Published February 1 2019
At Monday’s extended study session the City Council was briefed on A Regional Coalition for Housing’s (ARCH) administrative budget and work program for 2019. The total proposed annual budget is $724,400, which includes Bellevue’s share of $185,904. The contribution is accounted for in the Community Development Department General Fund budget for 2019-2020.
ARCH Executive Manager Lindsay Masters gave an overview of the proposed work program and outlined how the organization assists member jurisdictions through a variety of tools and strategies. These include investments in affordable housing through the ARCH housing fund, housing policy and planning, administration of housing programs, and education and public outreach. In addition, ARCH will be assisting the city with implementation of Bellevue’s Affordable Housing Strategy.
Following the discussion, the council directed staff to prepare legislation approving the ARCH administrative budget and work program for 2019. Additional background on ARCH can be found in the agenda packet materials.
Land Use Code Amendment discussion
Later, councilmembers heard about a land use code amendment (LUCA) that would formally allow nurseries and garden supply retail that have been operating prior to 1955 in residential districts. This amendment originated from Bellevue Nursery’s request for a Comprehensive Plan Amendment (CPA) in 2018.Last November, the council decided to consider a LUCA rather than a CPA. The CPA proposal would have changed the land use designation for Bellevue Nursery to a “neighborhood business.” The LUCA, in contrast, would result in nurseries being legitimized and allow for smaller complimentary services like a coffee cart or landscaping services. In addition, it would leave the option to clear the site and rebuild so long as the nursery remains in operation.
Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed LUCA on March 18.
Additional background on the land use code amendment can be found in the agenda packet materials.
Human Trafficking Awareness Month
Earlier, the council recognized January as “Human Trafficking Awareness Month.” Bellevue Police Chief Steve Mylett was on hand to accept the proclamation and acknowledge the department’s efforts to combat exploitation.The proclamation is available in the agenda packet materials.