Comprehensive plan the city of Elma / Part Two The Comprehensive Plan

[From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]

THE CITY OF ELMA
COMPREHENSIVE PL.APJ

PART TWO
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

prepared by the

Grays Harbor Regional Planning Commission

ADOPTED APRIL1631979

THE CITY OF ELMA

COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

PART TWO

THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

ADOPTED APRIL 16, 1979

The preparation of this report was financially aided through a grant
from the Washington State Department of Ecology with funds obtained
from the National *Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and
appropr.iated for Section 308 of the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972.

CREDITS

The following persons participated in the development of this documant

Elma City Council:
Mayor: Ralph Frederick
Countil- Walt Johannes

Ruth Rattie

Craig Nelson
Gordon Fleming
Richard Gravatt

Elma Planning Commission:
Richard Deatrich, Chairman
@,Iary Ann Johnson
Roger Cooper
Harry Graham
Henry Williamson
George Hunter

Former ',!ember and Chairman Jim Abrahamson

Grays Harbor Regional Planning Commission Staff!
Patrick Dugan, Executive Director
Planners: Robert Hansen, Planner-in-charge

Gordon h1hite

William Lacy
Bradley Beck

Dan Di 'Guilio
Former Office Manager - Donna Toth
Clerk Typists: Susan Ask
Sherry rJcCollun

Bertha 11,1ilcox

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page
INTRODUCTION 1

What is a Comprehensive Plan 1

Why is a Comprehensive Plan Needed 1

What are the Functions of the Plan 2

Policy Determination 2

Policy Effectuation 2

Communication and Education 3

Basis for Coordination 3

ELMA'S GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND POLICIES 4

ELMA LAND USE PLAN MAP 19

A. Low Density Residential 22

B. Moderate Density Residential 22

C. Land Intensive Commercial 23

D. Land Extensive Commercial 24

E. Industrial I 25

F. Industrial II 26

Other Designations:

G. Agriculture 27

H. Agriculture/Rural Development 27

J. Recreational 28

K. Forest 28

L. Light Commercial 28

THE CIRCULATION ELEMENT 29

Definitions 29

The Circulation Plan Map 31

Street Improvements Plan 32

INTRODUCTION

WHAT IS A CW4PREHENSIVE PLAN?

A comprehensivelplan is an official document adopted by local
government as a policy guide to decisions about the future physi-
cal development of the city. It indicates, in a general way, how
the leaders of local government envision their community within the
next 20 to 30 years.

The plan itself has three general characteristics. First, it
is comprehensive: the plan encompasses all geographical and
functional elements which have a bearing on the community's physi-
cal development. Second, it is general: the plan summarizes the
major policies and proposals of the local government but does not
indicate specific location or detailed regulations. And, third,
it is long-range: the plan looks beyond present pressing issues
to the problems and possibilities 10 to 20 years in the future.

WHY IS A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN NEEDED?

The decisions of local government have a great deal of influ-
ence over the present and future development and -unctioninp of
the community. In fact, the local government is the only entity,
either private or public, with both the opportunity and the respon-
sibility to direct the overall development of the community. This
is not to say that other governmental bodies and private financers,
developers, and citizens do not have a large effect on individual
decisions. It is only that the local governmental body is the
only body to have the responsibility to coordinate the community's
future.

In order to avoid making conflicting decisions based only on
the particulars of each situation, the local government needs an
instrument which establishes long-range, general policies for the
physical development of the community in a coordinated and unified
manner, an instrument which can be continually consulted in de-
ciding current development issues. The comrrehensive plan is such

an instrument.

Additionally, the comprehensive plan is needed to organize
priorities when applying for various funds. It has become a
requirement before receiving funds under some Federal proarams.

11MAT ARE THIE FUNCTIONS OF THE PLAN?

There are several. The Plan is key in facilitatinq:

A A. Policy Determination:

In developing a conprehensive plan, the legislative
body agrees upon a coherent set of policies. This process
has two functions. First, it forces the legislators to look
at the "bip picture," to step away from the current pressinp
issues to develoD their overriding poals for the city. And
second, this process allows the lepislators to rake explicit
those policies which have implicitly been guidin.g their de-
cisions so that those policies may be viewed critically and
subjected to the democratic process.

B. Policy Effectuation,

The comprehensive plan provides a practical working
guide for every-day decisions and a basis for various imple-
mentative devices. There are two types of legislative de-
cisions affected by the comprehensive plan* (1) those
specifically designed to implement the plan, and (2) those
requiring legislative action and which should be judged in
light of the plan. Included in the former are the design
and approval of certain ordinances or programs such as zon-
ing ordinances, subdivision re7ulations, and the capital
improvement programs. These originate essentially from the
city's staff, but must flow from those policies contained
within the le7islative body's comprehensive plan. Included
in the second category are rezoning requests, use permits
and variance applications, subdivision plats, and street
closings - - issues which require some form of guidelines to
be followed in making a decision.

