SB 5633 is a lengthy bill intending to reform the process for creating subdivisions of land. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Rebecca Saldaña (D–Seattle), did not see much action last session as more stakeholder work was needed. That work occurred during the interim, but agreement has not been reached in some areas.

The biggest contentious issue is whether the public should have an opportunity to weigh in on these projects. The proposed substitute is still murky on this issue, including the following language in Section 4(1):

(b) A city, town, or county may not require a public predecision meeting or hearing, or any design review other than administrative design review, except for those required to comply with state law, including chapter 90.58 RCW. A preapplication conference with the city, town, or county may only be required consistent with RCW 36.70B.070(5).

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(d) A public hearing may not be required for approval of a plat application for a proposed subdivision except as provided herein. A city, town, or county may provide for a public hearing.

This is a complex piece of legislation. This week’s hearing will be on the proposed substitute, so the bill summary reports do not reflect those provisions.

Date to remember

SB 5633 is scheduled for a public hearing in the Senate Local Government Committee on Thursday, January 29, at 1:30 pm.