Westport SMP: Periodic Review Amendment
On Aug. 29, 2024, we provided the City of Westport with required and recommended changes to the proposed periodic review amendment of their shoreline master program (SMP).
The required and recommended changes are based on our review of whether or not the proposed amendment complies with state laws and rules, and a public comment period held Aug. 8 to Sept. 8, 2023.
Email notices were used to notify those who had expressed prior interest. Written comments were received from six (6) parties, including the Quinault Indian Nation, the Washington Department of Natural Resources, three organizations, and one individual. Comments addressed sea level rise and coastal hazards; shoreline and riparian buffers; protections for interdunal wetlands and wetland mosaics; and the separateness of the SMP amendment from the City's critical areas ordinance update as well as the SEPA process for the proposed Westport Golf, LLC project.
The Westport SMP regulates shoreline uses and activities along the City's shoreline jurisdiction, which includes stretches of Pacific Ocean beach and Grays Harbor as well as associated wetlands. The entirety of the City's shoreline jurisdiction is designated a Shoreline of Statewide Significance. The City's periodic review amendment brings the SMP into compliance with state rules that have been added or changed since the City's comprehensive SMP update in 2017. It also ensures the SMP remains consistent with amended comprehensive plans and regulations, and incorporates revisions deemed necessary to reflect changed local circumstances, new information, or improved data.
Next steps: final action
Our required and recommended changes have been sent to the City for their review and response. The City may agree to these changes or offer alternative language. Final approval will occur when we have reached agreement with the City on language that meets state requirements.
Documents related to approval
Related links
Contact information
Tess Brandon
Senior Shoreline Planner
Tess.Brandon@ecy.wa.gov
564-200-3016