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C. Communication and Education;

The comprehensive plan is a source of communication
between the 'ceneral public and the city's staff outlinin!!
anticipated actions of the legislative body. The public,
private developers, business people, financial institutions,
and others are then better able to plan for their own de-
velopments, knowing the probable response to their proposals
in advance.

In addition, the comprehensive plan educates its
readers -- the public, the business community, and the staff,
as well as the legislative body itself -- to the cmount of
future workings, conditions, and issues within their city.
This education may. arouse interest within the community
about that community's affairs and can increase the partici-
pation of the citizenry in government.

D. A. Basis for Coordination;

By providing a general comprehensive statement of the
legislative body's policies and goals, the plan serves as
focus and directive for the coordination of the efforts of
the various programs and policies of the various departments
within the community government.

In addition to the above functions, the comprehensive plan
provides a comprehensive means for the planning commission and
the planning staff to supply advice to the legislative body! it
fulfills certain prerequisites for funding under some federal
programs; it serves as a basis for coordination between various
agencies and the local government-. and it serves as a Puide to
the courts when decidinp on the validity of the community's im-
plementative devices and legislative decisions.

ELMA'S GOALS., OBJECTIVES, AND POLICIFS

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It was the responsibility of the Planning Conmission and
staff to respond to needs as presented in Part I by examining
various growth alternatives open to residents in the area. These
alternatives included:
1) Taking no action.
2) Encouraging future growth to occur within the boundaries
of the City.
3) Encouraging growth to temporary housing areas which,
upon completion of the power plant, could be returned to
its former use or to any other needed use.
4) Encouraging growth to occur within established service

areas.
5) Directing growth over a broad area so that development
is not concentrated in any particular area.

The Elma Planning Commission in viewinp these alternatives
decided to utilize characteristics of several alternatives.
Alternative (2) is the primary direction encouraped within the
plan. 1'@Thile alternative (3) is allowed within the plan, the City
forsees a larger housing need than could be fulfilled by this
alternative plan. The City would also agree to directing growth
towards specialized service areas provided the City would not be
required to bear servicing costs to these areas. The following
is a summary of plan policies.

1) The basic purpose of the plan is to facilitate and pre-
serve the small-town efficiencies enjoyed in the past ,
(quiet, slow-pace living) while promoting enough growth
to ensure continued vitality experienced recently.
2) The City will plan on providing sewer services in one
direction -- to the Garden Hill area north of the main
city. Facility needs for development in other areas are
expected to be provided by the developer.
3) The City wishes to encourage the preservation of area
agricultural activities.
4) The overall low density character of Elma should be
preserved west of the central business area.
5) Commercial development is encouraged at the east end of
the City when that activity primarily serves needs of
travelers. Local land-intensive commercial services are

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encouraged to develop within the City's center. Services
which do not conflict with residential activity may
occur along Main Street between 3rd Street and "B" Street.
6) Multi-family structure development is encouraged in
moderate density areas and is allowed in low density
areas provided it doesn't change that area's overall
low-density character.
7) Areas close to the City which are ap-proved for develop-
ment should have proper water and sewer facilities so
that the City is not burdened by facility demands from
such development in the future.
8) Industrial activity is encouraged in dahbfactoring
-in Elma. Rail dependent industries aye
areas

encouraged to the north so that they do not create a
potential traffic problem, by dependin@7 upon streets
traversing the City's center.
9) Development exceeding 1 unit per 5 acres is discouraged
from natural hazard areas (flood plains, steep slopes,
unstable soils for building foundations).
Definitions-
In the context of this document certain words have specific
meaning. The following words are defined so that the reader may
c.
more exactly understand its intent.
1. Hay, Should, Shall-
(a) May: indicates that some action might be undertake-,.
if the official body, after viewing the evidence,
decides it is useful or desirable and in keeping
with this plan. It does not, however, confer any
obligation to undertake or permit the action.
(b) Should: indicates that a particular action is
obligated unless the official body finds a compel-
ling reason against it.
(c) Shdll-*- indicates a mindate- i.e. the particular
action must be done.

a. Goals, Objectives, Policies!
(a) Goals: are the general statement of the desired
long-term future state towards which the plan aims.
(b) Objectives: are the statement of the desired short-
term and measurable aims of the plan! these aims
reinforce and lead to the goals.
(c) Policies: are directions for specific actions, both
- A -

legislative and administrative, so that these actions
reinforce the plants goals and objectives.
C.

