I was impressed with the letter, “Rare opportunity sits with K-C land.” The Herald’s article featuring the city’s current response to the use of the 90 acres of Kimberly-Clark land indicated that there was no interest by the city in developing anything but industry and/or heavy industry.
If there is anything that this city needs it is citizen access to the water and adjacent property. Currently, there is nothing in the city proper that comes even close to access. Pigeon Creek Park is impossible for many to get to and the boat launch to the far north is mostly for boats. Boaters do well in this city. The non-boating public fares poorly.
My suggestion to the city is to hold off on any decisions. Get the public involved through a series of meetings. Find out what people want before you declare intent. I can imagine some industry. I can also imagine businesses, parkland, walkways and, maybe, some condos/apartments, etc. The Microsoft campus comes to mind. There is no reason why we can’t begin to look beyond our “City of Smokestacks” history and toward a new era that includes those who need jobs and those who need recreation. It’s that combination that will meet the needs of all citizens of this city.
So, city administration, please hold off on any decision-making. Include in this conversation those of us who see the potential of diversity. To have 90 acres of waterfront property is a gold mine for any city, and many have exploited these opportunities with great success. We have plenty of time, as this will be a long process. Let’s make it a long and engaging discussion.
Lloyd Weller
Everett
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