Lead Agency DocsCity of Yelm
Community Development Department
]OS Yelm Avenue West
P.O. Box 979
Ye/rn, WA 98597
NOTICE OF ASSUMPTION OF LEAD AGENCY STATUS
Description of proposal: Yelm Community Schools Capital Facilities Improvements
within the City of Yelm, including Yelm High School
Modernization and Addition, New Junior High School, and
Fort Stevens Elementary School Addition.
Proponent:: Yelm Community Schools
Location of Proposal: Within the corporate limits of the City of Yelm, Washington
Initial Lead Agency: Yelm Community Schools
New Lead Agency: City of Yelm
The initial lead agency concluded that this proposal was not likely to have signifcant
adverse impacts on the environment, according to its determination of nonsignificance
dated April 5, 2004.
We have reviewed the environmental checklist and related information. In our opinion,
an environmental impact statement (EIS) is required on the proposal, because of the
following impacts:
Impacts to the transportation system, including vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
You are being notifed that we assume the responsibility of lead agency under SEPA,
in uty to prepare n EIS on the proposal.
Gran eck, Director ate
ommunity Development Department
City of Yelm
105 Yelm Avenue West
P.O. Box 479
Yelm, WA 98597
(360)458-8408
grantb@ci.yelm.wa. us
(360) 458-3835
(350f 458-3144 FAX
e.e.~..ciyelm.wa.ua
City of Yelm
Community Development Department
]O5 Yelm Auenne West
P.O. Box 979
Yerm, WA 98597
DETERMINATION OF SIGNIFICANCE
AND REQUEST FOR COMMENTS ON SCOPE OF EIS
Description of proposal Yelm Community Schools Capital Facilities Improvements
within the City of Yelm, including Yelm High School
Modernization and Addition, New Junior High School, and
Fort Stevens Elementary School Addition.
Proponent Yelm Community Schools
Location of proposal Within the corporate limits of the City of Yelm, Washington
Lead agency City of Yelm
EIS Required. The lead agency has determined this proposal is likely to have a
significant adverse impact on the environment. An environmental impact statement
(EIS) is required under RCW 43.21C.030 (2)(c) and will be prepared. An environmental
checklist or other materials indicating likely environmental impacts can be reviewed at
our offices.
The lead agency has identifed the following areas for discussion in the EIS:
Impacts to the transportation system, including vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Scoping. Agencies, affected tribes, and members of the public are invited to comment
on the scope of the EIS. You may comment on alternatives, mitigation measures,
probable significant adverse impacts, and licenses or other approvals that may be
required. Written comments on the propsed scope of the EIS may be submitted to the
Communi velopment Department at the address or email below no later than 21
s fro t ~te~of this jetermination of significance, which is May 6, 2004.
Community Development Department
City of Yelm
105 Yelm Avenue West
P.O. Box 479
Yelm, WA 98597
(360)458-8408
grantb@ci.yelm.wa. us
(360) 458-3835
(380) 458-8144 Fe4Y
www.ci.ye(m.wa.ua
G'ity of Yelm
Community Development Department
105 Yelm Auenue West
P.O. Box 479
Yelm, WA 98597
April 15, 2004
Dr. Alan Burke, Superintendent
Yelm Community Schools
P.O. Box 476
Yelm, WA 98597
Dear Dr. Burke:
Enclosed is a notice of assumption of lead agency status and a determination of
significance in relation to the proposed Yelm Community Schools improvements at the
High School, the New Junior High, and Fort Stevens Elementary School.
The proposed scope of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is impact to the
transportation system, which means the EIS document itself would be limited to what is
basically an update of the Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) previously prepared by the
District. If there are no comments from agencies with jurisdiction or affected tribes
regarding the proposed scope, the City will select a transportation consultant from our
engineering roster and prepare a detailed scoping document which covers which areas
need to be updated from the previous TIA. The City will also be preparing a three party
agreement between the City, the consultant, and the District regarding the preparation
of the EIS.
Pursuant to Section 197-11-360 (4) WAC, if at any time after issuance of a
determination of significance the proposal is changed so, in the judgment of the lead
agency, there are no probable significant adverse impacts, the DS can be withdrawn
and a determination ofnon-significance issued.
If you have any questions about the EIS, my staff and I are available.
r rei, ,
-~'~~ .
Gant Beck, Director
\ Department of Community Development
a ~ Erling Birkland, Yelm Community Schools
(.; 60J ~1.i9-39d.i
(.360) 4.iA-31J~1 FAd'
u mu~.ci.v,Jn,.wn.us
NOTICE OF MITIGATED DETERMINATION OF NONSIGNIF1Ce1NCE
Proponent: Yelm Community Schools
llescrip[ion of Proposal: Consistent with the capital facilities bond approved in February 2003, construct
new school facilities within [he City of Yelm, including Yehn High School
Moderni±a(ion and Addition (campus reconfiguration and building area
increase from existing 114,294 sq.fr. [o approximately 154,265 sq.fr.), h'erv
Junior High School (approximately 85,000 square foot junior high school, with
capacity for 750 students), and Fort Stevens Elementary School Additiat
(conversion of an existing covered play shed to IuneNmul[ipurpose room and
new covered play shed). (DETAILED DESCRIPTION ATTACHED)
Location of Proposal: Yelm High Schoo! Modernizo(iat and Addition a[ 1315 Yelm Avenue W. (24-
17-1E N2 NW LY SWLY of SSH 5-I less E20F less N430F of N E NW LE);
New Junior Nigh School located immediately south oC and on the same parcel
as Mill Pond Intermediate School a[ 909 Mill Pond Road (25-17-IE PT NE4
NKA TR B BLA-8144 2407/527); and, Fort Stevens Elementary School
Addition at 16525 100'" Way SE (McKenna brig TRS PT L 3, 4 & S B 36 Less
5.64 AC L3 Less PT T).
Threshold Determination: Yelm Community Schools as lead agency for this proposal has determined [hat
it does not have a probable significant adverse impact on the environment. An environmental impact statement
(EiS) is not required under RCW 43.21 C.030 (2). This decision was made aker review of a completed
environmental checklist and other information on file with the lead agency. This information is available ro the
public on request.
Mitigation Measures: SEE ATTACHED
Lead Agcocy: Yelm Community Schools
Responsible Official Erling Birkland, Director of Facilities
Dale of Issue: Monday, April 5, 2004
Comm`/entpDeadline: 5:00 p.m. April l9, 2004
Erl1ng irk , Director o Facilities
This Mitigated Determination of Nonsignificancc is issued pursuant [o Washington Administrative Codc 197-
11-340(2). Yelm Community Schools will not act on this proposal prior to 5:00 p.m., April 19, 2004. Comment
must be submitted to Erling Birkland, Yelm Community Schools, P.O. Box 476, Yelm, WA 98597, by 5:00
p.m., April 19, 2004.
DO NOT PUBLISH BELOW THIS LINE
Published: Nisqually Valley news, Friday April 9, 2004
Posted: April 5, 2004
Copies to: Dept. of Ecology w/checklist April 5, 2004.
All agencies/citizens on SEPA mailing list and adjacent property owners
ATTACHMENT
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
A capital facilities bond was approved by [he voters within [he boundaries of [he Yelm Community Schools
Uis[ric[ in February ?003. Several of the proposed school facilities are located within [he City of Yelm,
including Yelm Nigh School rLlodernicatiar and addition, New Junior High School, and Fart Stevens
Elementary School.
The proposed improvements are major components of [he Yelm Community Schools strategy [o improve
educational opportunities and transportation systems within [he district and the city of Yelm. For example, upon
completion of [he New Junior High School project, [he district would be divided into two pans, with students in
each port in closer proximity to ajunior high school. The New Junior High School would also allow the disuic[
to shik student populations among Yelm High School, Yelm Middle School (which would be converted [o a
Junior High) and [he New junior High School to address existing crowding conditions.
Yehn High School Modernisation mrd Addition
71[e proposed modernization and additions to Yelm High School would entail the reconfiguration of site
development to provide additional student facilities and a centralized campus atmosphere. The proposal would
entail the demolition of two existing buildings, construction of one new building, additions [o an existing
building, relocation of existing portable structures, relocation and reconfiguration of the main parking lot
(including driveway reconfiguration) and bus loading/unloading area, and development of a central courtyard.
