April 2, 2014 public hearing, the Planning Commission asked staff to return with proposals for the following issues. 1. Increase building setbacks adjacent to residential property lines and potentially reduce setbacks from public rights-of-way. 2. Require a setback adjacent to residential property lines for roads and driveways on school properties. 3. Reduce allowable impervious surface but allow increase to 68% through use of pervious pavement or similar materials. Revised proposals incorporating the three issues above are included on Exhibits 3 and 4. Revised Proposal: Following the April 2, 2014 Planning Commission public hearing, School District and City staff discussed a revised proposal. This proposal responds to public comment and Planning Commission requests made at the hearing. The new proposal increases setbacks adjacent to

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residential properties. The proposal also reduces setbacks from most public rights-of-way but allows increased height closer to those rights of way. It also creates special restrictions for each school site based on the specific nature of each site and its surroundings. The proposed changes are shown below, in the revised draft Ordinance (Exhibit 3) and in the summary on Exhibit 4. School District architects are working on some graphics to show how the setbacks and corresponding height limits would be imposed on each site. Unfortunately, the graphics were not ready when this memo was distributed. The graphics will be posted on the Citys website and provided to the Commission electronically prior to the meeting and paper copies will be available at the meeting.

Table 1: Proposed Setbacks and Height Limits

Lakeridge Elementary Minimum Setback Height Limit Special Conditions From public right-of-way 30 feet 48 feet(1)

Minimum setback from SE 76th Street is 15 feet.

From west property line abutting parcel numbers 4141010170, 4141010160, and 4141010150 [Note for clarification purposes, not to be printed in Ordinance: property addresses are 7870 81st Pl. SE, 7890 81st Pl. SE, and 8125 SE 79th St.

to be determined by April 16, 2014

48 feet(1)

From west property line abutting parcel number 4141010520 [Note for clarification purposes, not to be printed in Ordinance: this is open space east of 7835 81st Pl. SE and 7855 81st Pl. SE]


48 feet(1)

From all other property lines abutting Single-Family zoned property

45 feet 30 feet

Additional height is allowed up to 48 feet

above average building elevation (or up to 53

feet as allowed by Footnote 1) with an

additional setback of 2.5 feet for each additional 1 foot in height, for the portion of the structure

exceeding 30 feet above average building

elevation.

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Islander Middle School

Minimum Setback Height Limit Special Conditions

From public right-of-way 30 feet 48 feet(1)

Minimum setback of 15 feet is allowed from SE 76th Street.

From public park or internal property line

15 feet 48 feet(1)

From property lines abutting Single-Family zoned property

65 feet 30 feet






elevation. Island Park Elementary



Minimum setback from eastern 350 feet of the northern property line abutting SE 53rd Street is 45 feet.


15 feet 48 feet(1)


45 feet 30 feet






elevation. West Mercer Elementary




15 feet 48 feet(1)

From west property line abutting parcel numbers 3623500187 and 3623500184

45 feet 48 feet(1)

From property lines abutting other Single-Family zoned property

45 feet 30 feet



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elevation. New Elementary School No. 4



From internal property line

15 feet 48 feet(1)

Mercer Island High School








elevation.


15 feet 58 feet(1)


45 feet 30 feet






elevation. (1) Additional 5 feet in height is allowed for a roof that is enclosing mechanical equipment; roof-mounted mechanical equipment and its screening; fly-lofts and gymnasiums.

Planning Commission Action: Make a recommendation to the City Council. Recommended Motion: Move to recommend that the City Council approve the request for amendment of Mercer Island City Code Title 19 as described on Exhibit 3, and to authorize the Chair of the Planning Commission to sign the recommendation to the City Council on behalf of the Planning Commission.

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First Alternative Motion: Move to recommend that the City Council approve the request for amendment of Mercer Island City Code Title 19 as described on Exhibit 3, and to authorize the Chair of the Planning Commission to sign the recommendation to the City Council on behalf of the Planning Commission, provided that the proposal shall be modified as follows: [describe modifications]. Second Alternative Motion: Move to recommend that the City Council deny the request for amendment of Mercer Island City Code Title 19 as described on Exhibit 3, and to authorize the Chair of the Planning Commission to sign the recommendation to the City Council on behalf of the Planning Commission.

Planning Commission Meeting Agenda Item No. 2 Page 1 of 8, April 2, 2014 \\chfs1\share\DSG\Planning\Zoning Code Amendments\2013 P Zone Text\Planning Commission\04-02-14 Meeting\ZTR14-001-CityofMI-PCStaffRpt-4-2-14.doc

CITY OF MERCER ISLAND PLANNING COMMISSION

PUBLIC HEARING STAFF REPORT

Agenda Item: 2

April 2, 2014

File Numbers:

ZTR14-001/SEP14-007

Description:

Zoning Code Amendment to create special zoning requirements for public schools located in the P zone.

Applicant: City of Mercer Island

Locations: All properties in the Public Institution (P) zone

Exhibits: 1. Development Application 2. Proposed Language Dated March 20, 2014 3. Summary Dated March 20, 2014 4. State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) Environmental Checklist 5. Public Notice of Application, Open Record Hearing and SEPA

Determination of Non-Significance (DNS) Likely issued on February 24, 2014

6. SEPA Threshold Determination of Non-Significance Issued on March 17, 2014

7. Written Public Comments Received Through March 26, 2014 8. Draft Ordinance Amending Mercer Island City Code Title 19

I. SUMMARY The City of Mercer Island is proposing an amendment to Title 19 of the Mercer Island City Code (MICC) that would create new development standards for public schools located in the Public Institution (P) zone. An application for the proposed code amendment was received on February 11, 2014 and was determined to be complete on February 12, 2014. The original code amendment proposal is not included since it was replaced with an updated proposal dated March 20, 2014. See Exhibits 2 and 8. Exhibit 3 is a summary of current code requirements applying to public schools, a summary of the original proposal and a summary of the updated proposal. The application also includes a SEPA Environmental Checklist. See Exhibit 4. A separate application to rezone properties owned by the Mercer Island School District to the Public Institution (P) zone was also proposed and is the subject of the staff report for Planning Commission Agenda Item 1 for the April 2, 2014 meeting. A code amendment is a legislative action set forth in MICC 19.15.010(E). Applicable procedural requirements for a legislative action are contained within MICC 19.15.020, including the provision that the Planning Commission conduct an open record public hearing for all legislative actions. On April 2, 2014, the Planning Commission will hold an open record public hearing on this matter to obtain


