Welcome to Skagit County

October 29, 2004

RESIDENTS TO CONSIDER GROWTH PLAN FOR FIDALGO ISLAND
Open House set for November 3rd

FIDALGO ISLAND - Community members are invited to help shape the subarea plan for South Fidalgo Island at an open house on Wednesday, November 3 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Fidalgo Elementary School. The open house is an early opportunity for the public to obtain an overview of the planning process and share their priorities regarding issues such as land use and zoning, utilities, parks and recreation, transportation, natural resources and the environment.

Under the provisions of the Growth Management Act, Skagit County identified a need to develop a subarea plan that will support and enhance the County's Comprehensive Plan by identifying the issues confronting South Fidalgo. Subarea plans help to strengthen communities and provide more specific land use policies and guidelines for smaller regions like South Fidalgo Island. Land use strategies and recommendations provided in the plan will aim to accommodate area growth and development over the next twenty years and preserve the quality of life for area residents.

"Rural Fidalgo Island has recently experienced a significant rise in population and Skagit County reports predict an increase of 900 additional residents by 2025," said Jeroldine Hallberg, Associate Planner with Skagit County. "We will look to citizens to assist us in planning for future growth by illustrating their vision for Fidalgo Island."

The Fidalgo Island Subarea Plan Advisory Committee, a group of citizens appointed by Skagit County Board of County Commissioners, will steward the planning process while the County and consultants provide technical guidance and coordination. Two committees, a Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) and a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) will assist in the development of appropriate strategies and recommendations.

The subarea plan development will include four phases, each taking approximately three months with a draft plan developed by November of 2005. Each phase will include opportunities for public involvement through formal and informal meetings.

Listening and Learning

Obtain guidance through CAC/TAC working sessions
Gather initial feedback from public open house
Develop vision, planning principles and guidelines

Fact-Finding

Analyze existing conditions and issues
Conduct public survey
Conduct CAC/TAC working sessions
Determine community priorities and concerns

Solutions

Conduct CAC/TAC working sessions
Host community discussions
Develop strategies to implement priorities
Host public open house to test ideas

Public Review and Adoption

Draft subarea plan
Facilitate environmental review
Conduct public hearings

For more information about the Fidalgo Subarea Plan, please visit the Skagit County website at www.skagitcounty.net/planfidalgo or contact Jeroldine Hallberg at 360.336.9410, extension 3175 or email jeroldineh@co.skagit.wa.us.