In total, building area on the campus would increase from [he existing 114.294 sq.k. to approximately 154,265
sq.ft. under the proposal. ,
Specifically, two existing buildings (existing Buildings 100 and 200 - namesluses) totaling approximately
53,000 sq.ft. would be demolished to allow for construction of new building space, relocation of the main
parking lot, and relocation of existing portable structures. New building space would consist of a new 75,894
sq,f[. building (new Building 100/200), located in the area currently con[aini~ig the main parking lot, and
approximately 17,140 sq.ft. square feet of additions to the existing Gymnasium Building. The proposal would
also include relocation of the parking area to the soutlteast portion of the site, relocation of existing portables to
the west in closer proximity to the center of campus, and development of a new central courtyard; the central
courtyard would provide for improved student passage between classes, outdoor gathering places, and a safer
campus environment.
Based on discussions with the City of Yelm and WSDOT regarding access improvements, Yelm Community
Schools has developed a new site layout that would relieve congestion at the driveways to SR 510 and eliminate
the need for a traffic signal at [he southeast driveway to SR 510. Under the new site ]ayout, the high school
campus would be accessed by three driveways, two from SR ~ 10 and one from 93rtl Street. A two-way driveway
(entrance and exit) from SR 510 to [Ire main parking lot would be provided at the southeastern comer of the
campus. An exit only driveway to SR 510 would be provided a[ the northeastern corner of the campus to serve
the bus loadlunload area. The entrance to the bus load/unload area would be provided from a new driveway at
93rd Street.
Netv hmior High School
Construction of an approximately 85,000 square (oot junior high school, with capacity for 750 students, on
19.94 acres of property adjacent to the existing Mill Pond h[termediate School (total site including Mill Pond
]ntennediate School grounds is 29.99 acres). The junior hiuh would be anticipated to include one school
building, two sports fields, a u'aek, an asphalt ploy area bus, staff and visitor pm$ing areas, stormwater
detention facilities and natural open space. Of the 19.94-acre junior high properTy, 1.86 acres would be covered
Yclrn Cmnrrumiq~ Schnofr
dlirign(erl Determination of Nnnsigaificma'e-.Vmchmcnr
in building structure; ?.98 acres would be in paved parking, roadways and fire loop; 0.9 acres would be in paved
track and related areas; 0.17 acres would be in paved dugouts and related areas; 2.0 acres would be in
landscaping; ?.5 acres would be in natural open space; 7.?7 acres would be in grass playfields; and 1.76 acres
would be in a stormwater facilities shared with the exis[ine Intermediate School. Vehicular access to [he new
hmior High School would be via an existing roadway from SR 507.
Fort Stevens Elewentap~ Sehoal Addition
Conversion of an existing 3,180-square-foot covered play shed into a IuncWmultipurpose room and construction
of a new, detached covered play shed on [he existing school grounds. The multipurpose room would be used as
a common eating area, for rainy-day recess, and for P.E.
MITIGATION MEASURE SUMMARY
EARTH
Yelrn High School rNOdernimrion and Addition
• To prevent an accumulation of dust and/or mud during construction activities, the tires of construction
equipment and trucks would be washed before they leave construction sites and streets could be swept
as necessary.
Nem Junior Hieh School
• Prior to construction, the District would identify [he specific limits of clearing and grading in the field.
• All major clearing and grading actvi[ies would be performed during [he dry season to reduce the
potential for erosion.
• In conjunction with construction approval, the contraetor,,ineluding site clearing and timber harvesting,
would be required [o install, as necessary, erosion control measures such as construction entrance, filter
fabric fence and catch basin protection.
• All cleared area would be hydroseeded at the end of the clearing phase.
• Excavated earth would be disposed of at authorized sites or reused on-site (however, proposed cut and
fill quantities would generally balance).
• To prevent an accumulation of dust andlor mud during construction activities, the tires of construction
equipmenCand trucks would be washed before they leave cons[metion sites and streets could be swept
as necessary.
Fort Sevens Elementm~r Schoo! Addition
• To prevent an accumulation of dust and/or mud during construction activities, the tires of construction
equipment and tracks would be washed before [hey leave construction sites and streets could be swept
as necessary.
Pe/ra Carnumnim ScAaa/s
Jllri;;nled Dearurluariou nfNn¢signi ficarrre - dnachnreat
AIR
Air quality in [he Ciry of Yelm is regulated by three agencies: the US Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA). [he Washington State Department of Ecology (DOE), and the OI}'mpic Region Clean Air
Agenc}' (ORCAA). Each agency has established regulations that govern the concentration of pollutants
and contaminant emissions from air pollution sources. Proposed measures resulting from school
development and additions would be in accordance with relevant adopted reeula[ions.
WATER
Yehn High School Moderniaotion and Addition
S[ormwater runoff from new impervious surfaces would be controlled b}' three net+' separate s[ormwater
control systems (bus pullout, relocated parking lot, and parking area adjacent [o the Gymnasium
Building). Each system would contain a vortechnics treatment device and an u~tderground infiltration
gallery.
New Tuniar Hi4h Sehaol
Stormwa[er runoff from the proposal would be controlled by a stormwater system consisting of catch
basins, underground pipes, we[ ponds, biofiltra[ion swales and infiltration ponds. The proposed
stomnvater system was designed consistent with [he Pierce County S[ormwater Management Manual
and the City of Bonney Lake Public Works Design Standards.
Fort Slevens Elementary School Addition
Stormwater runoff from new impervious surfaces would be routed to the existing stormwater control
system on the site.
PLANTS AND ANIMALS
Yel n High School Maderni~mion and Addiriar
Extensive landscaping would be provided [o enhance [he aesthetic character of the campus. Proposed
new landscaping would include: landscape planter strips and/or planter areas within [he relocated
parking area; landscape area along the perimeter of the relocated parking area; landscape areas along the
perimeter of the new building and within [he central plaza; and, new and enhanced landscaping along
the campus perimeter.
Nes Junior' High School
Approximately 13.61 acres (approximately 68 percent of the site) would be in vegetated area, including
approximately 2.50 acres of natural area, 2.10 acres of landscaped area, approximately 7:?7 acres in
grass field area, and approximately 1.76 acres in s[onnwatcr retention area.
ENERC~'
TeLv Cnrmmmip~ Sdiools
hfbignrerl Delenuinntloa nfNnusign Pcnrme-AUnchmenr
Construction and operation of [he proposed new Junior High School and additions [o Yelm High School
and For[ Stevens Elementary School would conform to applicable provisions of [he Stale of Washington
Energy Code. Energy conservation measures would include use of high efficiency lighting and
mechanical systems.
NOISE
Constmction noise is exempt form the State noise limits during daytime hours and no mitigation is
legally required. However, the following mitigation measures to minimize noise during construction are
identified for proposed improvements at [he three sites.
- Construction noise would be minimized with properly sized and maintained mufflers, engine intake
silencers, engine enclosures, and taming off equipment when no[ in use. Stationary constmction
equipment would be located away from sensitive receiving properties where possible. Where this is
infeasible, or where noise impacts would still be likely [o occur, portable noise barriers would be placed
around the equipment with [he opening directed away from [he sensitive receiving properly. These
measures are especially effective for engines used in pumps, compressors, weldine machines, etc., that
operate continuously and contribute [o high, steady background noise levels.
Although as safety warning devices back-up alarms are exempt from the state noise ordinance, these
devices emit some of the most annoying sounds from a construction site. Where feasible, equipment
operators would drive forward rather than backward to minimize this noise. Noise from material
handling can also be minimized by requiring operators to lift rather than drag materials wherever
feasible.
- Substituting hydraulic or electric models for impact tools such as jack hammers, rock drills and
pavement breakers would also reduce construction noise.
- An important element in reducing construction noise impacts restricting noisy work to daytime hours,
to the extent possible, when nearby residents are not trying to relax or sleep. Such a restriction is
desirable because background noise would be more likely to mask construction noise during the day,
and because most people are more sensitive [o noises when they expect quiet and when [hey are trying
to sleep.
Yelrn High School Modernization and Additiatt
Plans for the proposed additions to Yebn High School would be reviewed by an acoustical engineer to
ensure [hat any new or renovated exterior wall, window and roof assemblies will provide adequate
sound reduction to meet the 45 dIIA interior noise limit (WAC 246-366-110).