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ELPIA PLANNING GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND POLICIES

OVERALL
A. Coal- To provide for the City's present and future needs
and direct growth in an orderly manner which will, to
the extent possible, conserve the small-town character
of Elma.

B. 2bLeStives:
1. To provide mechanisms and/or personnel positions
resultin in the greater coordination of activities
P t.
in all City departments.
2. To protect the efficiencies of small-town provern-
ment and improve the opportunities for each citi-
zen to take part in its operation.
3. To.provide employment activities especially for
youn,"er-aged residents during summer months.
4. In li7ht of recent changes and strong development
pressures, to foster the spirit of cooperation
among the various interests in Elma.

C. Policies!

1. There may be established a periodic communication
between representatives from the City Council,
the Planning Commission, the Board of Adjustment,
the Clerk's Office, the City Engineer, Fire
District #5, School District #63 and #69, and the
Park Board (when operative), to better coordinate
decisions and resource allocations.
2. When extension is necessary, City facilities and
services should be provided only to development
areas in conformance with policies and objectives
outlined within the Plan.
3. The Planning Commission and City Council shall
review any proposals which would result in-
(a) A single-family residential develorment in
a moderate density area,
(b) Any residential development in an area
designated for commercial use,
and

LONG-TERM GROTAITH
A. Goal- To encourage and accommodate a moderately high
economic growth which does not interrupt the small-
town quality of the City's environment and which im-
proves, or at least interrupts as little as possible,
the quality of existing public services and facilities.

B. Objectives!
1. To protect the small-town, slow-pace atmosphere
found in the Elma area by limiting hiah housing
densities.
2. To spatially distribute commercial development in
a way which does not disrupt the informal business
atmosphere in ElTia.
3. To promote a level of econoric growth which main-
tains the City's vitality experienced since 1976.
4. To adequately prepare for a possible temporary
population influx so that the slow pace, small-
town characteristics of Elma are not upset over
the long-range,

C. Policies;
1. The City should actively plan and prepare for an
in=City population of 3,400 to 3,600 neople (or
32% to 40% increase over 1978 population) by 1990.
2. In order to accommodate sucb growth, development
should occur first within City boundaries upon
vacant lots and, second, through annexation when

necessary.
3. Annexation should occur only when-
(a) Residents or developers in proposed annexa-
tion have provided water and sewer facilities
adequate to accommodate service needs of
existing and potential activities in the
annexatioW-,and
(b) It is determined additional city-service
demands will not be extended beyond capacity
of City residents to pay;

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or
(c) the City agrees to provide water and sewer
service outside mun icipal boundaries and/or
determines it necessary to annex adjacent
lands in order to accomplish other goals and
objectives outlined within the Plan.
4. Development outside City limits should grow out-
ward from the City along existing capital facili-
ties and adjacent to City boundaries wherever
possible.
5. Areas should not be approved for development until
it is shown that such areas have Or will have-
(a) Water delivery appropriate to the size of
the proposal,
(b) Sewage @isposal (either septic or sewer), and
(c) Streets adequate to carry increased traffic
or potential traffic.
6. The City should develop a capital facilities plan
which could attract new commercial activities in

the Central Business District appropriate to that

area.
7. Areas providing temporary housing for workers on
the nuclear nlant construction project may be
allowed provided:
(a) Such development has access to sewao..e dis-
posal facilities which will not disrupt
existing sewage collection service or ex-
isting water quality.

(b) The owner or developer of such areas submits
a plan to renovate the housing area once it
has served its purpose and a time when
renovation will be complete,
(c) A performance bond (or sorie other means of
insuring completion of policies a) and b)),
is posted prior development, and
(d) Proposed development does not disrupt resi-
dential amenities of the adjacent area.
PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT
A. Coal: To achieve an efficient land use pattern in the
Elma area which meets the general growth goals of the
area while being consistent with, and protectin,'
the natural character of the region.

B. Ocjectives:
1. To protect the natural, recreational, and visual

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amenities of the Elma area found in surrounding for-
est and mountain areas.
2. To protect the high status of air quality the Elma
area now enjoys.
3. To protect farmers who wish to remain in farming fror
strong development pressures which could threaten
their operations.
4. To recognize the limitations of various soils to
support development and to discourage development in
those areas with high soil limitations.

