Stay informed about government news and updates in La Conner, WA.
La Conner officials express concerns regarding Senate Bill 5184, which seeks to limit parking requirements for new residential units, potentially impacting local infrastructure and community needs. The Town Planning Commission's meeting highlighted the challenges of accommodating increased housing density without adequate parking, prompting calls for public input before the February 20 deadline.
La Conner consultant Tom Beckwith is spearheading a revitalization plan for the town's under-utilized south end industrial hub, formerly home to the Moore-Clark fish feed plant. The town received a $45,000 state grant to develop a guiding plan for mixed-use development, which will be integrated into the Town's Comprehensive Plan. However, significant hurdles remain, as the plan is not yet a formal code and the site has been dormant for decades.
La Conner's Town Council is exploring zoning changes for the redevelopment of the former south end industrial zone, as presented by consultant Tom Beckwith. The proposed mixed-use development aims to include community amenities such as affordable housing, a festival hall, and walking trails, following extensive public input. As the project progresses, residents express concerns about the necessity of zoning alterations and the potential affordability of housing.
The La Conner Town Council has approved a $7 million municipal budget for 2025, reflecting a stable financial outlook as the town continues to manage its resources effectively. The council also discussed a new Community Emergency Management Plan and celebrated a state grant for pedestrian safety upgrades. Public engagement was notably low during the budget hearing, prompting remarks from council members about the lack of community feedback.
A public forum in La Conner discussed revitalization plans for the underutilized south waterfront area, focusing on zoning and design concepts for the former Moore-Clark property. The workshop, attended by a large audience, featured insights from town planning staff and consultants, addressing community concerns about future development and stakeholder engagement.
La Conner Town Hall will close early at 3 p.m. today, December 18, and will resume normal operating hours at 8:30 a.m. on Thursday. This announcement is significant for local residents who may need to conduct business at Town Hall. Timely updates like this ensure community members are informed about important operational changes.
La Conner's Emergency Management Commission is proactively addressing potential flood risks by reviewing emergency operations and implementing flood mitigation measures, including durable sandbags and Ecology Blocks. Despite some local business concerns about foot traffic, the commission emphasizes the importance of preparedness in the face of unpredictable weather conditions, including king tides. The initiative showcases the community's commitment to safety and effective disaster management.
La Conner's sales tax revenue has surpassed $600,000 for 2024, approaching its budget goals with a notable increase in hotel/motel tax revenues, exceeding projections by 33.3%. The town's financial outlook remains strong, with overall revenues at 83% of the projected total and expenditures at 62% of the budget, indicating a healthy fiscal position.
La Conner's planning commission is exploring revitalization plans for a four-acre site in the former industrial area, guided by consultant Tom Beckwith. The proposed concepts include a mix of housing, recreational spaces, and public amenities, reflecting community input from over 100 surveys. A public workshop is scheduled to further discuss these redevelopment options.
A public hearing will be held by the Skagit County hearing examiner on December 20, 2024, to evaluate NextEra Energy's application for a special use permit to develop a battery energy storage system (BESS) near The Port of Skagit. This project, spanning 22.6 acres, is poised to enhance the energy storage capacity of Skagit County, storing up to 200 megawatt hours of energy. The hearing will allow public testimony and is expected to conclude with a decision within two weeks.