09-26-01 SS Minutes
LAND USE DECISION MAKING
TRAINING WORK SESSION
Yelm City Council Chambers
September 26, 2001, 5 p.m.
Present: Mayor Adam Rivas, Councilmembers; Don Miller, John Thompson, Glen Cunningham,
J.W. Foster, Councilmember Bob Isom excused. Shelly Badger, Community Development
Department Staff, City Hall Staff, Yelm Planning Commission members and Staff and Planning
Commission members from Tenino and Dupont.
Work Session sponsored by Association of Washington Risk Management provided information
on the importance of Development Regulations Guidelines, Public Hearing procedures,
Appearance of Fairness Doctrine and practical advice for elected officials for the purpose of
protecting assets and managing your risk.
Mayor Rivas introduced Carol Morris, Attorney, specializing in land use litigation as the
instructor and Tracey Christensen, AWC Risk Management Insurance Specialist.
Carol supplied a handout highlighting topics to be covered and sighting specific examples and
RCW references to further emphasize the importance of following the regulations.
Topics covered and suggestions included:
. Reviewing your City Regulation Code to insure consistency from chapter to chapter and
making sure that requirements are being met.
. Drafting a clear and enforceable regulation list separate from the guidelines, listing the
elements needed for a complete application. Must have regulations that are understandable
and enforceable.
. Asking yourself how your Comprehensive Plan and Development Guidelines work together.
. Issuing proper notice within the required time.
. Following the procedures in the Development Regulations regarding use of proper decision-
makers.
. Providing administrative appeal procedures so Municipality can correct mistakes.
. Listening to your attorney.
. Understanding the Appearance of Fairness Doctrine.
. Conducting a Hearing. Transcripts and documents used in legal action. Avoid personal
opinion, whispers and jokes. Review record to ensure complete record.
. Showing your work
. Being aware of legal requirements and following them along the entire process.
Attest: r'IU/d/... (:1M~
Janine A. t chnepf, Deputy City Clerk! -