During a recent city council meeting in Enumclaw, Washington, officials discussed and approved Ordinance 27 83, which amends municipal regulations to allow recreational vehicles (RVs) to be occupied as temporary living spaces under specific conditions. The ordinance permits RV occupancy on residentially zoned properties for up to 60 consecutive days per year, contingent upon obtaining a permit. Notably, RVs cannot be parked on vacant lots or public zones unless associated with a special event, and they must maintain a setback of 10 feet from property lines.

The ordinance was developed following discussions by the Planning Commission, which held a public hearing in May and made recommendations to the city council. Council members expressed differing views on the implications of the ordinance. Councilmember Martinez raised concerns about property rights and government overreach, arguing that residents should have the autonomy to use their property without excessive regulation. In contrast, other council members, including Gruener and Lafleur, emphasized that the ordinance expands existing rights rather than restricts them, aiming to prevent properties from becoming de facto RV parks while maintaining community standards.

The council ultimately voted in favor of the ordinance, reflecting a balance between individual property rights and community regulations.

Additionally, the council approved Ordinance 27 84, which establishes property management and pooled cash funds for city property maintenance and improvement. The meeting also included the first reading of Ordinance 27 85, which proposes renaming the Data Processing Services Fund to Information Technology, aligning the terminology with contemporary practices. This ordinance will be reviewed further in an upcoming finance committee meeting.