Washington State legislation, though RCW 84.14, offers a Multi-Family tax exemption program that cities can participate in through local ordinance adoption. The City of Lake Stevens with a population of over 15,000 is eligible to participate. The Lake Stevens City Council has expressed interest in participating in this program. The multi-family tax exemption (MFTE) is an incentive that cities can offer to developers to encourage the construction of market rate housing and affordable multifamily housing in predesignated targeted areas. On October 27, 2020 City Council adopted a Resolution to adopt Target Areas under RCW 84.14 and schedule a Public hearing to formally adopt the Target Areas and Multifamily Residential Tax Exemption Code by Ordinance. On November 24, 2020 City Council adopted Ordinance 1103 establishing a Multifamily Housing Tax Exemption Program. For additional information on this project, please contact Sabrina Harris at 425-622-9429 or sgassaway@lakestevenswa.gov.

The City of Lake Stevens is proposing amendments to Chapter 14.64 and 14.08 of the Lake Stevens Municipal Code with potential changes to Chapter 14.88 LSMC. The proposed code amendments to LSMC 14.08 Definitions and Chapter 14.64 Special Flood Hazard Areas and Regulatory Floodplain are an update to the city’s existing floodplain regulations that incorporate proposed changes from FEMA’s review  to ensure consistency with current model ordinance.  The amendments affect properties abutting Lake Stevens and a portion of Catherine Creek inside city limits.