Locke warns against Snohomish sprawl

GOV. GARY Locke has directed the state Department of Community Trade and Economic Development (CTED) to appeal amendments to the countywide planning policies adopted by the Snohomish County Council in July.

The governor stated in a letter to CTED Director Martha Choe that the appeal is necessary because the county’s amendments could result in an inappropriate expansion of the county urban growth areas, leading to sprawl.

“We must maintain our commitment to the goals and requirements of the Growth Management Act,” Locke said. “Thoughtful planning helps local governments provide more cost-effective public services, while protecting our environment.”

Snohomish County’s countywide planning policies have been in place since 1994 and have limited the inappropriate conversion of undeveloped rural land into urban or suburban development. Recent changes to the policies by the Snohomish County Council have adversely affected important protections against sprawl.

The county executive opposed the recent changes and returned the adoption ordinance unsigned.

“Decisions on converting rural and agricultural land to urban development go beyond today or tomorrow—they affect future generations,” Choe said. “We want to work with Snohomish County to resolve these issues.”

Countywide planning policies provide a framework for local planning. The subsequent local plans, such as a comprehensive plan and development regulations, must then be consistent with the countywide planning policies. Previous court decisions have held that countywide planning policies must be consistent with the Growth Management Act. Only the governor or affected cities may appeal a countywide planning policy.

Office of the Governor release, September 9

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