comments from the public, deliberate the proposed amendments and forward a recommendation to the City Council. The Planning Commissions resulting recommendation will be forwarded to the City Council for consideration and action. As the final decision making authority for legislative actions, the City Council will consider the matter in an open public meeting prior to taking final action. The City Councils first reading of the code amendments is tentatively scheduled for May 5, 2014, and a second reading on May 19, 2014, during which the Council is anticipated to take final action and render a decision on the proposed code amendments. No approval is being sought for any specific development proposal at this time. Construction of any subsequent development would potentially be subject to additional environmental review, design review, and applicable construction permits. The City issued a Public Notice of Application and Open Record Hearing, and SEPA Determination of Non-Significance (DNS) Likely, which was mailed to all property owners within 600 feet of the properties proposed for rezoning to the Public Institution (P) zone, posted on each rezone site, and published in the Citys weekly permit bulletin on February 24, 2014. See Exhibit 5. The Notice was also published in the Mercer Island Reporter on February 26, 2014. The initial public comment period ran from February 24, 2014 through 5:00 P.M. on March 12, 2014. The City received written comments concerning the proposed reclassifications during the public comment period. See Exhibit 7. Many of the comment letters addressed both the rezone and code text amendment applications and are included as public comment in both staff reports. The SEPA Responsible Official determined that this proposal would not have a probable significant adverse impact on the environment, and a SEPA Determination of Non-Significance (DNS) was issued on March 17, 2014. See Exhibit 6. The DNS was mailed to all property owners within 600 feet of the properties proposed for rezone, emailed to SEPA agencies and parties of record, published in the Citys permit bulletin, and posted at City Hall on March 17, 2014. An additional comment period on the DNS ends on March 31, 2014 as does the appeal period on the DNS. In addition to the comment periods, Planning Commission meeting(s) and City Council meeting(s), the City and Mercer Island School District jointly sponsored three public open houses on March 6, 10 and 11, 2014 for interested parties to learn more about the proposed rezones, code text amendments and future planned school projects. Notice of the open houses was mailed to all property owners within 600 feet of the properties proposed for rezone, along with the Notice of Application.

II. STAFF FINDINGS, ANALYSIS AND CRITERIA FOR REVIEW The proposed amendments to MICC Title 19 related to public schools in the Public Institution (P) zone are shown on Exhibits 2 and 8, and are also summarized on Exhibit 3. The proposed amendments are discussed below. In response to public comments, the original February 11, 2014 code amendment proposal was revised. The discussion below is based on the revised proposal (Exhibits 2, 3 and 8). Changes were made to sections on building setbacks, height limits, impervious surface coverage, review processes, landscape screening and signage. MICC 19.05.010 Public institution P A. Uses Permitted.

1. Government services. 2. Public schools under the administration of Mercer Island School District No. 400 subject to the requirements in Section F below. Sections B, C and E below do not apply to public schools. Uses other than public schools located on land owned by the Mercer Island School District shall comply with applicable provisions of MICC 19.02. 3. Public park. 4. Transit facilities including transit stops and associated parking lots.


5. On-site hazardous waste treatment and storage facilities are allowed as accessory uses to a use permitted in this zone. These facilities shall comply with the state siting criteria as set forth in Chapter 173-303 WAC. 6. Wireless communications facilities subject to the conditions set out in MICC 19.06.040.

Staff findings: Public schools are currently allowed as permitted uses in the P zone. The proposed amendment to MICC 19.05.010.A references the proposed new development standards in MICC 19.05.010.F. The amendment also clarifies that three subsectionsB, C and Edo not apply to public schools. These subsections are shown for reference on Exhibit 2. Subsection B addresses I-90 right-of-way; subsection C requires projects in the P zone to comply with applicable Town Center design standards; and subsection E limits height to 36 feet or three stories in height, but allows up to 48 feet in height for larger properties. The proposed amendment also recognizes that uses other than schools exist on School District-owned property that could be in the P zone. For those uses (such as the Districts Administration Building), the development standards of the Single-Family zone would need to be followed for any future construction. MICC 19.05.010(E) would be changed as follows: Structures, excluding stacks, shall not exceed 36 feet or three stories in height, whichever is less; provided, the height of buildings located on sites exceeding five acres may be increased by 12 feet or one story, whichever is less, for each additional two and one-half acres of area when specifically approved by the city council upon recommendation of the design commission in accordance with the following conditions:

1. Approval by the Civil Aeronautical Federal Aviation Administration. 2. Adequate provision for ultimate off street parking needs.

Staff findings: Although this section would not apply to public schools, staff is proposing a technical correction to change Civil Aeronautical Administration to Federal Aviation Administration. MICC 19.05.010(F) would be added to provide the following six subsections: Public Schools. The following requirements apply to public schools:

1. Structure Setback Requirement. All structures shall be located at least 35 feet from any abutting property and at least 45 feet from any public right-of-way.

Staff findings: Subsection F contains many of the proposed new development standards for public schools in the P zone. The proposal maintains the minimum building setbacks required under current code for public schools in the Single Family zones. Additional setback would be required for portions of a building exceeding the current height limit of 30 feet (see next section).

2. Height Limit:

a. Elementary and Middle Schools: Maximum two story buildings with pitched or low-slope roofs, up to 30 feet above average building elevation are allowed without additional setback. Up to 48 feet above average building elevation is allowed with an additional setback of 1.5


feet for each additional 1 foot in height, for the portion of the structure exceeding 30 feet above average building elevation. Up to 53 feet above average building elevation is allowed for a roof that is enclosing mechanical equipment; roof-mounted mechanical equipment and its screening; fly-lofts and gymnasiums, with an additional setback of 1.5 feet for each additional 1 foot in height, for the portion of the structure exceeding 30 feet above average building elevation. b. High Schools: Maximum three story buildings with pitched or low-slope roofs, not to exceed 30 feet above average building elevation. Up to 58 feet above average building elevation is allowed with an additional setback of 1.5 feet for each additional 1 foot in height, for the portion of the structure exceeding 30 feet above average building elevation. Up to 63 feet above average building elevation is allowed for a roof that is enclosing mechanical equipment; roof-mounted mechanical equipment and its screening; fly-lofts and gymnasiums, with an additional setback of 1.5 feet for each additional 1 foot in height, for the portion of the structure exceeding 30 feet above average building elevation.

