HomeMy WebLinkAboutord2003-013WHAI TCOM COUNTY COUNCIL AGENDA BILL NO. 2002-084S
CLEARANCES
originator: Sylvia Goodwin
Initial
Date
Date Received in CounrR O ice
_ .J V E
CCp 1) 2nn'1
JCI I I
Z WHATCOM COUNTY
COUNCIL
Aeads Dare
9 -24 -02
Assi tied to:
Introduction
11/1122/'02
P &D / 17LZ.11iet6
Division Head. Sylvia Goodwin
�e p 03
1-1 e c-O'l
Dept Head: Hat Hart
/i.
l�
Prosecutor: Karen Flakes
PmchasinglBudget
Sit
Executor: Pete Kremer
-Jn
SUBJECT: Proposed amendments to the ECOnOmic Chapter oil the whatcwm County Comprehensive Plan.
ATTACHMENTS:
(1) Proposed ordinance reflecting the Planning Commission's recommendations.
Note: Back round materials are available or review at the Count Cauncilo rce.
SEPA review required? ( x ) Yes ( ) NO Should Clerk schedule a hearing? ( No )Yes ( ) NO
SEPA review completed? ( x )Yes ( ) NO Requested Date: *A hearing must be hem iifthe Council changes the Planning
Cola meneration(WCC20.10.110).
mission recom
SUMMARY STATEMENT: State law requires Counties to review their
comprehensive plans to ensure continued compliance with the Growth
Management Act. Whatoom County has commenced this process and is
bringing forward amendments to the Economics Chapter for consideration
by the County Council The County Executive recommends that the
County Council hold a public hearing on this chapter to add an additional
paragraph and policy regarding County government facilities, attached as
Exhibit B.
Note: The subject proposal is one of a number of comprehensive plan
amendments initiated this year. These amendments must be considered
concurrently by the County Council so that the cumulative effect of the
various proposals can be evaluated (RCW 36.70A.130). Additionally,
pursuant to the review schedule established in WCC 20.10.120, final
Council action on these amendments should occur by November 30.
Distribution Request
Indicate those whoxeoum receive a copy /ter Counedi ion.
Lsi vacate names to the right.
ADS F4arires Management
ADS Finance
ADS Human Resources
ADStnp.Se"wee
Assessor
Keith WHInauer
Auditor
cooperative Extension
District Court
Executive
Heath
Hearing Examiner
.tail
COUNCIL ACTION TAKEN:
2002 -64S 9/2412002 Introduced
1 111 212 0 0 2: Public hearing on amended version to be
scheduled 7-0
112 812 0 0 3: Amended and moved forward to wncurrency
meeting, 7 -0
12812002: Adopted 6 -0, Nelson absent, Ord #2003 -013
Ruth
Related File Numbers: AB2002 -084
PaarXs ks
Planning
Hal Hart
Prosecutor
Public Works
Sheri
Superior Court
Tree ure
Other
Ordinance or Resolulop Number
(this item): �i'7f- z 3
12PlanningDivisionAComp Plan AmendmemsVComp Plan 2002VCMP2002- 00008(Economics Chapt ) -ADdw
830 -02
SPONSORED BY: Planning
PROPOSED BY: Planning
INTRODUCTION DATE: 9/24/02
ORDINANCE # 2003 -013
AMENDING THE ECONOMICS CHAPTER OF THE
WHATCOM COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
WHEREAS, The Growth Management Act requires counties and cities to review and, if
needed, revise comprehensive plans to ensure continued compliance with the GMA (RCW
36.70A.130); and
WHEREAS, It is also appropriate to review the comprehensive plan in light of new
information and changed County priorities; and
WHEREAS, Legal notice was published in the Bellingham Herald; and
WHEREAS, The Planning Commission held a public hearing on the proposal; and
WHEREAS, The Planning Commission has evaluated the proposed amendments and made
certain modifications;
WHEREAS, The County Council has considered the Planning Commission's Findings of
Fact & Reasons for Action, Conclusions, and Recommendations.
The Council makes the following findings of fact and conclusions:
FINDINGS OF FACT
1. Notice of the Planning Commission hearing for the subject amendment was published in
the Bellingham Herald on June 29, 2002.
2. The Planning Commission held a public hearing on the subject amendment on July 11,
2002.
3. A determination of non - significance was issued under the State Environmental Policy
Act (SEPA) on August 5, 2002.
4. Growth Management Act (GMA) planning goal #5 is to `Encourage economic
development throughout the state that is consistent with adopted comprehensive plans,
promote economic opportunity for all citizens of this state, especially for unemployed
and for disadvantaged persons, and encourage growth in areas experiencing insufficient
economic growth, all within the capacities of the state's natural resources, public services,
and public facilities."
P. I
5. Growth Management Act (GMA) planning goal #11 is to `Encourage the involvement of
citizens in the planning process and ensure coordination between communities and
jurisdictions to reconcile conflicts."
