SMP Status Update – March 2020

As noted in the previous (February 2020) update, the Department of Ecology has indicated that revised SMP language regarding the repair of docks is required. Revised, draft Shoreline Master Program (SMP) language and the supporting Cumulative Impact Analysis, which incorporate past Department of Ecology (DOE) feedback, has been completed. The revised SMP language is tentatively scheduled for City Council review in late April or early May of 2020. These documents represent several months of review between DOE and the City of Mercer Island to ensure: 1) that the changes adopted by the City Council are consistent with state law; 2) the original intent of the amendments related to dock repair is retained; and 3) that this consistency is clearly documented. For the revised SMP language to become effective, both the City Council and DOE will need to approve it.

Both the draft, revised SMP language (“Revised draft SMP 2020") and Cumulative Impact Analysis are available in the Resource Library.