(1) The applicant for each proposal for which the PLIA is the lead agency shall submit a complete environmental checklist along with a complete application for the required approval.
(2) After review of the environmental checklist, the PLIA may require the applicant to submit additional information necessary to properly evaluate the potential environmental impacts of the project. Field investigation or research may be required of the applicant or conducted by the PLIA at the applicant's cost.
(3) Preparation of EIS is the responsibility of PLIA. The responsible official shall be satisfied that any EIS issued by the PLIA is in compliance with these rules and chapter
197-11 WAC.
(4) Whenever someone other than the PLIA prepares an EIS the responsible official shall:
(a) Coordinate scoping to ensure that the individual preparing the document receives all substantive information submitted by any agency or person.
(b) Direct the areas of research and study to be undertaken and the content and organization of the document.
(c) Assist in obtaining information on file with another agency that is needed by the person preparing the document.
(5) An EIS is required for each project for which a determination is made that the proposal will have a probable significant adverse impact on the environment. The applicant may prepare the EIS if judged by the PLIA to be qualified, have the PLIA develop the EIS, or hire a consultant to do so. In any case, the EIS shall be prepared under the direction of the responsible official at the expense of the applicant and final approval is that of the responsible official. Cost of preparing the EIS shall be paid by the applicant and shall include fees of the consultant, the PLIA consultation time and cost of any required materials. If the applicant chooses to hire a consultant to prepare the EIS, the consultant must be mutually agreed upon by the applicant and the PLIA. A performance bond in an amount specified by the PLIA may be required of the applicant to ensure payment of the PLIA expenses pursuant to WAC
197-11-914. Private applicants are encouraged to be involved in the EIS preparation process.
(6) A supplemental EIS shall be prepared as an addition to the EIS if the PLIA decides that:
(a) There are substantial changes to a proposal which will have a probable significant adverse environmental impact; or
(b) There is significant new information relative to the probable significant environmental impact of a proposal.
(c) Pursuant to WAC
197-11-600 (3)(c), written comments on the DEIS warrant additional discussion for purposes of its action than that found in the FEIS.
[Statutory Authority: RCW
43.21C.120. WSR 20-02-007, § 374-100-060, filed 12/18/19, effective 1/18/20.]