# City of Anacortes - Planning Commission Meeting, 10/13/26 (Zoom Livestream)

The City of Anacortes Planning Commission held a public hearing on October 13, 2026, regarding proposed amendments to Anacortes Municipal Code Chapter 19.70, Critical Areas. Staff said the amendments are intended to align city regulations with Washington State requirements and best available science, and to improve clarity and administration for wetlands, wildlife habitat, geologically hazardous areas, aquifer recharge areas, frequently flooded areas, and related review procedures. The written comment period remains open through October 22 at 5 p.m.; staff plans to provide a response matrix for commission review before a potential November 10 deliberation and recommendation to City Council. No procurement, contract, or spending decisions were identified.

Public testimony included requests to map critical-area and infrastructure constraints in the R1 zone, strengthen neighborhood participation, and allow more public input on staff responses. A speaker for Smart Growth Anacortes raised concerns about the State Environmental Policy Act determination and the scope of proposed best-available-science amendments, and urged the commission to carefully review the proposal. Another speaker urged timely action, citing the city’s fiscal situation and housing needs. The commission also approved the September 29 minutes and voted to excuse three absent commissioners; these actions did not involve procurement or spending.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Environment
**Topics:** Regulatory Compliance
**Published:** October 13, 2026

### Sources
- [City of Anacortes - Planning Commission Meeting, 10/13/26 (Zoom Livestream)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qhk6rvvMuuw) - City of Anacortes