HomeMy WebLinkAbout34-11 - Res. Establishing Public Participation Plan for Updating the Comprehensive Shoreline Master ProgramThis Page Intentionally Left Blank
Public Participation Strategy – Mason County Shoreline Master Program Update
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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1. SMP Public Participation Flow Chart .......................................................................... 15
LIST OF MAPS
Map 1. Mason County Preliminary Shoreline Jurisdiction ............................................................ 3
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1. Public Participation Process Goals and Objectives ......................................................... 6
Table 2. Schedule (Tentative) ........................................................................................................ 8
Table 3. SMP Update Timeline (Tentative) ................................................................................. 11
Table 4. Examples of Key Parties(not an exclusive list) ............................................................. 20
GLOSSARY OF ACRONYMS
CAC – Citizens Advisory Committee
ICR – Inventory and Characterization Report
JTAC - Joint Technical Advisory Committee
SMA - Shoreline Master Act
SMP – Shoreline Master Program
Public Participation Strategy – Mason County Shoreline Master Program Update
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
Mason County is updating its Shoreline Master Program (SMP) to comply with the Washington
State Shoreline Management Act and current state shoreline management guidelines. The Mason
County SMP was adopted on August 12, 1975 and last amended in 2006.
This Public Participation Strategy describes the steps that Mason County will take to involve the
community in decisions regarding the SMP update. The goal is to provide the public with timely
information, an understanding of the process, and opportunities to review and comment on update
decisions before they are made.
Mason County views this Public Participation Strategy as establishing the basic public involvement
processes that will be utilized during the SMP Update Program. Other public participation activities
may be put into practice without changing the plan.
2.0 BACKGROUND
To improve and protect state shoreline areas, the Washington Legislature passed the Shoreline
Management Act in 1971 (Chapter 90.58 RCW). The public adopted the Act in a 1972 referendum
vote.
To regulate shoreline development, the state law established a cooperative relationship between local
governments and the Washington State Department of Ecology (Ecology). In addition to these
entities, several treaty tribes have fisheries co-management roles within the county and are valuable
resources for resolving shoreline concerns.
The Shoreline Management Act applies to rivers and streams with flow over 20 cubic feet per
second, lakes greater than 20 acres, and marine waterfronts as well as associated shorelands,
wetlands, and floodplains. The law has three main purposes:
• Encourage reasonable and orderly development of shorelines, with an emphasis on water-
dependent and related uses that control pollution and prevent damage to the natural
environment.
• Protect the natural character of Washington shorelines, the land, vegetation, wildlife, and
shoreline environment.
Public Participation Strategy – Mason County Shoreline Master Program Update
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• Promote public access and provide opportunities to enjoy views and recreational activities in
shoreline areas.
For more information please refer to Ecology’s guide for citizens:
http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/sea/shorelines/smp/citizen.html
2.1 Shoreline Master Programs
“Shoreline Master Programs” are the cornerstone for carrying out the Shoreline Management Act.
Under state law, Washington’s 39 counties and more than 200 cities and towns that have shoreline
areas covered under the Act must develop these individual, locally-tailored programs to guide
construction and development in regulated shoreline areas.
Development and update of the Mason County Shoreline Master Program begins with an inventory
and analysis of all shoreline areas in County jurisdiction. Shoreline master programs help the County
avoid or lessen environmental damage as shoreline areas are developed. Based on current conditions
and long-term needs, shoreline master programs reserve appropriate areas for water-oriented uses.
They promote public access opportunities. Shoreline master programs include requirements for new
development to avoid environmentally sensitive areas (e.g., wetland, landslide, and flood areas).
More than simply a plan, a master program combines local plans for future shoreline development
and identifies areas appropriate for restoration and preservation. They include statewide as well as
local policies and related specific permitting requirements.
The geographic scope and jurisdiction of the County’s SMP update includes approximately 580
miles of marine and freshwater shorelines (Map 1, next page). These shorelines include lakes greater
than 20 acres; rivers and streams with flow over 20 cubic feet per second; and marine waterfronts.
The shoreline jurisdiction extends 200 feet landward of these waters and includes associated
wetlands and floodplains. The County’s jurisdiction does not include shorelines within Olympic
National Park, Olympic National Forests, the Skokomish Indian Reservation or the Squaxin Island
Indian Reservation. In conjunction with the County, through an Interlocal agreement, the city of
Shelton is updating its shoreline master program.