LAND USE7AES'I'I3ETIC5
Yelm I~'e6 School Modernisation and Addition
New planter landscaping would be provided adjacent to the building additions to soften building edges.
New.7nnior High Schoa(
)'ehu Camnnniq~ S'uhools
Alitigmer! Delesrninnrion of Nrmsiguificnuer - NmcAnrent
The proposed high school design would be larger in scale than adjacent uses but compatible with the
surrounding neighborhood. Landscaping would be provided throughout the campus and along the site
perimeter to soften views and building edges and provide a transition to surroundutg uses.
Farr Stevens Elemenrarv School Addition
New planter landscaping would be provided adjacent [o [he building additions to sofen building edges.
LIGHT AND GLARE
The following lighting measure relates to all three projects:
Building lighting would be directed down on to the area to be lit, not in a sideways manner.
The following lighting measure relates [o the Neu' Junior High School and Yelm High School Ivfodernization
and Addition projects:
Parking lo[ lighting would utilize "full cutoff luminaries" [o direct light on [o [he parking areas, not up
or beyond the site.
The following lighting measure relates [o the New Junior High School project:
Perimeter landscaping and/or fencing would minimize [he potential for light from vehicles using the
parking lot reaching the residential area to the immediate north and west.
RECREATION
New Junior High School
The proposed Junior High School would include new recreationnl' facilities that would be available [o
students during school hours and to the general publie during non-school hours. It is anticipated that
recreational facilities would include: [rack, grass playfields, and landscaped and natural open space.
Fo v St ens Elemenlarv Schoo/ Addition
A new covered play shed would be constmcted to replace the pla}' shed convened [o lunchhnultipurpose
room use.
TRANSPORTATION
1'eln igir School Moderriizatiai mid Addi(ion
Additions ro Yelm High School would include the following improvements:
Extend bvo-way-le&turn-lane on SR 510 east of southeast driveway. Based on NSDOT euidelines (or
left turn lanes (Design Mnnual, Figure 910-I Oa), the left turn lane should have ?50 feet of storage. This
would accommodate the highest volume of inbound traffic during the AM peak hour.
YeDu Convauuirr Sclmals
Jlirlgmed Oi9ermiuation afNoraipa~ennce - dttnchrnenr
Extend two-way-left-[um lane on SR 510 west of [he northwest driveway. This lane is needed [o
provide a refuge fora two-step left [um. About 100-feet of storage space would be sufficiem [o
accommodate this need. AI[ematively, the Yelm Community Schools could pay a proportionate share
towards WSDOT's project to improve the SR 510/93rd .Avenue intersection if that project's left turn lane
can be extended east to serve the northwestern school driveway.
Construct bus-only access driveway from 93rd Avenue SE. This driveway could be constmcted to minimum
standards for aone-way fire lane.
Frontage improvements consistent with City of Yelm Development Guidelines.
New Ji nior Hi¢h School
The proposed new Junior High School would include the following roadway improvements:
The following improvements planned by others will provide adequate access [o [he school site from
SR 507:
- Instal lotion of a left tum lane on SR 507 a[ [he site access, with 100 fee[ of storage plus a taper
to WSDOT standards; and,
Construction of a right-[um taper on SR 507 a[ [he site access.
Frontage improvements consistent with City of Yelm Development Guidelines.
Pelre Cnounrmin~ SeLUnls
MitlRUlud Derenninnrinn of A'ausiAniJiconce-.4ttacAmm~r
City of Yelm
Community Development Department
105 Yelm Auenne West
P.O. Box 479
YeZm, WA 98597
NOTICE OF ASSUMPTION OF LEAD AGENCY
Description of proposal: Yelm Community Schools C~
within the City of Yelm.
Proponent:: Yelm Community Schools
Location of Proposal: Within the corporate limits of
Initial Lead Agency: Yelm Community
New Lead Agency: City of Yelm "
The initial lead agency concluded th t t pro I~w~a_ no likely to h
adverse impacts on the enwron nt a cord g its d ter coati n of
dated DATC~~ /I . ~' ~~~ 1 ~~' ~- .`
i. In our opinion,
because of the
Being otifie th t we ssume the responsibility of lead agency under SEPA,
the uty,to pre area EIS on the proposal.
G anN6' <, Director Date
C ""unity Development Department
Ci y of Yelm
105 Yelm Avenue West
P.O. Box 479
Yelm, WA 98597
(360)458-8408
g rantb@ci.yelm.wa. us
(360) 458-3835
(380) 458-3144 FAX
mww.ci.ye(numm.us
City of Yelm
Community Development Department
105 YeGn Auenne West
P.O. Box 479
Yelm, WA 98597
DETERMINATION OF SIGNIFICANCE
AND REQUEST FOR COMMENTS ON SCOPE OF EIS
Description of proposal Yelm Community Schools Capital Fa ' ies I ove e s
within the City of Yelm.
Proponent Yelm Community Schools
Location of proposal Within the corporate limits of the C ty of Yel , Washi gton
Lead agency City of Yelm
EIS Required. The lead agency has determined s pro s I s likel to h ve a
significant adverse impact on the environme . An envito me tal im act s atement'
(EIS) is required under RCW 43.21C.030 ( (c) a willb pr pare An e birdlime t[
checklist or other materials indicati i el env on ental imp cts c n be eview at
our offices.
The I d agency hasi nti ied the owm are f r dis uss on i he EIS:
Tra Im acts
Sco mg. enci s; affe to tribe ,and ember of the public are invited to comment
on t esco a of t e EIS Y uma comm t alternatives, mitigation measures,
pro able s gnific nfad ers imp cts, and licenses or other approvals that may be
req fired: T e m thod nd eadli a for giving us your comments is:
Gra~ht Beck,.9frector Date
CorrjmyRit"y Development Department
Cityl Yelm
105 Yelm Avenue West
P.O. Box 479
Yelm, WA 98597
(360)458-8408
g rantb@ci.yelm.wa. us
(360) 458-3835
(380) 45&3144 PAR
mmw.ci.ye(m.wm.ua
MEMORAND UM
City of Yelm
Community Development Department
Review of Expanded Checklist
Yelm Community Schools
Page 4 -Other governmental approvals include civil plan approval from the City of
Yelm, ORCAA demolition permit and WSDOT approval of improvements to State
Routes 507 and 510.
Figure 3 -This figure does not correctly show the public streets serving Mill Pond and
the new Junior High School.
Page 20 -Alternate technologies are not an approved method of stormwater treatment
in Yelm at this time. The City will consider the use alternate technologies through civil
plan review, but it is not guaranteed that they will be approved. This comment applies
to several other sections of the checklist.
The City has adopted the 1992 stormwater Design Manual, not the Thurston County
stormwater Design Standards. This comment applies to several other sections of the
checklist.
Page 31 -The design occupancy for the High School should be noted in the checklist
and traffic impact analysis to clearly show that the impacts seen now are partially
caused by the fact the facility is over design capacity.
Page 34 -The parking lot of the new Junior High School is designed so that headlights
are directed at the rear yards of the existing housing development. This impact should
be noted in the expanded checklist and potential mitigation measures identified.
Page 40 -The construction of the new Junior High School will trigger frontage
improvements on Mill Road.
Page 41 -The expansion of Fort Stevens Elementary will trigger connection to City
water and sewer.
TIA -The proposed signal at the intersection of SR 510 and the High School parking lot
is in a location that is not approved as part of WSDOT's Route Development Plan for
this section of the Highway. A signal is proposed at Killion Road, which would ultimately
provide insufficient distance between signals. Alternative mitigation in the form of
extending the turn lanes at the intersection of SR 507 and SR 510, turn lanes at key
intersections between the High School and the intersection of Yelm Avenue and 151
Street, and signal upgrades at that intersection should be explored in an updated TIA.
TIA -The City has a strong connected streets policy which would indicate that 107`" and
Carter Street should be connected as a public street. This should be discussed in the
expanded checklist along with traffic impacts related to the preferred alternative which
does not provide any vehicular access between Mill Pond Intermediate School and the
New Junior High School.
TIA - WSDOT noted that the School District is required to have an approved pedestrian
access plan if the facility is within one mile of a State Highway. WSDOT also noted that
a bus route should be included in the TIA to evaluate transportation patterns.
