March 24 2025 CDS Study Session Final Packet

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The county has recently seen a decline in participation from the community regarding the County's planning initiatives, like the Shoreline Master Program. The consultant team will take a longer time strategizing with the County and designing the public participation plan to use the best possible strategies that will garner participation. The strategy will be a curated set of strategies best suited for the current demographics in Kittitas County. Public participation tactics will also align with the project schedule and the goals for engagement activities. Coordinating with Agencies The consultant team will promote open communication and transparency between the County and regional and state agencies to promote consistency in land use administration. Balancing Open Space Preservation with Economic and Population Growth The county would like to preserve existing natural resources, open space, and recreation lands, while also promoting economic growth. Kittitas County residents need more opportunities for living wage jobs and more opportunities for affordable housing without impeding on critical areas or other vital natural lands. Addressing Urban Growth Areas Some cities are considering changes to their urban growth boundaries. To keep the project on track, it will be critical to address these changes early in the process. It is vitally important that any proposed UGA changes are supported by the record and that applicants turn in information to support proposed changes. Planning for Publicly Owned Lands The county has a lot of public lands that often undergo property owner changes and other use changes outside of the County's control. The project team should understand how this might impact land use policies in the comprehensive plan and the County's future growth and opportunities. Appendix A — Project Schedule Inserted on the next page. Kittitas County 2026 Periodic Update Project Charter Version 3.1 (Final) 14 Exported: March 20, 2025