The West Richland City Council voted Nov. 18 to forward modified Benton County countywide planning policies to the Benton County commissioners (Resolution 44‑25) after an extended and at times contentious discussion during which Councilmember John Smart registered a formal no vote.

Councilmember John Smart removed the item from the consent agenda to air substantive objections to policy language on growth management, transportation, housing and climate elements. Smart said several policies—such as a directive to “reduce inappropriate conversion of undeveloped land,” encouragement of multimodal transportation that reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and directives on accommodating a range of housing types—were objectionable. "I just have to say that I'm not a believer nor have I seen any defensible scientific evidence that our emissions are increasing greenhouse gases to the extent that change any kind of climate in this planet," Smart said in debate.

City staff responded that recent state legislation requires certain elements be included in comprehensive plans and countywide policies. City staffer Eric (provided an email to council) and Public Works Director Roscoe Slade cited House Bill requirements and stressed that compliance is tied to state funding for local infrastructure projects (examples cited included the SR‑224/Red Mountain corridor funding and other grants). "The changes ... were the minimum necessary to comply with the Growth Management Act so that we don't lose those fundings," Eric said.

Council members expressed mixed views. Some said they shared Smart's concerns but felt the city had limited choice if it wanted to remain eligible for state grants important to local projects; others thanked staff for work to minimize requirements. The motion to approve the modified policies and forward them to the Benton County commissioners passed, with a recorded dissent by Councilmember John Smart.

Resolution 44‑25: Forwarded to Benton County Commissioners (vote tally: 6 yes, 1 no).