May 3, 2002

Dear Editor,

Do the Ends justify the Means?

The Ends: more downtown housing. It is a worthy goal. Mixed income and mixed-use development will indeed bring money into downtown businesses and provide housing for residents wanting and able to live there.

The Means: raise height limits on 9 WATERFRONT blocks, downtown, to 5,6 & 7 stories with 100% (sidewalk to sidewalk) block coverage. Parking will be inside the buildings for residents only.

The Means: use a PUBLIC amenity for private profit, comfort, and enjoyment. Taking arguably the most precious spot in downtown, that has been enhanced with tax money from local & state residents, and passing it to the privileged, for fun and profit.

The Means: NO public discussion of both sides of the issue, NO interest shown in determining community values, NO community involvement beyond a last minute public hearing that proponents refused to have televised.

Olympia was on its way to creating a World Class Waterfront for all ages and incomes: Purchasing land and enhancing it for current and future residents. That is the legacy we want to leave for future generations.

And if, for whatever reason, that vision, that legacy, is to be changed, it should only be done after lengthy public involvement. Not slipped by us as a casual zoning change undeserving of our attention.

Oppose the Comprehensive Plan zoning changes, Contact Council members. Attend the Public Hearing, May 21^st. Your voice is needed.

Thank You,

Bonnie Jacobs

720 Governor Stevens Ave.

Olympia

352-1346