A proposed development for Lynwood Center was criticized by Bainbridge Island Planning Commission members Jan. 11 for being market rate rather than affordable housing.

At the same time, they admitted that can’t be a factor in their decision on whether they approve it. The public meeting was part of the preapplication process.

“It’s a missed opportunity,” commissioner Ariel Birtley said.

She added while the Pleasant Beach Village South project had beautiful architecture and natural features, the project lacks housing for families.

“It’s critical families move in” to BI as schools are hurting for attendance, for example, she said.

Architect Charlie Wenzlau said, “I’m an affordable housing advocate,” and the owner tried to build such a project, but it was shot down when it reached the City Council level.

Because of city code, housing there is limited to 1,600 square feet. He’s not sure if that works for families, but it would work for “aging in place” situations.

He said the maximum density is five units per acre. Planned are 10 single-family three-bedroom homes and two two-bedroom homes of 800 square feet each.

“There are a number of beautiful trees on the property, and our goal is to preserve as many as we can, especially along Lynwood Center Road,” he said, adding trees will provide a buffer for neighbors.

Seven of the homes would be clustered in the center of the property with a courtyard, community space and water garden. The other three would be on the hillside at the rear of the property. Each home would have two parking spots.

During public comments, Marilyn Mclauchlan said she’s glad Wenzlau is willing to talk to neighbors because, “It’s taken years.” She said one reason developers have so many problems on BI is because they “don’t reach out to neighbors.”

She said traffic is a problem there. “It’s already a disaster,” she said, adding calming devices are needed because motorists go 50 mph instead of the posted 25 mph.

Another public commenter complained about density bonuses for the applicant and BI getting nothing in return. But planning commissioner Sarah Blossom said those have been in code for “a very long time. If they do certain things this is what they can build.”

She said the applicant is doing that by transferring development rights out of a conservation area.

Another commenter said that benefits the island as a whole as another part of BI is gaining something as that area won’t be developed.