6. All Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan Goals 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 7E, 7F, 7G, 7H, 71,
and 7.1 address these GMA planning goals.
7. The proposed amendments are consistent with and implement the Countywide Planning
Policies regarding Economic Development.
CONCLUSIONS
I. The subject amendments are consistent with Growth Management Act, County Wide
Planning Policies, and Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan.
2. The proposal is consistent with the public interest because they update the
Comprehensive Plan to reflect new information and County priorities.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Whatcom County Council that:
Section 1. The Economics Chapter of the Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan is hereby
amended as shown on Exhibit A.
Section 2. Adjudication of invalidity of any of the sections, clauses, or provisions of this
ordinance shall not affect or impair the validity of the ordinance as a whole or any part thereof
other than the part so declared to be invalid.
ADOPTED this 28th day of January , 2003
ATTEST:
Dana Brown- Davis, Council Clerk
Z VED as to form:
Civil Deputy Prosecutor
Date:
P.2
WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
WHATCOM COUNTY, WASHINGTON
�G
Dan McShan hairperson
( pproved ( ) Denied
Pete Kremen, Executive
Chapter Seven - Economics Revised 8ec°Tb
289Uanuary 28, 2003
'EXHIBIT A' Chapter Seven
ECONOMICS
INTRODUCTION
Purpose
Economic vitality is the measure of the economic health of the County - -its people, its
businesses, and its government. A way of enhancing economic vitality is through public and
private action designed to achieve:
1. Maintenance of a strong sustainable economic base
2. Diversification of the local economy
3. Improved job training and educational opportunities; and
4. Creation and maintenance of a range of family -wage jobs
Economic vitality can also be described simply as job retention, job creation, job training
programs, public and private capital investment and business and community capacity -
building to allow businesses or community groups to do the job themselves. The purpose of
the economic element is to set goals and establish policies, which promote economic vitality
for the future of Whatcom County. This chapter provides policies that directly affect other
elements of this plan and how this plan was drafted. There are also policies that can be
utilized to help direct future planning actions or to review private requests for plan
amendments, rezones, or specific projects. Finally, the list of specific action items set forth
direction for immediate and long—term actions by the county and suggestions that involve
other entities interested in Economic Development.
Process
This chapter was originally created by utilizing policies from the Overall Economic
Development Program (OEDP), developed while working with the boards of the
Bellingham/Whatcom County Economic Development Council (EDC), formerly Fourth Corner
Economic Development Group, the Bellingham /Whatcom Chamber of Commerce, the
Chamber of Commerce Economic Committee, and an ad hoc committee that was established
to review industrial land supply issues. Currently, the Economic Development Administration
CEDS.
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan 7 -1
Chapter Seven - Economics Revised 8e°-T" �r1
economic proposals throughout the county.
GMA Goals, County -Wide Planning Policies, and Visioning Community Value
Statements
This chapter specifically addresses Goal #5 of the Growth Management Act, which
encourages economic development and economic opportunity for all citizens of the state. The
County -Wide Planning Policies and Community Value Statements also have sections on
economic development, which this chapter specifically addresses. Examples include
recognition of the need for a healthy economy; the emphasis on coordination and cooperation
among jurisdictions and public /private partnering; coordination with environmental quality;
and the desire to maintain the resource based industries and recreation as we move toward a
more diversified economy. In general this chapter addresses the points raised in the Jobs
Based Eooaomy °esel Itc^CEDS, the County -Wide Planning Policies, and the Visioning
Community Value Statements but goes beyond allbeth documents to address other economic
issues.
GMA Requirements
WhileBeginning in 2002,
the Growth Management Act PI ___
but deer no
eeenemigg
spas sail),requires itan
economic element to be included as a
comprehensive
plan element_,
In
addition, the County Council has specifically requested that the CEDS report prepared by the
jobs Ra68d InGeRemy Gomm tt° °Partnership for a Sustainable Economy be incorporated in
the comprehensive plan. With this update to the Economics Chapter of the Como Plan
current economic data contained within the CEDS and other sources is incorporated. This
chapter directly accomplishes thatthe above objectives though economic policies also appear
in other chapters of this plan.
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan 7 -2
Chapter Seven - Economics Revised Bete— ,,,e: .r
WG4January 28 2003
BACKGROUND SUMMARY
Historically, Whatcom County has had a cyclical economy. The unemployment rate - typically
runs nearly a percentage point er— more - higher than the state as a whole though the 2002
year -to -date (10 month) average unemployment rate for Whatcom County of 6.3% is lower
than the state average of 7.1 %. aad- aAverage annual wages run several thousand dollars
below the state as a wholegal) that continues to grow. A number of efforts have been made
in the past to address the economic issues in the county. Beginning in 197-266 and
continuing periodically thereafter, the Whatcom County Council of Governments, working with
public and private sectors, published an Overall Economic Development Program (OEDP).