Staff findings: The height limits proposed in subsection 2 would allow taller buildings than the 30 foot height limit allowed under todays code for public schools in the Single Family zones. The School District has requested flexibility in the height standards to accommodate two-story elementary and middle school facilities and up to a three-story high school, each with a sloping roof rather than a flat roof. For all schools, additional height would be allowed to meet program needs, such as a taller gymnasium, fly-loft for a performing arts space or mechanical equipment screening. Using the proposed standards in subsections 1 and 2, a school (or portion of a school) could be built up to 30 feet tall, setback 45 feet from the public right-of-way or 35 feet from other property lines. This is the same as the current standards for public schools in Single-Family zones. The proposed new height limits would require a setback increase for any portion of the building exceeding the current 30 foot height limit.

3. Impervious Surface: Maximum allowable coverage with impervious surface is 65%. An additional 3% of impervious surface coverage (up to a total of 68%) is allowed if the additional coverage is pervious concrete, pervious asphalt or pervious pavers in areas not designed for vehicular use.

Staff findings: The proposed standard in subsection 3 would allow up to 65% of the ground to be covered with impervious surface. The current standard for public schools is the Single-Family zone is 40% coverage, or the legally existing impervious surface coverage that existing on May 1, 2006. However, up to 60% coverage is allowed with a variance under the current code. An additional 3% coverage would be allowed with the proposed code if the additional coverage is pervious concrete, pervious asphalt or pervious pavers in areas not designed for vehicular use (such as a driveway or parking lot).

4. Green Building. New, expanded and remodeled school facilities shall comply with RCW 39.35DHigh Performance Public Buildings.


Staff findings: This section simply recognizes the existence of a State law requiring compliance with RCW 39.35D, which requires certain energy and environmental design green building standards. The District must comply with this standard whether or not it is in Mercer Islands City Code.

5. Review process

a. Major New Construction (except portable classrooms) requires Design Commission review pursuant to MICC 19.15.040. b. Minor Exterior Modification and portable classrooms require Administrative Design Review pursuant to MICC 19.15.040.

Staff findings: The proposed review process for major new construction and minor exterior modification is identical to current requirements. Portable classrooms have been subject to either Design Commission review or Administrative Design Review, depending on the nature of the project. The proposal above is to clarify that all portables are subject to Administrative Design Review.

6. A one-fourth acre or larger playfield shall be provided in one usable unit on, abutting or adjacent to the site.

Staff findings: A acre playfield is currently required abutting or adjacent to the site for public schools in Single Family zones. The original code amendment proposal removed this standard and City Council requested that it be retained. However, it was inadvertently left out of the revised proposal. If Planning Commission agrees, the language above should be added to the Planning Commissions recommended code amendment. Staff added the word on to the proposed language to clarify that the playfield can also be on the school propertynot just abutting or adjacent to the school property. 19.05.020 Parking requirements. C. Minimum Parking Requirements for Specific Uses.

1. Government buildings shall provide one parking space per 200 square feet of gross floor area. 2. Public elementary and middle schools shall provide a minimum of two parking spaces per classroom. Public high schools shall provide a minimum of one parking space per classroom with high schools providing plus an additional one parking space per 10 students. The Code Official may allow a reduction in minimum parking requirements with the approval of the City Engineer and the design commission, for projects reviewable by the design commission.

Staff findings: The proposed parking standards maintain the current requirement for high schools in Single-Family zones: one parking stall per classroom plus an additional space for every 10 students. Required parking would double for elementary and middle schools, from one stall per classroom to two stalls per classroom. This recognizes the increased need for parking to accommodate classified staff, classroom aides and parent volunteers. Another amendment would allow reduction of the code-required minimum parking by the Code Official, City Engineer and Design Commission (for projects reviewable by the Design Commission) or by the Code Official and City Engineer (for projects that are not reviewable by the Design


Commission). This provision would allow flexibility to create additional space in public schools that would not increase parking demand. 19.12.040 Landscaping. B.7. Perimeter Screen Types and Widths by Use and Location. a. Required Screen Types and Widths. The following screen types and widths should be used:

Use Adjacent to Screen Type and Width

Full Partial Filtered

Public Schools Public Way 20 feet1

20 feet1 Single-Family Residential

1Breaks in full or partial screen planting may be allowed for institutional and public facilities to create focal points, preserve views, and highlight the prominence of important buildings.

Staff findings: The proposed landscape buffer standards maintain the current requirement for public facilities (including public schools) in Single-Family zones. Public schools are called out separately in the chart in MICC 19.12.040.B.7 for clarification. The standards for full and partial screens are included in Exhibit 2. 19.12.080 Signs. B. Standards.

10. Signs for Public Schools in Public Institution Zones: One wall sign and one freestanding ground sign are permitted for each public school. A wall sign shall not exceed 12 square feet. A free-standing ground sign shall not exceed 18 square feet and shall not exceed a maximum height of 42 inches above grade. A freestanding ground sign shall be setback a minimum of 10 feet from a public right of way and 35 feet from abutting properties. Wall and freestanding ground signs shall not have internal lighting, except for an electronic readerboard.

Staff findings: The proposed sign type, number, size and height standards maintain the current allowance for public schools in Single-Family zones. The proposed setback from abutting properties maintains the current standard. The proposed setback from a public right-of-way is 10 feet rather than 45 feet under current regulations. The 10 foot setback from a public right-of-way is designed to allow a freestanding sign to be more visible to motorists, possibly allowing its size to be reduced.

11. Electronic Readerboards. A public school may have no more than one (1) electronic readerboard. This electronic readerboard shall count as the wall sign or freestanding ground sign allowed by MICC 19.12.080.B.10. Electronic readerboards shall comply with the following:

a. Electronic readerboards shall be designed and placed to minimize light and glare from being visible to adjacent residential properties; b. Electronic readerboards shall dim during twilight and night hours to reduce glare.


c. Electronic readerboards shall be turned off between 10:00 pm and 7:00 am. d. The display shall include only static text and/or static graphics. No moving graphics, animations such as flying or fading, video, or blinking/pulsing/strobe effects are allowed. e. Each message and/or graphic shall be displayed for at least ten (10) seconds. The change from one message/graphic to the next may utilize a scrolling or wipe effect, but the effect shall take no more than one (1) second to complete. f. Electronic readerboards shall display any message deemed necessary by the City of Mercer Island Emergency Operations Center (EOC) upon request by the EOC. The display of any such message shall be exempt from the requirements of subsections 10.c and 10.e of this section.

