The city of Kenmore is updating its Critical Areas Regulations (CAR) and conducting a periodic review of its Shoreline Master Program (SMP), and is asking the public to help.

Residents can participate in a variety of ways:

– Attend a kick-off open house with consultants and city staff from 6:30-8 p.m. on Oct. 2 at Kenmore City Hall, 18120 68th Ave. NE to learn more about this effort and provide input in person.

– Visit www.kenmorewa.gov/criticalareasregulations to learn more.

– Ask questions and request to receive updates on this effort by contacting Lauri Anderson, senior planner, landerson@kenmorewa.gov, 425-398-8900.

– Attend future public meetings, Planning Commission hearings and City Council meetings on the subject.

Critical areas in Kenmore include things like wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas, areas that might flood frequently and areas susceptible to erosion, sliding or earthquakes. Shorelines addressed in the SMP include Lake Washington, Sammamish River, Swamp Creek and associated wetlands.

Kenmore values its natural resources and must periodically revise and adopt regulations in its Kenmore Municipal Code to protect these areas and ensure public safety, according to a city press release. Additionally, the city must also meet federal and state laws. The city has operated with a solid set of critical area regulations tested over 10 years, and now it’s time to incorporate new science and changes to state laws.

Public engagement, including a Planning Commission hearing, will take place over the next several months. Council deliberations are expected to take place through March 2019, with updates completed by early summer 2019.