For the years 19901 to 19943, the OEDP was prepared by the EDC, in cooperation with
Whatcom County Council of Governments. Since 1993 the Whatcom County area has not
had an update to overall or comprehensive economic development strategy until completion
of the CEDS process.
The earlier programs led to several studies that were completed in the early 1980s, including:
The Business Triad Report, 1981; The Economic Futures Study of Whatcom County, 1983;
and The Stanford Research Institute Study, 1983. These studies led to the creation of Team
Whatcom, a coordinating group, and Fourth Corner Economic Development Group, both of
which joined with the Council of Governments, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Port of
Bellingham to sponsor studies and /or carry the economic development role in the county. In
1987, the Business College at Western Washington University led an exercise involving all of
the agencies in Whatcom County interested in economic development. From this exercise, a
major conclusion was that there is a need for continuing coordination. In 1989, the Cities of
Everson and Nooksack held economic summits sponsored by Puget Sound Power and Light.
Several years later, the City of Ferndale followed suit.
Early in 1993, an ad hoc industrial land supply committee was created under the auspices of
EDC to review industrial land supply needs. The Whatcom County Council appointed a Jobs
Based Economy Committee that published a report in September 1994. Prior to an economic
summit in October 1994, the Chamber of Commerce published a background study on the
local economy.
In addition an Economic Development Task Force (EDTF) was formed in the fall of 1996
to address economic development issues, network between jurisdictions and
organizations in Whatcom County and to take positive actions ta—in Noe-- €eNewMao
a seas information and marketin 7 regulatory issues; and infrastructure In addition the
EDTF was charged with the mission to facilitate actions that will improve the economy
of Whatcom County. A full work plan was established from which to accomplish these
obiectives.
2. Re ater�, SsHes� and
3twe.
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan 7-3
Seven - Economics
Revised D�—T
a 000b,ru.. g Bala ,
X Benefits
:
vamrr urr,ng
4. c Sta R21911 t of REI ..f. .
i..t..�
a
v :
ic�vm..ry
Assist helping tR QGAtP
need Rlep.HtnFy
5. with ndUStFY
Develop tes to
s ready 96
We Package
7. Marketing StFategies
StandWd PF�Fqe Package
IN and
o ,ped to the o. o.,.,.,,...
individual
Frames)
0. Ffflit (T- f4%
• Goal A7 Finance and maintain appropriate infrastructure for community and economic
development.
• Goal B: Ensure sustainable development and uses of natural resources
• Goal C� Promote a diverse economy by sector and location.
• Goal D: Foster collaborative working relationships among economic development
stakeholders at the community, state federal international and tribal levels.
• Goal E Provide and retain a high quality workforce.
Goal F Increase public understanding and involvement in economic issues
Numerous strategies accompany each of the above Goals
MINORITY POPULATION ISSUES -- Historically, Native Americans, the largest minority
population in Whatcom County, have had high unemployment rates. This has been further
impacted by the loss of fisheries, although casinos recently built on both reservations have
partially substituted for this loss. Another growing cultural group in the county is the Hispanic
community, which came to Whatcom County for seasonal agriculture work and has chosen to
stay. Seasonal employment, however, cannot provide for adequate housing and other basic
needs. Russian and Ukrainian immigrants are another small but growing minority in
Whatcom County who may have special needs.
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan 7 -4
Chapter Seven - Economics Revised 9eeem`�.�,� 7-7,
2904January 28 2003
STRATEGIC ECONOMIC VITALITY ISSUES - -There are a number of major economic vitality
issues facing Whatcom County. These issues are discussed individually below and each is
addressed through a specific goal with attendant policies.
ISSUES, GOALS, AND POLICIES
Diversified Economy
Quality of life is an essential component in many people's choice to live in Whatcom County.
A fundamental aspect of "quality of life" characteristics this is a strong and diversified
economy, one that is relatively recession - proof, and one that can provide family -wage
employment, affordable housing, discretionary income, tax base, and sponsors for worthy
causes. Such an economy should provide for all
segments of society with a geographic distribution that spreads the jobs and tax base
throughout the area. This concept was reinforced by a non - statistical Business Retention and
to 77 %.
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan 7 -5
Economics Revised Dew„mber1 -t
GOAL 7A: Promote a healthy economy which provides ample opportunity for family-
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan 7 -6
wage jobs for diverse segments of the community is essential to the
quality of life in the area.
Policy 7A -1:
Together with the cities, provide an ample, developable land supply for
commercial and industrial uses to provide opportunity for new and expanding
firms wishing to locate or remain in Whatcom County.
Policy 7A -2:
Foster a diverse, private- sector job base- wNchbase. which will provide family -
wage jobs at the state median income level or greater, and facilitate the
retention and expansion of existing businesses.
Policy 7A -3:
Employ innovative techniques to attract a mix of diversified industries for a
broader economic base.
Policy 7A -4:
In addition to stimulating family -wage jobs and jobs in diverse sectors, plan for
service - related jobs such as those necessary to support tourism, recreation,
and retailing as well as those that relate to industry.
