Bainbridge Island’s planning chief has recommended approval of the Winslow Hotel.

Planning Director Heather Wright issued her report and recommendation on the controversial 87-room hotel proposal Thursday afternoon.

In the 46-page report, Wright said the major site plan and conditional use permit should be granted.

Wright acknowledged in the report that her recommendation “deviates” from the planning commission’s recommendation to disapprove the project.

In her report, she said she found the development conditions placed on the project — as well as other conditions added to the hotel — “make the proposal compliant with the Bainbridge Island Municipal Code and in accord with the Comprehensive Plan.”

The hotel has been opposed by neighbors to its downtown Winslow location and others, who fear the project will bring more traffic and noise to Winslow, and destroy the island’s “small town” character.

The city’s hearing examiner will decide whether or not the project should be approved.

A hearing on the hotel is scheduled before the examiner for Thursday, Jan. 23 at Bainbridge Island City Hall.