Hearing set on green ordinance

Residents will get the chance to weigh in on proposed ordinance that’s meant to promote environmentally friendly practices.

Langley’s Planning Advisory Board is holding a public hearing on the draft ordinance at 3 p.m., March 7 at Langley City Hall.

The purpose of the green building ordinance, the city reports, is “to promote clean energy production by citizens and businesses; ensure that green building systems are compatible with the principal structure and development on adjacent properties; provide options to traditional energy use; and promote reduction of energy use within the city.”

Brigid Reynolds, director of community planning, explained that the ordinance would increase flexibility in regulations for residents interested in green practices.

It would allow, for example, solar collectors to project four feet about the maximum height regulation for a house. Small wind energy systems could be twice the maximum height permitted in the zoning district in which it is located. Ground-mounted solar collectors would be excluded from lot coverage calculations.

People can provide written or verbal testimony at the Planning Advisory Board hearing or submit written comments to City Hall before 3 p.m. March 7. The board will make a recommendation to the City Council.