Council adopts UDC corrections, opponents warn of neighborhood impacts

The Lynnwood City Council voted 7-0 on May 23 to adopt Ordinance 3507, which amends several chapters of the Lynnwood Municipal Code to clarify and correct implementation provisions of the Unified Development Code.

Carl Ingram, the city's community planning manager, told council the changes do not increase density beyond what the council previously authorized in June 2025 but fix typographical omissions, clarify implementation language and respond to developer questions. The ordinance includes edits across multiple code chapters (notably chapters addressing notices, code enforcement, subareas and use regulations) and was moved and seconded for adoption; the clerk recorded Ordinance No. 3507 and the roll-call vote returned seven yeses and zero noes.

During public comment, resident Ted Heiko argued the updates could enable new multifamily construction in Neighborhood Commercial zones that would allow 45-foot buildings with small setbacks, which, he said, would harm the privacy and solar access of neighboring single-family homes. Heiko urged council to consider impacts on "domestic tranquility" and the character of neighborhoods before approving zoning changes. Council Member Mata acknowledged the concerns and said the changes are largely hypothetical at present given construction costs but committed to monitor permit activity and problem-solve as projects proceed.

What passed: Ordinance 3507 adopting miscellaneous amendments to the Lynnwood Municipal Code (Ordinance No. 3507). The ordinance was adopted by roll-call vote. Council asked staff to be responsive to residents raising concerns as permits are processed and to report back if implementation reveals unanticipated impacts.

Next steps: The ordinance is effective per the code's stated effective date and staff will continue to monitor permit applications and work with residents raising issues.