Policy 7A -5:
Support a joint venture between the public and private sector in a training and
technology partnership with local education resource providers in the interest of
supporting the development of an educated work force as a key factor for
economic success. Such partnerships should include Western Washington
University, Whatcom Community College, Bellingham Technical College NW
Workforce Development Council, and businesses and industries.
Policy 7A -6:
Support "Industrial Incubators" to facilitate start-up operations for small
companies which are bigger than cottage industries, but not yet ready for a
stand -alone industrial site.
Policy 7A -7:
Foster an adequate housing supply for all income levels as a prerequisite for a
healthy economy.
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan 7 -6
Seven - Economics
7A -8: Enhance the environment for resource - -based industries ano the growing
service industry with an emphasis on the communities in eastern Whatcom
County.
Policy 7A -9: Produce a strategic plan to guide the county's participation in tourism
development marketing.
Policy 7A-107 Establish a competitiveness review of policies taxes /fees processes and other
influences that impact county businesses.
Coordination /Cooperation and Public /Private Partnerships
In the mid 1980s, it was recognized that cooperation and coordination were essential
components to achieve a strong economy. Special efforts were made to accomplish these;
both the City of Bellingham and Whatcom County hired staff with this focus.
revealed. As the area continues
to grows and
systems
become more complex, it
increasingly important to maintain
this effort.
and the
Convention and Visitor
GOAL 7B: Support increased public /private sector partnering among all entities
involved with economic development.
Policy 7B -12: Work with
the
Partnership for a Sustainable Economy Chambers of
Commerce,
the
Port of Bellingham, the EDC,
and the
Convention and Visitor
Bureau and
^^ ^^� e;ssa%to
other groups o., -
attract
sustainable industry to
proiects
contained
Whatcom County
and to assist expansion and
retention
of local businesses.
Policy 76 -23: Continue to work with the °__._..__ _ __ -^' Task Force ' °f TO` of
Whateem GeerHyPartnership for a Sustainable Economy in informal meetings
of staff from all the entities and jurisdictions involved with economic
development to discuss issues of interest on a periodic basis.
Policy 7B -34: With the Partnership for a Sustainable Economy, cities, Port of Bellingham.
Port ^f Bell ^^h^^„- Council of Governments, EDC, Chambers of Commerce
business, labor, education, and other social and community interests, continue
to cooperate, and prepare and implement the annual 9ver 11 EGenomie
Comprehensive Economic Development Strateav and
other economic analyses and plans.
Policy 76 -467
Identify,
develop and
match
funding
opportunities
with the
economic
development
proiects
contained
within
the
CEDS report
Funding
sources
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan 7 -7
Seven - Economics
Rural
Development
grants
and loans private investment
local
match
and
many
other federal
state and
local sources.
Policy 713 -5� Encourage utilization of current technology and efficient communications tools
to disseminate information.
Infrastructure
Despite the many natural advantages for economic growth in Whatcom County, several
factors constrain the creation of future wealth in the county. One of the factors is the lack of
adequate infrastructure for future industrial development. An adequate water distribution
system is one example.
Water quantity and quality and the distribution system needed to supply water are all
elements of the water supply problem. In addition, the complex legal issues regarding rights
to water wiliare being considered relative to planning for future growth (see Utilities Chapter).
Future water withdrawals from the region's rivers and aquifers will be considered relative to
the need to provide adequate water for other users. In 1998 through the enactment of state
planning for sustainable economic development
Watershed planning must continue to be considered relative to the 20 year plans for sewer,
all- weather access roads, and appropriate storm drainage to encourage new industries to
easily locate in Whatcom County.
Along with planning for future water and other infrastructure for economic development,
electric energy supply and communications isare also important for future economic growth
within the county. The expansion or construction of new transmission facilities is a169
important for the locational decisions of the industries that might want to locate to Whatcom
County. Also Of ftb 8F apt c .._a w Feless InteMet s th gh the pFepesed
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan 7-8
Seven - Economics
,.,A.. ons.,+�. _ K
Ensure adequate infrastructure to support existing ana tuture
development and evolving technology.
Policy 7C -1: Continue to work with all involved parties to ensure an adequate water supply
and distribution system to support economic growth.
Policy 7C -2: Encourage the provision of adequate transportation infrastructure including
roads to all industrial sites. GFe..._ ,..._...._...._ __.._ the .'_-_! _Ra
^a as.
Policy 7C -3: Work with service providers for a dependable electric power supply,
etheFalternative energy sources, communications, and evolving technology to support
existing and future business development.
Policy 7C -4: Encourage location of industrial areas especially where sewer and water
service and all weather access can be readily provided when necessary.
Policy 7C -5: Support the efforts of the PUD #1 and area communication and cable
companies to get a fiber optic network throughout Whatcom County.
