Judge finds procedural error in Walla Walla City Council’s Cottonwood decision
By Dan Thesman on Friday, July 11th, 2025 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
WALLA WALLA – The Walla Walla City Council improperly recorded its decision to deny a development proposal for 257 homes south of the city, according to a letter from Walla Walla County Superior Court Pro Tempore Judge George B. Fearing. As a result, the council must redo its process. Cottonwood Investors LLC filed a land use petition last November after the council’s denial of the plan, which was based on concerns about infrastructure and its alignment with the city’s comprehensive plan. The denial occurred in a 4-3 vote, with specific arguments presented by some council members.
Judge Fearing stated that the city council did not follow the necessary procedures for documenting their findings of fact. The reasons for denial were spoken during the hearing and were recorded, but the judge requested a more detailed written account of these findings, which would help all parties involved. He noted that the city council has the option to consider new evidence or stick to the record from the previous hearing.
Fearing mentioned that he could have upheld the council’s decision if the mistakes were minor, but he did not find this to be the case, leaving open the possibility that the council could change its decision after presenting the required findings.
City Manager Elizabeth Chamberlain confirmed that the city attorney’s office will prepare the written findings and present those to the city council for consideration and action, likely at the July 23 meeting.