C. Policies:
1. Lands south of Highway 12 in the 100-year floodplains
designated by the Corps of Engineers and in the areas
designated by the Shorelines Master Program of Elma
should permit only structures which may be necessary
to conduct agricultural activities.
2. Only very low density development should occur on
steeper lands (above 20% slope) rarticularly north of
Elma and only after it is determined that such grounds
are capable of supporting the developrent without
endangering life or property. In order to make such
a determination, the developer may be requested to
conduct on-site surveys of soil and slope conditions
by certified engineers.
3. Class Il and Class III soils, and those lands cur-
rently in agricultural use, should be conserved for
agricultural purposes. @Non-agricultural development
can be allowed on these lands if such development:
1) fulfills other objectives of the Plan, and 2) will
have no negative impact on existing or potential ag-
ricultural uses, or adjacent properties.
4. Development negatively affecting natural drainage
should be discouraged.
S. Development should be encouraged upon least produc-
tive agricultural soils having high capacity to
support building foundations.
6. 11ajor development should not occur upon soils having
poor capacity to support building foundations unless

appropriate measures are taken to overcome the limita-
tions of such soils.

IV. LAND USE-RESIDENTIAL
A. Goal, To develop an orderly, efficient, residential
pattern in the City and its urban services area.
B. Objectives:
1. To preserve the low-density character of the
western residential district of Elma.
2. To provide adequate areas for housing development
of varying structure types while maintaining the
high quality of residential character.
3. To coordinate City and County planning and zoning
activities thereby insuring non-conflicting resi-
dential character along the City boundary.
4. To encourage, first, residential development in
areas having appropriate levels of street., sewer,
and water services.

C. Policies-

1. Areas with less than IS residential units per
block shall be considered low-density residential
areas. Moderate density residential areas are
those exceeding 15 dwelling units per block.
Definition of "block" will be determined by the
Planning Commission with the CitY Council,
2. Areas west of the Central Business District
should be reserved primarily for low density,
single-family housing, not to exceed a density of
15 dwelling units per block as determined by the
Planning Commission,
3. Moderate density development is encouraged to
occur adjacent existing moderate density develop-
nent, primarily in the north-eastern and central
areas of the City,
4. Moderate density development west of 3rd Street
may be allowed when-
(a) Such a development is adequately served by
capital facilities.
(b) The proposal will serve housin.g needs fol-
lowing completion of the nuclear power plant,
and

(c) The development is designed in a manner which
would not disrupt the single-family char-
acter of west Elma.
5. All future multi-family structures should be de-
veloped in a manner that will be compatible with
the character and appearance of surrounding neigh-
boThoods.
6. Within the City spatial requirements for mobile
home development should be the same as for other
single-family developments.
7. All residential development should occur in areas
adequately served by water, sewer, and transporta-
tion facilities, and where further develonment
will not create strains upon these facilities.

V. LAND USE-CONMERCIAL
A. Goal: To promote development of economically viable, and
attractive commercial activities caDable of serv-
ing Elma and area residents.
B. Objectives:
1. To encourage the development of commercial estab-
lishments,furthering greater competition between
local businesses and increasing the range of froods
and services.
2. To improve appearance of buildings along 'Main
Street and in the central commercial area.
3. To provide for adequate parking areas in existing
and proposed commercial districts.
4. To develop the central Elma commercial area so
that it encourages shopping by the Elma residents.
S. To promote development of land patterns which will
invite tourists to utilize Elma's facilities and

commercial services.
6. To develop policies ensuring that the central
commercial area receives an aPpropriate share of
Elma's total commercial activities.

13 -

C Po-licies :
1. Commercial activity in the area in close proximi-
ty to the intersection of 3Td and Hain, as shown
on -the Plan Map, is hereby designated the Central
Business District. A large area near the Inter-
section of U.S. Highway 12 and State Highway 8 and
north of Ilighway 12, as shown on the Plan @,Iap, is
designated the "Land Extensive Commercial District-
The area along Nlain Street between the Central
Business District and the Heavy Commercial Dis-
trict is hereby designated the "Light Commercial

District."

