Ferndale City Council
The Ferndale City Council held a public hearing on proposed comprehensive plan updates focused on zoning and future zoning designations as part of the state-mandated 2025 Comprehensive Plan periodic review. This represents one of the most significant planning discussions in recent years, with the city facing requirements to accommodate projected growth of 10,961 new residents and 3,337 new jobs through 2045 under House Bill 1220 and updated Growth Management Act requirements. Community Development Director Michael Cerbone presented proposed zoning changes affecting multiple areas throughout the city and urban growth area, including transitions from regional retail to manufacturing/industrial zones in the Grandview area, new mixed-use designations in the Church/Vista area, and density increases in several residential neighborhoods. The proposals reflect state mandates to provide diverse housing options across income levels while maintaining adequate commercial and industrial capacity. Eleven residents testified during the public hearing, with nine opposing various aspects of the proposals and two expressing support for increased density. Opposition centered primarily on the Church/Mountain View area, where residents objected to upzoning from RS Medium to RS High density, citing concerns about views, neighborhood character, and property values. Additional concerns were raised about proposed multifamily and commercial development impacts on infrastructure, wetlands, and community character. The council did not take formal action but indicated plans for a work session on April 20, 2026, to deliberate on the testimony received. Councilmember Porter emphasized the need for detailed review of each area's specific concerns, while Councilmember Pinto-Gonzalez highlighted the relatively modest nature of some proposed changes, noting that RS Medium to RS High represents only a potential increase of 2 additional dwelling units per acre.
**Consent Agenda (AB #26-04-001):** Approved unanimously. Motion by Councilmember Mutchler, seconded by Councilmember Pinto-Gonzalez. Included March 16, 2026 meeting minutes, March 20, 2026 payroll authorization ($579,982.02), Main Street Improvement Project contract amendment ($183,821.00 supplement), and February/March 2026 claims. **Councilmember O'Leary Excusal:** Approved unanimously. Motion by Councilmember Mutchler, seconded by Councilmember Gunter. **Public Hearing on Compre…
- **April 20, 2026:** City Council work session to deliberate on public hearing testimony and provide staff direction on proposed zoning changes - **June 2026:** Target date for final comprehensive plan presentation to City Council, pending resolution of zoning issues - **60-day state review period:** Following council adoption, state agencies will review comprehensive plan for compliance with Growth Management Act requirem…