Cowlitz County has received $75,000 to review and update the Best Available Science for an update of the Critical Areas Ordinance consistent with GMA amendments and conditions in Cowlitz County. Work with a steering committee, advisory committees and the Planning Commission is underway to update the 2017 Cowlitz County Comprehensive Plan. These funds will assist Cowlitz County with the following deliverables:•Gap analysis and Update to Critical Area policies and regulations and Best Available Science• Organic Materials Management Facilities Siting• Natural Resource Land Designations The consultant will:•Work directly with Building and Planning Department staff regarding critical areas updates. •Review the BAS reports regarding critical areas of Cowlitz County in accordance with state requirements and prepare an update to the County’s existing BAS for the Critical Areas Ordinance to ensure compliance with state requirements. Existing BAS resources from relevant government agencies will be provided. •Prepare required environmental checklists for the Critical Areas Ordinance update adoption. •Review and prepare responses to comments received as a result of the SEPA comment period. with all requirements of the GMA and other relevant laws. •Review and advise the County on staff prepared updates regarding Organic Materials Management Facilities Siting, and Natural Resource Land Designations. •Adhere to project schedule and budget. •Produce two (2) drafts of the Critical Areas Ordinance update in accordance with WAC 365-190and as directed by the County and produce one final draft at the end of the process for adoption by the Board of County Commissioners that addresses all public comments and state agency requirements.