Staff findings: The School District has requested the ability to use electronic readerboards for informational purposes at their schools. The proposed standards are based on standards adopted in other cities where electronic readerboards are allowed. An electronic readerboard would count toward either the single freestanding sign or toward the single wall mounted sign allowed in subsection 10 above. Criteria For Review There are no specific criteria listed in the Mercer Island City Code for a code amendment. However, in accordance with RCW 36.70A.040, the proposed amendments shall be consistent with the goals and policies set forth in the Citys Comprehensive Plan. The following Comprehensive Plan policies are applicable to the proposed code amendments. Land Use Policy 7.4 As a primarily single family residential community with a high percentage of developed land, the community cannot provide for all types of land uses. Certain activities will be considered incompatible with present uses. Incompatible uses include land fills, correctional facilities, zoos and airports. Compatible permitted uses such as education, recreation, open spaces, government social services and religious activities will be encouraged. Land Use Policy 9.4 Social and recreation clubs, schools, and religious institutions are predominantly located in single family residential areas of the island. Development regulation should reflect the desire to retain viable and healthy social, recreational, educational, and religious organizations as community assets which are essential for the mental, physical and spiritual health of Mercer Island. Housing Policy 1.1 Ensure that zoning and city code provisions protect residential areas from incompatible uses and promote bulk and scale consistent with the existing neighborhood character. Capital Facilities VIII. Process for Siting Public Facilities Though not essential under GMA, these public facilities [schools] provide public services that are important to the quality of life on Mercer Island and should be available when and where needed. Staff findings: Schools are considered compatible uses in Mercer Islands single family residential community and are to be encouraged (Land Use Policy 7.4). The regulations would promote the policies of the Comprehensive Plan by accommodating the needs of the public school districts growing population


served. However, development regulations must maintain a balance between retaining viable and healthy schools (Land Use Policy 9.4) and promoting bulk and scale consistent with the existing neighborhood character (Housing Policy 1.1). The balance is reflected in the proposed dimensional regulations that are centered on protecting the neighboring properties with setbacks, landscaping, and height limits; while allowing public schools to grow in size with additional impervious surface and height allowances. The balance was achieved after public notice, open houses, and meetings with citizens and the school district.

Summary of Staff Findings The proposal is consistent with the Growth Management Act (RCW 36.70A) and the Citys Comprehensive Plan as the proposal would promote the aforementioned policies. Redevelopment of school properties using the proposed standards will potentially require future environmental review, design review, and building permit review to establish that future development is compatible with the existing neighborhood.

III. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Based on the analysis and findings included herein, staff recommends to the Planning Commission the following: Recommended Motion: Move to recommend that the City Council approve the request for amendment of Mercer Island City Code Title 19 as described on Exhibit 8, and to authorize the Chair of the Planning Commission to sign the recommendation to the City Council on behalf of the Planning Commission. First Alternative Motion: Move to recommend that the City Council approve the request for amendment of Mercer Island City Code Title 19 as described on Exhibit 8, and to authorize the Chair of the Planning Commission to sign the recommendation to the City Council on behalf of the Planning Commission, provided that the proposal shall be modified as follows: [describe modifications]. Second Alternative Motion: Move to recommend that the City Council deny the request for amendment of Mercer Island City Code Title 19 as described on Exhibit 8, and to authorize the Chair of the Planning Commission to sign the recommendation to the City Council on behalf of the Planning Commission.

Staff Contact: Scott Greenberg, Development Services Group Director

Ordinance No. ______ Page 1

CITY OF MERCER ISLAND ORDINANCE NO. _____

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MERCER ISLAND, WASHINGTON, AMENDING MICC 19.05.010, MICC 19.05.020.C, MICC 19.12.040.B.7, AND MICC 19.12.080.B TO CHANGE REQUIREMENTS FOR PUBLIC SCHOOL USES

WHEREAS, the City of Mercer Island Municipal Code (MICC) contains Title 19, the Unified Land Development Code (ULDC); and WHEREAS, MICC 19.05 allows public schools as a permitted use in the Public Institution (P) Zone but does not provide specific regulations tailored to public school uses ; and WHEREAS, The City of Mercer Island has met all applicable public notice requirements for said code text amendment according to MICC 19.15.020 as detailed below; and WHEREAS, state agencies received 60 day notice of Mercer Island's proposed development code text amendments on February 21, 2014, and no formal comments were received; and WHEREAS, on February 24, 2014 a Public Notice of Application, Public Hearing and SEPA DNS Likely was mailed to all property owners within 600 feet of properties owned by the Mercer Island School District, published in the Citys permit bulletin, posted at City Hall and posted on each School District site, giving notice of three public open houses regarding the development code text amendment proposals and of the Planning Commission open record public hearing, and encouraging public participation; and WHEREAS, on February 26, 2014 a Public Notice of Application, Public Hearing and SEPA DNS Likely was published in the Mercer Island Reporter, giving notice of the Planning Commission open record public hearing, and encouraging public participation; and WHEREAS, on March 17, 2014 the City of Mercer Island issued a SEPA Threshold Determination (DNS) for the development code text amendments which was mailed to all property owners within 600 feet of properties owned by the Mercer Island School District, published in the Citys permit bulletin, posted at City Hall; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a public hearing on April 2, 2014, and recommended approval of the proposed development code text amendments, finding the application consistent with the Growth Management Act; and WHEREAS, the City Council held a public meeting on May 5, 2014 to provide opportunities for formal public comment on these matters. NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MERCER ISLAND, WASHINGTON HEREBY ORDAINS AS FOLLOWS:


Section 1. Amendments to MICC 19.05.010.A.2. MICC 19.05.010.A.2 is hereby amended as follows:

A. Uses Permitted.

2. Public schools under the administration of Mercer Island School District No. 400 subject to the requirements in Section F below. Sections B, C and E below do not apply to public schools. Uses other than public schools located on land owned by the Mercer Island School District shall comply with applicable provisions of MICC 19.02.

