Ordinance could lower 55 property values near river
October 2, 2008 · Updated 1:03 PM
NORTH BEND - The City Council has passed a contentious Comprehensive Plan ordinance that could lower the property value of 55 homes in the Silver Creek neighborhood.
At the Tuesday, Dec. 3 council meeting, members approved the Channel Migration Ordinance that places new building regulations on homes within areas of the Snoqualmie River that are considered a flooding danger. Those regulations, approved by a 3-2 vote, will restrict what improvements can be made to existing homes and place additional limits on new development in the area.
Supporters of the measure say the regulations are aimed at protecting residents from the hazards of flooding and still allow for improvements to homes, such as adding a deck or above-ground swimming pool.
Detractors of the plan aren't convinced the area is privy to flooding and question the methods in which King County flood experts came to the conclusion that the area be labeled a "moderate" flooding threat. They are concerned that the additional regulations will not only decrease property value for the people of the Silver Creek neighborhood, which accounts for 55 existing homes covered by the ordinance, but will take away certain building rights owners thought they had when they bought the property.
For the complete story, pick up a copy of this week's Valley Record
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