Abbott-Blick Annexation Approved

The Enumclaw City Council voted 5-2 to pass the Monday night after first amending the ordinance to reflect a higher density zoning, in accordance with the original applicants' intention for the land area.

The ordinance that came before council prior to Monday night had still reflected an R1 zoning, which allowed for 2.9 dwelling units to be build per acre. After appeals from co-applicants Carl Abbott and Michael Blick during the first public hearing on Jan. 10, as well as public statements made by other property owners in the area under question, city staff reviewed the zoning recommendation again and amended the language of the ordinance to reflect R2 zoning, which allows for 5.2 dwelling units per acre, should the council adopt the change, said Community Development Director Erika Shook.

Leon Johnson, a homeowner who supports the R2 designation, said, "Everyone wants to tell you what to do with your property. ... The reason I was interested in signing it is that it gives me options, like if I want to short plat the land and give a piece to my kids."

Monday's meeting also provided the forum for the second public hearing regarding the annexation, during which Jason Snodgrass, another property owner in the area, also lent his support for R2. 

Councilman Sean Krebs indicated he supports the annexation but would not approve R2 because the area in question butts up against and out of the urban growth area. "It's unattractive and undesirable for this community."

Other property owners who had submitted written statements during a June 2010 public meeting indicated their preference for R1 as well. 

Jodi Grager wrote in her statement, "My husband and I have been lifelong Enumclaw residents, enjoying our rural lifestyle -- growing organic raspberries and other produce and raising sheep for our children to experience 4H. ... If we must accept the annexation of our property into the city, we will do so with good grace. However, we certainly feel that a zoning designation of R1 would be more appropriate for this area. This compromise would allow the residents who actually live on their property and have lived there for decades the space that is conducive to classic Enumclaw."

Other news from the council:

• The City Council approved a resolution establishing an interfund loan for the Y Bar S project for the amount of $160,000 at an interest rate of 4.5%.
• City Administrator Mike Thomas indicated the city has hired a new city clerk. She is Meredith Shirey, who currently serves as town clerk and treasurer for the town of Wilkeson. Her first day is March 1.
• The process of putting the issue of the on the April 26 ballot is underway, Thomas said. Krebs asked when a transfer agreement would be complete, but Thomas did not know.
• Councilman Jeff Beckwith indicated that though June seems far away, the first week of June is the filing period for any Enumclaw residents who are interested in running for a council seat in November. Three seats are up for re-election, including Beckwith's.
• Krebs, through the Community/Economic Development Committee, brought forth a proposal to invite Enumclaw School District officials to a future meeting during which they can present their proposal regarding school impact fees.

Dates to keep in mind:

• City Hall will be closed Monday, Feb. 21 to observe Presidents' Day.
• There will be an Expo Center workshop on Tuesday, Feb. 22 at 7 p.m. at City Hall.
• The Open House regarding the proposed library annexation will be Thursday, March 10 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Enumclaw High School Commons area.