The URL can be used to link to this page

Home My WebLink About2025-08-28 PC AGENDA PACKETSpokane jVa11ey Notice and Agenda For Regular Meeting Spokane Valley Planning Commission Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. Remotely via ZOOM meeting and In Person at Spokane Valley City Hall located at 10210 E Sprague Avenue NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Spokane Valley Planning Commission meeting will be held on Thursday, August 29, 2025, beginning at 6:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in Council Chambers at Spokane Valley City Hall located at 10210 E Sprague Avenue, Spokane Valley, Washington. The purpose of the meeting is to consider the items listed below on the agenda. NOTE: Members of the public may attend Spokane Valley Planning Commission meetings in -person at City Hall at the address provided above, or via Zoom at the link below. Members of the public will be allowed to comment in -person or via Zoom as described below: If making a comment via Zoom, comments must be received by 4:00 pm, the day of the meeting. Please email plammne(/Dspokanevalle or call the Planning Commission Secretary at 509-720-5110 to be added to the Zoom speaker list. Otherwise, comments will in -person at the meeting, as noted on the agenda below: LINK TO ZOOM MEETING INFORMATION: httlis://spokanevalley.zoom.us!/86262747051 US: +12532158782„ 86262747051#or+16699006833„86262747051#US US: +1 253 215 8792 US (Tacoma) Meeting ID: 962 6274 7051 AGENDA: 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. ROLL CALL 4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: August 14, 2025 6. COMMISSION REPORTS 7. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT S. PUBLIC COMMENT: Thus an opportumbjor thepublic to speakon any subject except items listed aspublic comment opportunity orpublic hearing as comments will be taken when those items appear on the agenda. 9. COMMISSION BUSINESS: a. Study Session: CPA -2025-0001—Home Business Code Text Amendment (Presented By Levi Basinger) 10. FOR THE GOOD OF THE ORDER 11. ADJOURNMENT Regular Meeting Minutes Spokane Valley Planning Commission Spokane Valley City Hall August 14, 2025 I. Chairman Robert McKinley called the regular meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. The meeting was held in person and via ZOOM meetings. H. The Commissioners and staff stood for the Pledge of Allegiance. III. Administrative Assistant Denise Mclain took attendance, and the following members and staff were present: Michael Kelly Steve Roberge, Planning Manager Bob McKinley Justan Kinsel, IT Specialist Emily Meyer Denise Mclain, Administrative Assistant John Robertson Jennifer Musselwhite, Administrative Assistant Justin Weathermon Ann Winkler - Absent Dan Wilson There was a consensus from the Planning commission to excuse Commissioner Winkler from the meeting. IV. AGENDA: Commissioner Kelly moved, and it was seconded, to approve the agenda for August 14, 2025. There was no discussion. The vote on the motion was five in favor, zero opposed, and the motion passed. V. MINUTES: Commissioner Kelly moved, and it was seconded, to approve the minutes as amended. There was no discussion. The vote on the motion was five in favor, zero opposed, and the motion passed. VI. COMMISSIONER REPORT: Commissioner Wilson attended the Farmer's Market in July where the City of Spokane Valley had an informational booth. He voiced his approval that the event was informative and well done. Commissioner Kelly agreed that the city did a greatjob with the event. He also encouraged everyone to take the survey on our website. VII. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT: Mr. Roberge encouraged the commissioners and public to go to our website and take the survey. He also reported that we would be talking about our home occupation code at the next meeting and he should also have some numbers for councilmembers to review. 07-10-2025 Planning Commission Minutes Page 2 of 3 Commissioner Meyer arrived at 6:07 p.m. VIII. PUBLIC COMMENT: There was no public comment offered. IX. COMMISSION BUSINESS: a. Study Session: Housing and Land Use Mr. Roberge presented Land Use and Housing Elements, the Housing Action Plan, and upcoming legislation. The land use map was presented and the four goals for the comprehensive plan. Commissioner Kelly asked for clarification on how we evaluate our progress towards meeting the goals of our comprehensive plan. Commissioner Wilson asked for a definition of underutilized property versus vacant land. Mr. Roberge discussed the projected growth for Spokane Valley and where the estimate projections came from. The Housing Action Plan was implemented in 2021 and sets the goals for Spokane Valley at a much more detailed level. The plan was designed to set clear, actionable strategies for the city to meet future housing needs. House Bill 1337 is about accessory dwelling units and sets changes to current guidelines. This would include allowing up to 2 units per lot, allowing more square footage, and allowing them to be sold off as independent units. Commissioner Kelly asked if the parking changes would by applicable to accessory dwelling units. Mr. Roberge said that the city sets a minimum standard that