Water views are part of the history of the capital city

Olympia is a city that is in danger of losing its single most precious asset, one that could soon be up for sale. I write to express my strong opposition to the proposal that waterfront land be rezoned to provide downtown housing.

Buildings that are 65 feet high and have 100 percent lot coverage at our shorelines are seriously out of scale and character with historic downtown Olympia.

The land at the waterfront may be privately owned, but the water views are part of the history of this, the state capital. They are what draw people here.

Our expansive water views are not a commodity for those who can afford high-rise condos at the water's edge. Our leaders, charged as stewards of a significant legacy, should never consider leveraging what we all commonly share for a short term benefit.

There are numerous other options when considering construction of housing in the downtown area -- options that do not rule out residences with water and other interesting views.

We could benefit from more downtown housing, but why aren't options that do not threaten to obstruct scenic views the first considered?

Public parks and open space at the waterfront make the state capital a good place to live and to visit. We need more, not less, of both. You can preserve what is best while serving the needs of a growing city and, as our leaders, have responsibility to do so.

Kathy Harrigan, Olympia