The following item was posted in the News section of the City of Oak Harbor website on Wed., July 24, 2024.

ORDINANCE 1999 – SALE OF CITY PROPERTY

SUMMARY STATEMENT 

City staff presented a draft ordinance to the City Council on May 21 that would remove a requirement to hold a public election when considering selling or otherwise disposing of designated park lands. Following public comment and Council discussion, staff made a second brief presentation to the Council on July 9, asking for a continuance to a following meeting. 

BACKGROUND

• Item was introduced as a standalone ordinance revision designed to streamline the process of transfer of park property on May 21.
• Proposed change spurred by a Pre-application review of a project located adjacent to Hal Ramaley Memorial Park. 
• Original project called for single-story development and parking lot. 
• Subsequent staff discussion with applicant centered around minimum density projects and need for additional housing and potential for larger projects.
• Proposed change spurred by a Pre-application review of a project located adjacent to Hal Ramaley Memorial Park. 
• Revised project consisted of hotel and associated site improvements and included a boundary line adjustment to accommodate parking and access routes.
• Proposed change spurred by a Pre-application review of a project located adjacent to Hal Ramaley Memorial Park. 
• Staff and proponent discussion evolved to a draft development agreement that was reviewed by City attorney staff who identified the election requirement

STAFF DISCUSSION

• Comprehensive planning and downtown development
• Hotel or similar project to bring visitors and potential customers to downtown businesses 
• Economic development 
• A hotel/conference center project will kickstart revitalization of downtown area similar to projects in Anacortes
• Draft Development Agreement reviewed by Legal Staff –
• Requirement for an election for any transfer of park designated land
• Standalone ordinance revision was introduced to City Council on May 21 
• Public Hearing held 
• The public was able to comment on the proposal and the topic of the specific project was brought up 
• Written comments received 
• Staff relayed concerns about election requirement 
• Council discussion
• July 9, Staff asked for continuance of item 
• Related ordinance to specific project 
• Public Hearing held 
• The public was able to comment on the proposal and the topic of the specific project was brought up 
• Written comments received
• Staff discussion and drafting of options for moving forward 
  • Address concerns and Council discussion: 
  • Removal of election requirement 
  • Donations and deed statements 
  • Potential of having a 1 for 1 standard for any park land disposal 
  • Environmental standards 
  • Park land per capita concerns 
  • Relocation/expansion of food forest
  • Additional considerations beyond Hal Ramaley Memorial Park

Public Hearing will be on August 13th. Council will take public comment during this public meeting.