Policy 7C -6: ° .. ^��- `^^ a Investigateing an east -west rail line between Cherry Point
and Abbotsford, B.C. including stops in Custer, Lynden and Sumas.
Policy 7C -7: Participate in the ongoing ^gin, implementation and operation of the a
seunty- widecountvwide water resources management body (WRIA #1)
for Whatcom County.
Policy 7C -9: Recognize the importance of integrated transportation planning to economic
development.
Regulations /Processing
Governmental regulations are both a perceived and a real problem. Sufficient regulatory
control and enforcement is needed to protect the environment and general health, safety, and
welfare of the community and also to assure minimum quality standards to protect
development investments from adverse effects from neighboring development. This must be
tempered to avoid excessive cost, inflexibility, unpredictability, and excessive time delays.
Ample land is needed with proper zoning to ensure a wide range of choice and preclude
excessive land prices. Such lands should be located in areas suitable for development thus
minimizing the need for regulatory controls.
Site - specific
environmental constraints such as wetlands, streams,
and
river protection areas
reduce land
use options for many businesses
and industrial firms.
The
current incremental,
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan 7 -9
Chapter Seven - Economics Revised D669" b�T
site -by -site approach to regulating environmental resources is considered an impediment to
achieving economic vitality goals. One step toward addressing this issue is the initiation by
GOAL 7D: Consistent with other goals of the county, strive for balanced, clear, and
document Kev Policies Related to Local Economic Development
Proximity To Canada
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan 7 -10
predictable overall policies, practices and regulations which do not
unnecessarily or inadvertently prevent, confuse, delay or create costly
hurdles restricting effective and desirable economic development.
Policy 7D -1:
Work with state and federal agencies to coordinate and streamline
environmental review.
Policy 7D -2:
In implementing this plan, do in -depth environmental analysis for
comprehensive plans and subarea plans to limit the need for future analysis by
the private sector to a few issues that are unique to a specific project and
cannot be reasonably analyzed at a subarea level.
Policy 7D -3:
Seek grants to develop government- sponsored environmental impact
statements for specific industrial sites.
Policy 7D -4:
Integrate and simplify regulations to make them more understandable and
user - friendly.
Policy 7D -5:
Utilize graphic illustrations to explain choices, which cannot be clearly
conveyed in a few words.
Policy 7D -6:
Utilize private sector professional review, where appropriate, to streamline the
permitting process and provide a choice of reviewing options for applicants
including engineers who could provide pre- approved engineered drawings.
Policy 7D -7:
Streamline and coordinate the permit process and sustain a supportive
customer service approach towards permitting.
Policy 7D -8:
Develop a computerized system, similar to the public library system, and an
Internet web site so computer owners can receive information on the status of
projects, latest drafts of documents, and access to general resources via the
Internet.
Policy 7D -9:
Create options for greater flexibility in the regulatory and development review
process.
Policy 7D -107
Review and incorporate into local planning processes the goals and policies
summarized from countvwide_.planning documents in the CEDS appendix
document Kev Policies Related to Local Economic Development
Proximity To Canada
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan 7 -10
Chapter Seven - Economics Revised Beam ^w,.,�� 77-
2004January 28. 2003
The impact of the British Columbia population on the local Whatcom County economy is
considered both an asset and a liability, depending on the particular type of impact being
considered. The large Canadian consumer population has created an inordinately large retail
sector in Whatcom County. In 1994, estimates indicated that over 25% of all county
employment iwas related to Canadian consumer activity, and 30% to 40% of all county retail
activity dependeds on the Canadian shopper. Over time, the impact of Canadian consumer
activity has fluctuated greatly, primarily in relationship to the value of the Canadian dollar and
Retail jobs tend to be low -wage, frequently part-time and without
benefits. Even though these jobs can prove to be a valuable asset to a community by
providing supplemental family income, part-time work availability, and eRtpt4e elentry -level
positions, when this is factored with the rising cost of living in Whatcom County, it becomes
apparent that many local retail jobs do not pay a living wage. This fact has important
ramifications for funding public sector services, provision of affordable housing, meeting
rising medical costs, and supply of other basic services.
A more positive aspect of the proximity to Canada is the opportunity to provide for Canadian
companies who want to expand or relocate in the United States to broaden their market or
enjoy other economic advantages.
GOAL 7E: Enhance the economic trade, tourism and industrial siting advantages of
the county's location adjacent to the Canadian border.
Policy 7E -1: Support attractions for Canadians and other visitors so they will remain in the
community longer and distribute their spending throughout the community.
Some of the examples would include support for such items as the following:
X events such as the "Ski to Sea" race and festival
X the Whatcom Museum of History and Art, Mount Baker Theater, other
historic and cultural centers, and community revitalization efforts
X parks and open spaces
X the Bellingham Festival of Music
X the Mount Baker outdoor recreation area
X farmers markets and other natural resource based activities
X oroiects. events and activities of unincorporated areas such as Point
Roberts Birch Bay and East County.
