Proposed Wetland Overlay Ordinance Revision

Step 1:  Reorganization - Status:  Complete

As a first step the Urbsworks team recommended a reorganization of the WO Zone draft to enhance readability and clarity.  A revised outline was reviewed by the committee and city staff and found to be appropriate.  The draft text was then reorganized accordingly into the WO sections without adding or deleting any text.

Step 2:  Preliminary Editing - Status:  Complete

Following the reorganization, the text was edited primarily to eliminate duplicative language and to identify potential definitions and narrative additions to strengthen the WO chapter.  

Step 3:  Public Deliberation - Status:  In Progress

The draft of the proposed revised ordinance was formally introduced to the Planning Commission during a public hearing on October 26, 2023.  During the initial evidentiary hearing the Planning Commission continued this matter and the Urbsworks team, which is contracted by the City with the zoning code revision project, has worked with the City staff and State agencies including the Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) to refine the text of the proposed amendment and develop an Economic, Social, Environmental, and Energy (ESEE) analysis that identifies potential impacts that may result from the adoption of the proposed amendment.  

During public hearings the Planning Commission will hear evidence and public testimony regarding the proposal, conduct deliberations, and make a recommendation to City Council regarding the proposed revisions to the ordinance.  This is an opportunity for everyone who has an interest in local wetlands to have their voices heard. The City Council will then hold a public hearing where they will likewise hear evidence and conduct deliberations before making a decision on the proposed revisions.  The date of the initial evidentiary hearing before City Council is to be determined.

On September 29, 2023 the City issued a Measure 56 notice to property owners with wetland affected properties advising them of rulemaking changes that may have potential impacts to their property values.  The City has no way to verify whether, how, or when proposed land use regulations may affect the value of individual properties. The Planning Commission and City Council will not be addressing property-specific questions during public hearings on this matter.

Step 4:  Adoption - Status:  Pending

After a draft revision is approved by City Council the current wetland regulations will be replaced by the revised ordinance.  An implementation date will be determined the City Council's decision making process.

During this process the public is encouraged to submit written statements to both the Planning Commission and City Council and attend and participate in the public hearings.  Statements may be sent to the following:

Email:  planning [at] ci.cannon-beach.or.us

Mail:  P.O. Box 368, Cannon Beach, OR 97110