April 9, 2004 Page 2 of 2
Yelm Municipal Codc
Chapter 14.03
GENERAL PROVISIONS
Sections:
14.03.010 Related chapters.
14.03.010 Related chapters.
For an integrated project review process, see:
Y1v7C Title 15, Buildings and Construction, at
Chapter 15.49; YMC Titles 16, Subdivisions, and
L7, Zoning. (Ord. 597 § 1. 1997).
14.04.010
Chapter 14.04
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY AC"p
Sections'.
14.04.010 Adopted.
14.04.020 Additional definitions.
14.04.025 Threshold criteria Cor exempt actions.
14.04.027 Adoption of SEPA policies.
14.04.030 Designation of responsible official.
14.04.040 Transfer of lead agency status to a
state agency.
14.04.050 Exemptions.
14.04.055 Consistency with the comprehensive
plan and adopted development
regulations.
14.04.060 Environmental checklist.
14.04.070 Mitigation measures-Early notice.
14.049R0 Preparation of ElS-Additional
considerations.
14.04.090 Public notice.
14.04.100 Written comments-Response to
rcyucsts.
14.04.110 Policies and goals-Conditions to
permit-Permit denial or approval.
14.04.115 Imposition of fees in lieu of
improvement
14A4.120 Appeal.
14.04.130 Notice of action.
14.04.140 Fccs.
14.04.010 Adopted.
A. Under and pursuanttotheauthorizationcom-
[aincd in RCW 43.21C,120 and WAC 197-11-904,
the city of Yelm (hereinafter refered to as "city")
adopts by reference the following sections of
Chaptor 197-I I WAC (SEPA Rules):
WAC
197-I1-040 197-11-050 197-II-055
197-11-060 197-II-070 197-I1-080
197-11-090 197-I1-100 197-I1-15R
197-11-L64 197-I1-168 197-I1-172
197-I1-238 197-11-300 197-I1-305
197-11-370 197-11-315 197-11-330
197-11-335 197-11-340 197-II-350
197-II-355 197-11-360 197-II-390
197-11-400 197-11-402 197-II-405
197-11-406 197-II-408 197-11-410
197-II-420 197-11-425 197-I1-430
197-11-435 197-11-440 197-II-442
197-II-443 L97-I 1-444 L97-11-448
197-II-450 197-11-455 197-11-460
197-I1-500 197-II-502 197-II-504
]97-ll-508 197-II-535 ]97-I1-545
14-3
14.04.020
197-II-550 197-11-560 197-11-570
197-11-600 197-IL-610 197-II-620
197-11-625 197-II-630 197-I1-635
197-II-640 197-11-650 197-11-655
197-11-660 197-ll-680 197-11-700
197-11-702 197-11-704 197-I1-706
197-I1-708 197-II-7 L0 197-11-7 L2
197-II-7 L4 197-11-716 197-11-718
197-II-720 197-11-722 197-11-724
197-II-72fi 197-11-728 197-11-730
197-11-732 197-11-734 197-II-736
197-11-738 197-11-740 197-LL-742
197-11-744 197-II-746 197-II-748
197-11-750 197-II-752 197-I1-754
197-11-756 197-11-758 ]97-I1-760
197-I1-762 197-I1-764 197-II-766
197-11-768 197-1I-770 197-II-772
197-11-774 197-11-776 197-II-778
197-11-780 197-11-782 197-11-784
197-11-786 197-11-788 197-11-790
197-11-792 197-II-793 197-II-794
I97-11-796 197-11-797 197-11-799
197-II-800 197-11-880 197-11-890
L97-11-900 L97-11-902 197-I1-916
197-II-920 197-I1-922 197-11-924
L97-II-926 197-11-928 197-11-930
197-II-932 197-11-934 197-II-936
197-II-938 197-11-940 197-11-942
L97-LI-944 197-11-946 197-11-948
197-11-960 197-11-965 197-11-970
197-11-980 197-11-985 197-11-990
Not less than three copies of the Washington
Administmhve Code sections (SEPA Rules)
adapted by reference in this section, have been
filed and will be maintained on file, for public use
and examination, in dte office of the Yelm city
clerWtrcasurer, Yelm City Hall, Yehn, Washing-
ton.The W ashington Administrative Code sections
(SEPA Rules) adopted by reference in this section,
ue supplemented, by and must be applied in con-
junction with, the other provisions of the ordinance
codified in this chapter.
B- Adopt SEPA Rules from Chapter 43.21C
ACW. (Ord 642 § 1, 1998; OrU. 597 § Z, 1997;
Ord. 299 § I, L984).
14.04.020 Additional definitions.
In addition to those definitions contained within
WAC 197-I 1-700 through 197-I 1-799, when used
in this chapter, the following terms shall have the
following meanings, unless the context indicates
othcavise:
A. "Department" means any division, subdivi-
sion or organizational unit of the city established
by ordinance, rule or order.
B. "SEPA Rules" means Chapter 197-1 I WAC
adopted by the Uepartmenl of Ecology of the state
of Washington.
C. "Ordinanec"means the ordinance resolution
or other procedures adopted by the city to establish
regulatory requirements.
U. "Early notice" means the city's response to
an applicant stating whether it considers issuance
of a determinetio¢ of significance likely for the
applicant's proposal. (Ord. 299 § 2. 1984).
14.04.025 Threshold criteria for exempt
actions.
A. The exempt threshold for actions in [he city
of Yelm under Part Nine, WAC 197-11-800(1)(6)
shall be:
L The construction or location of residential
structures of up to and including four dwelling
units;
2. The cons[metion of a bam or ag~ieultural
building to be used by the owner of the site far the
conduct of farming of up to and including 10,000
square feet;
3. The cous[melion of any office, school,
commercial, recreational, service or storage build-
ing with up to and including 4,000 squnrc feet and
with associated parking facilities designed for up [o
and including 20 automobiles;
4. The construction of parking lot designed
for up to and including 20 automobiles;
5. Any la¢dfill or excavation permit for I00
cubic yards or less throughout dte lifetime of the
pemtil.
B. Provided, however, that the exceptions set
forth would not apply where:
I. The property in question is within the line
of ordinary high water of any body of water;
2. The permit in question authorizes work
within a wetland deli¢eated pursuant to the critical
areas ordinance;
3. The permit in question does no[ seek a
variance from any of the provisions of [he zoning,
critical areas, or other development regulations oC
the city. (Ord. 555 § 2, 1995).
14.04.027 Adoption of SEPA policies.
The following documents are adopted as SEPA
policies of the city of Yclm:
A. The comprehensive plan of the city of Yelm
a¢djoint plan with Thurston County, together with
appendices a¢d plans referenced therein;
14-4
Yelm Municipal Code
B. The shoreline rooster program for the Thuo-
stop Region;
C. The Nisqually River management plan;
D. The development regulations for the city of
Yelm;
E. The development guidelines for the city of
Yelm. (Ord. 555 § 2, 1995).
14.04.1130 Designation of responsihle official.
For those proposals' for which the city is [he lead
agency, the responsible official shall be the com-
munity development director of the city of Yelm.
For all proposals for which the city is the lead
agency, [he responsible official shall make the
threshold determination, supervise seeping and
preparation of any required environmental impact
statement (EIS), and perform any other functions
assigned to the lead agency or responsible oCfieial
by those sections of [he SEPA Rules adopted by
reference in the ordinance codified in this chapter.
The city shall retain all documents required by the
SEPA Rules stud make them available in accor-
dance with Chapter 42.17 RCW. (Ord. 77S § 3,
2003; Ord. 555 § I, 1995; Ord. 299 § 3, 1984).
14.04.040 Transfer of lead agency status [o a
stale agency.
For any proposal for a private project where [he
city would be the lead agency and for which one or
more stale agencies also have jurisdiction, the
city's responsible offsial may elecC [o uansfer the
lead agency dmies to a smte agency having jnris-
diedon. The state agency with jurisdiction appear-
ing first on the priority listing in WAC 197-11-936
shall be the lead agency and dre city shall be an
agency with jurisdiction To transfer lead agency
duties, the city's responsible oCficinl Shall uans~nit
a notice of the hansfer together with any relevant
information available on [he proposal to the appro-
priate state agency with jurisdiction, and shall also
give notice of the transfer to the private applicunt
and any other agencies with jurisdiction over the
proposal. (Ord. 399 § 4, 1984).