`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_`_Hood CanalCase InletOakland Bay-Á-w-ÈHarstine Island-v-vAgate RdGRAYS HARBORTHURSTON-vSherwoodCreekCoulterCreek-x-Æ-Á-ÁCanyonRiverShelton Matlock RdMatlock Brady RdLake Cushman RdHamma Hamma RiverDewatto RiverTahuya RiverBoulder CreekJefferson CreekVance CreekN. ForkSkokomish River S. ForkSkokomish River MillCreekDecker CreekCloquallum Creek, U TGosnellCreekMission CreekUnnamed LakeElfendahl PassSatsop River, E FDry BedCreekSquaxin Island Reservation and Trust LandsSquaxin Island Reservation Skokomish IndianReservation Olympic National ForestOlympic National ParkMount Skokomish WildernessWonder Mountain WildernessKITSAPPIERCEGRAYS HARBORTHURSTONJEFFERSONSHELTONBELFAIRALLYNUNIONHOODSPORTTAYLOR TOWNBAY SHOREPOTLATCHMATLOCKDAYTONLILLIWAUPDEER CREEKGRAPEVIEWSPENCER LAKETAHUYABingham CreekCanyon RiverSatsop River, M FGoldsborough CreekSkookum CreekCedar CreekSkokomish River Washington CreekGoldsborough Creek, S FCabin CreekCloquallum Creek, U TLena CreekSchneider CreekDecker Creek, U TLake CushmanMason LakeLilliwaup SwampCranberry LakeIsabella LakePrice LakeNahwatzel LakeSpencer LakeLost LakeTimber LakeLake LimerickTiger LakeIsland LakePhillips LakeLake KokaneeStump LakeBenson LakeDevereaux LakeHaven LakeLake WootenTee LakeStar LakeTrails End LakeTwin LakesWest LakeFawn LakeRex LakeLake AndersonForbes LakeMelbourne LakeLake ArrowheadSection One PondPanther LakeErdman LakeCatfish LakeGoat Ranch LakeCoon LakeHanks LakeMaggie LakeBlacksmith LakeLake BennettsenPanhandle LakeScarification PondDRY CREEKDRY CREEKBIG CREEKROCK CREEKPINE CREEKPRICE LAKERULE CREEKLENA CREEKSMITH CREEKJOHNS CREEKBAKER CREEKVANCE CREEKCEDAR CREEKBROWN CREEKLEBAR CREEKFOUR STREAMUNION RIVERCABIN CREEKDECKER CREEKWINTER CREEKOUTLET CREEKRABBIT CREEKFRIGID CREEKWALTER CREEKCANYON RIVERCHURCH CREEKDRY RUN CREEKGOSNELL CREEKBINGHAM CREEKDRY BED CREEKCOULTER CREEKMISSION CREEKDEWATTO RIVERBOULDER CREEKPHILLIPS CREEKARISTINE CREEKSCHNEIDER CREEKCRANBERRY CREEKMCTAGGART CREEKRENDSLAND CREEKLILLIWAUP CREEKJEFFERSON CREEKCLOQUALLUM CREEKSCHUMOCHER CREEKWASHINGTON CREEKWAKETICKEH CREEKHAMMA HAMMA RIVERSOUTH FORK SKOKOMISH RIVERNORTH FORK SKOKOMISH RIVERUNNAMED TRIB TO DECKER CREEKUNNAMED TRIB TO S F SKOKOMISH RIVERMap 1: Preliminary ShorelineJurisdictionMason CountyShoreline Master ProgramApril 2011DISCLAIMER AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITYThe data used to make this map have been tested for accuracy,and every effort has been made to ensure that these data aretimely, accurate and reliable. However, Mason County makes noguarantee or warranty to its accuracy as to labeling, dimensions, orplacement or location of any map features contained herein. Theboundaries depicted by these data are approximate, and are notnecessarily accurate to surveying or engineering standards. Thesedata are intended for informational purposes and should not beconsidered authoritative for engineering, navigational, legal andother site-specific uses. Mason County does not assume any legalliability or responsibility arising from the use of this map in a mannernot intended by Mason County. In no event shall Mason County beliable for direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, special, or tortdamages of any kind, including, but not limited to, loss ofanticipated profits or benefits arising from use of or reliance on theinformation contained herein. The burden for determining fitness foruse lies entirely with the user and the user is solely responsible forunderstanding the accuracy limitation of the information containedin this map.SMA Grant Agreement No. G1100004Task 1.1Coordinate System: State Plane NAD1983 (Ft)Washington South FIPS 4602NOTE: Map data shown here are the property of the sources listedbelow. Inacuracies may exist, and ESA implies no warranties orguarantees regarding any aspect of data depiction.¯0 1 20.5MilesData Sources: ESA, 2011; Mason County, 2011 (2006); Ecology, 2009; WDNR, 2007; FEMA, 1996.DRAFTPIERCEKITSAPGRAYS HARBORJEFFERSONTHURSTONPath: S:\GIS\Projects\210xxx\210570_MasonCoSMP\Projects\Shoreline_Jurisdiction\PreliminaryShorelineJurisdiction_11x17_april2011_update.mxd (MJL; 04/15/11)-Á-ÁSheltonHoodCanalMap 1: Preliminary Shoreline JurisdictionMason County Shoreline Master ProgramTotten InletThis map is intended for planning purposes only. The preliminaryshoreline jurisdiction depicts the approximate location and extent of"shorelines of the state". These are the areas potentially subject tothe State Shoreline Management Act and Shoreline MasterProgram. The preliminary shoreline jurisdiction includes the ordinaryhigh water mark (OHWM), a 200' zone from the OHWM, the currentregulated FEMA floodplain and any associated wetlands. Theactual extent of the shoreline jurisdiction requires a site-specificevaluation to identify the OHWM and any associated wetlands.Oakland BayCase InletLegend`_20 CFS Upstream Limits (USGS, 1998)Shoreline Planning AreaSMP Update StreamsSMP Update WaterbodiesShelton City LimitsMajor RoadsUGA | Rural Activity Center Boundaries | HamletsRailroadsIndian ReservationsWilderness AreasOlympic National ForestOlympic National Park
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Public Participation Strategy – Mason County Shoreline Master Program Update
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2.2 Mason County Shorelines
Update of the shoreline master program will include several steps, each of which will require
providing the public with information and receiving their input. The major steps will include
preparing a shoreline inventory; analyzing and designating shoreline environments; drafting
shoreline policies and regulations; developing a restoration plan for selected areas; assessing
cumulative impacts; and completing the required environmental review process. At the conclusion
of this update process, all of the draft documents prepared in the earlier steps will be finalized and
refined into a Final Mason County Shoreline Master Program.
