WHAT'S THE SCENARIO?
Our tree canopy is diminishing parcel by parcel. Undeveloped forested parcels, wetlands, and salmon bearing streams are being degraded despite environmental regulations designed to protect these sensitive areas.
HOW IS THIS HAPPENING?
Developers are buying properties with environmentally sensitive areas because they can request a Reasonable Use Exception (RUE), which allows them to bypass the regulations we rely on to preserve our environment.
CURRENT PARCEL UNDER THREAT
The forested parcel on Lyon Creek at the corner of NE 205th St and 37th Ave NE has remained untouched for years, because the City of Lake Forest Park currently requires homes to be set back farther from the creek than is possible on the property. However, LFP code allows a property owner to request a Reasonable Use Exception (RUE) when seeking approval for proposed construction that would violate City Code if they can prove that no harm will result. The question is, if the city of LFP grants a RUE and lets the developer build here, who and what will be harmed?
LFP set backs require new construction to be 115 feet from creeks and streams.
The proposed development would encroach significantly into the stream buffer--it would be built only 12 feet away from Lyon Creek. This would harm the salmon who spawn and rear there. In addition, the opposite stream bank is already degraded due to the steep slope and flooding. Compromising any of the stream banks in this area would add to slope instability.
Parcel of the proposed land 4022900497 Longitude 47.777249608861055, Latitude -122.29051059617719
HARMFUL EFFECTS OF UNMITIGATED DEVELOPMENT
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Increased flood risk for homes on Lyons Creek
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Reduced tree canopy
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Increased slope instability creating safety threats to neighbors
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Diminished salmon recovery gains
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Degraded wildlife habitat
THIS NEW CONSTRUCTION PROPOSAL LACKS
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Necessary due diligence required by LFP code
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In-depth expert reports, determinations, and assessments
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Critical performance standards
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Comprehensive mitigation measures
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Multidisciplinary approach when constructing on slopes and along creeks
LFP CODES POTENTIALLY WAIVED
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16.16.130 Mitigation sequencing
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16.16.290 Landslide hazard areas
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16.16.310 Steep slope hazard areas
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16.14.030 Definitions. Critical root zones
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16.16.355 Streams
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16.24.250 Development in floodplains
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16.16.290 Landslide hazard areas
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16.16.320 Wetlands
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16.16.380 Fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas.
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16.24.100 Soil and erosion control