14.04.050 Exemptions.
A. Each department within the city that
receives an application for a license or, in the case
of governmental proposals, the depanment initiat-
ing [he proposal, shall determine whether [he
license and/or the proposal is exempt. The depart-
menPs determination that a proposal is exempt
shall be fins! and no[ subject [o administrative
review. if a proposal is exempt, none of the proce-
dural reyuirements of [his chapter shall apply to the
14.04.Ofi0
proposal. The city shall no[ require completion of
an environmental checklist for an exempt proposal.
In determining whether ar no[ a proposal is
exempt, the department shall make certain [he pro-
posal is properly defined and shall identify the gov-
ernmental licenses required. If a proposal includes
both exempt and nonexempt actions, the city may
authorize exempt actions prior m compliance with
the procedural requirements of this chapter; pro-
vided, however, [he city shall m[ give such autho-
rization for:
L Any nonexempt action;
2. Any action rhat would have an adverse
environmentul impact; or '
3. Any action that woold limit the choice of
ai[ernatives.
6. A department may withhold approval of an
exempt action that would:
L LeaU [o modification of [he physical envi-
ronment when such modification would serve no
purpose if nonexempt action(s) wore not approved;
or
2. Lead to substantial financial expenditures
by a private applicant when the expenditures would
serve no purpose if nonexempt action(s) were not
approved. (Ord. 299 § 5, I984).
14.04.055 Consistency with thecompreheneive
plan and adopted development
regulations.
A. The principal guide in measuring enviroo-
mental impact will be consistent with the land use
designations of the comprehensive plan antl the
development regulations designed to implement
the plan.
B. The city adopted the plan recognizing the
impacts of the planned increasing urbanization
within [he UGA and adopted the development reg-
ulations to provide the mitigation determined by
[he city council to be necessary and appropriate to
that growth and the resulting impact.
C. The exmn[of departure from [he comprehen-
sive plan designated uses and the extent of any
variance from adopted developmwt regulations
shall be considered in Determining the extent of
substantial environmental impact. (Ord. 555 § 2,
1995).
14.04.060 Environmental checklist.
A completed environmental checklist in the
form provided in WAC 197-11-960 shall be filed at
the same time as un application for any permit,
license, certificate or other approval not specifi-
cally exempted in This chapter; provided, however,
14-5 (Revised 10103)
14.04.070
an environmental checklist is not required if the
city agrees an EIS is required or SEPA compliance
has bean completed or SEPA compliance has been
initiated by another agency. The city shall use dte
environmental checklist to determine the lead
agency and, if the city is the lead agency, the
responsible official shall use the environmental
checklist for making [he threshold determination.
For proposals sponsored by the city, the depart-
ment initiating the proposal shall complete the
environmental checklist foe that proposal. For pri-
vate proposals, [he proposnl applicant shall com-
plete the environmental checklist with the city
providing assistance as necessary. The city may
require that one of its departments, and not the pri-
vate applican4 complete all or par[ of an environ-
mental checklist for a private proposnl if either of
[he following occurs:
A. The city has technical information pertinent
to the proposal that is unavailable to the private
applicant; or
B. The applicant has provided inaccurate infor-
mation on previous proposals or on proposals then
under consideration by the city. (Ord. 299 § 6,
1984).
14.04.070 Mitigation measures-Early notice.
As provided in this section and in WAC 197-11-
350, the responsible official may issue a dclermi-
nation of nonsignificance (DNS) based on condi-
tions attached m the proposal by the responsible
official or on changes to or clarifications of [he pro-
posal made by [he applicant. An applicant may
regnest an early notice of whether a determination
of significance (DS) is likely under WAC 197-11-
350. Anearly notice regnest shall be in writing and
shall be submitted at the time of or Following the
submission of a permit application and environ-
mental checklist fora nonexempt proposal for
which the city is lead agency but shall precede the
city's threshold de[enninmion for [he proposal.
The responsible official shall respond to the
request for early notice in writing within I S work-
ing days and such response shall s'tatn whetlter the
city [hen considers the issnance of a DS likely and,
if so, indicate the general or specific areas of con-
cern that are leading the city m wnsider a DS, and
shall also slate the[ the applicmu may change or
clarify [he proposal to mitigate [he indicated
impact by revising the environmental checklist
and/or permit application es necessary to reflect [he
changes or clarifications. An applicant's proposed
mitigation measures (e.g„ clarifications, changes
or conditions) must be in writing and must be spe-
cific. Insofar as reasonably practicable, the city
shall assist an applicant with identification of
impacts to the extent necessary to formulate miti-
gation measures. When an applicant submits a
changed or clarified proposal together with a
revised or amended environmental checklist, dte
city shall base its threshold determination on the
changed or clarified proposal, and shall make the
threshold determination within f5 days of receiv-
ingthe changed or clarified proposal. If the city has
indicated specific mitigation measures in its
response to a request for early notice and the appli-
can[has changed or clarified its proposal m include
those specific mitigation measures, the city shall
issue and circulates DNS under WAC 197-I1-340
(m close). If the city's response to a request for
early notice contains an indication for areas of con-
cerq bntdoes not indicate specific mitigation mea-
sures [ha[ would allow i[ to issue n DNS, [he city
shall make [he threshold determination, issuing a
DNS or DS as appropriate. Mitigation measures
which justify issuance of a mitigated DNS may be
incorporated in the DNS by reference to agency
staff reports, studies or other documents. A mi[i-
galed DNS shall be issued pursuant to WAC 197-
11-340(2) and requires a 15ilay comment periotl
and public notice. Mitigation measures incorpo-
rated in a mitigated DNS shall be deemed condi-
tions of approval of [he permit decision, and may
be enforced in [he same manner as any term or con-
dition of [he permit or may be enforced in any other
manners specifically prescribed by the city. Lf the
city's tentative decision on n permit or approval
does no[ include mitigation measures [hat were
incorporated in a mitigated DNS for the proposal,
the city shall evaluate [he threshold determination
to assure consistency with WAC 197-11-340(3)(a).
The city's written response m a request for early
notice shall mt be eonstruod as a determtina[ion of
significance, and any preliminary discussions of
clarifications or changes m a proposal which are
no[ included in n written request for early notice,
shall not bind the city m consider such clarifica-
tions or changes in its threshold determination.
(Ord. 299 § 7, 1984).
14.04.080 Preparation oP EIS-Additional
considerations.
The preparation of draft and final environmental
impact s[amments (DEIS and FEIS) and draft and
final supplememal emvironmental impact smte-
mams (SBIS) shall be eccompliehad under [he
direction of the responsible official. Before the city
issues an EIS, the responsible official shall be sah
(Revised twos) 14-6
Yelm Municipal Code
isfied that it complies with this chapter and Chapter
197-I1 WAC, The DE[S and FEIS or draft and
final SE1S shall be prepared by the pity staff, by the
applicant, or by a consultant selected by [he city or
by the applicant. [f the responsible official esquires
an EIS for a proposal and determines that someone
othor than the city should prepare the E15, the
responsible official shall notify the applicant of
that fact immediately after completion oC the
threshold determination and shall further advise
the applicant respecting the city's procedure for
EIS preparation, including approval of the DEIS
and FEIS priorto distribution. The city may require
an applicant to provide information which the city
does not possess, including specific investigations.
However, an applicant shall noT be inquired fo sup-
ply information that is not required under this
chapter or any other city ordinance or state statute,
or information [hat is being requested from am[her
agency. (Ord. 299 § 8, 1984).
14.04.090 Public notice.
A. Whenever the city issues a DNS under WAC
197-I 1340(2) or a DS under W AC 197-11360(3),
the city shall give public notice as follows:
L [C public notice is required fora nonex-
empt liccnsq [he notice shall state whether a DS or
DNS has been issued and when comments ate due.
2. If no public notice is required for the peo-
roil or approval, the city shall give notice of the
DNS or DS by publication in a newspaper of gen-
eral circulation in the city.
B. Whenever the city issues a DS under WAC
197-1Id60(3), the city shall state the scoping pro-
ccAures for the proposal in the DS and in the public
notice.
C. Whenever the city issues a DEIS under
WAC 197-11-455(5), or a SEIS under WAC 197-
11-620, nodee of [he availability oP those docu-
ments shall be given by indicating the availability
of the DEIS in any public notice required for anon-
cxcmpi license and by publication in a newspaper
of general circulation in [he city.