Section 2. Amendments to MICC 19.05.010.E.1. MICC 19.05.010.E.1 is hereby amended as follows:

1. Approval by the Civil Aeronautical Federal Aviation Administration.

Section 3. Amendments to MICC 19.05.010. MICC 19.05.010 is hereby amended as follows:

F. Public Schools. The following requirements apply to public schools:

1. Structure Setback Requirement. All structures shall be located at least 35 feet from any abutting property and at least 45 feet from any public right-of-way.

2. Height Limit:

a. Elementary and Middle Schools: Maximum two story buildings with pitched or low-slope roofs, up to 30 feet above average building elevation are allowed without additional setback. Up to 48 feet above average building elevation is allowed with an additional setback of 1.5 feet for each additional 1 foot in height, for the portion of the structure exceeding 30 feet above average building elevation. Up to 53 feet above average building elevation is allowed for a roof that is enclosing mechanical equipment; roof-mounted mechanical equipment and its screening; fly-lofts and gymnasiums, with an additional setback of 1.5 feet for each additional 1 foot in height, for the portion of the structure exceeding 30 feet above average building elevation. b. High Schools: Maximum three story buildings with pitched or low-slope roofs, not to exceed 30 feet above average building elevation. Up to 58 feet above average building elevation is allowed with an additional setback of 1.5 feet for each additional 1 foot in height, for the portion of the structure exceeding 30 feet above average building elevation. Up to 63 feet above average building elevation is allowed for a roof that is enclosing mechanical equipment; roof-mounted mechanical equipment and its screening; fly-lofts and gymnasiums, with an additional setback of 1.5 feet for each additional 1 foot in height, for the portion of the structure exceeding 30 feet above average building elevation.


3. Impervious Surface: Maximum allowable coverage with impervious surface is 65%. An additional 3% of impervious surface coverage (up to a total of 68%) is allowed if the additional coverage is pervious concrete, pervious asphalt or pervious pavers in areas not designed for vehicular use. 4. Green Building. New, expanded and remodeled school facilities shall comply with RCW 39.35DHigh Performance Public Buildings. 5. Review process


Section 4. Amendments to MICC 19.05.020.C.2. MICC 19.05.020.C.2 is hereby amended

as follows:

2. Public elementary and middle schools shall provide a minimum of two parking spaces per classroom. Public high schools shall provide a minimum of one parking space per classroom with high schools providing plus an additional one parking space per 10 students. The Code Official may allow a reduction in minimum parking requirements with the approval of the City Engineer and the design commission, for projects reviewable by the design commission.

Section 5. Amendments to MICC 19.12.040.B.7. MICC 19.12.040.B.7 is hereby amended

as follows: B.7. Perimeter Screen Types and Widths by Use and Location. a. Required Screen Types and Widths. The following screen types and widths should be used:

Use Adjacent to Screen Type and Width Full Partial Filtered

Institutional Use or Public Facility Public Way 20 feet 1, 2

Public Schools Public Way 20 feet1 Single-Family

Residential 20 feet1

Utility Development Public Way 10 feet Commercial or Multifamily outside of C-O Zone

Public Way 10 feet

All uses inside of C-O Zone Public Way 20 feet Commercial, Institutional, Utility or Public Residential (Single or 20 feet1


Facility Multifamily) Institutional, Commercial, Utility, Public Facility

10 feet

Public Park 20 feet Multifamily Development Single-Family

Residential 20 feet

Multifamily Residential

10 feet

Institutional, Commercial, Utility, or Public Facility

10 feet

Public Park 20 feet All other private uses Public Park 20 feet 1Breaks in full or partial screen planting may be allowed for institutional and public facilities to create focal points, preserve views, and highlight the prominence of important buildings. 2Perimeter landscape requirements may be modified if necessary to enable an existing public facility to make safety-related improvements to a legally nonconforming parking lot. Section 6. Amendments to MICC 19.12.080.B. MICC 19.12.080.B is hereby amended as

follows: 10. Signs for Public Schools in Public Institution Zones: One wall sign and one freestanding ground sign are permitted for each public school. A wall sign shall not exceed 12 square feet. A free-standing ground sign shall not exceed 18 square feet and shall not exceed a maximum height of 42 inches above grade. A freestanding ground sign shall be setback a minimum of 10 feet from a public right of way and 35 feet from abutting properties. Wall and freestanding ground signs shall not have internal lighting, except for an electronic readerboard. 11. Electronic Readerboards. A public school may have no more than one (1) electronic readerboard. This electronic readerboard shall count as the wall sign or freestanding ground sign allowed by MICC 19.12.080.B.10. Electronic readerboards shall comply with the following:

a. Electronic readerboards shall be designed and placed to minimize light and glare from being visible to adjacent residential properties; b. Electronic readerboards shall dim during twilight and night hours to reduce glare. c. Electronic readerboards shall be turned off between 10:00 pm and 7:00 am. d. The display shall include only static text and/or static graphics. No moving graphics, animations such as flying or fading, video, or blinking/pulsing/strobe effects are allowed. e. Each message and/or graphic shall be displayed for at least ten (10) seconds. The change from one message/graphic to the next may utilize a scrolling or wipe effect, but the effect shall take no more than one (1) second to complete. f. Electronic readerboards shall display any message deemed necessary by the City of Mercer Island Emergency Operations Center (EOC) upon request by the EOC. The


display of any such message shall be exempt from the requirements of subsections 10.c and 10.e of this section.

Section 7: Severability. If any section, sentence, clause or phrase of this ordinance or any

municipal code section amended hereby should be held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity or unconstitutionality shall not affect the validity of any other section, sentence, clause or phrase of this ordinance or the amended code section.

Section 8: Ratification. Any act consistent with the authority and prior to the effective date

of this ordinance is hereby ratified and affirmed. Section 9: Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect and be in force on 30 days after

its passage and publication. PASSED by the City Council of the City of Mercer Island, Washington at its regular meeting on the _____ day of _________________, 2014 and signed in authentication of its passage.

