The Planning Commission meeting held on June 17, 2025, in Kenmore, Washington, focused on the proposed master plan for the Bastyr University campus and its implications for land use and housing in the area. Key discussions revolved around the need for additional information from Bastyr regarding their proposal, particularly concerning the definition and implications of "ancillary" uses in relation to multifamily housing.

Commissioners expressed concerns about the historical context of the master plan, noting that previous proposals had been rejected by the council due to inadequate alignment with the comprehensive plan. The current proposal aims to allow multifamily housing as an ancillary use, which raised questions about the long-term implications if Bastyr were to vacate the campus in the future. Commissioners sought clarity on how existing housing would be classified and managed if the institutional use were to cease.

The meeting also highlighted the absence of requirements for affordable housing within the proposed development, as the current zoning regulations do not mandate such provisions for public semi-public zones. This sparked a debate about the potential financial motivations behind the proposal and its alignment with the city’s broader goals for affordable housing.

Commissioners emphasized the need for a detailed arborist report to assess the environmental impact of the proposed development, particularly concerning tree retention and removal. The discussion underscored the importance of understanding how the proposed changes would benefit the community of Kenmore as a whole.

As the review process continues, the Planning Commission will await further information from Bastyr to address these critical questions and concerns, ensuring that any developments align with the city's planning objectives and community needs.