D. Whenever possible, the city shall integrate
the public notice required under this section with
any other notice required for the pity's nonexempt
permit(s) or approval(s) required for the proposal.
The city may require an applicant to complete the
public notice requirements for the applicant's pro-
posal at the applicant's expense. (Ord. 299 § 9,
1984).
14.04.1 to
I4.U4.100 Written comments-Response to
requests.
The mayor of the city shall be responsible for
preparation of written comments for [he city in
response to a consultation request prior to a thresh-
old determination, participation in s'eoping, and
reviewing a DEIS. The mayor shall also be respon-
sible for the city's compliance with WAC 197-11-
550 whenever the city is a consulted agency and
the mayor is authorized to develop operating pro-
cedures that will ensure that responses to consulta-
tion requests are prepared In a timely fashion and
include data from all appropriate departments of
the city. (Ord. 299 § 10, 1984).
14.04.110 Policies and goals- Conditions to
permit-Permit denial or approval.
A The policies and goals set forth in this chap-
ter are supplementary to those in other existing
authorizations of the city. The city may attach con-
ditions to a permit or approval Cor a proposal so
long as:
1. Such conditions arc in writing and are nec-
essary to mitigate specific probable adverse envi-
ronmental impacts identified in environmental
documents preparcA pursuant to this chapter; and
2. The mitigation measures included in such
conditions are reasonable and capable of being
accomplished; and
3. The city has cousidarcd whether other
local, state or federal mitigation measures applied
to the proposal are wfficicnt to mitigate tho identi-
fied impacts; and
4. Such conditions are based on one or mare
of the policies set forth in this section amd ere cited
in the license or other decision document.
B. The city may deny a permit or approval for a
proposal on the basis of SEPA so brig as:
1. A finding is made that approving the pro-
posal would result in probable and signiFcant
adverse environmental impacts that are identified
in a FEiS or final SEIS pmpared pursuant to this
chapter; and
2. A finding is made that (here are no reason-
able mitigation measures capable of being accom-
plished that are sufficient to mitigate the identified
impacts; and
3. The denial is based on one or more of the
polices idenliflcd In this section and idondfied in
writing in the decision document.
C. The city designates and adopts by reteinnce
the following policies as the basis for city's exee-
cise of authority pursuant to this section:
14.04.1 I S
1. The city shall use all practicable means
consistent with other essential considerations of
state policy, to improve and coordinate plans, funo-
[ions, programs and resources to rho end that the
slate and its citizens may:
a. Pulfill the responsibilities of each gen-
eration as trustee of the environment for succeed-
ing generations;
b. Assure for all people of Washington
safe, healthful, productive and aesthetically and
culturally pleasing surroundings;
c Attain the widest range of beneficial
uses of the environment without degradation, risk
to health or safety, or other undesirable and unim
tended consequences;
d. Preserve important historic, cultural
and natural aspects of our national heritage;
e. Maintain, wherever possible, an envi-
ronment which supports diversity and variety of
individual choice;
f. Achieve a balance between population
and resource use which will permit high standards
of living and wide sharing of life's amenities; and
g. Enhance the quality of renewable
resources and approach [he maximum attainable
recycling of depletable resources.
'2. The city recognizes that each person has a
fundamental and inalienable right to a healthful
environment and that each person has a wsponsi-
bility to contribute to the preservation and
enhancement of the environment.
3. The city adopts by reference the policies
in its building code, zoning ordinance and compre-
hensiveplan, as the samo now exist or arc hereefiec
adopted. (Ord. 299 § 11, 1984).
]4.04.115 Imposition of fccs in Ifeu of
improvement.
Where the public interest is served in the con-
struction of a regional public facility, and where a
project impacts a public facility and will in facC be
benefitted by a facility, the city may impose a fee
in lieu of requiring construction of a portion of the
public facility where:
A. A proportionality exists between the fee
imposed, the facility to be constructed, rho impact
of the project, and the benefit to the project;
6. The facility is identified in the comprehen-
sive plan and in specific public facility plans
designed [o implement the comprehensive plan;
C. The city has otherwise satisfied ell require-
ments for the imposition of a fee for development
set forth in Chapter 82.02 RCW. (Ord. 555 § 2,
1995).
14.04.120 Appeal.
Except for permits and variances issued pursu-
ant to city of Yclm Resolution No. 162 (shoreline
management rules), when any proposal or action
not requiring a decision of rho city council is con-
ditioned or denied on the basis of SEPA by a non-
electedofficial, [hat decision shall be appealable to
the city council. Such appeal may be pet{ecled by
the proponent or any aggrieved party by giving
notice to the responsible oftcial within 10 days of
the decision being appealed. Review by the city
council shall be on a de novo basis. (Ord. 299 § 12,
1984).
14.04.130 Notice of action.
The city or an applicant for or a proponent of an
action may publish a notice of action pursuant to
RCW 43.21 C.O80 Cor any action. The form of such
notice shall be substantially in [hc form provided in
WAC 197-11-990 and shall be published by the
city clerk/trcasmer, rho applicant or the proponent
pursuant to RCW 4321C.080. (Ord. 299 § 13,
1984).
14.04.140 Fces.
The city shall cequire payment of the following
fccs for its activities in accordance with the provi-
sions of this chapter:
A. For every envuonmentel checklist reviewed
by the city as a Icad agency, the city shall collect a
fee as se[ by city council resolution from [hepropo-
nent oC the proposal prior to undertaking the
threshold determination. Any time periods pro-
vided by this chapter for making a threshold deteo-
urination shall w[ begin to run until payment o£
such fee.
6. When dte city completes an environmental
checklist at the request of an applicant or pursuant
[o YMC 14.04.O6Q dte city shall collect a fee es se[
by city council plus the actual cos[ incurred by the
city to complete the environmental checklist,
which such fee and a reasonable estimate of the
cost to be incurred to complete the enviromnenml
checklist shall be paid by the applicant prior to
commencing work on rho environmental checklist.
C. When the city is the lead agency fora pro-
posal requiring an EIS and the responsible official
determines that the EIS should be prepared by
employees of rho city, the city may charge and col-
Icct areasonable fee from the applicant to cover the
costs incurred in preparing the EIS. The responsi-
ble official shall advise the applicant of the pro-
jected costs for the EIS prior to acmal preparation
14-8
Yclm Municipal Code
14.08.010
of the same and the applicant shall post a bond or Chapter 14.08
other surety to secure payment of such costs.
D. When the city is the Icad agency for apro- CRITICAL AREAS AND
posal or activities requiring an EIS which have RESOURCE LANDS
been initiated by some person or entity other than
the city and the responsible official determines thnt Sections:
the city should contract directly with a consultant 14.08.010 Statutory authority.
for preparation of [he EiS, or a portion of the EIS, 14.08.020 Statement of purpose and objectives.
the costs thereof shall be payable by and may be 14.08.030 Scope.
billed directly [o the applicant. The city may 14.08.040 Definitions.
require the applicam to post a bond or other surety 14.08.050 Designation oC resource lands.
to secure payment of such costs. Such consultant(s) 14.08.060 Designation of critical eras.
shall be selected by mutual agreement between the 14.08.070 Maps.
city and the applicant after a call for proposals 14.08.080 interpretation of maps.
related thereto. 14.08.090 Effect of maps.
E. If a proposal is modified so that an EIS is no 14.08.100 Application of analysis and
longeu'equiwd, the roeponsiblc official shall effect developmentguidelines.
a refund of any portion of the fees collected under 14.08. l l0 Agricultural lands.
this section which remain after payment ofall costs 14.08.120 Forest lands'.
incurted in connection therewith. 14.08.130 Mineral resource lands.
F. The city shall collect from an applicant alt 14.08.140 Wetlands.
costs incurred to meet the public notice require- 14.08.150 Critical aquifer recharge areas.
menu of this ohapter which relate [o that appli- 14.08.160 Frequently flooded areas.
cant's proposal 14.08.170 Geologically hazardous areas.
G. The city shall not wlleet a fee Tor perform- 14.08.180 Pish and wildlife habitat conservation
ing its duties as a consultant agency. areas.