Policy 7E -2: Work cooperatively with jurisdictions in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia,
along with US and Canadian national governments, to facilitate the
development of economic, transportation, and environmental initiatives.
Policy 7E -3: Use Western Washington University as a regional resource and major draw for
Canadians and others who participate in symposiums and other regional
events.
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan 7 -11
Chapter Seven - Economics Revised December 14,,
2994Jamiary 28 2003
Policy 7E4: Continue to provide assistance and the opportunity for Canadian companies to
relocate or set up a second plant in Whatcom County, while at the same time
encouraging our companies to explore and develop markets in Canada.
Lose! Businesses Retention and Expansion
It is also important to encourage locally owned and operated businesses to re- invest profits
and wages in the local community. A local company with national or international interests,
or a national firm with major local investment can provide substantial support to local causes
and educational and cultural activities and the tax base. Local businesses use local banks
and other support services, which help keep dollars cycling through the local economy.
GOAL 7F: Encourage development that creates local re- investment funds and
provides jobs in the local community.
Policy 7F -1: Support existing local businesses as the major contributors of job creation and
regeneration and afford them every opportunity to continue their success in the
community.
Policy 7F -2: Encourage investments whose products and services can be marketed beyond
the borders of Whatcom County, both domestically and internationally.
Policy 7F -3: Encourage firms to contribute financially as a partner with the public sector in
sharing the costs for civic and cultural needs of the community at large.
Policy 7F -4: Enhance opportunities for increased resource based (agricultural, forest,
fisheries and mining products) value added industries.
Goordinatien -With Economic Growth and Environmental Quality
Often economic development and environmental protection are seen as opposites. Because
growth can increase pressure on sensitive areas and resource lands there can be some truth
to this. However, both economic vitality and environmental quality are interrelated and are
extremely important to the community. Economic development requires adequate water
supply as a fundamental need. The fishing and shellfishing industries are particularly
dependent on water, good water quality, and habitat. The tourist industry needs these same
attributes. Washington CEO, dated November 1993, printed a sawey -wh chsurvev which
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan 7 -12
Seven - Economics
ranked quality of life and environment first and third, respectively, as reasons for business to
be attracted to the State of Washington. Conversely a strong economy that provides well-
Devine iobs allows the leisure time and the resources to focus on environmental protection.
regulates.
GOAL 7G: Coordinate economic development with environmental, resource, and
other comprehensive land use and open space policies and measures to
enhance the community's overall quality of life.
Policy 7G -1: Recognize the natural environment as a major asset and manage
environmental resources accordingly.
Policy 7G -2: Review the environmental protection plan for Whatcom County to coordinate
with and incorporate economic development objectives.
Policy 7G -3: Provide support to Whatcom County's tourist industry to maintain and enhance
a balance between the economic benefits of tourism and the local quality of
life.
Policy 7G-4: Encourage a "sustainable materials economy" by:
X Supporting recycling and the processing of used and waste resources
into economically viable products
X Supporting state -of- the -art technology and conservation techniques to
minimize demands on— resources such as water, energy, and other
natural and developed resources
Policy 7G -5: Coordinate environmental and economic planning efforts.
Policy 7G -6: Address environmental issues on a county -wide basis so that areas like the
Cherry Point Industrial area or public access areas such as marinas or the
airport can expand as necessary using mitigation banking or other appropriate
mitigation measures.
Natural Resource Based Industries
While accounting
for less than 65% of
the total
county
employment,
resource based
industries are still
major components of the
economy.
counties in the state. Some resource jobs tend to be 44h- pay;4ghiah oavina and it is the
resource industries that give Whatcom County its distinctive flavor.
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan 7 -13
Chapter Seven - Economics Revised D66ei;.bsF 4,
2&64January 28. 2003
The reduction in jobs in the resource
industries not only
lowers the average wages, it also
disproportionately eliminates jobs from
different segments
of society.
For example,
dwindling
fisheries have impacted those who,
historically, have
relied on
fishing for a
livelihood.
Forest - industry job losses also severely impact families living in the eastern part of the
New technologv and improved practices are continually being evaluated With the decrease
in farmland and increase in farm productivity, more manure waste is being generated in
decreasing areas of agricultural land Thus efforts to use waste for biogas (energy
production) is under studv.
GOAL 7H: To promote economic diversity, continue to support the resource
industries as significant elements of the local economy including the
employment base.
Policy 7H -1: Ensure that sufficient agricultural land, support services, and skills are
available to encourage a healthy and diversified agricultural economy.
Policy 7H -2: Work with other agencies and groups to improve the condition of the fishery
resource, including habitat maintenance and enhancement, especially for
habitats utilized by threatened and endangered fish species.
Policy 7H -3: Maintain the commercial 'eFest ^ ^ ,dforestland base of Whatcom County to
assure the industry's continued economic viability and sustainable harvest.
