OROVILLE – The Oroville Planning Agency will hold two informational meetings in January to share updated information on Critical Area Updates prior to holding a public hearing on the issue.

The first of the meetings will be held next Thursday, Jan. 4 in the city council chambers starting at 5 p.m. The second meeting will be Wednesday, Jan. 18 in the council chambers, also starting at 5 p.m.

“The City of Oroville Planning Agency is initiating a public review and adoption process for Critical Areas regulations as required by the Washington Growth Management Act,” said Chris Branch, Oroville’s Director of Community Development. “Critical Areas regulations are required to include the Best Available Science in the designation, classification and regulation of wetlands, fish and wildlife conservation areas, frequently flooded areas, aquifer recharge areas and geologically hazardous areas.”

Branch adds draft goals, objectives and policies for the Oroville Comprehensive Plan have also been recently revised and provide the underlying basis for the recently completed draft Critical Areas regulations.

Additional information for this workshop is available from Community Development Director Branch at (509) 560-3535, or e-mail him at chrisb.oroville@nvinet.com. Persons with special needs, including access and language assistance, should call or e-mail to make arrangements for accommodations.

The council chambers are at Oroville City Hall are located at 1308 Ironwood.