The Covington City Council on Nov. 12 adopted the Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority's updated six-year capital improvement plan and a revised 2026 fire impact fee schedule, a staff report and council votes show.

Selena Lyons, city staff, told the council the changes move the fee structure away from flat rates for single-family and multifamily units toward fees calculated per square foot to meet new state legislation related to middle housing. "Impact fees are one-time payments collected for new development that help fund capital facilities needed to maintain emergency response service levels as our community grows," Lyons said.

The ordinance the council passed in substantial form includes the 2025'2031 capital plan, the fire impact fee schedule, a mitigation and level-of-service policy, and amendments to the city's comprehensive plan to align with PSRFA planning. Deputy Chief Kelch, participating remotely, made staff available for follow-up questions during council consideration.

Councilmembers who spoke in favor noted the technical necessity of the update and that it clarifies what capital investments the fees may fund. "They make a lot of practical sense," Councilmember Beth said in support of the motion. The council then unanimously approved a separate motion to incorporate the 2026 fire impact fee schedule into the city's 2026 fee resolution so the fees can be collected at the time building permits are issued.

The ordinance and the fee incorporation will be brought back as required for final adoption and inclusion in the city's fee schedule and comprehensive plan documents. The matter will appear on the council's Dec. 9 agenda for formal consideration, per staff.