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4/23/02 Olympia City Council Dear City Council, I have been following the plans for the development of waterfront for almost a year now. I started with an open mind, but have concluded that I DO NOT FAVOR THE PROPOSED PLAN. I sat in on the Regional Planning Council’s presentation to the City Council last fall, as part of my assignment with Leadership Thurston County. I was surprised at the few questions raised by council members. I myself kept wondering why we were planning to develop that slip of spectacular water front, when many other empty lots are scattered around the downtown area, in sore need of apartment buildings and shops. When I did a ride-along with police officers, they showed me vacant lots where homeless people sleep with their dogs and perform all their personal bodily functions. Why not develop these areas, rather than prime water front? One question WAS raised at the hearing: the expense of building high rise apartments on the isthmus, due to soft landfill underneath. One councilmember asked about vulnerability to earthquakes, and did not get a satisfactory answer (other than $$$ to build special underpinnings and foundations). During my year participating in Leadership Thurston County, I have been proud to be exposed to the many good efforts by our city and county to improve the downtown. The clean-up at Cascade Pole blew me away. We are poised at the point of having a first-class, spectacular downtown. I am mindful of the need for high-density housing, and sympathize with the concept of creating a safe a vibrant downtown. But must we accomplish this by erecting high rise apartment buildings in front of one of our most spectacular views? I don’t think so. I would suggest that you begin beautification efforts by tearing down the DOC building, which is an absolute eyesore. Build apartments in other large open areas adjacent to the port. Protect the beautiful views and waterfront access. Vote no on the current proposal. Thanks for listening. Katherine Cameron |