2. Commercial establishments within the Central

Business District should:
a) primarily be established to serve the needs
of local residents, and
b) require small tracts of land for its o.pera-
tion relative to other commercial areas
(i.e., is land intensive).
3. Further commercial activity should be encouraged
in the Central Business District by concentrating
street improvement in this area which will be
necessary to support such commercial development.
4. Existing land intensive commercial uses along
Main Street between 14th and 16th Streets should
be allowed to continue providing services to,
local and neighborhood residents.
5. Further commercial development requiring large
tracts of land for parking or for storage should
occur in the Land Extensive Commercial District
upon lands adequately served by water, sewer, and

streets.
6. Commercial activity may occur in the designated
Light Cominercial District provided!
(a) The activity is not of a retail or wholesale
sales nature which would generate a signifi-
cant amount of traffic and/or demand addi-
tional space for parRing
(b) The activity does not interrupt or create
nuisance to existing residential uses east
of 3rd Street- and
(c) The City Council with the Planning Commission
determines that such activity is necessary
in fulfilling other objectives within the
Plan.
- 14 -

7. Future areawide commercial development should be
contained within municipal boundaries as much as
possible.
3. All future commercial establishments should be
built and operated so as to be compatible with
adjacent uses as determined by the Planning Com-
mission with the City Council.
TD USE-IHDUSTRIAL
VI. LAN
A. Goal: To increase the employment self-sufficiency of
Elma by encouraging development of suitable in-
dustrial activity in suitable locations.
B. Objectives!
1. To encourage future industrial development in
areas where residents employed by those p-ctivi-
ties will maintain short commuting distances.
2. To provide for adequate expansion Possibilities
particularly around areas where industrial ac-
tivity already occurs.
3. To ac+,ively encourage settlement of clean industry
appropriate to Elmals specific conditions.
C. Policie,s!
1. Future industrial lands should occur adjacent
existing industrial lands in areas which will not
hinder established conmercial and residential
activity.
2. Areas above Martin Street and below Pine adjacent
the rail facilities in northern Elma are hereby
designated the "Industry 1" district (indicated
on the map as "rail dependent industry'). Areas
south and west of U.S. 12 in the southeast corner
of the City (as designated on the Plan maps) is
hereby designated the "Industry V' district.
3. Rail-dependent industries or industries not re-
quiring frequent truck dispatch should be en-
couraged in the Industry I areas of Elma.
Those industries which will heavily depend upon
road networks should be encouraged to settle in
the Industry 2 district.

VII. HOUSING
A. Go@li To provide needed quantities of housing suitable
for all age groups and income levels in the com-
munity.
B. Objectives:
1. To provide low-income housing adequate to-shelter
existing low-income populations in the City.
2. To encourage developmeni of 40% to 55% more hous-
ing units by 1990 capable of sheltering Elma's
long-range population.
3. To increase the current housing vacancy rate to
equal 5% of total units.
4. 1@!Jlere economically viable and in accordance to
other growth policies, to encourage renovation of
older housing i,,rhich woulJ not threaten the health,
safety, or welfare of residents.
C. Policies:
1. The City shall actively Support efforts to pro-
vide low-income housing.
2. Further housing developments should occur, first,
within City boundaries and second, adjacent City
boundaries thus, increasing the efficiency of
City service delivery.
3. Nhen determined necessary, housing need considera-
tion may supercede policies reaulating housing
density.

VIII. COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES
A. Goal: To provide public services and facilities ade=
quate to meet current and projected population
needs and to utilize the development of public
facilities and services to implement other goals,
objectives, and policies of the Plan.
B. Ob j e c t i ves- -
1. To promote cooperation among all Elma residents
encouraging provision of adequate services to all
areas within the City.
2. To provide for more recreational services for
juvenile residents especially in summer months.
3. To improve Elma streets in most need of repair
based upon use and function.

- 16 -

4. To maintain the excellent quality of the voca-
tional classes within the school system and pro-
vide for faculty of all age groups and backgrounds
S. To encourage establishment and operation of indoor
recreational facilities within the Elma area.
6. To upgrade existing playgrounds and parks. To
develop new parks within the City of Elma which
also provide picnicing, camping, and outdoor
activities near or in the City's boundaries.
7. To ensure police and fire protection adequate to
handle expanding populations and development.

C. Policies:
I. Sewer, water and street improvement needs of City
residents shall be served by prior to servicing
the needs of those residents outside the City.
Within the City, those areas in most need of
sewer, water, and street improvements shall be
served first.
2. The six-year street plan should be undated in
order to facilitate achievement of Plan objectives
Such update should account for the decision to
encourage commercial activity in the Central
Business District. The six-year plan should also
consider the function of streets as designated
in the circulation element in prioritizing future
street improvements.
3. Development standards should be established and
incorporated within existing ordinances which
outline water, sewer, and street minimums for
developments of varying densities.
4. The City should utilize conclusions outlined by
Committees formed and special studies conducted
to examine recreational objectives outlined in
the City's 1970 Recreation Plan. These findinFs
may be utilized in prioritizing the City's re-
creational spending.

17 -

5. School open space and building facilities may be
made available to the public for use in providing
total park and recreational needs.
6. Total park acreage should increase in proportion
to projected population so that existin,(-,. per
'40 capita park acreage is maintained.