the applicant must meet. There is also a preemption clause that states the city must adopt the guidelines or they go into effect as written by the state. Commissioner Wilson voiced his concern about allowing the sale of accessory dwelling units. Commissioner Kelly asked about HOA properties and restrictions on dwelling units. Mr. Roberge said that some already exist and are allowed. Commissioner McKinley asked for clarification on if properties can start an HOA after -the -fact to avoid this type of development in their neighborhood. Commissioner Meyer voiced her support of accessory dwelling units as a way to meet housing needs and affordability in our community. House Bill 1220 is about providing housing for moderate density housing options and sufficient land capacity needs. Each income level and housing need in the community has a threshold that the city needs to meet. House Bill 1110, regarding middle housing, discusses regulations for development of residential properties to allow for up to six of the specifically defined housing types. Current building coverages, height, setbacks, and other development standards would still apply. Mr. Roberge confirmed to the commissioners that he was working on developing a more detailed schedule for the future. This schedule will have detailed deadlines for each of the requirements for the Comprehensive Plan Update. The city consultant is still working on the 09-10-2025 Planning Commission Minutes Page 3 of 3 update, but there should be something to present soon, as well as results from coordination efforts with other cities and counties. X. GOOD OF THE ORDER: Commissioner Wilson brought up the current strike that is ongoing and the effect it will have on the community and development. Commissioner Robertson asked for an update on the survey and if we were approaching the 30% goal. Chairman McKinley thanked the commissioners for their opinions and for voicing their thoughts, even when they conflict with each other. XI. ADJOURNMENT: Commissioner Meyer moved, and it was seconded, to adjoum the meeting at 7:21 p.m. The vote on the motion was six in favor, zero opposed, and the motion passed. Bob McKinley, Chairman Date Signed Denise Mclain, Secretary CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY Request for Planning Commission Action Meeting Date: August 28, 2025 Item: Check all that apply ❑ old business ® new business ❑ public hearing ❑ information ® study session ❑ pending legislation AGENDA ITEM TITLE: Study Session: Amendments to Section 19.65.190 (A) Home Businesses GOVERNING LEGISLATION: SVMC 19.65.180 (A), Chapter 36.70ARCW PREVIOUS COMMISSION ACTION: None BACKGROUND:. The purpose of the home business regulations is to allow for limited business activities within residences while ensuring that the businesses remain incidental to the residential use of the property, and that the residential viability of the dwelling is maintained. In 2024 there were approximately 459 home businesses operating within the City of Spokane Valley. Businesses may be exempt from the home business permit fee if they meet certain criteria in SVMC 19.65. 1S0(A). The City Council has been considering changes to the Master Fee Schedule which includes fees for home business permits. Fees are established as provided in Title 3 SVMC, Revenue and Finance. Permit fee changes or exemptions are expected to be determined by the City Council through the fee setting process established in Title 3 SVMC anticipated to be considered this fall. In addition, the public and staff have raised concerns about the need for additional clarity in the regulations. The proposed amendments are intended to reduce ambiguity and provide clarification in areas with frequent questions. Specifically, identifying the activities that are permitted as home businesses and the standards for home business operations. Attached are draft code changes to the SVMC 19.65.180(A), Home Businesses, and the presentation slides that will be reviewed during the meeting. We hope this provides the Planning Commission with a better understanding of the regulations and review process. The proposed changes generally include the following: • Removing the Home Business permit fee exemption; • Limiting the number of business -related trips to/from aresidence; • Adding clarification on the business activities that cannot operate at a residence; • Prohibiting residences being used as a dispatch center for a home business; and • Providing examples of permitted home businesses. ACTION OR MOTION: No action required. STAFF CONTACT: Levi Basinger, AICP, Associate Planner ATTACHMENTS: 1. Code Text Amendment Presentation 2. Draft Code Text Amendment RPCA Horne Business Regulations Amendment Page 1 of 1 19.65.+W055 Hncategorized uses Home Businesses. A. Home Businesses. The following supplemental regulations apply to all home businesses. B. Applicability. Any person, group or entity conducting an enterprise from a location whose primary use is a residence shall obtain a home business permit annually. 1 A home business may only be established in a residence that has been legally established. 