June 17, 2026 Planning Commission Meeting

The Thurston County Planning Commission held a meeting on June 17, 2026, primarily focused on land use planning matters including updates to the Critical Areas Ordinance (CAO) related to geologically hazardous areas. The meeting included a detailed discussion of a gap analysis on geological hazards, incorporating best available science and updated mapping from the Department of Natural Resources. Public comments emphasized the need for adequate review time for code updates, incorporation of habitat considerations, and clarity on professional requirements for geotechnical reporting. Additionally, the Commission held a public hearing on open space tax program applications for the Gardner Revocable Living Trust and McCown properties, which propose enrolling over 188 acres in open space under farm and agricultural conservation categories. Staff presented the applications and tax reduction details, and public testimony supported the preservation of open space amid rapid development. The Commission discussed tax shift concerns and requested clearer summaries of tax savings. No formal votes were recorded in the transcript, but the Commission was asked to recommend approval of the open space classifications. The meeting also addressed procedural matters related to public hearing notices and scheduling of future agenda items.