2.3 Funding and Timeline
The Shoreline Management Act requires the state to provide “reasonable and adequate” funding for
SMP updates. Mason County and the City of Shelton are eligible for such grants in the current state
budget cycle. The amount of funding is based on a number of factors including, but not limited to:
miles of shoreline in each jurisdiction; number and complexity of kinds of shoreline (marine, streams
and rivers, and lakes); population; and growth rate. Mason County has received a $650,000 state
grant from the Washington Department of Ecology to assist with the SMP update. The grant
agreement contract was finalized on June 28th 2010 and the effective period of the agreement is from
July 1, 2010 through June 30, 2013 1
3.0 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
. Using these grants, the County has three years (through June
30, 2013) to adopt and submit the completed update to Ecology for approval.
GOALS
The County actively encourages participation by
interested citizens during all phases of the SMP
development. Mason County’s SMP needs to reflect
the long-term desires of our communities for the
preferred uses and allocation of waterfront lands;
while, addressing Ecology shorelines requirements.
Mason County recognizes that early and continuous
public participation is critical to the update and ultimately successful implementation of the SMP. All
public outreach and public events related to SMP development will be documented. Public
Participation Goals to guide the County’s SMP Update are shown Table 1 on page 6.
1 Years 2 and 3 funding are subject to legislative appropriation in the 2011-2013 Biennium.
Public Participation Strategy – Mason County Shoreline Master Program Update
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Table 1. Public Participation Process Goals and Objectives
# Goal Objective/s
1 Be transparent and inclusive.
To ensure that public input is incorporated into the
decision-making process.
Ensure the Public is provided the opportunity to track
amendments to SMP documents as they are made
throughout the process.
Respond to input that is received and demonstrate the
use of public comment.
To ensure public opportunities to provide data re:
public access or other local shoreline information.
2 Identify the most effective opportunities for
public participation.
Provide public input opportunities at project
milestones, prior to decision-making.
To ensure the optimum use of the public’s time on
issues of greatest concern.
Keep current information about SMP development
status available to the public for review and comment.
3
Actively involve and encourage
participation of all persons and entities
having interest and means (RCW
90.58.103) early in the process, with
continued communication and feedback
throughout the process. Make a special
effort to reach the under-represented
communities/stakeholders.
Broadly and regularly disseminate SMP materials and
meeting notices, and seek written and verbal input at
the same intervals (RCW 36.70A.140; WAC 365195-
600).
Use processes that enable people with different
learning styles and technologies to be informed and
participate.
Provide the public with a range of input opportunities.
4 Coordinate the SMP Update Program with
the City of Shelton’s efforts.
Identify opportunities to coordinate messages and
materials.
Share Program Update schedules, meeting agendas,
and feedback received with cities.
5
Consult and consider recommendations
from State-wide agencies and tribes,
particularly with regard to resources and/or
shorelines of statewide-significance.
Provide special briefings and review opportunities to
these key parties (WAC 173-26-251).
6 Promote an understanding about the SMP
update requirements.
Establish a strategy to educate key parties about the
SMP update process and requirements.
Demonstrate a thorough analysis of issues by
providing information and findings.
7 Conduct an effective and inclusive public
process.
Evaluate the public participation process throughout
the life of the Program.
8
Coordinate and consolidate public
participation requirements with the SEPA
environmental review process.
Implement a public participation plan that expands
upon SEPA requirements.
Public Participation Strategy – Mason County Shoreline Master Program Update
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4.0 WORK PLAN AND TIMELINE
The SMP update will consist of five phases which are specified in the grant. They are outlined below
and follow the general project timeline shown in Tables 2 and 3. Some of the phases and specific
tasks included will overlap in time and may be completed simultaneously with other tasks. Some
tasks are iterative (e.g., analyzing cumulative impacts, developing regulations) and may involve
various steps conducted at different times in the process before they are completed. (Figure 1
provides a general flow chart of components of the public participation process.)