2 Home business permits shall be valid fora period of 1 year from the date of approval and shall be eligible for annual renewal subject to the regulations set forth in this Chapter C. Transferability. All home business licenses are personallocation specific. and non- transferable Whenever there is a change of ownership or location anew license must be obtained. 2D. Home businesses are permitted as accessory uses, mated-bq svp ie ±a&aJffl{A)(-3)incidental to the property's primary use as a residence, subject to the following requirements: al. Business owner shall be primary resident; 92. Property shall retain a residential appearance and character; e3. All storage shall be enclosed within the residence or accessory structure; 64. There shall be a limit of two employees not residing on the premises engaged in the home business and the home business shall not serve as a dispatch center where employees come to the site and are dispatched to other locations; e5. One unlighted sign placed flush against the exterior wall of the primary structure not exceeding foursquare feet in area is permitted; f6. There shall be no window display nor shall sample commodities with the exception of flowers and produce grown on the premises be displayed outside the building(s); g7. The hours of operation are limited to between 78:00 a.m. teand+07:00 p.m.; h8. The home business use shall not create electronic interference including, but not limited to, interference with radio, satellite reception, telephone, or television reception, nor generate measurable levels at the property line of noise, dust, smoke, odor, or glare. The business activity shall not generate solid waste in volume or type which is not normally associated with a residential use , i9. Loading docks and mechanical loading devices are not permitted; M. Traffic or parking of vehicles shall not be generated in greater volumes than normally expected in a residential neighborhood. Parking shall be accommodated within the required off-street parking on private property; -end No more than ten ff0 business -related trips shall be allowed per day: 11. No more than two vehicles. related to the occupation shall be kept on the premises. 12. The use must not involve any pickups or deliveries by commercial vehicles over 26.000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) as defined in RCW 46 25 010'. 13 It will not include outdoor storage or the operation of machinery, commercial vehicles building materials or tools which will be visible or audible from other properties 3E. Specific -Examples of uses which are not permitted as on -premises home businesses include, but are not limited to, the following: e. Auto "epa "I 61. Auto body "eparrAutomotive or vehicle services: e2. Cabinet making; f: (ennekor-stables; g3. Large appliance,f_electronics or equipment repair or service; b4. Manufacturing and/or related storage; 5. Point of purchase retail sales: ifi. Restaurants/drinking establishments; 7Z. Small engine repair; ic$. Truck hauling and/or tow storage yard; t9. Vehicle sales; 10 Veterinary clinics hospitals stables or kennels and ml 1. Welding or metal plating shops-amcl F. Examples of uses that are permitted as a home business include but are not limited to the following, provided the criteria per SVMC 19 65 055 (D) is met 1 Artists illustrators writers photographers (no photo processing) editors drafters publishers: 2. Barber or beautician: 3. Computer -based services such as pfsprammi ngweb design. or other graphics 4. Distribution of products assembled at home for off -premises sales (such as handmade oods7 5 Tailor-made and handmade clothing 6. Interior decorator 7 Mail order business or sales representative 8. Professional office for consultants and other similar activities 9 Accountant or bookkeeper and 10 Upholstery and furniture repair. Appendix A: Definitions Home business: A business, profession, or craft accessory to the residential use. Home Business Code Text Amendment Levi Basinger, AICP, Associate Planner SpOka e� August 28, 2025Valley® Text Amendment Review Criteria SVMC 17.80.150 Who Can Initiate • Property Owners • Any citizen, agency, or party • The department, planning commission, city council Approval Criteria • The amendment is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. • The amendment bears a substantial relation to public health, safety. Welfare, and protection of the environment. Timeline Planning Commission • Study Session -August 28, 2025 • Public Hearing- September 11, 2025 • Findings of Fact- September 25, 2025 City Council • Administrative Report- October 7, 2025 • First Ord Reading- October 14, 2025 • Second Ord Reading- October 21, 2025 Background • City of Spokane Valley reviews all requests for business licenses • Approx. 