Don’t blame council for what it can’t help

Judging from recent letters to the editor, one supposes that the Snohomish County Council can: (1) solve state and federal transportation problems, (2) grow the global economy, and (3) eliminate regulations. Pardon my skepticism, but I beg to differ.

One letter castigated Councilman Dave Somers for failing to improve state highways and freeway HOV lanes. If people want state highways improved, then they must speak with their state legislators. If people want more HOV lanes on I-5, they must speak with their federal legislators.

For at least 10 years, the county has reviewed each subdivision application without reference to the traffic impacts of any other proposed project. In my neighborhood, several planned residential developments literally abut each other. Nevertheless, all of these PRDs were approved as if existing in a vacuum. In response to this problem, Dave Somers and Mike Ashley insisted that the county’s permit review process accurately calculate future traffic impacts. This will improve accountability for traffic impacts to county roads – the only roads under the council’s jurisdiction.

Another writer blames council candidates for Boeing’s departure and a coming recession. At present, the county codes for commercial development legislate strip malls and Wal-Marts. In contrast, healthy economic development requires good office space and public amenities like parks and schools. Ashley, candidate Dave Gossett, and Somers all recognize that quality communities require improved land-use codes.

Blaming county council candidates for a global economic recession is about as rational as claiming that if your headlights are dim, you should change your brake pads. Citizens are fortunate to have thoughtful candidates Mike Ashley, Dave Gossett and Dave Somers. They merit our votes.

Alderwood Manor

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