New rules will require more public notice and an additional conditional-use permit for big-box retail projects in Tacoma.

Controversy in the city about big-box stores emerged last year when it was revealed a developer planned to build a Walmart store at the intersection of South 23rd Street and Union Avenue. Public opposition led to Tacoma City Council enacting a moratorium on large-scale retail projects.

The city's Planning Commission examined land-use rules related to these projects and made several recommendations to the council. None will affect the Walmart store, because developers submitted plans before the moratorium was enacted. On Feb. 14 the council passed the final version of the changes.

Councilmember David Boe offered several amendments to the recommendations. One rule required developers to hold a public meeting before submitting an application. Boe's revision changed this to a recommendation. His colleague adopted this.

Another rule required notification of property owners within 1,000 feet of a proposed project. Boe wanted to reduce this to 400 feet, which is used for rezones.

Several members objected to this. Councilmember Ryan Mello noted that Bellarmine Prep is more than 400 feet from the proposed Walmart. The Catholic high school will be impacted by it, as would residents of apartment complexes.

Councilmember Lauren Walker called Boe's idea "a red flag."

Justin Leighton, president of Central Neighborhood Council, testified in opposition to Boe's idea. His organization has been a vocal critic of the Walmart project. Leighton said the city should do more to increase opportunities for public input.

Mayor Marilyn Strickland said Tacomans will learn about high-profile projects, regardless of whether the city mails out notices.

Boe pointed out notices mailed by the city go to property owners, who could live in another city and state. Apartment residents, for example, would not receive them. Boe, an architect, said if the city puts up enough obstacles for developers, they may choose not to build projects in Tacoma.

The council voted to reject this. They did approve the rest of Boe's amendments.

The threshold for such projects will be 65,000 square feet in most commercial zones, but only 45,000 in some cases.