Hearing about Bothell-area church’s pole postponed

Published 9:16 pm Tuesday, January 4, 2011

BOTHELL — A hearing about a Bothell-area church’s 90-foot flagpole has been postponed, likely for at least another month.

The county hearing examiner had been scheduled Tuesday afternoon to weigh the code-enforcement case against Park Ridge Community Church. The notice of violation could have resulted in a $1,500 fine — or much more — depending on how the hearing examiner decided the case.

The pole in question was previously used as a cellphone tower. The Maltby Road church has hung a star or a cross from the pole, depending on the time of year.

The Rev. Brad Sebranke has appealed the violation, arguing that the county code does not require permits for flag poles.

County code inspectors investigated the structure after a complaint from a neighbor. County officials said they are worried about potential harm if the pole fell on top of people or property. They have told church officials they can avoid a fine if they obtain permits for the pole.

As of Tuesday, no new hearing date had been set.

Noah Haglund: 425-339-3465; nhaglund@heraldnet.com.