D. Plan Amendment

Amendment Process

The Growth Management Act specifies that the Comprehensive Plan may only be amended once a year, except for certain actions listed in Section 365-196-640 of the Washington Administrative Code, including amendments to the Capital Facilities Element that is part of adoption of the City budget. Amendments are to be considered concurrently so that the cumulative effect of the various proposals can be ascertained. The intent of this requirement is to ensure that piecemeal or individual amendments do not erode the integrity of the plan and are integrated and consistent with the balance of the Plan.

The City generally reviews the Comprehensive Plan on an annual basis. Revisions are made to the Transportation and Capital Facilities Elements to update information and projects based on the City’s Capital Improvement Program, and to all of the elements in response to amendments to the Growth Management Act and other State legislation or Countywide planning policies. Amendments are also made to correct any inconsistencies in the plan, to reflect any recently adopted functional plan, and to update general information.

The Kirkland Planning Commission is a citizen board selected by the City Council that advises the City Council on matters relating to the Comprehensive Plan and land use regulations. The commission takes the lead role for reviewing plan and code amendments and is responsible for conducting study sessions and the public hearing, and then transmitting a recommendation to the City Council. The Houghton Community Council, Transportation Commission and Park Board also may take public comment on amendment proposals within their jurisdiction and transmit recommendations to the Planning Commission and to the City Council.

Amendments are initiated in two ways: by the City or by a citizen, business or community group. A formal process to amend the plan, consistent with the requirements of the Growth Management Act, has been established. The Zoning Code contains evaluation criteria and process for reviewing and deciding upon a proposal. The process includes opportunities for public involvement and community participation.

The City amends the neighborhood plans and business district plans at least between every two GMC Comprehensive Plan Updates or more frequently as needed given City Council priorities.