Commission reviews south end options before forum

The Dec. 3 planning commission meeting featured coming attractions related to potential redevelopment of La Conner’s former south end industrial area.

Commissioners previewed proposed revitalization plans for the four-acre site that will be shared by consultant Tom Beckwith and his team at a public workshop at Maple Hall tonight at 6 p.m.

Beckwith guided commissioners through a nearly hour-long presentation on concepts for the once bustling industrial zone. The Moore-Clark fish feed plant with its massive Victorian era warehouse dominated the south waterfront.

Beckwith said draft plans reflect public input gleaned from more than 100 survey responses addressing alternatives for revamping the neglected properties now owned by Triton America. It has been informed throughout the planning process,

Planning Director Michael Davolio pointed out that while the property is privately owned, zoning and municipal code language can be crafted to accommodate the kinds of land use upgrades suggested by the public and Beckwith group.

The vacant dilapidated warehouse is a public hazard, cordoned off by security fencing that prevents foot traffic along the waterfront on the section of south First Street.

Beckwith presented a 36-page pictorial booklet, based in large measure on survey responses, outlining a bevy of potential future uses in the area. Those run the gamut from workforce housing and produce sales to art markets, marine-related recreation, public performing space and walking trails.

The warehouse and nearby freezer building, Beckwith said, would need to be rebuilt to accommodate several priorities, among them the extension of south First Street to Caledonia Street.

The freezer building could be rebuilt as an addition to Maple Hall.

“The warehouse,” Beckwith stressed, “needs to be deconstructed, reconstructed and repurposed.”

Public parking could be shifted from the town’s lot below Town Hall to the center of the project area.

Another concept is developing south end venues to attract passengers aboard fast ferry vessels operating between Seattle and Victoria, B.C.

The south end planning process is funded by a $45,000 grant provided by the Washington State Department of Commerce.

Strategizing for developing and financing on-site improvements and projects is part of the four-month effort.

“We’re working on implementation and financing strategies,” reported Beckwith.

Later in the meeting, La Conner Middle and High School Principal Christine Tripp endorsed an application process to choose a non-voting student member.

“I think it’s a great opportunity,” said Tripp. “We already have a student on the arts commission.”

The measure, garnered unanimous commission approval. It was sent to the town council.

Planning staff reported they are still awaiting a joint meeting with Skagit County officials and applicants for the proposed three-story condo/apartment complex on Center Street to discuss dimensions for an elevator planned for the building.