On Oct. 2, the state Department of Ecology approved, with changes, the Kitsap County Shoreline Master Program comprehensive update.

The comprehensive update revises the existing SMP, including the goals, policies, regulations, shoreline environment designations, and administrative process and definitions. During its formal review process, Ecology conducted a public hearing and comment period and determined that some changes are required for the SMP to be consistent with the Shoreline Management Act (RCW 90.58) and the SMP Guidelines (WAC 173-26).

To review Ecology’s conditional approval documents related to the Kitsap County SMP, go to http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/sea/shorelines/smp/mycomments/KitsapCounty.html

On Ecology’s Website you will find the following documents:

— Director of Ecology’s conditional approval letter
— Attachment A: Findings and Conclusions
— Attachment B: Required Changes
— Attachment C: Recommended Changes
— Attachment D: Responsiveness Summary

In order for the Kitsap County SMP to go into effect, the county must send Ecology a written notice agreeing to the changes. The effective date of the SMP will be 14 days after the date of Ecology’s final action. If the county does not agree with the changes or if it proposes alternative language, it may submit an alternative proposal for Ecology review.

If you have any questions about the SMP update, email Joe.Burcar@ecy.wa.gov or call 425-649-7145. If you would like a paper copy of Ecology’s documents, contact Jackie Chandler at 360-407-7678; persons with hearing loss can call 711 for Washington Relay Service, and persons with speech disabilities can call 877-833-6341.