CITY OF MERCER ISLAND

________________________________ Bruce Bassett, Mayor

ATTEST: Approved as to Form: ________________________________ ________________________________ Allison Spietz, City Clerk Katie H. Knight, City Attorney Date of Publication: ________________

NOTE: Shaded text indicates changes from Ordinance presented to Planning Commission 4/2/14


CITY OF MERCER ISLAND ORDINANCE NO. _____

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MERCER ISLAND, WASHINGTON, AMENDING MICC 19.05.010, MICC 19.05.020.C, MICC 19.12.040.B.7, AND MICC 19.12.080.B TO CHANGE REQUIREMENTS FOR PUBLIC SCHOOL USES

WHEREAS, the City of Mercer Island Municipal Code (MICC) contains Title 19, the Unified Land Development Code (ULDC); and WHEREAS, MICC 19.05 allows public schools as a permitted use in the Public Institution (P) Zone but does not provide specific regulations tailored to public school uses ; and WHEREAS, The City of Mercer Island has met all applicable public notice requirements for said code text amendment according to MICC 19.15.020 as detailed below; and WHEREAS, state agencies received 60 day notice of Mercer Island's proposed development code text amendments on February 21, 2014, and no formal comments were received; and WHEREAS, on February 24, 2014 a Public Notice of Application, Public Hearing and SEPA DNS Likely was mailed to all property owners within 600 feet of properties owned by the Mercer Island School District, published in the Citys permit bulletin, posted at City Hall and posted on each School District site, giving notice of three public open houses regarding the development code text amendment proposals and of the Planning Commission open record public hearing, and encouraging public participation; and WHEREAS, on February 26, 2014 a Public Notice of Application, Public Hearing and SEPA DNS Likely was published in the Mercer Island Reporter, giving notice of the Planning Commission open record public hearing, and encouraging public participation; and WHEREAS, on March 17, 2014 the City of Mercer Island issued a SEPA Threshold Determination (DNS) for the development code text amendments which was mailed to all property owners within 600 feet of properties owned by the Mercer Island School District, published in the Citys permit bulletin, posted at City Hall; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held an open record public hearing on April 2, 2014 and continued the open record public hearing to April 16, 2014, and recommended approval of the proposed development code text amendments, finding the application consistent with the Growth Management Act; and WHEREAS, for the purposes of this Ordinance, the Mercer Island School District schools referred to by name in Section 3 below are located on the following King County Assessors parcels: Lakeridge Elementary (#2524049015), Islander Middle School (#2524049144 and #2524049320), Island Park Elementary (#1924059040), West Mercer Elementary (#9365700100), New Elementary School No. 4 (#1824059006) and Mercer Island High School (#1824059005); and



WHEREAS, for ease of reference, each Mercer Island School District school is referred to by name in Section 3 below; and WHEREAS, the City Council held a public meeting on May 5, 2014 to provide opportunities for formal public comment on these matters. NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MERCER ISLAND, WASHINGTON HEREBY ORDAINS AS FOLLOWS: Section 1. Amendments to MICC 19.05.010.A.2. MICC 19.05.010.A.2 is hereby amended

as follows: A. Uses Permitted.

2. Public schools under the administration of Mercer Island School District No. 400 subject to the requirements in Section F below. Sections B, C and E below do not apply to public schools. Uses other than public schools located on land owned by the Mercer Island School District shall comply with applicable provisions of MICC 19.02.

Section 2. Amendments to MICC 19.05.010.E.1. MICC 19.05.010.E.1 is hereby amended as follows:

1. Approval by the Civil Aeronautical Federal Aviation Administration.

Section 3. Amendments to MICC 19.05.010. MICC 19.05.010 is hereby amended as follows:

F. Public Schools. The following requirements apply to public schools:

1. Lakeridge Elementary Minimum Setback Height Limit Special Conditions From public right-of-way

30 feet 48 feet(1)

Minimum setback from SE 76th Street is 15 feet.

From west property line abutting parcel numbers 4141010170, 4141010160, and 4141010150 [Note for clarification purposes, not to be printed in Ordinance: property addresses are 7870 81st Pl. SE, 7890 81st Pl. SE, and 8125 SE 79th St.


48 feet(1)



From west property line abutting parcel number 4141010520 [Note for clarification purposes, not to be printed in Ordinance: this is open space east of 7835 81st Pl. SE and 7855 81st Pl. SE]


48 feet(1)

From all other property lines abutting Single-Family zoned property

45 feet 30 feet




additional setback of 2.5 feet for each

additional 1 foot in height, for the portion

of the structure exceeding 30 feet

above average building elevation.

Islander Middle School Minimum Setback Height Limit Special Conditions From public right-of-way

30 feet 48 feet(1)

Minimum setback of 15 feet is allowed from SE 76th Street.


15 feet 48 feet(1)


65 feet 30 feet










Island Park Elementary Minimum Setback Height Limit Special Conditions From public right-of-way

30 feet 48 feet(1)

Minimum setback from eastern 350 feet of the northern property line abutting SE 53rd Street is 45 feet.


15 feet 48 feet(1)


45 feet 30 feet








West Mercer Elementary


From public right-of-way

30 feet 48 feet(1)


15 feet 48 feet(1)

From west property line abutting parcel numbers 3623500187 and 3623500184

45 feet 48 feet(1)

From property lines abutting other Single-Family zoned property

45 feet 30 feet










New Elementary School No. 4



30 feet 48 feet(1)

From internal property line

15 feet 48 feet(1)

Mercer Island High School



30 feet 48 feet(1)









15 feet 58 feet(1)


45 feet 30 feet










(1) Additional 5 feet in height is allowed for a roof that is enclosing mechanical equipment; roof-mounted mechanical equipment and its screening; fly-lofts and gymnasiums.

Structure Setback Requirement. All structures shall be located at least 35 feet from any abutting property and at least 45 feet from any public right-of-way.

2. Height Limit:

a. Elementary and Middle Schools: Maximum two story buildings with pitched or low-slope roofs, up to 30 feet above average building elevation are allowed without additional setback. Up to 48 feet above average building elevation is allowed with an additional setback of 1.5 feet for each additional 1 foot in height, for the portion of the structure exceeding 30 feet above average building elevation. Up to 53 feet above average building elevation is allowed for a roof that is enclosing mechanical equipment; roof-mounted mechanical equipment and its screening; fly-lofts and gymnasiums, with an additional setback of 1.5 feet for each additional 1 foot in height, for the portion of the structure exceeding 30 feet above average building elevation. b. High Schools: Maximum three story buildings with pitched or low-slope roofs, not to exceed 30 feet above average building elevation. Up to 58 feet above average building elevation is allowed with an additional setback of 1.5 feet for each additional 1 foot in height, for the portion of the structure exceeding 30 feet above average building elevation. Up to 63 feet above average building elevation is allowed for a roof that is enclosing mechanical equipment; roof-mounted mechanical equipment and its screening; fly-lofts and gymnasiums, with an additional setback of 1.5 feet for each additional 1 foot in height, for the portion of the structure exceeding 30 feet above average building elevation.