Policy 7H -4: As part of a broad -based economy, foster productive timber, agriculture and
fisheries industries in a sustainable manner.
Policy 7H -5: Support mining, which is compatible with other land use and environmental
policies, including surface mining of sand, gravel, and rock and subsurface
mining of other minerals found in Whatcom County such as gold and silver;
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan 7 -14
Chapter Seven - Economics Revised 9e°-a�
2983January 28.2003
Policy 7H -6: Promote the expansion of "value added" production of secondary products and
resources to support the primary resource industries and maintain wealth and
jobs in the local community.
area.
Unemployment and Underemployment
Hister+eall) 0ver the
past five years
(1996 - 2001),
unemployment has tended
to run eae- er -hye
nearly a percentage
points higher
in Whatcom
County 5( 8 %) than in the
state as a whole
AR i„t'^^the -`Ate. Unemployment tends to affect minorities harder; thus, lessening the
opportunity for cultural diversity. However, this relationship has reversed during 2002 with the
GOAL 7J: In an economic strategy for Whatcom County, address unemployment
and underemployment as important issues and continue the effort to
increase family wage jobs.
Policy 7J -1: Support creation of job opportunities for local residents, especially family wage
jobs to decrease unemployment and underemployment.
Policy 7J -2: Support economic development that recognizes and respects the needs,
concerns, rights, and resources of a diversity of cultural groups, and allow them
every opportunity to participate and benefit in this process in full partnership
with the community at large.
Policy 7J -3: Through grants and other opportunities focus on absorbing and retraining
displaced workers from declining industries.
Geographic Diversity
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan 7 -15
Chapter Seven - Economics
Revised Deeember i4,
A final issue with the local economy is the location of the majority of jobs in the western -most
portion of the lowlands area of Whatcom County. This is where the majority of the population
lives and works, and the infrastructure is available, and where most of the jobs should
continue to be located. But as the commercial forestry, farming and fishing job base declines
and people disperse more throughout the county, commuting distances increase, creating
greater impacts on the road system. Also, there is additional need for more discretionary
income for travel costs. The .'egg cf ta)( `rccc fcr c^::!:es such as the "."^ ° ^'^' SAhosl
Whateem owrtc�.
GOAL 7K: Enable a geographic balance for economic growth within the capacities
of the county's natural resources, natural systems, public services, and
public facilities.
Policy 7K -1: Support small and cottage businesses in rural areas that minimally impact
productive agricultural, forest, or mineral resource land.
Policy 7K -2: Designate adequate zoning to allow business and industrial development
where it is needed and most appropriate, including the Interstate -5 corridor.
Policy 7K -3: Locate commercial or industrial development along Guide Meridian at key
intersections in a manner that does not disrupt the Guide's regional
transportation function.
Policy 7K-4: Consider establishing more resource and tourism based recreational
commercial and industrial and nAmmPrsia4 uses to create economic opportunity
in the easteFR pa rural areas of the county.
Policy 7K -5: Support the implementation of land use concepts as defined in Chapter Two
seeking grants to provide technical support and complete necessary
programmatic environmental analysis to facilitate reduced time frames and
duplication in the SEPA process.
Policy 7K -6:
Support ^N
^tF ^v elepmei4lona
-term
employment
efforts in
the eastern;
pak— unincorporated
areas of
the county,
such
as those stated
in the Point
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan 7 -16
Chapter Seven - Economics Revised December i i,
2BB9January 28 2003
Roberts Birch Bay and East County Economic Development Plans and Sub -
Area Plans.
Policy 7K -7: Support efforts and /or organizations trying to achieve agricultural diversity such
as:
X niche markets for local products
X technical assistance or educational programs
X farmers' markets
X value -added or innovative aq products or services
X other product outlets
X community education and information dissemination
Policy 7K -8: Support agriculture, agricultural processing and manufacturing as a high
priority in future allocations of water rights.
ECONOMICS - ACTION PLAN
Coordination
In addition to present efforts at various levels to coordinate programs, work with The
Partnership for a Sustainable Economy, the Bellingham /Whatcom
Economic Development Council area Chambers of Commerce. Belli ngham /Whatcom
Convention and Visitors Bureau and other agencies on a more formal basis than in the
past in order t ensure a
coordinated economic development program in Whatcom Count .
4. Utilize the information and data contained in the CEDS document and accompanying
appendices alonQ with the Goals Strategies and Action Steps as a guide to all
planning and development efforts.
Economic Development Strategy
35. Through the Partnership for a Sustainable Economy Bellingham /Whatcom EDC or
other designated entity, ensure that the CEDSOEDR is updated every two years or as
necessary to qualify for federal programs.