THE ELMA AREA LAND USE PLAN MAP

The land use plan map for the City of Elma and a suggested
plan nap for the Elma area On the following @ages dlarifies the
C,
goals, objectives and poli6y' statements just outlined. The raps
are intended to illustrate spatial relationships of uses defined
in the policy statements. Both plan maps, the City nap and the
area map, use the same land use classifications.
The designation of these classifications are for broad gener-
C
al areas, and the boundaries between each classification are
transitions between the various uses. As such they should be
interpreted in a flexible nanner rather than a ripid line, unless
specifically stated. The land use plan map of the Elna area
should be used in an even more aeneral nanner than the city map,
due to the relatively undeveloped nature of the unincorporated

area.
Since conditions may occur which require minor changes in the
particular pattern of uses, the criteria for designation under each
classification is intended to permit such changes without an amend-
ment to this document itself. Any major deviation, of course,
should be made in the context of a plan amendnent which considers
all aspects of the proposal and its impact on features of the
whole plan.

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RESIDENTIAL, Low Density

RESI DENT I A L, Moiderate, Density

COMMERCIAL, Land Intensive -
CC26ERCIAL, Land, Extensive

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LAND USE PLAN Map preparation was financially aided through a grant
from the Washington State Department Of Ecology with
funds obtained -from the National Oceanic and Atmos-
pheric Administration. and appropriated for Section 308
of the Coastal Zone Management Act and through a
g.rant from the Washington Public Powar Supply System.

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Following is a description of uses designated on the Land Use
4@
Plan Maps and the policies and criteria for designating lands
within such use categories.

A. Low Density Residential:
1. PU e - The low density residential use is desig-
nated to preserve small-town qualities enjoyed by
area residents in the face of rapid growth and
development.
2. Description and Criteria for Desi!Tnation: This
designation usually occurs in areas where housing
density does not exceed 15 units per block. !.',.Ihile
flexibility in dwelling structure types is permitted,
sin,gle-family structures will be nost characteristic,
throuqbout these areas.
3. Areas to be Avoided by this Classification:
a. Areas in moderate density housing developments
b. Areas within industrial lands or areas within

connercial activities.

C. Areas determined best suited for other uses

according to Plan policies.
d. Areas over 10 acres utilized for agricultural

purposes.
4. Compatible Uses: Compatible uses in these areas may
include but are not necessarily limited to parks,
schools, churches and other public and seni--oublic
uses provided such uses will not create a signifi-
cant traffic or parking problem and provided other
capital facilities are capable of supporting such
development.
B. Moderate Dersity_Residential.-
1. Purpose: Areas designated "moderate density resi-
dential" provide space for housing types which
supply more economical housing opportunities to area
residents.
2. Description: Residential densities exceed that of
the low density areas (15 units). Ultimate densities
alloi,.,ed may be examined in light of the general
character of the area and of the City. While single-

22 -

family structures may be evident in these areas,
multi-family structures are most characteristic.
3. Criteria for Designation:
a. Areas adjacent or near existing moderate den-
sity housing areas.
b. Areas close or adjacent major transportation
routes as designated in the circulation element.
C. Areas where present water and sewer facilities
can adequately serve such development.
d. Areas where soils and slope are capable of sup-
porting foundations of such developments.
e. Areas in close vicinity to the City's commercial

services.
4. Areas to be Avoided by This Classification-
a. Areas where increased traffic will place a sig-
nificant burden upon other residents and the
City.
b. Areas of possible natural hazard (flood zones,
steep slopes, etc.).
c. Areas where adequate water, sewer,, or street
service is not provided.
d. Areas over 10 acres utilized. or have high poten-
tial for agricultural activities.
e. Areas which may have hazardous access (such as
dangerous intersections or railroad crossings).
S. Compatible Uses: Most uses compatible within the
low density residential areas are also compatible
within this classification. Some commercial uses
with minimal adverse impaces upon residential ac-
tivities as professional offices may also be con-
sidered in these areas.

C. Land Intensive Commercial
1. Purpose - To -preserve adenuate areas for commercial
activities serving primarily local residents and
which require relatively small areas of land for
operation.
2. Description - This classification includes a broad
ranpe of commercial activity not dependent upon
large volumes of traffic or hiph populations. Com-.
mercial uses which tend to break up the efficiency

of these uses or degrade the appearance of the
commercial area would either be prohibited here or
be allowed only on a conditional basis. The Central
Business District will maintain business of this

nature.