H. The city may charge any person for copies of 14.08. ] 85 Streams rating system.
any document prepared pursuant to this chapter, 14.08.186 Stream buffers.
and for mailing the document, in the mauuer pro- 14.08.190 Limitation on use.
vidad by Chapter 42,17 RCW. (Ord.429 § 2, 1992; 14.08.200 Exemption of nonconforning
Ocd. 299 § 14, 1984). developments.
14.08.210 Exemption of utility line activities.
14.08220 Administration.
14.08.230 Application of content.
14.08240 Required findings.
14.08.010 Statutory authority.
A. The Legislature of the state of Washington
has, in RCW 36.70A.060, mandated local govern-
ments that plan under RCW 36.70A.040 to adopt
development regulations to assure the conservation
of agricultural, forest and mineral resource lands
and to adopt development regulations critical areas
desigmateA under RCW 36.70A.170. Purthor, the
city of Yclm is authorized by RCW 35.63.080 to
regulate the use and development of land to pro-
vide for the general welfare.
B. The Washington State Legislature has, in
RCW 36.70A.172, mandated [ha[ best available
science will be used in developing policies and mg-
ula[ions for the protection of critical areas, and
shall give special consideration to [he conservation
ofanadromous fisheries (Ord, 597 § 3, 1997; Ord.
555 § 3, 1995).
14-9
NOTICE OF MITIGATED DETERMINATION OF NONSIGNIFICANCE
Proponent: Yelm Community Schools
Description of Proposal: Consistent with the capital facilities bond approved in February 2003, construct
new school facilities within the Cit}' of Yelm, including Yehn High Schoo(
Modernization and Addition (campus reconfiguration and building area
increase from existing 114,294 sq.ft. to approximately 154,265 sq.fr.), New
Junior High School (approximately 85,000 square foo[junior high school, with
capacity for 750 students), and Fort Stevens Elementary School Additiat
(conversion of an existing covered play shed to lunch/multipurpose room and
new covered play shed). (DETAILED DESCRIPTION ATTACHED)
Location of Proposal: Yelm Nigh School Modernizatiar and Addition a[ 13li Yelm Avenue W. (24-
17-1E N2 NW LY SWLY of SSH 5-I less E20F less N430F ofN E NW LE);
New Junior High School located immediately south oC and on [he same parcel
as Mill Pond Intermediate School ai 909 Mill Pond Road (25-17-1E PT NE4
NKA TR B BLA-8144 2407/527); and, Far[ Stevens Elementary School
Addition at 16525 ]00'" Way SE (McKenna brig TRS PT L 3, 4 & 5 B 36 Less
5.64 AC L3 Less PT T).
Threshold Determination: Yelm Community Schools as lead agency for [his proposal has determined that
it does not have a probable significant adverse impact on the environment. An environmental impact statement
(EIS) is not required under RCW 43.21 C.030 (2). This decision was made after review of a completed
environmental checklist and other information on file with [he lead agency. This infonna[ion is available to [he
public on request.
Mi[igatiou Measures: SEE ATCACHED
Lead Agency: Yelm Community Schools
Responsible Official Erling Birkland, Director of Facilities
Date of Issue: Monday, April 5, 2004
Comm`/eo[pDeadline: 5:00 p.m. April 19, 2004 '
Er11„ irk ,Direc[oro Facilities
This Mitigated Detetmination of Nonsignificance is issued pursuant to Washington Administrative Code 197-
11-340(2). Yelm Communi[}• Schools will not act on this proposal prior to 5:00 p.m, April 19, 2004. Comment
must be submined to Erling Birkland, Yelm Community Schools, P.O. Box 476, Yelm, WA 98597, by 5:00
p.m, April 19, 2004.
UO NOT PUBLISH BELOW THIS LINE
Published: Nisqually Valle}' news, Friday April 9, 2004
Posted: April 5; ?004
Copies [o: Dept. of Ecology w/checklist April 5, 2004.
All agencies/citizens on SBPA mailing list and adjacent property owners
ATTACHMENT
PROTECT DESCRIPTION
A capital facilities bond was approved by the voters within the boundaries of [he Yelm Community Schools
District in February ?003. Several of the proposed school facilities are located within the City of Yelm,
including YeLn High School Alodernimtion and Addition, h'ew Junior High School, and Fort Sreveus
E/ememary School.
The proposed improvements are major components of [he Yelm Comnumity Schools strategy to improve
educational opportunities and transportation systems within the district and the city of Yelm. For example, upon
completion of the New Junior High School project, [he district would be divided into nvo parts, with students in
each part in closer proximity Io ajunior high school. The New Junior High School would also allow the diNic[
[o shift student populations mnong Yehn High School, Yelm Middle School (which would be converted to a
Junior High) and the New Junior High School [o address existing crowding conditions.
Yelm High School Moderniamion and Addition
The proposed modernization and additions [o Yelm High School would entail the reconfiguration of site
development to provide additional student facilities and a centralized campus atmosphere. The proposal would
entail the demolition of two existing buildings, construction of one new building, additions to an existing
building, relocation of existing portable structures, relocation and reconfiguration of the main parking lo[
(including driveway reconfiguration) and bus loading/unloading area, and development of a central courtyard.
In total, building area on [he campus would increase from [he existing 114,294 sq.ft. to approximately 154,265
sq.ft. under the proposal.
Specifically, two existing buildings (existing Buildings 100 and 200 -names/uses) totaling approximately
53,000 sq.ft. would be demolished [o allow for construction of new building space, relocation of the main
parking lot, and relocation of existing portable structures. New building space would consist of a new 75,894
sq,ft. building (new Building 100/200), located in [he area currently containing [he main parking lot, and
approximately 17,140 sq.ft. square feet of additions to the existing Gymnasium Building. The proposal would
also include relocation of [he parking area [o [he soutlreast portion of the site, relocation of existing portables to
[he west in closer proximity to [he center of campus, and development of a new central courtyard; the central
Courtyard would provide for improved student passage between classes, outdoor gathering places, and a safer
campus environment.
Based on discussions with the CiTy of Yelm and WSDOT regarding access improvements, Yelm Community
Schools has developed a new site layout [hat would relieve congestion a[ the driveways to SR 510 and eliminate
[he need fora traffic signal at the southeast driveway to SR 510. Under the new site layout, the high school
campus would be accessed by three driveways, two from SR 510 and one from 93'° Street. A two-way driveway
(entrance and exit) from SR 510 [o [he main parking lot would be provided a[ the sou[heastem comer of the
campus. An exit only driveway to SR 510 would be provided at the northeastern comer of [he campus to serve
the bus load/unload area. The entrance to the bus load/unload area would be provided from a new driveway at
93`d Street.
New Jamior High School
Construction of an approximately 85,000 square foot junior high school. with capacity for 7J0 students, on
19.94 acres of property adjacent to the existing Mill pond Intermediate School (total site including Mill Pond
Intermediate School grounds is 29.99 acres). The junior high would be anticipated to include one school
building, nvo sports fields, a track, an asphalt pla}' area, bus, staff and visitor parking areas, stormwater
detention facilities and natural open space. Of the 19.94-acre junior high property, 1.8E acres would be covered
Yelrrr Cmnnnmiry Schnn4'
A(itignred De(errninnrinn nfn'mvignificnnu-ArmcGmen(
in building structure; ?.98 acres would be in paved parking, roadways and fire loop; 0.9 acres would be in paved
track and related areas; 0.17 acres would be in paved dugouts and related areas; ?.0 acres would be in
landscaping; 2.5 acres would be in natural open space; 7.?7 acres would be in grass playfields; and 1.76 acres
would be in a s[ormwater facilities shared with [he existing Intermediate School. Vehicular access to the new
Junior High School would be via an existing roadway from SR 507.
Fm9 Stevens Elementmy School Addirian
Conversion of an existing 3,180-square-foot covered play shed into a lunch/multipurpose room and construction
of a new, detached covered pla}'shed on the existing school grounds. The multipurpose room would be used as
a common eating area, for rainy-day recess, and for P.E.
MITIGATION MEASURE SUMMARY
EARTH
Yehn Hreh School Moderrti~atiort and Addirian
To prevent an accumulation of dust and/or mud during construction activities, the tires of construction
equipment and trucks would be washed before they leave construction sites and streets could be swept
as necessary.
New.lunior Hioh School
Prior to construction, the District would identify [he specific limits of clearing and grading in the Feld
All major clearing and grading actvi[ies would be performed during the dry season to reduce [he
potential For erosion.
