The Okanogan County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on August 29, 2005, with Chairman Mary Lou Peterson, Commissioner Andrew Lampe, Commissioner Don Hover and Brenda Crowell, Clerk of the Board present.

11:04:48 AM Public Hearing (cont) – Nightly Rentals - Planning
Kurt Danison and Greg Wilder

Commissioner Peterson opened the hearing. Kurt Danison explained that this hearing is a continued hearing regarding Nightly Rentals moratorium. An ordinance was drafted following a workshop with the commissioners and is intended to be an interim solution. Nothing has been prepared to lift the moratorium, but it is within the Commissioners’ authority to do so.

Greg Wilder stated that the interim zoning language is much different than the moratorium but is more finely defined. The interim language prohibits nightly rentals in school district 350 with the exception of planned developments. The interim language basically addresses definitions. Heidi Appel explained that the Commissioners can adopt interim zoning ordinances or controls without holding a public hearing.

Kurt Danison read the draft ordinance to those present.

Commissioner Peterson noted that she would like the proposed ordinance to include wording that numerous written comments were also received. The proposed ordinance would eventually prohibit Nightly Rentals in the Methow Valley with the exception of those approved prior to the sunset clause.

Heidi stated that her understanding is that the Commissioners intent is to maintain the status quo. Commissioner Hover agreed with Heidi. The Interim Ordinance will have another public hearing to change, define definitions and reflect changes in the zoning chart. It basically makes it clear that Nightly Rentals are prohibited anywhere in the Methow Valley outside of the planned development process. Heidi asked about agricultural zoning. Kurt stated that that land use is not even addressed in the use chart.

Rusty Bonser stated that instead of creating a whole new process, clarify it and take items three and four out. It doesn’t have to be part of an ordinance. He would like to see the change made now followed by the regular process. It still accomplishes the clarification wanted.

Greg Wilder‘s concern is that it would exclude the Planning Commission in the process.

Commissioner Hover stated that all that is being done is to clarify the issue with the intent of the Planning Commission is just being clarified. The other option is to have the issue adjudicated by the Board of Adjustment.

Vicki representing MV Lodging association. supports Rusty’s statements.

Gabriel Childers owners of Wolf Ridge, also agrees with Rusty Bonser.

Gene Westland , Winthrop Inn, agrees with Rusty Bonser that section 3 could make things more complex than necessary.

The Commissioners will allow written comments to be submitted by September 6, 2005.

Commissioner Hover moved to continue the hearing to September 6, 2005 at 3:00 PM. Motion was seconded and carried.

Executive Session – Litigation - Commissioners
Commissioner Hover moved to go into executive session to discuss potential litigation at 2:00 PM for 1 hour. Motion was seconded and carried.

Open Session resumed at 3:00 PM