4.1 Phase I -Public Participation Program
Mason County will incorporate public participation in all phases of the SMP process, document
public participation efforts (e.g., public meetings, community events) and keep a record of public
comments received. The County will prepare quarterly progress reports identifying progress by work
task, documentation of public involvement efforts, and identifying completed tasks. Please, refer to
Section 8 for public notices and information.
Throughout the SMP update process, Mason County will seek to identify and also encourage
participation of individuals, groups, organizations, and other entities having useful scientific,
technical, or cultural information; having interests or responsibilities relating to shorelines of the
state; or having any special expertise with respect to any environmental impact.
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Table 2. Schedule (Tentative)
Mason County’s Public Involvement Meeting Dates
(Tentative Dates subject to change)
January 2011 Planning Advisory Commission Meeting
February 2011 Joint Technical Advisory Committee (JTAC) Meeting #1
March 2011 JTAC Meeting #2
March 2011 Tribal Meetings as requested
April 2011 JTAC Meeting #3
April 2011 Planning Advisory Commission Meeting
April 2011 Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) Meeting #1
May 2011 Joint JTAC / CAC Meeting #1
May 2011 Planning Advisory Commission Meeting
May 2011 County Commissioners Meeting
July 2011 Visioning Forum #1 Harmony Hill
September 2011 CAC Meeting #2
October 2011 Visioning Meeting #2 Shelton Civic Center
October 2011 Tribal Meetings as requested
October 2011 Joint JTAC / CAC Meeting #2
November 2011 Joint JTAC / CAC Meeting #3
December 2011 Joint JTAC / CAC Meeting #4
January -March
2012
CAC Meetings (if necessary)
Planning Advisory Commission meetings
October 2012 Draft SMP Forums #3 and #4
October 2012 Tribal Meetings as requested
February -May
2013 County Commission meetings
June 2013 Public Hearing
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4.2 Phase II -Shoreline Inventory and Characterization, Consistency Review,
Commencing in the fall of 2010, Mason County will collect existing shoreline data from a variety of
sources for the shorelines identifiedon Map 1 (pg. 5). This information-gathering phase is an
important aspect of public participation in that it involves connecting with people and organizations
for relevant shoreline information. This information will then be analyzed and portrayed on maps,
tables, and illustrations in a way that characterizes shoreline ecological conditions. The shoreline
inventory and characterization will provide the scientific and technical foundation from which the
remainderof the SMP update process will evolve. This work will result in preparation of a Shoreline
Inventory and Characterization Report (ICR); that, includes maps and provides an analysis of the
inventory data, ecosystem characterization and shoreline functions, and shoreline use and public
access findings to support the update of the SMP.
Other planning to support the SMP update during this project phase includes:
• A Preliminary Restoration Planning Report: an inventory of current restoration programs
and initial identification of goals and priorities for restoration of degraded and impaired
shoreline ecological functions.
• A Consistency Report: evaluates the existing Mason County SMP in terms of current state
shoreline guidelines to identify gaps and update priorities.
4.3 Phase III – Preliminary Shoreline Master Program Elements
Phase III is anticipated to start in mid -2011 and last for 8 to 12 months. It includes drafting goals,
policies, shoreline environmental designations, and recommendations related to shoreline uses,
environmental protection restoration, and public access.
Phase III will also include preparation of a draft Integration Strategy Report to address issues of
consistency and coordination between the SMP update and other plans and regulations applicable to
shoreline areas including, but not limited to: comprehensive plan and development regulations (e.g.,
critical areas code, zoning), watershed plans, natural hazard plans, floodplain management plans,
park and open space plans, and salmon recovery plans. In addition, this phase will initiate review of
cumulative impacts of preliminary SMP elements and draft restoration plans to address state
requirements that the SMP’s will achieve no net loss of shoreline ecological functions. Mason
County will be developing the Shoreline Master Program at monthly Citizen Advisory Committee
(CAC) meetings. The CAC will be meeting together at various times with the Joint Technical
Advisory Committee (JTAC).
4.4 Phase IV – Complete Draft Shoreline Master Program Preparation
In Phase IV, the preliminary SMP update elements will be reevaluated and revised as necessary
based on public comment and the findings of the cumulative impact analysis to assure that they are
adequate to achieve no net loss of ecological functions. Final jurisdiction maps (digital) will be
prepared. Mason County will prepare a complete draft SMP. The complete draft SMP will be
presented and public comment taken at public forums (see Section 5.3). Phase IV is anticipated to
start by mid-2012. Please, refer to Section 8 for public notices and information.