458 home businesses as of 2024 • Small-scale businesses are allowed to operate from a residence • Professionals with home office • Barbers and beauticians • Computer -based services • Small-scale repair services • Larger scale, potentially disruptive businesses cannot operate out of a residence • Automotive services • Retail sales • Large appliance repair • Kennel SVMC 19.65.180(A) Home Businesses Proposed Amendments: • Remove Home Business permit fee exemption • Limit of ten (10) business -related trips • Clarify business activities that cannot operate at a residence • Prohibit dispatch centers at residences • Provide examples of permitted home businesses • Add new section of municipal code for home businesses • 19.65.180(A) to 19.65.055 Reason for Amendments • City Council considering changes to fee schedule • Fees discussed in Title 3 SVMC, Revenue & Finance • Not discussed in Title 19 SVMC, Zoning Regulations • Fees and exemptions adopted by Council Resolution • Concerns on disruptive business activities • Provide clear standards for home business operations • Clarify prohibited business operations in residences 19.85.988-885 Uncategori:ed-useaHome Businesses. A. Home Businesses. The following supplemental regulations apply to all home businesses. lc�nflo i whose pr mmryus- is R residence shulLokitmi i a harie bus! iess permit. A home bus! iess may o i y be established in a residence that has bee i egolly permitted. Businesses maybe exempt f � ii the homie bus! iegm pe mit fee, as establ shed rnmater fee schedule, if oil of the fo4owing erl�eFla are met - win ch change the resident.alcharmeter of the ip�iperit-, It. Goods and ecmricdjt es associeted with the business are not deij%ferad to !he c. There are no businesscustomiersvistingthe pro iii�, d. Them are no signs or window displays on the property reeted to the bus iess, and B. APPlicsbibty. Any Person, group or entity conducting an enterprise from a location whose nrimary use is a residence shall obtain a home business permit. A home business may only be established in a residence that has been legally permitted. C. Transferability. A home business permit is valid only for the use, entity and property listed on the permit and is not transferable to another person, entity. property or business. 2D. Home businesses are permitted as accessory uses, except asand Icated-by SUMS 19-:65.4W W(3rincidental to the property's primary use as a residence, subject to the following requirements: al. Business owner shall be primary resident: b2. Property shall retain a residential appearance and character: c3. All storage shall be enclosed within the residence or accessory structure d4. There shatlbe a limit of two employees not residing on the premises engaged in the home business and the home business shall not serve as a dispatch centerwhere employees come to the site and a re dispatched to other locations: e5. One unlighted sign placed flush against the exteriorwallof the primarystructu re not exceeding foursquare feet in area is permitted: f6. There shall be no window display nor shall sample commodities with the exception -of flowers and produce grown on the premises he displayed outsidethe building(s): g7. The hours of operation are Limited to between 78:00 a.m. taand 997:00 p.m.: h8. The home business use shalt not create electronic interference including, but not limited to, interference with radio, satellite reception, telephone, ortelevision reception, nor generate measurable levels at the property line of noise, dust, smoke, odor, or glare. The business activityshall not generate solid waste in volume ortype which is not normally associated with a residential use u iless specifically permitted; i9. Loading docks and mechanical [ceding devices are not permitted j10. Traffic or parking of vehicles shaLl not be generated in greater volumes than normally expected in a residential rie ighborhood. Parking shaLl be accommodated within the required off-street parking on private property; and. No more than ten 110}business-related trios shall he allowed per day' 11. No more than two vehicles, related to the occupation shalt be kept on the premises. 12. The use must not involve any pickups or deliveries by commercial vehicles over 26A00 pounds gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) as defined in RCW 46.25. 10: 13. It will not include outdoor storage or the operation of machinery, commercial vehicles, building materials, or tools which will be visible or audible irom other properties. 3E. SpeeifieExamoles of uses which are not pennitted as on -premises home businesses include, but are not limited to, the following: repair,a. Adult retail use eate ol shnnent; c. Auto dl . Ants- body -repahAutomotive or vehicle services: e2. Cabinet makin g3. Large appliancefelectronics orequipment repair orseruice 5.Pointpfpurchase retail sates' h4. Manufacturing and/or related store a i6. Restaurants/drinking establishments, j7. SmaLL engine kS. Truck hauling an d/or tow storage 19. Vehicle sales; 1G. Veterinary clinics. hospitals. stables or kennels: and tn11. WeLd ing or metal plating shops; and F. Examples of uses that are permitted as a home business include. but are not limited to, the following, provided the criteria Per 5VMC 19.66.055 (DI is met: 1. Artists, illustmtors.wdters photographers ino photo pmcessingl editors, drafters. puhlishers 2. Barber or beautician: 3. Computer -based services such as programming. web design, or other graphics 4. Distribution of Products assembled at home for off -premises sales (such as garden Droduce or craffsl: 5. Tailor-made and handmade clothing: 6. Interior decorator: 7. Mail order business or saLes representative: B. Professional officeior consultants and other similar activities• S.Accountant orbookkeever:and 10. Upholstery and iurnitum repair. QUESTIONS