Residential uses in this area should be discouraged
though permitted in areas adjacent these uses.
3. Criteria for Designation - Such areas should exist
in the Central Business District as indicated or the
map. Linear developmnents (strips) of this classifi-
cation should be avoided west of 6th Street.
A small area in west Elma along Main between l4th
and l6th Streets may fall in this use designation
in order to serve residents in West Elma.

Uses in this area should not require large amounts
of land for parking or be of a nature that would

draw regional or large areawide shoppers.

D. Land Extensive Commercial
1. Purpose - This classification is designed to provide
apporopriate space for comercial activity serving
regional shoppers, travelers, or commercial services

requiring large amounts of land for buildings, park-
ing, and/or storage area, or commercial services pro-
ducing relatively high amounts of noise.
2. Description - This classification includes a range
of activities commonly associated with traveler ser-
vices and regional shopping activities. Such uses
might include but are not limited to:
- commercial uses not ordinarily conducted in
enclosed areas such as mobile home, car, or
building supply sales.
- uses such as large fast food restaurants,
motels, service stations which cater to trav-

elers needs

- shopping centers or large retail stores.
Uses which might be classified as industrial in
nature but which do not require on-site manufactur-
ing activities may occur in these areas on a condi-
tional basis. Approval of such activities would be
based upon: - 24 -

a) the proposal's iml)act upon water, sewer,
and street facilities existing adjacent
commercial activity,
b) the nature of the proposal in relation to
the character of the specific area of
location; and
c) the potential impact of the proposal upon
noise or odor levels in the area.
3. Criteria for Designation: These activities shall
occur primarily north of State 8 - U.S. 12
intersection as shown on the Plan map.
No such classification should occur in areas
not served by adequate transportation access
or sewage disposal or in areas where such
classification might disrupt the integrity
of a residential neighborhood or commercial
area. This classification should not be
applied in areas east of "B" Street.

E. Industrial I
I. P rpose: The Industrial I classification provides
opportunity for development of wholesale, industrial,
or manufacturing activities which are primarily rail
dependent or which are not heavily dependent upon
frequent road transportation. The estab-
lishment of such an area is designed to allow these
activities without heavily impacting the City's
inner circulation facilities.
2. Description: This classification shall allow whole-
saling, warehousing or industrial service activities
which do not conflict with surrounding uses and
which will not rely upon relatively continuous
truck traffic to export or import its goods.
Necessary truck dispatch may occur at times when
traffic is not heavy provided it is determined
streets can support the additional weight. This?
area also allows development of industrial activity
primarily dependent upon rail for transport. The
area occurs adjacent the rail lines in the northern

25 -

section of the City between Martin Street and Pine Street
and between 6th Street and the north-south railroad inter-

section.
3. Criteria for Designation: Areas for designation are indi-
cated above. Before uses are permitted within such classi-
fication, the following factors should be considered:
a) that 3rd Street provides adequate access for
existing and potential transportation denand7
b) that the specific use would not disrupt the in-
tegrity of the City's general residential or
commercial areas, and
c) that such activity would not disrupt the major
circulation facilities Or patterns within the
City's center.
Such designation should not occur above Pine Street.
F. Industrial 2
1. Purpose - The Industrial 2 designation enables the City to
-uring activities in areas
reserve adequate space for manufact
which do not conflict with the commercial and residential

activities.
2. Description: These uses shall include all wholesaling, in-
dustrial, and manufacturing activities which meet intentions
of the previously outlined goals and objectives and which
do not conflict with environmental ordinances on building
and fire codes.
3. Criteria forDesignation: A large portion of land south of
U.S. 12 adjacent existing industrial activities is designated
an'Industrial 2 area. Other areas south of the U.S. 12
highway currently being excavated for pravel may eventually
be designated for industrial pu"oses provided!
a) ariv floodplain proble s :, *.-Ioro,,@ and cor-
.1 - - m .-_-Q
roctoJ prir)r dt?voinn-ment
b) roads are adequate to manage Potential freight
trips and weights.-,
c) potential water-sewer -needs are determined and
problems are addressed7 and
d) basic intentions of the reclamation plan sub-
mitted to the Department of Ecololgy (DOE) or
Grays Harbor County prior excavation activity are
offecuated,- i.e., that measures are taken which
1) prevent erosion and potential land damage to