Public Participation Strategy – Mason County Shoreline Master Program Update
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4.5 Phase V – Local Shoreline Master Program Adoption Process
The last phase of the SMP update process includes public hearings by the Mason County Planning
Commission and Board of County Commissioners that are anticipated to occur in 2013. Final
review of the Draft SMP under the State Environmental Policy Act (RCW 43.21C) will also occur at
that time. All comments received during the public hearing and public comment period will be
compiled. The Board of Mason County Commissioners will adopt an updated SMP through
ordinance following a public hearing, consistent with the requirements of WAC 173-26-100. A
Notice of Adoption will be published in the local newspaper of record. Mason County will submit
the adopted Draft SMP to Ecology for review and approval.
Public Participation Strategy – Mason County Shoreline Master Program Update
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Table 3. SMP Update Timeline (Tentative)
(Key Public Input Opportunities in Green. All advisory meetings are opportunities for public input.)
Task
Number Task Description Deliverable Meeting Dates Ecology Grant
Deadline
Phase 1: Preliminary Assessment of Shoreline Jurisdiction and Public Participation Plan
Task 1.1 Identify preliminary shoreline jurisdiction Preliminary jurisdiction map of
Shorelines of the State November 30, 2010
Task 1.2 Prepare plan for public participation Public participation plan
December 30, 2010
Task 1.3 Demonstrate how Phase 1 complies with
the Guidelines
SMP Submittal Checklist (County
deliverable)
Phase 2: Shoreline Inventory, Analysis, and Characterization
Task 2.1 Complete shoreline inventory
Draft list of inventory data sources
January 31, 2011
Digital working maps
Task 2.3A JTAC Meeting #1
Introduction to SMP update, review
references, gather technical data, review
shoreline jurisdiction
February 16, 2011 N/A
Task 2.3A JTAC Meeting #2 Coastal processes and reach breaks
presentation March 16, 2011 N/A
Task 2.2 Conduct shoreline analysis
Characterize ecosystem-wide processes
March 31, 2011 (draft)
June 30, 2011 (final)
Characterize shoreline functions
Task 2.3 Prepare shoreline inventory and
characterization report
Draft shoreline inventory and
characterization report
Map portfolio
Task 1.2 Planning Advisory Committee: Public
Hearing for Public participation Plan Public participation plan April 18, 2011 N/A
Public Participation Strategy – Mason County Shoreline Master Program Update
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Task
Number Task Description Deliverable Meeting Dates Ecology Grant
Deadline
Task 2.3A JTAC meeting #3 Draft ICR findings presentation April 20, 2011 N/A
Task 3.4A CAC Meeting #1 Introduction to SMP update, shoreline
jurisdiction maps April 27, 2011 N/A
Task 1.2 Board of County Commissioners
Meeting Public Hearing-Public Participation Plan May 2011
Task
2.3A/3.4A JTAC/CAC joint meeting #1 Draft ICR findings presentation May 18, 2011 N/A
Task 2.4 Demonstrate how Phase 2 complies with
the Guidelines SMP Submittal Checklist June 30, 2011
Phase 3: Complete Draft SMP and Cumulative Impacts Analysis
Task 3.4A CAC Meeting #2 Introduction to Visioning and SMP
update September 2011 N/A
Task 3.1 Regional Public Visioning Open
House/Presentation #1 Harmony Hill
Results of inventory, discussion of
shoreline vision July 2011 N/A
Task 3.1 Regional Public Visioning Meetings #2
Shelton Civic Center
Results of inventory, discussion of
shoreline vision October 2011 N/A
Task 3.1 Conduct community visioning process Shoreline management strategy memo October 31, 2011
Task 3.4A JTAC/CAC Joint Meeting #2 Discuss environment designations October 2011 N/A
Task 3.4A JTAC/CAC Joint Meeting #3 Discuss environment designations November 2011 N/A
Task 3.2 Develop general SMP goals, policies
and regulations General goals and policies
December 30, 2011 (Initial
draft)
April 28, 2012 (Final draft) Task 3.3 Develop environment designations
Shoreline environment designations
Draft environment maps
Public Participation Strategy – Mason County Shoreline Master Program Update
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Task
Number Task Description Deliverable Meeting Dates Ecology Grant
Deadline
Task 3.4
Develop environment-specific shoreline
use & modification policies, regulations
and standards
Draft environment-specific shoreline use
and modification policies, regulations
and standards
Task 3.5 Develop SMP administrative provisions Draft administrative provisions
Task 3.4A JTAC/CAC Joint Meeting #4 Discuss environment designations February 2012 N/A
Task 3.6 Prepare preliminary cumulative impacts
analysis
Cumulative impacts analysis of the SMP
demonstrating how no net loss of
ecological functions will be achieved
over time
April 28, 2012
Task 3.7 Demonstrate how Phase 3 complies with
the Guidelines SMP Submittal Checklist April 28, 2012
Phase 4: Restoration Planning, Revisiting Phase 3 Products as necessary
Task 4.1 Prepare restoration plan Draft restoration plan July 28, 2012 (draft)
October 30, 2012 (final)
Task 4.2
Revisit draft SMP and cumulative
impacts analysis; finalize SMP
jurisdiction maps
Revised designations, policies, and
regulations that address the findings of
the cumulative impacts analysis
October 30, 2012
Revised cumulative impacts analysis
Final SMP jurisdiction maps and
boundary descriptions