In conjunction with construction approval, the contrac[oq.includingxite clearing and timber harvesting,
would be required to install, as necessary, erosion control measures such as construction entrance, Etter
fabric fence and catch basin protection.
All cleared area would be hydroseeded at the end of the clearing phase.
Excavated earth would be disposed of al authorized sites or reused on-site (however, proposed cut and
fill quantities would generally balance).
To prevent an accumulation of dust and/or mud during construction activities, [he tires of construction
equipmenfand trucks would be washed before [hey leave construction sites and streets could be swept
as necessary.
Fort Stevens Elernenrarv School Addition
To prevent an accumulation of dust and/or mud during construction activities, the tires of construction
equipment and necks would be washed before they leave construction sites and streets could be swept
as necessan'.
PeLn Cannnuain SchnaLv
,ilirignnrl0elennirmliuu of A'nnsigrt jcance - drlrtNunen!
AIR
Air quality in [he Ciry of Yelm is regulated by three agencies: the US Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA), the Washington Slate Department of Ecology (DOE), and the Olympic Region Clean Air
Agency (ORCAA). Each agency has established regulations [hat govern the concentration of pollutants
and contaminant emissions from air pollution sources. Proposed measures resulting from school
development and additions would be in accordance with relevant adopted regulations.
WATER
Yelm High School Moderniznlian and Addition
Stormwater runoff from new impervious surfaces would he cattrolled by three new separate stormwater
control systems (bus pullout, relocated parking lot, and parking area adjacent [o the Gymnasium
Building). Each system would~con[ain a vortechnics treatment device and an underground infiltration
gallery.
New Junior Hizh Schoo!
• Stormwa[er runoff from the proposal would be controlled by a s[ormwater system consisting of catch
basins, underground pipes, wet ponds, biofiltration swales and infiltration ponds. The proposed
stormwater system was designed consistent with the Pierce County Stormwater Management Manual
and [he City of Bonney Lake Public Works Design Standards.
Fort Stevens Elemenmrv School Addition
Stormwater runoff from new impervious surfaces would be routed to the existing stormwater control
system on the site.
YLANTS AND ANIMALS
}' 1 H'rl School Moderni_ation mrd Addition
Extensive landscaping would be provided to enhance the aesthetic character of the campus. Proposed
new landscaping would include: landscape planter strips and/or planter areas within [he relocated
parking area; landscape area along [he perimeter of the relocated parking area; landscape areas along [he
perimeter of the new building and within [he central plaza; and, new and enhanced landscaping along
the campus perimeter.
New /unior Flizh Schoo!
Approximately 13.63 acres (approximately 68 percent of the site) would 6e in vegetated area, including
approximately 2.50 acres of natural area, 2.10 acres of landscaped area, approximately 7.27 acres in
grass field area, and approximately 1.76 acres in stormwater retention area.
ENERGY
Ydm Carvrruuriq~ Se/vmis
,tliligmed Delerruirrminu nfh'onsignificnnre-ibmchrrrenr
Construction and operation of [he proposed new Junior High School and additions [o Yelm High School
and Fort Stevens Elementary School would conform [o applicable provisions of the State of Washington
Energy Code. Energy conservation measures would include use of high efficiency lighting and
mechanical systems.
NOISE
Construction noise is exempt form the Stace noise limits during daytime hours and no mitigation is
legally required. However, the following mitigation measures to minimize noise during construction are
identified for proposed improvements at [he three sites.
- Construction noise would be minimized with properly sized and maintained mufflers, engine intake
silencers, engine enclosures, and turning off equipment when no[ in use. Sm[ionary construction
equipment would be located away from sensitive receiving properties where possible. Where this is
infeasible, or where noise impacts would still be likely [o occur, portable noise barriers would be placed
around [he equipment with the opening directed away from the sensitive receiving property. These
measures are especially effective for engines used in pumps, compressors, welding machines, etc., that
operate continuously and contribute to high, steady backeround noise levels.
Although as safety warning devices back-up alarms are exempt from the state noise ordinance, dtese
devices emit some of [he most annoying sounds from a construction site. \Vhere feasible, equipment
operators would drive fornard rather than backward to minimize tltis noise. Noise from material
handling can also be minimized by requiring operators to lilt rather than drag materials wgrerever
feasible.
- Substituting hydraulic or electric models for impacC tools such as jack hammers, rack drills and
pavement breakers would also reduce construction noise.
- An important element in reducing construction noise impacts restricting noisy work to daytime hours,
m [he extent possible, when nearby residents are not trying to relax or sleep. Such a restriction is
desirable because background noise would be more likely [o mask construction noise during the day,
and because most people are more sensitive to noises when they expect quiet and when they are trying
[o sleep.
Yelm High School Modernimtian and Addition
Plans for [he proposed additions m Yelm Nigh School would be reviewed by an acoustical engineer to
ensure that any new' or renovated exterior wall, window and roof assemblies will provide adequate
sound reduction [o meet [he 45 dBA interior noise limit (WAC 246-i 66-I 10).
L.41VD USE/AESTHETICS
Yehn Hioh School d9orlernicarial and Addition
New planter landscaping would be provided adjacent to the buildine additions to soften building edges.
A'ew./uninr High Schonl
3'e/rn Cnnmuwi4• ScLools
Alilignted Deannirmrion fh'mrsignifiavrce-rltmahmenl
The proposed high school design would be larger in scale than adjacent uses but compatible with the
surrounding neighborhood. Landscaping would be provided throuehout the campus and along the site
perimeter to soften views and building edges and provide a transition to surround'urg uses.
Fa4 Stevens Elemenlarv School flddilion
New planter landscaping would be provided adjacent to the building additions to soften buildine edges.
LICHT AND GLARE
The following lighting measure relates to all three projects:
Building lighting would be directed down on m [he area to be lit, no[ in a sideways manner.
The follmving lighting measure relates to the New junior High School and Yelm High School Modernization
and Addition projects:
Parking lot lighting would utilize "full cutoff luminaries" [o direct light on [o [he parking areas, not up
or beyond the site.
The following lighting measure relates to the New Junior High School project:
Perimeter landscaping and/or fencing would minimize [he potential far light from vehicles using the
parking lot reaching [he residential area to the immediate north and west.
RECREATION
Ne J 'or Hieh Schoo(
The proposed Junior High School would include new recreationaP facilities that would be available to
students during school hours and [o the general public during non-school hours. It is anticipated that
recreational facilities would include: track, grass ptayfields, and landscaped and natural open space.
F t Stevens Elementary School Addition
A new covered play shed would be constructed to replace the play shed converted to lunch/multipurpose
room use.
'PRANSYORTA'fION
Y b High School Modern ~>ation and Addition
Additions [o Yelm High School would include the following improvements:
Extend nvo-wa}'-left-turn-lane on SR 510 east of southeast driveway. Based on WSDOT guidelines for
left turn lanes (Design Manunl, Figure 910-1 Oa), the lek turn lane should have 250 feet of storage. This
would accommodate the highest volume of inbound traffic during the AM peak hour.
1'eLu Corrrunmin• ScGna/s
,1litigrrhd De¢mninrnion nfNonsignificance - rbrnchrnour
Extend two-way-left-turn lane on SR 510 west of the northwest driveway. This lane is needed tc
provide a refuge fora two-step left [um. About ]00-feet of storage space would be sufficient to
accommodate this need. Altema[ively, the Yelm Community Schools could pay a proportionate share
towards WSUOT's project to improve the SR 510/93rd Avenue intersection if that project's left tum lane
can be extended east to serve the northwestern school driveway.
Construct bus-only access driveway from 93rd Avenue SE. This driveway could be constructed to minimun
standards for aone-way fire lane. '
Frontage improvements consistent with City of Yelm Development Guidelines.
Nern Junior Hieh School
The proposed new ]unior High School would include the following roadv.•ay improvements:
• The following improvements planned by others will provide adequate access to the school site from
SR 507:
-Installation of a left turn lane on SR 507 a[ [he site access, with 100 feet of storage plus a taper
to WSDOT standards; and,
Construction of a right-[um taper on SR 507 at the site access.
Frontage improvements consistent with City of Yelm Development Guidelines.
Yefrn Comnumirr,Schoolr
,M1lirigrrlerl Delerwimrcinn of Nnnrigrrificnnce -dbnc/vnenr