Kirkland: Critical Areas Updates
Ever wondered what goes into keeping Kirkland the vibrant, green, and livable city? A big part of it involves protecting our natural environment, and that's exactly what the City of Kirkland's Planning and Building Department is actively working on.
During the Planning Commission meeting in May, members gathered to discuss a deep dive into the Critical Areas Ordinance (CAO) Briefing. This study session aims to discuss proposed amendments to the City’s CAO, which are mandated by the Washington State Growth Management Act (GMA) and must be completed by December 31, 2025. Failure to update the CAO could result in Kirkland being ineligible for State grants and loan programs and potential legal complications. The initial focus of this briefing is on updates related to wetlands and wetland buffers, with future sessions planned for fish and wildlife habitat areas (streams) and geologically hazardous areas. Staff has conducted an initial gap analysis and anticipates that significant revisions may not be needed to meet State requirements, but clarity and streamlined permitting are also goals.
Before even getting into the nitty-gritty, it's inspiring to see the City of Kirkland's Land Acknowledgment. This powerful statement recognizes that the Southern Salish Sea region, including present-day Kirkland, lies on the unceded and ancestral land of the Coast Salish peoples, including the Duwamish, Muckleshoot, Puyallup, Skykomish, Snoqualmie, Snohomish, Suquamish, and Tulalip tribes. It's a grateful honor to the land itself, the First People, and their enduring heritage.
This respect for the past seamlessly ties into Kirkland's Vision Statement: to be "one of the most livable cities in America," valuing civic engagement, innovation, diversity, and inclusivity. We strive to be a "model, sustainable city" that cherishes and enhances our natural surroundings for both our enjoyment and for generations to come.
The core of this discussion revolves around "Critical Areas" – those vital natural spaces that keep our city healthy and beautiful. The City of Kirkland regulates these areas under two key chapters of our municipal code, KZC Chapters 85 and 90. Here’s a quick rundown of what they protect:
Critical Aquifer Recharge Areas: These are crucial for keeping our public drinking water clean. Luckily, Kirkland doesn't have any identified active wells that require this protection.
Frequently Flooded Areas: Think floodplains and areas prone to water accumulation. Most of these in Kirkland are publicly owned and managed as natural spaces, but a few private properties are affected near Lower Forbes Creek, Totem Lake, and the Yarrow Bay wetlands.
Wetlands: These natural sponges reduce flooding and filter pollutants, while also providing unique habitats. From Forbes Lake to Totem Lake, and various other wetland types throughout the city, these fragile ecosystems require strong protection.
Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas: This is all about safeguarding natural areas that support endangered, threatened, and sensitive species. Juanita Creek, for example, is vital Chinook salmon habitat, and many other streams and our Lake Washington shoreline are crucial for salmon and other wildlife.
Geologically Hazardous Areas: These include slopes susceptible to landslides, erosion, or liquefaction during earthquakes. They are found throughout Kirkland, particularly on steep slopes and near stream banks.
The recent Planning Commission meeting initiated a series of discussions about refining our CAO. The first study session focused on wetlands and their buffers, with future briefings planned for streams and geologically hazardous areas. The goal is not necessarily significant overhauls, but rather to ensure state compliance, improve clarity in our code, and streamline the permitting process for everyone.
The update process involves:
Adhering to our Comprehensive Plan: Ensuring our CAO aligns with Kirkland's long-term vision for sustainability and natural protection.
Meeting State Requirements: Checking off boxes on the Department of Commerce (DOC) Critical Area Checklist.
Leveraging Best Available Science (BAS): Integrating the latest scientific understanding into our regulations to ensure they are as effective as possible.
There was also a public hearing on proposed amendments to our Unit Lot Subdivision rules, demonstrating the ongoing commitment to ensuring our development policies are thoughtfully considered.