Task 4.3 Prepare a report that demonstrates how
no net loss will be achieved
Report that demonstrates how no net
loss will be achieved through SMP
implementation
Public Participation Strategy – Mason County Shoreline Master Program Update
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Task
Number Task Description Deliverable Meeting Dates Ecology Grant
Deadline
SMP Public Forums #3 and #4 Review initial draft SMP Fall 2012 NA
Task 4.4 Demonstrate how Phase 4 complies with
the Guidelines SMP Submittal Checklist
Phase 5: Local SMP Adoption Process
Task 5.4 Planning Commission meetings Draft SMP
November,
December 2012
January, February,
March, April 2013
N/A
Task 5.4 Hold public hearing Draft SMP May 2013 N/A
Task 5.1 Assemble complete draft SMP Assembled draft SMP April 27, 2013
Task 5.2 Complete SEPA review and
documentation SEPA Checklist April 27, 2013
Task 5.3 Provide GMA 60-day notice of intent to
adopt
Evidence of compliance with GMA notice
requirements April 27, 2013
Task 5.5 Prepare a responsiveness summary Response to comments received June 2013
Task 5.6 Adopt SMP and submit to Ecology Submit adopted June 27, 2013
Task 5.7 Demonstrate how Phase 5 complies with
the Guidelines SMP Submittal Checklist June 27, 2013
Public Participation Strategy – Mason County Shoreline Master Program Update
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Figure 1. SMP Public Participation Flow Chart
SMP Update Mandate
(RCW90.58.020)
County Review
shoreline data,
policy, and
regulations
Citizens
Advisory
Committee
Technical
Advisory
Committee
Public Meetings & Public
Hearings
Planning Advisory
Commission
Board of County
Commissioners
Department of Ecology
Implementation
Public Participation Strategy – Mason County Shoreline Master Program Update
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5.0 MASON COUNTY PUBLIC MEETINGS AND HEARINGS
The Mason County Department of Community Development, Mason County Planning Advisory
Commission, and the Board of County Commissioners are the primary staff, advisory body, and
decision-making body, respectively, responsible for the SMP update and implementation of this
public participation plan. Public meetings and hearings to be held by the Planning Commission,
Board of County Commissioners, and Department of Community Development are described
below. Mason County may also hold other public forums, open houses, and meetings as the SMP
update process proceeds.
5.1 Planning Advisory Commission Public Meetings
The Planning Advisory Commission will hold public meetings throughout the SMP update process.
These public meetings will occur at least quarterly and additional meetings may be scheduled, as
needed, to provide SMP update project status reports and to present work products including:
• Shoreline Inventory and Characterization Report
• Preliminary Restoration Planning Report
• Consistency Review Report
• Community Visioning Report
• Preliminary Draft SMP Elements (goals, policies, environmental designations)
• Integration Strategy Report
• Cumulative Impact/No Net Loss Analysis
These meetings will be designed to help the Planning Advisory Commission with the task of
developing a draft SMP to ultimately recommend to the Board of County Commissioners. They will
also be designed to present information to the public throughout the SMP update process. All
meetings are open to the public and a general public comment period will be provided.
The Planning Advisory Commission regular-meetings are normally held on the third Monday of
each month beginning at 6:00 p.m. with special meetings scheduled as necessary at the Mason
County Courthouse Annex Building 1, 411 N 5th St, Shelton WA 98584. Meeting agendas are
available by Thursday afternoon (prior to the following week’s scheduled meeting) and are posted
on the County’s web site at: http://www.co.mason.wa.us
5.2 Mason County Commissioner Public Meetings
or current meeting information may be
obtained during normal business hours at the by calling (360) 427-9670 extension 282.
The Board of County Commissioners will hold public meetings throughout the SMP update
process. These public meetings will occur at least quarterly and additional meetings may be
scheduled, as needed, to provide SMP update project status reports and briefings on completed
reports and other tasks.
The Board of County Commissioners meets on the first, second and third Tuesday of each month
beginning at 9:00 a.m. and on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. at the Mason County
Public Participation Strategy – Mason County Shoreline Master Program Update
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Courthouse Annex, 411 N 5th St, Shelton WA 98584. The meetings are open to the public and input
is invited during public comment periods. The public is also invited to Board's work sessions, which
are regularly held on Mondays starting at 9 a.m. Other work sessions are scheduled throughout the
week, as needed. These meetings are designed to prepare the commissioners to make decisions on
local issues.
Board work session and regular meeting agendas are generally available each Thursday afternoon
prior to the following week's scheduled meetings. They are posted on the County’s web site at:
http://www.co.mason.wa.us/commissioners/Commissioners.php/ and clicking on the agenda or
can be obtained by from the Commissioners’ Office during normal business hours at the Mason
County Courthouse or call (360) 427-9670 extension 419.
