The City of Kirkland is hosting a community Open House next Monday in preparation for an update to its Shoreline Master Program.

The Open House is set for Monday, June 9, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Heritage Hall (203 Market Street).

Participants can view informational displays, talk with staff and participate in a visioning process that will help the city identify the community’s priorities for environmental protection, land uses and public access and recreation along its shoreline.

Information about the Open House and the update are available at www.ci.kirkland.wa.us.

The update is required by Washington’s Shoreline Management Act (SMA), which was passed by the Legislature in 1971 as a means to prevent harm from piecemeal development along the state’s shorelines. The law requires local jurisdictions to adopt policies and regulations that address issues such as structure and site planning, vegetation conservation, shoreline stabilization, piers and access. Kirkland’s current Shoreline Master Program, adopted in 1974, must be updated to fit current conditions, reflect the community’s vision for the future and meet new state requirements.

Comments received at the Open House will be incorporated into the draft update, which will be reviewed by the city’s planning commission starting in late summer/early fall. Comments on the draft update can also be made via the city’s Web site.

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