BILL REQ. #:  H-4803.1 

READ FIRST TIME 01-31-06.   

     AN ACT Relating to residential density requirements in fully incorporated island cities; adding a new section to chapter 36.70A RCW; and creating a new section.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   The legislature recognizes that cities coterminous with, and comprised solely of, an island in qualifying counties have unique and valuable qualities that must be preserved. Recognizing the importance of preserving these qualities, as well as the continual changes that accompany population growth, the legislature finds that these island cities must have the authority to determine the residential densities, within the confines of properly accommodating growth, that are best suited to retain the agricultural, rural, residential, and historic character enjoyed by the residents.
     The legislature does not intend for the provisions of this act to affirm, nullify, or otherwise affect decisions by growth management hearings boards or courts pertaining to required minimum densities in urban growth areas.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 2   A new section is added to chapter 36.70A RCW to read as follows:
     (1) Any city coterminous with, and comprised only of, an island located in a county with more than two hundred twenty-five thousand residents and fewer than three hundred twenty-five thousand residents may determine an urban residential density that is sufficient to accommodate projected population growth pursuant to RCW 36.70A.110.
     (2) Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to require a city coterminous with, and comprised only of, an island in a county with more than two hundred twenty-five thousand residents and fewer than three hundred twenty-five thousand residents to establish a uniform minimum residential density.