3. Impervious Surface: Maximum allowable coverage with impervious surface is 65%63%. An additional 3%5% of impervious surface coverage (up to a total of 68%) is allowed if the additional coverage is synthetic turf fields that allow for water percolation; pervious concrete, pervious asphalt or pervious pavers in areas not designed for vehicular use; or fire lanes not available for general public use. 4. Green Building. New, expanded and remodeled school facilities shall comply with RCW 39.35DHigh Performance Public Buildings. 5. Review process




Section 4. Amendments to MICC 19.05.020.C.2. MICC 19.05.020.C.2 is hereby amended as follows:

2. Public elementary and middle schools shall provide a minimum of two parking spaces per classroom. Public high schools shall provide a minimum of one parking space per classroom with high schools providing plus an additional one parking space per 10 students. The Code Official may allow a reduction in minimum parking requirements with the approval of the City Engineer and the design commission, for projects reviewable by the design commission.

Section 5. Amendments to MICC 19.12.030.B. MICC 19.12.030.B is hereby amended as

follows: 10. Public schools should respect privacy for adjacent residential properties by providing appropriate screening and placement of windows in buildings. Distance from residential property lines should also be considered when determining the appropriate amount of screening and the type and placement of windows. Section 56. Amendments to MICC 19.12.040.B.7. MICC 19.12.040.B.7 is hereby amended

as follows: B.7. Perimeter Screen Types and Widths by Use and Location. a. Required Screen Types and Widths. The following screen types and widths should be used:

Use Adjacent to Screen Type and Width Full Partial Filtered

Institutional Use or Public Facility Public Way 20 feet 1, 2

Public Schools Public Way 20 feet1 Single-Family

Residential 20 feet1,3

Utility Development Public Way 10 feet Commercial or Multifamily outside of C-O Zone

Public Way 10 feet

All uses inside of C-O Zone Public Way 20 feet

Commercial, Institutional, Utility or Public Facility

Residential (Single or Multifamily)

20 feet1

Institutional, Commercial, Utility, Public Facility

10 feet

Public Park 20 feet



Multifamily Development Single-Family Residential

20 feet

Multifamily Residential

10 feet

Institutional, Commercial, Utility, or Public Facility

10 feet

Public Park 20 feet All other private uses Public Park 20 feet 1Breaks in full or partial screen planting may be allowed for institutional and public facilities to create focal points, preserve views, and highlight the prominence of important buildings. 2Perimeter landscape requirements may be modified if necessary to enable an existing public facility to make safety-related improvements to a legally nonconforming parking lot. 3School bus and student loading and unloading and primary parking areas located 100 feet or less from an abutting Single-Family zoned property shall provide a 30 foot wide full screen. The number of trees required in the 30 foot wide full screen area shall be 1.25 times the number otherwise required for a full screen. The Design Commission may modify screening width, location, height and number of trees to avoid casting shadows on adjacent residential properties or to accommodate existing storm detention systems and utilities. Section 67. Amendments to MICC 19.12.080.B. MICC 19.12.080.B is hereby amended as

follows: 10. Signs for Public Schools in Public Institution Zones: One wall sign and one freestanding ground sign are permitted for each public school. A wall sign shall not exceed 12 square feet. A free-standing ground sign shall not exceed 18 square feet and shall not exceed a maximum height of 42 inches above grade. A freestanding ground sign shall be setback a minimum of 10 feet from a public right of way and 35 feet from abutting properties. Wall and freestanding ground signs shall not have internal lighting, except for an electronic readerboard. 11. Electronic Readerboards. A public school may have no more than one (1) electronic readerboard. This electronic readerboard shall count as the wall sign or freestanding ground sign allowed by MICC 19.12.080.B.10. Electronic readerboards shall comply with the following:

a. Electronic readerboards shall be designed and placed to minimize light and glare from being visible to adjacent residential properties; b. Electronic readerboards shall dim during twilight and night hours to reduce glare. c. Electronic readerboards shall be turned off between 10:00 pm and 7:00 am. d. The display shall include only static text and/or static graphics. No moving graphics, animations such as flying or fading, video, or blinking/pulsing/strobe effects are allowed. e. Each message and/or graphic shall be displayed for at least ten (10) seconds. The change from one message/graphic to the next may utilize a scrolling or wipe effect, but the effect shall take no more than one (1) second to complete.



f. Electronic readerboards shall display any message deemed necessary by the City of Mercer Island Emergency Operations Center (EOC) upon request by the EOC. The display of any such message shall be exempt from the requirements of subsections 10.c and 10.e of this section.

Section 78: Severability. If any section, sentence, clause or phrase of this ordinance or any

municipal code section amended hereby should be held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity or unconstitutionality shall not affect the validity of any other section, sentence, clause or phrase of this ordinance or the amended code section.

Section 89: Ratification. Any act consistent with the authority and prior to the effective date

of this ordinance is hereby ratified and affirmed. Section 910: Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect and be in force on 30 days after

its passage and publication. PASSED by the City Council of the City of Mercer Island, Washington at its regular meeting on the _____ day of _________________, 2014 and signed in authentication of its passage.

CITY OF MERCER ISLAND

________________________________ Bruce Bassett, Mayor

ATTEST: Approved as to Form: ________________________________ ________________________________ Allison Spietz, City Clerk Katie H. Knight, City Attorney Date of Publication: ________________

1

Revised Zoning Code Text Amendment SummaryApril 10, 2014 Code Standard

Current Requirements in Residential Zone

P Zone RequirementsMarch 20 Proposal

P Zone RequirementsApril 4 Proposal (Changes are comparison between

new proposal and March 20 proposal)

Permitted Uses

Public schools are a permitted use

Public schools are a permitted use Public schools are a permitted use

Lakeridge Elementary-- Building Setbacks and Height Limits

Setbacks: Setback 45 from public

right-of-way Setback 35 from

abutting property (MICC 19.02.010.A.4.a)

Height Limit:

30 height limit above the Average Building Elevation (MICC 19.02.010.D)

Setbacks: Setback 45 from public right-of-way Setback 35 from abutting property

Height Limits:

Maximum 2 story buildings Up to 30 feet above average building elevation,

setback 45 from public right-of-way and 35 from abutting property.