5.3 Forums/Open Houses
Shoreline Forums:
Mason County will host shoreline forums at key points in the update process to present information
to the public, answer questions, and collect input. The perspectives gathered from such efforts will
be documented and included in discussions with advisory groups, the Planning Commission, and
Board of County Commissioners.
The County will hold community visioning forums in the summer and fall of 2011 that will invite
and encourage citizen participation to help determine goals for future use of the shoreline. This
process will be conducted in conjunction with the findings of the shoreline inventory and
characterization report. The visioning process will identify shoreline issues and opportunities. It will
result in a community visioning report that will contain strategies for shoreline uses, public access,
resource protection, and restoration that is consistent with SMA policy and SMP Guidelines
objectives.
The County will continuously seek public input on preliminary draft SMP products developed
including: presentation of draft goals, policies, designations, regulations, draft restoration plan
elements, preliminary cumulative impacts/no net loss analysis, and other recommendations. The
primary method will be at CAC and Planning Advisory Committee meetings, but the County will
also seek opportunities to reach interest groups as time and resources allow..
The County will hold shoreline forums in the fall of 2012 on a complete draft SMP. These will
provide opportunities for public review and comment on the draft SMP prior to formal hearings
before the Planning Commission and Board of County Commissioners.
5.4 Public Hearings
Prior to final adoption of the SMP update by the Board of Mason County Commissioners Mason
County will hold public hearings. The Planning Commission will also hold at least one public
hearing on the draft SMP updates and following the public hearing process and will make its
recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners. The Board will consider the Planning
Commission recommendation and public comments received. The Board will hold a public hearing
prior to local adoption of the draft SMP. The draft SMP will be made available for public review a
minimum of 30 days prior to the scheduled hearing. Public hearings are anticipated to be scheduled
in winter/spring of 2012.
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5.5 Record of Meetings
Mason County Planning Commission and Board of Mason County Commissioners public meetings
and hearings will be audio recorded and meeting minutes prepared. Mason County Planning
Advisory Commission audio recordings may be purchased from the Department of Community
Development for $20.00. Mason County Board of County Commissioner’s audio recordings may be
purchased from the Clerk of the Board for $20.00.
6.0 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT STRATEGIES
In addition to Mason County scheduled public meetings and hearings (see Section 5.0 the following
steps will be taken to exchange information and to encourage broad and diverse public involvement
throughout the SMP update. All technical and advisory group meetings will be published on Mason
County’s SMP update web page. The public is invited to all meetings, and the County will provide
opportunity for public comment at each meeting
6.1 Technical and Policy Advisory Groups
Mason County will form two advisory committees for technical and citizen-policy input throughout
Phases 1-4 in the SMP update process described in Section 4.0.
1. Joint Technical Advisory Committee
Function: The committee will help the County and the City review and evaluate information
on streams, lakes, wetlands and marine waters that are regulated under the Shoreline
Management Act. Members include representation of local businesses, special interest
groups, Tribes, state, and federal agencies.
2. Citizen Advisory Committee
Function: The committee will help the County review the Shoreline Master Program
policies regarding streams, lakes, wetlands and marine waters that are regulated under the
Shoreline Management Act. These stakeholder groups include representation of local
citizens, special interest groups, Tribes, and local, state, and federal agencies local businesses.
Notification of SMP related agenda items will be sent to the SMP contact list; media for
press release; and listed on the SMP website at:
http://www.co.mason.wa.us/community_dev/shoreline_master_program/index.php
6.2 Treaty Tribes
.
While tribal governments often participate in the groups listed in 6.1 above, as separate government
entities with treaty rights to the fisheries and with co-manager roles that include fish habitat
concerns, the county will consult with the Squaxin Tribal Nation, the Skokomish Tribal Nation and
the Confederated Tribe of the Chehalis within Mason County on shoreline management plan
language as well as notice them of public forums and meetings regarding the SMP.
It is understood that treaty tribes within Mason County have an interest in shoreline protection in
their Usual and Accustomed Fishing Grounds and Areas and are invited to participate in plan
update discussions.
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6.3 Additional Jurisdiction Coordination
As described in a formal interagency agreement, Mason County will coordinate the SMP update with
the city of Shelton to promote consistency between County and City shoreline master programs and
to establish urban growth area SMPs that are compatible with countywide shoreline goals and with
the goals of the city.
Mason County will also collaborate with agencies adjacent to the County with shoreline jurisdiction
including but not limited to: Olympic National Park; Olympic National Forest; WA Department of
Natural Resources; WA Department of Fish and Wildlife; WA State Parks; and US Army Corp of
Engineers.
6.4 Shoreline Property Owners
Shoreline property owners are important stakeholders in the SMP update. Mason County will
develop a mailing list of shoreline property owners based on available tax records and landowner
requests. The list will be used by the County to notify shoreline owners by mail early in the process
so they can stay informed, be involved, and provide comment throughout the SMP update process.
