For certain applications, the City Council makes a final decision after a recommendation by the Planning Commission. These application types are referred to as Type IV decisions.
A. Pre-application conference. A pre-application conference may be required by the Planning Director for Type IV applications.
B. Neighborhood meetings. The applicant may be required to present their development proposal at a neighborhood meeting (see Section 16.89.070). Table 16.89.020 sets the minimum guidelines for neighborhood review but the Planning Director may require other applications to go through neighborhood review as well.
C. Application requirements. Type IV applications shall be made on forms provided by the Planning Director. The application shall be accompanied by all required information and fees.
D. Public notice and hearings. The public notice and hearings process for the Planning Commission’s review of Type IV applications shall follow that for Type III applications, as provided in subsections 16.89.050.D and 16.89.050.E.
E. Decision process.
1. Approval or denial of a Type IV decision shall be based on the standards and criteria located in the code.
2. The hearings body shall issue a final written order containing findings and conclusions recommending that the City Council approve, approve with conditions, or deny the application.
3. The written decision shall explain the relevant criteria and standards, state the facts relied upon in rendering the decision, and justify the decision according to the criteria, standards, and facts.
4. In cases involving attorneys, the prevailing attorney shall prepare the findings, conclusions, and final order. Staff shall review and, if necessary, revise, these materials prior to submittal to the hearings body.
F City Council proceedings:
1. Upon receipt of the record of the Planning Commission proceedings, and the recommendation of the Commission, the City Council shall conduct a review of that record and shall vote to approve, approve with conditions, or deny the recommendation of the Planning Commission.
2. The City Council may question those individuals who were a party to the public hearing conducted by the Planning Commission if the Commission’s record appears to be lacking sufficient information to allow for a decision by the Council. The Council shall hear arguments based solely on the record of the Commission.
3. The City Council may choose to conduct public hearings on Comprehensive Plan amendments, amendments to the text of this title, zone map amendments, and annexations. If the Council elects to conduct such hearings, it may do so in joint session with the Planning Commission or after receiving the written record of the Commission. (Ord. 1080, 2001)