State seeks input on proposed county shoreline rules

The state Department of Ecology is seeking comment on a proposed update to development rules along Clark County’s unincorporated waterways.

Clark County recently adopted a revised Shoreline Master Program, which guides development next to local lakes and rivers. The county updated the plan with six of its incorporated cities. Many of those plans haven’t been changed since the 1970s.

The rules wouldn’t affect existing structures near water. The plan aims to emphasize water-related uses, public access and natural functions in new development.

Clark County and Vancouver were the first to submit their plans to the state. Public comment on Vancouver’s plan opened in February.

To offer feedback on the county update, direct comments to Kim Van Zwalenburg of the Ecology Department at kim.vanzwalenburg@ecy.wa.gov. Comments can also be sent to P.O. Box 47775, Olympia, WA 98504.

The plan and related documents are at the Clark County Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St.; the Department of Ecology’s regional office, 300 Desmond Drive, Lacey; or shoreline update. Comments will be accepted until April 23.