6.5 Additional Outreach Strategies
The County will also identify other means of public outreach such as information sharing at local
community events, dissemination of education materials, questionnaires, and surveys.
The County will notify, encourage participation, and seek input related to SMP update phases from
entities known to having an interest in shoreline use including but not limited to: recreation,
commercial shellfish operators, environmental, conservation, realtor associations, private property
rights groups, builder associations, and civic organizations. Methods of notification and information
dissemination are outlined in Section 8.0 below.
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Table 4. Examples of Key Parties(not an exclusive list)
Members of the Public
Residents c-wide
County Officials
Property/business owners
Civic organizations (e.g., Rotary)
League of Women Voters
Mason County Board of County
Commissioners
Mason County Planning Advisory
Commission
Business Community
Shelton – Mason County Chamber of
Commerce
County Departments
Economic Development Council of
Mason County
Commercial shellfish operators
Master Builders Association
Association of Realtors
North Mason Chamber of Commerce
Public Works
County Administration
Parks and Recreation Division
Environmental Stakeholders
Audubon Society
Other Local Government
Trout Unlimited
Hood Canal Environmental Council
City of Shelton
Ports of Allyn, Hoodsport, Grapeview,
Shelton and Dewatto
Watershed planning entities
Hood Canal Coordinating Council
Tribes
Skokomish Tribe
State Government
Squaxin Island Tribe
Confederated Tribe of the Chehalis
Dept. of Ecology
Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Dept. of Natural Resources
Dept. of Commerce
Dept. of Archaeology and Historic
Preservation
Department of Natural Resources
Department of Transportation
Other
Mason County Public Utility District 1
Federal Government
Mason County Public Utility District 3
Historical Preservation Commission
Washington State University
Extension
Olympic College
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
U.S. NOAA National
Marine Fisheries Service
US Forest Service
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7.0 WRITTEN COMMENTS
Written comments are welcome throughout the SMP update process. Send comments to:
Mailing Address:
Mason County Department of Community Development
RE: SMP Update, 411 N. 5th
P.O. Box 279
Shelton, WA 98584
Fax: (360) 427-8425
Website: http://www.co.mason.wa.us/community_dev/shoreline_master_program/index.php.
8.0 PUBLIC NOTICES AND INFORMATION DISSEMINATION
Mason County will use a variety of methods to inform the public about upcoming public meetings,
availability of maps, relevant planning documents and reports, and important milestones related to
the SMP update including, but not limited to:
1. Internet: Mason County will establish and maintain a web site for the project to provide
a public forum for status updates, reports, public meeting notices and agendas, and other
project information. The website will be updated with project details, including a calendar
of events. Follow the SMP update link on the County homepage at: www.co.Mason.wa.us
or go directly to the SMP webpage:
2. Email List: Mason County will maintain an email distribution list that will include
identified representatives from known agencies, tribes, neighboring jurisdictions, and other
organizations that have interests or responsibilities relating to shorelines and any other
individual or group that requests to be placed on the email distribution list. Periodic project
announcements and public notices of upcoming public meetings will be sent to the email
distribution list. Individuals and organizations interested in being on the email distribution
list should direct their request to the comment section of our SMP webpage listed above.
http://www.co.mason.wa.us/community_dev/shoreline_master_program/index.php
3. News Releases: Mason County will issue news releases announcing public meetings,
hearings, and comment periods to local media including, but not limited to: KMAS,
KRXY, SHELTON-MASON COUNTY JOURNAL, THE OLYMPIAN, SHELTON
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, NORTH MASON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, CITY
OF SHELTON, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL, THE SUN. Mason
County will strive to work with local news media to disseminate information related to the
SMP update process such as: focus articles, interviews of key project staff and elected
officials.
4. Legal Notices: Legal public notice of all public hearings will be published under
“Legals” in the Journal classified section.
5. Local Information Repositories: SMP related planning reports and other documents
will be made available locally for public review at the Timberland Library System Branches
in Mason County including: copies of the County SMP update grant contract/scope of
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work, this public participation strategy; current shoreline master program policies and
regulations; and draft SMP updates.
9.0 CONTACTS
Mason County Department of Community Development
ATTN: LaJane Schopfer
Courthouse Building 1
411 N. 5th
P.O. Box 279
Shelton, WA 98584
(360) 427-9670 Ext. 408 Fax: (360) 427-8425 Email: See the “Comment” on the Shoreline Master
Program Web Page
Tim Gates, WA Department of Ecology Southwest Regional Office,
P.O. Box 47775, Olympia, WA 98504-7775
(360) 407-6349 Fax: (360) 407-6305 Email: tgat461@ecy.wa.gov
SMP Update Project File: An official project file will be available for public inspection during
regular business hours (Monday thru Friday 8:30 to 4:30 p.m., except holidays) at the Mason County
Department of Community Development, 411 N. 5th Shelton, WA 98584.