City Issues Determination of Nonsignificance for Amendments to City Codes Related to Short-term Rentals

Description of Proposal: On July 21, 2021, the White Salmon City Council adopted Ord. No. 2021-07-1083, a Temporary Short-Term Rental (STR) Moratorium for a period of time not to exceed six months, unless extended for good cause pursuant to RCW 35.63.200. The Council held a public hearing on September 1, 2021, and voted unanimously to keep the ordinance in effect, finding that the impacts of STR across the community require additional regulation by the City and directed staff to prepare such regulations (Staff Report, Video, Minutes). Staff has prepared and amended regulations which will be incorporated into Title 17 – Zoning, which thereby requires a SEPA review.

Location: Throughout the City of White Salmon through zoning districts.

Lead Agency and Applicant: City of White Salmon

The City of White Salmon has determined that the proposal will not have a probable significant adverse impact on the environment. An environmental impact statement (EIS) is not required under RCW 43.21C.030. We have reviewed the proposal Environmental Check list and proposed amendments. All documentation is available on the city’s website at https://www.white-salmon.net. The documents are also available by accessing the SEPA Register at the Department of Ecology https://apps.ecology.wa.gov/separ/Main/SEPA/Search.aspx.  This determination is based on the following findings and conclusions: The proposed amendments to Chapter 17 providing for new regulations and clarifying existing regulations related to short-term rentals will not have an adverse impact on the environment. The decision was made after review of the environmental checklist, the City of White Salmon Comprehensive Plan and other information on file with the City. 

The decision shall be appealable to the city per WSMC 18.20.170. Such appeal may be perfected by the proponent or any aggrieved party by giving notice to the responsible official within 10 days of the decision being appeals. Review by the City Council shall be on the original basis.

February 9, 2022