A bill providing a great deal of new language around how cities and counties develop a record of their utilization of “best available science” concerning critical area planning was heard in the Senate Local Government Committee on January 24.

SB 5245, sponsored by Sen. Shelly Short (R–Addy), provides a definition for “best available science.” The bill also modifies the best available science to be used, and considerations to be made, in designating and protecting critical areas. We would appreciate a review of this proposal and your thoughts on areas that are problematic or helpful.

The bill also provides that cities may retain and examine scientific experts in front of the growth management hearings boards, as well as providing that authority to other parties. We would also appreciate your perspective on that change. AWC testified that we wanted a close consideration of unintended consequences with this bill.