46. In addition, and working with the Partnershi p for a Sustainable Econom
Bellingham/Whatcom EDC or other desiqnated entities, ensure the development of a
strategic plan for economic development utilizing the beReh ffla-'•' g1henchmarking,
approach to measure specific objectives. The strategic plan should specifcally
address the following:
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan 7 -17
Revised x-2994 July 11.2002 Chapter Seven - Economics"Action Plan
X
Increase of the median household income of the county
Reductione of the county unemployment rate
Improve turn - around time on development permit processing
Increase the percentage of "owner occupied" dwellings in the county
Increased worker access to affordable housing
Increased citizen satisfaction of county government — including permit
processing
Increased access to healthcare
Assess the degree to which the following commitments stated in the
abs Based F=eenemy Resel ten CEDS are implemented:
X The Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies overarching goals
(below) and their accompanying strategies:
• Goal A: Finance and maintain appropriate infrastructure for
community and economic development.
• Goal B: Ensure sustainable development and Buses of natural
resources.
• Goal C: Promote a diverse economy bV sector and location.
• Goal D: Foster collaborative working relationships among economic
development stakeholders at the community, state federal
international and tribal levels.
• Goal E: Provide and retain a high quality workforce.
• Goal F: Increase Public understanding and involvement in economic
issues.
X Consider Aaa y additional recommendations which may surface as a result of
the goals and policies adopted by the Partnership for a Sustainable Economy,
EDC Chambers of Commerce. Convention and Visitors Bureau, and local
governments and economic development committees, such as cities, towns,
and Port Authorities.
X Strategies which acknowledge and address environmental issues including
trade off, areas where environmental and economic issues have positive
linkages and creative solutions to the environmental contracts for specific
development areas.
X Strategies
which
take advantage
of our proximity to Canada
(see
policies
under Goal
7E).
X Strategies which address the needs of local businesses (see policies under
Goal 7F).
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan 7 -18
Revised 9esee+9er -1-9,2 July 11 2002 Chapter Seven - Economics "'Action Plan
X Strategies which address our local resource industries (see policies under Goal
7H).
X Strategies which address employment issues for all of Whatcom County's
citizens (see policies under Goal 7J).
X Strategies that support sustainable economic development demonstration
projects.
X A mechanism for review of `^,,ai,^� ^�ksbenchmarks and updates -the
related loan components, ef the plan an ^^ aRRual ^' ` ainnual basis.
87. Working through the Convention and Visitors Bureau and with the other governmental
entities in Whatcom County, draft a program for expenditure of hotellmotel tax
w#i e#tax which maximizes the draw for visitors to Whatcom County.
Specific County Tasks
Infrastructure
68. Provide adequate levels of cost effective_ service to support business development and
retention in all areas of the county faF ^E' ^t^^ And "t` ' "Ated
. _ _ ^h as mnei:al extimaeten ^.^^^ as „ ^.,..:... !^ when adopting and
updating capital facilities plans.
9. 7.Working with the special districts, citizens in proposed Small Towns and others,
develop a strategy for providing sewer service to suitable industrial areas in situations
that will comply with GMA.
10 Work with the Port PUD COG cities and other entities in planning and developing a
countywide fiber optic system.
Regulations /Processing
811. Using goals and strategies contained within the Key Policies Related to Local
Economic Development Rreview and re -draft the land use codes.. and HOF8aS Rg the square footage and number E)
N integrate and 0195
employees- allowed ,
X integrate and simplify regulations
X remove barriers to recycle product manufacturing in Title 20
812. Continue to improve the permit and development review process so that greater
communication and efficiency will result to better expedite the application process and
provide better communication when information is needed.
138. Develop various permitting process tracks such as:
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan 7 -19
Revised Peeemb ° ^' .IUIV 11 1 2002 Chapter Seven - Economics "Action Plad
X rapid processing for developments that conform to a prescribed set of
regulations
X more flexibility for more creative proposals where more information can be
provided
N set time !Res (SHE 4724) sm!aF to ether GaWRtes with POPUIWORS smIar to
144. Continue to improve customer service, train and /or cross train permitting staff to
provide excellent and expeditious customer service.
152. Based on the result of the Industrial Land Availability Conditions and Marketing
Project Supp4y -&e&y currently being completed through the Port continue to update
the Comprehensive Plan of the County and other jurisdictions in the County to identify
additional industrial land that may be needed including the areas identified in the
proposed urban growth areas by each of the cities for longer planning time frames
beyond 20 years and up to 50 years in order to prevent premature division of land that
would preclude large parcels needed for future industrial sites.
163. In accordance with the CEDS jobs Based Fmoenemy Gomm Mae recommendations
and other recommendations, review the permit process to achieve a streamlined,
user — friendly approach that can turn around permits faster without losing the original
objective of the review.
Water Issues
174. Work with the Public Utility District No. 1 and others to implement the Coordinated
Water System Plan including adopting a satellite system management program.
1& ivy. Actively pursue resolution of water rights issues by maintaining a major role in
working with user groups, interest groups and other jurisdictions on the Nooksack
River issues and other related water questions.
19 Continue to work with the WRIA #1 process and implement recommendations
resulting from the collaborative watershed management project currently being
completed.
Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan 7 -20