Up to 48 feet above average building elevation with additional setback of 1.5 feet for each additional 1 foot in height, for the portion exceeding 30 feet in height

Up to 53 feet allowed for roof enclosing mechanical equipment; roof-mounted mechanical equipment and its screening; fly-lofts, and gymnasiums; with additional setback of 1.5 feet for each additional 1 foot in height, for the portion exceeding 30 feet in height

Setback 30 from public right-of-way (except 15 from SE 76th Street) with 48 foot height limit (53 feet allowed for a roof that is enclosing mechanical equipment; roof-mounted mechanical equipment and its screening; fly-lofts and gymnasiums).

Setback To be determined by April 16, 2014 from west property line abutting parcel numbers 4141010170, 4141010160, and 4141010150 (7870 81st Pl. SE, 7890 81st Pl. SE, 8125 SE 79th St.) with 48 foot height limit (53 feet allowed for a roof that is enclosing mechanical equipment; roof-mounted mechanical equipment and its screening; fly-lofts and gymnasiums).

Setback To be determined by April 16, 2014 from west property line abutting parcel number 4141010520 (the open space east of 7835 81st Pl. SE and 7855 81st Pl. SE) with 48 foot height limit (53 feet allowed for a roof that is enclosing mechanical equipment; roof-mounted mechanical equipment and its screening; fly-lofts and gymnasiums).

Setback 45 from all other property lines abutting single-family zoned property with 30 foot height limit. Additional height is allowed up to 48 feet above average building elevation (or up to 53 feet for a roof that is enclosing mechanical equipment; roof-mounted mechanical equipment and its screening; fly-lofts and gymnasiums). Additional setback of 2.5 feet for each additional 1 foot in height is required, for the portion of the structure exceeding 30 feet above average building elevation.

2

Code Standard





Islander Middle School-- Building Setbacks and Height Limits




Height Limit:



Height Limits:





Setback 30 from public right-of-way (except 15 from SE 76th Street) with 48 foot height limit (53 feet allowed for a roof that is enclosing mechanical equipment; roof-mounted mechanical equipment and its screening; fly-lofts and gymnasiums).

Setback 15 from public park or internal property line with 48 foot height limit (53 feet allowed for a roof that is enclosing mechanical equipment; roof-mounted mechanical equipment and its screening; fly-lofts and gymnasiums).

Setback 65 from property lines abutting single-family zoned property with 30 foot height limit. Additional height is allowed up to 48 feet above average building elevation (or up to 53 feet for a roof that is enclosing mechanical equipment; roof-mounted mechanical equipment and its screening; fly-lofts and gymnasiums). Additional setback of 1.5 feet for each additional 1 foot in height is required, for the portion of the structure exceeding 30 feet above average building elevation.

Island Park Elementary-- Building Setbacks and Height Limits




Height Limit:



Height Limits:





Setback 30 from public right-of-way (except 45 foot minimum setback from eastern 350 feet of the northern property line abutting SE 53rd Street) with 48 foot height limit (53 feet allowed for a roof that is enclosing mechanical equipment; roof-mounted mechanical equipment and its screening; fly-lofts and gymnasiums).


Setback 45 from property lines abutting single-family zoned property with 30 foot height limit. Additional height is allowed up to 48 feet above average building elevation (or up to 53 feet for a roof that is enclosing mechanical equipment; roof-mounted mechanical equipment and its screening; fly-lofts and gymnasiums). Additional setback of

3

Code Standard





2.5 feet for each additional 1 foot in height is required, for the portion of the structure exceeding 30 feet above average building elevation.

West Mercer Elementary-- Building Setbacks and Height Limits




Height Limit:



Height Limits:





Setback 30 from public right-of-way with 48 foot height limit (53 feet allowed for a roof that is enclosing mechanical equipment; roof-mounted mechanical equipment and its screening; fly-lofts and gymnasiums).



New Elementary #4-- Building Setbacks and Height Limits




Height Limit:



Height Limits:




Up to 53 feet allowed for roof enclosing mechanical equipment; roof-mounted mechanical equipment and its screening; fly-lofts, and

Setback 30 from public right-of-way with 48 foot height limit (53 feet allowed for a roof that is enclosing mechanical equipment; roof-mounted mechanical equipment and its screening; fly-lofts and gymnasiums).


4

Code Standard





gymnasiums; with additional setback of 1.5 feet for each additional 1 foot in height, for the portion exceeding 30 feet in height

Mercer Island High School-- Building Setbacks and Height Limits




Height Limit:



Height Limits:





Setback 30 from public right-of-way with 48 foot height limit. Additional height is allowed up to 58 feet above average building elevation (or up to 63 feet for a roof that is enclosing mechanical equipment; roof-mounted mechanical equipment and its screening; fly-lofts and gymnasiums). Additional setback of 1.5 feet for each additional 1 foot in height is required, for the portion of the structure exceeding 30 feet above average building elevation.



Impervious Surface

40% if lot is less than 15% grade (MICC 19.02.020.D.4) 60% with a variance from Hearing Examiner1

Maximum 65%. Up to 3% additional coverage allowed if that increase is pervious concrete, asphalt or pavers (excludes driveways and parking areas).

Maximum 65%63%. Up to 3%5% additional coverage allowed if that increase is synthetic turf fields that allow water percolation, pervious concrete, pervious asphalt or pervious pavers (excludes driveways and parking areas but fire lanes are allowed)

Green Building/ Sustainability

WSSP required by RCW 39.35D WSSP required by RCW 39.35D WSSP required by RCW 39.35D

Review Process

Major new constructionDesign Commission review.

Major new constructionDesign Commission review. Minor Exterior Modification: Administrative Design Review

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Parking One stall per classroom, plus one stall per 10 students fo

wednesday, april 16, 2014 mercer island city hall april 16, 2014 mercer island city hall ......

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