HomeMy WebLinkAboutPublic Works October 7 1997WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
Public Works and Capital Projects Committee
October 7, 1997
The meeting was called to order at 1:30 p.m. by Committee Chair Barbara Brenner in the
Council Committee Room, 311 Grand Avenue.
Also Present: Absent:
Marlene Dawson None
Tom Brown
COMMITTEE DISCUSSION
2. DISCUSSION REGARDING LOGGING REGULATIONS AT PT. ROBERTS
(AB97 -345)
Brenner briefly reported on the September 30, 1997 Public Works and Capital Projects
meeting held at Point Roberts, of which one issue was logging regulations. Opinions of citizens
varied with some stating the County has no authority to impose any restrictions or extra
regulations beyond what the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) imposes; others stated
there was an agreement several years ago giving the County the right to add regulations or
restrictions if the County so desired.
Roland Middleton, Planning and Development Services, Land Use Division, commented
on this issue. He stated the County has authority to impose regulation or restriction on logging
permits on single family lots beyond the critical areas. Further, he clarified whether the real
question was converting the property -- logging it in terms of clearing it in order for construction
of a house - -or logging for timber harvest. Brenner stated the specific topic was conversion of a
lot for the future building of a house.
Middleton then spoke to the County clearing regulations. In order for timber to be
harvested outside the Pt. Roberts' area, a Forest Practice application must be completed. The
County has authority to comment on such application; however, it has no specific regulation
involving anything else.
Pt. Roberts is handled differently than any other area in the County, as it is considered
forested lands by DNR, which is likely to convert to nonforesty use. If there is any intention of
harvesting, even if there is intent to replant, this is considered an area likely to convert, which
was the agreement referred to at the Pt. Roberts' meeting. However, Middleton pointed out it
was necessary to obtain a permit from the DNR. For a conversion, a SEPA checklist is required,
which is state law. The checklist process is done by the County. Through SEPA, the County has
authority to make requirements of those logging only on those SEPA requirements that are in the
Public Works Minutes, 10/7/97, Page 1
likelihood of significant impacts. Middleton confirmed that when there is a conversion, the
County does have the authority to regulate or restrict the clearing and logging done.
Buffers were discussed regarding whether they were required on a single family lot if the
owners log. Middleton confirmed in the negative. In answer to a question regarding when a
buffer is required in a conversion, he referred Title 20, Pt. Roberts Special District, Areas of
Special Significance, Tree Retention. Further, for a single family residence in Pt. Roberts, the
Tree Retention section of Title 20 does not apply; therefore, there is no buffer requirement.
Continuing discussion on the buffer issue, Middleton stated when a permit is filed, if the
applicant states only a certain percentage will be logged, the permit must be modified or
amended if the applicant changes his mind and wants to log more. If more is logged and the
applicant does not amend the permit, that applicant is in violation and can be fined.
Middleton stated the critical area review process begins at the clearing permit stage. In
most cases, someone from the County reviews the property on site.
In the interest of full disclosure of the development's activity, Middleton's department
needs to know what the activity is. Of prime importance is the presence, if any, of nesting areas,
etc.
At the conclusion of the discussion, committee members discussed how to summarize
this discussion for distribution to Point Roberts.
DISCUSSION REGARDING SAFETY ISSUES FOR LAKE WHATCOM
BLVD. AND ROADS IN THE SURROUNDING AREA (AB97 -328)
Brenner notified committee Jeff Monsen, Public Works Director, will give a presentation
to committee on October 21, 1997.
Safety suggestions were discussed. Suggestions included the possibility of placing
buttons to alert drivers of the speed limit, perhaps painting the speed limit on the road in addition
to those buttons; the placement of additional signage; and changing the blinking yellow light on
Cable and Austin to a four -way red blinking light. Brown pointed out buttons are legal only as a
safety device.
Those commenting included:
Glen Johnson, 737 Lake Whatcom Boulevard
(Clerk's Note: Tape 1, side B)
Kay Zeals (sp ?), 975 Grand Boulevard
Kathy Sutter, Council member
Roger Bourm, 1923 Lake Whatcom Boulevard
Public Works Minutes, 10/7/97, Page 2
One suggestion made by the above was a crosswalk; however, Brenner pointed out a
crosswalk provides a false sense of security for those utilizing it unless there is a device making
vehicles come to a complete stop. Also suggested was a change in the speed limit.
Brenner pointed out this discussion will be continued at the next meeting on October 21.
3. DISCUSSION REGARDING THE DRAFTING OF A RESOLUTION
OPPOSING THE PROPOSED BOARDER CROSSING LAW (AB97 -346)
Henry Rosenthal from Pt. Roberts presented draft language to Brenner, which she read to
committee. This was an amendment to the current law which proposes to eliminate the proposed
boarder crossing law regarding documentation of aliens (Canadians), both exiting and entering
the U.S. A copy of Rosenthal's proposed amendment would be sent to the legislators.
Discussion followed on whether there is indeed a major problem with illegal aliens
entering this country through the Canadian border, as well as when the proposed legislative law
actually becomes law.
This issue will be on the next Council meeting, October 21, as an Introduction Item.
ADJOURN
The meeting was adjourned at 2:50 p.m.
Elizabeth Bennett, Recording Secretary
ATTEST:
Dana Brown- Davis, Council Clerk
WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
WHATCOM COUNTY, WASHINGTON
Barbara Brenner, Council Member
Public Works Minutes, 10/7/97, Page 3