14.24.105 Optional DNS Process.
A. Pursuant to RCW 36.70B.060 if the city has a reasonable basis for determining significant adverse environmental impacts are unlikely, it may use a single integrated comment period to obtain comments on the notice of application and the likely threshold determination for the proposal. If this process is used, a second comment period will typically not be required when the DNS is issued. (Refer to subsection D of this section.)
B. If the city uses the optional process specified in subsection D of this section, the city shall:
1. State on the first page of the notice of application that it expects to issue a DNS for the proposal and that:
a. The optional DNS process is being used;
b. This may be the only opportunity to comment on the environmental impacts of the proposal;
c. The proposal may include mitigation measures under applicable codes, and the project review process may incorporate or require mitigation measures regardless of whether an EIS is prepared; and
d. A copy of the subsequent threshold determination for the specific proposal may be obtained upon request. (In addition, the City may choose to maintain a general mailing list for threshold determination distribution.)
2. List in the notice of application the conditions being considered to mitigate environmental impacts, if a mitigated DNS is expected;
3. Comply with the requirements for a notice of application and public notice in RCW 36.70B.110; and
4. Send the notice of application and environmental checklist to:
a. Agencies with jurisdiction, the Department of Ecology, affected tribes, and each local agency or political subdivision whose public services would be changed as a result of the implementation of the proposal; and
b. Anyone requesting a copy of the environmental checklist for the specific proposal. (In addition, the city may choose to maintain a general mailing list for checklist distribution.)
C. If the city indicates on the notice of application that a DNS is likely, and agency with jurisdiction may assume lead agency status during the comment period on the notice of application. (WAC 197-11-948)
D. The responsible official shall consider timely comments on the notice of application and either:
1. Issue a DNS or mitigated DNS with no comment period using the procedures in subsection E of this section.
2. Issue a DNS or mitigated DNS with a comment period using the procedures in subsection E of this section, if the lead agency determines a comment period is necessary;
3. Issue a DS; or
4. Require additional information or studies prior to making a threshold determination.
E. If a DNS or mitigated DNS is issued under subsection (D)(1) of this section, the city shall send a copy of the DNS or mitigated DNS to the Department of Ecology, agencies with jurisdiction, those who commented, and anyone requesting a copy. A copy of the environmental checklist need not be recirculated. (Ord. 1098 §9, 1999).