26 -

adjacent areas, 2) prevent conditions which might
create a public nuisance or endanger public safety,
and 3) provide adequate buffer between proposed
and conflicting uses.
OTHER DESIGNATIONS INDICATED ON TFE PLAN DIAPS
G. Agriculture - This designation is applied to areas either being
extensively used or which are suitable for commercial agriculture.
The purpose of this designation is to preserve such lands for -future
agricultural use by preventing development of non-agricultural
activities in these areas.
Lands are classified "agriculture" when:
1) Lands are beyond the direct service area of the city, and
2) Soils have a high capacity for agricultural production
(Class II, Iff, or IV) or the land is being used for
agricultural production.
Lands which lie within floodplain areas and have productive agri-
cultural soils may also be designated llagriculture.@@
H. Agriculture/Rural Development
The purpose of this designation is to accommodate develo.rment in
close proximity to the City when demand or need for such develop-
ment arises. Development in these areas should be allowed when the
need for such development can be shown and when such development
will maintain the integrity of the area by not creating a threat
to those remaining in agriculture. Proposed development should
not create strains upon existing facilities beyond ca-pracity.
Areas within this designation should include:
1) lands having soils with high capacity for agricultural
production (Classes 11, 111, and IV) or lands which are
being utilized for agricultural production purposes; and
2) lands adjacent residential and City activities which are
out of areas prone to flooding or are within possible
City service boundaries.
I. Public/Semi-Public - This category designates areas which are owned
or used by the public (either public at-large or local public).
Those areas owned by the public are designated "public" areas and
include schools and City lands. Those areas designated "semi-
public" includes privately owned properties which are open to
general public use such as churches, private schools, and medical
facilities. Semi-Public and Public use areas are not limited to

27 -

the areas outlined on the plan maps, and should be allowed on
a conditional basis in other classifications.

J. Recreational - This designation includes all areas public and
private utilized for outdoor recreational purposes including
parks, open spaces and golf courses.
K. Forest This designation is applies to forested areas where-
lands are most suitable for forest purposes when
considering all plan goals, objectives and policies
together*
2) access is inappropriate for development purposes,
or

3) soil and slope constraints make the area inappro-
priate for other uses.
L. Light Commercial
1. Purpose: This designation is intended. to allow for com-
mercial development along the major transportation route
in Elma without disrupting any adjacent residential ac-
tivities.

2. Description and Areal Designation: This classification
includes commercial activities not commonly relying upon
large traffic volumes or creating unusual Poises or odors.
Those activities of a retail nature should not be allowed
within this area. This classification provides oppor-
tunity for office and service facilities to develop along
the ipain transportation route (Main Street) between the
Central Business District and the areas designated Land
Extensive Commercial. That the use will not disrupt
adjacent residential activity is the major criteria for
determing whether or not a use should be permitted.

29 -

THE CIRCULATION ELEMENT

The circulation element of this comprehensive plan has several pur-
poses. The first and most important is the establishment of a coordinated
system of streets and roads which maximize the safety and efficiency of the
movement of people and goods within and around the city. This coordination
takes the form of a circulation plan map where the streets and roads are
given certain roles within the system. These roles are determined from!
1) the type of street or road and how much it is used, 2) the present and
projected population of the area and anticipated distribution of that popu-
lation within the area, and 3) the location of traffic "magnets" such as
industrial areas and freoways.

The circulation element is also intended to improve access to property,
to provide policy direction in the development of capital improvement plans,
and to reinforce the land use elenent of this plan.

DEFINITIONS
The elements of any circulation system - the streets, roads,, and high-
ways share two primary functions. First, they provide access to abutting
property, and second, they provide a pathway for the movement of people and
goods between points. In addition, these elements provide open space, air
and light, as well as serving as elements in the design 014 neighborhoods.
However, the degree to which streets serve these functions necessitates
categorization of these facilities into several groups.
Local Streets:
Stieets in this role emphasize the first of the two primary func-
tions - access to abutting property - with minor local traffic move-
ment involved.

Collector Streets:
These streets collect vehicular traffic from the local streets, and
direct it to the larger arterials. There are stop signs at the side

streets.

Arterials:
Those streets -provide for through traffic movement between areas
and across the city. They also provide direct access to abutting
property though that is not the primary function. Vacy are also ofte-n
subject to entrances, exits, and curb use.

Highways
These roadways li-nk major destination points within the area such
as Central Business Districts and towns in general, and provide for
through traffic movement between then with some direct access to abut-
ting proncrty, though this is not their major function.

Freeways:
Freeways provide for the expeditious movement of large volumes of
through traffic between points in difforent re-ions and are not in-
tended to Provide little or no access to abutting property.

The following )-ap locat@_-s the freeways, highways, arterials, and
collectors either proposed or existing - within the city. All streets and
otherwise designated are designated local streets.

A subsequent map, the Streets Inprovements mnp, lists the city's
present Six-Year Comprehensive Street ProgTam

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