As of March 16, it became evident that Everett’s mayor and City Council members (except one, Ron Gipson) came down on the side of not preserving the Donovan District.
I grew up in a house on 13th and Rockefeller from the early 1960s until 1983. I knew from an early age that this was a unique neighborhood. It wasn’t until later that I found out the history and significance of these cottage-style homes.
My father and mother moved to north Everett because I-5 was built through our neighborhood in the Riverside District. And, now, this second house is scheduled for demolition!
The loss of our first house I can understand, but the tearing down of homes that since 1998 have been part of Everett’s historic Donovan District is troubling.
I thank Mr. Gipson for having the courage to say no to every resolution and amendment. I thank Mrs. Pauline Kearney for taking a stand and making her position known, and I thank Ms. Barb Lamoureux, whose voice of wisdom says, “let’s call a time out and really sit down and do this right.” Lastly, I thank the Donovan District residents who continue their vigil for the preservation of their homes and our history.
The two main motivating factors in our society, with respect to decision-making, are money and litigation, in my opinion. Our goal should be to preserve and protect the passion and the spirit of the Donovan District and its residents’ past and present. It appears, though, with the council’s vote to rezone that some of these homes will be lost to Providence Everett Medical Center’s expansion plans.
I propose that Pauline Kearney’s house at 13th and Rockefeller remain as a tribute and memorial to those who came before and to those remaining. To not be remembered is to be forever lost. This Donovan District legacy must live on!
Larry Egge
Marysville
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