Gregory Francioch

This document outlines proposed updates for the City of Anacortes's 2025 Comprehensive Plan Housing Element, focusing on modernizing housing policies for residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). The plan aims to align with state guidelines by transitioning emphasis from traditional group homes to independent living models with in-home supports, advocating for small shared homes, and implementing flexible parking standards. Key objectives include ensuring safe, affordable, and community-integrated housing, fostering inclusive neighborhoods, and removing regulatory barriers to supportive housing development through policies on inclusive housing options, coordination with DDCS, universal design, and streamlined permitting.

The council received a COVID-19 update regarding city operations, cancellations of festivals, the status of small business grant applications, and the coordination of a senior class parade and virtual graduation. Technical issues with the meeting streaming provider were addressed, with plans to use alternative platforms for future briefings. The Public Works Committee provided updates on the A Avenue dump site, ongoing fiber network deployment, and various construction projects, including roundabouts and water infrastructure. The council approved a consent agenda and received a detailed presentation on the Anacortes fiber internet service, noting current subscriber numbers, service expansion plans, and a proposed service suspension policy for residential customers.

The meeting featured the presentation of the mayor's proposed annual budget, which transitions from a biennial to an annual budget, and an update on COVID-19 case statistics and public health metrics. Committee reports covered strategies for outfall project procurement and water system infrastructure. The council held a closed record decision hearing and approved a conditional use permit for the construction of a private parking lot at 1015 18th Street. Furthermore, the council approved a significant payment of claims.

The Council meeting included an executive session regarding infrastructure and security for the city computer network. Various committee reports were presented, covering topics such as fire department staffing, FEMA grants, city infrastructure projects including restrooms and sewer overflows, affordable housing implementation, and municipal planning. Public comments were received regarding city street conditions and the neutrality of civil servants in ballot measures. The Council approved the consent agenda, including claims and various contract resolutions. Additionally, the State Auditor provided a report on IT security, and a discussion was held regarding the status of the Municipal Fiber network.

The Planning Commission conducted a public hearing focused on the Anacortes Shoreline Master Program. The Planning Manager provided a presentation regarding the program's background and the periodic update process. Representatives from The Watershed Company were present to address questions from the Commissioners and the public regarding the update procedure.