Stop the presses. There appears to be a problem. In last week’s

editorial, which strongly suggested the Planning Commission for the city

of Snoqualmie take into consideration recently received input from the

Department of Fish and Wildlife and another state agency, I also

suggested that concerned citizens contact members of the Planning

Commission. In reference to the editorial, I received a letter from the city of

Snoqualmie stating that because the Planning Commission was quasi-judicial

and deliberating an application from a property owner, they could not

take public comment once the comment period was over. In this case, it

ended in December. As such, any further input either in written or verbal

form may or may not be considered. In the case of written and verbal

comments to the specific Planning Commission members, it cannot be

accepted. So with the close of public comment in December, input to

the Planning Commission will not likely be heard or accepted.

As to whether the Planning Commission will re-open public

comment on Falls Crossing, well, that is up to them; but my instincts tell

me it is highly unlikely. Furthermore, I know they have a difficult decision

in front of them and do not envy their position in any way. I want them to

be thorough and decisive so that any decision that is made stands one

way or the other. But it is also important for the names of the Planning

Commission members to be recognized by the community as major players

in how the community evolves, good or bad. And in the case of Falls

Crossing, when the decision is made, it would be extremely unfortunate

to think that one side or the other would try to overturn the decision due

to a Planning Commission member considering input after the public

comment period. I for one, would hate to see that happen.

But there is recourse. After the Planning Commission passes

their recommendation on to the City Council, the process starts over and

the council will likely hold a public comment period of its own. So there

is our chance to let our elected officials know how they feel.

I’m sure the debate will continue for several months, but at

some time, probably within the next year, a recommendation will be made

by the Planning Commission and sent to the City Council. Ultimately a

decision on the project will be made either in favor, with requested

modifications, or denied. Both the Planning Commission, the City Council

and at the least, the whole Upper Valley will be impacted by whatever

decision is made.

So hold those thoughts the next time you see a Planning

Commission member in the store. Prepare your concerns for the public comment

period that the City Council will likely hold.

I apologize if last week’s editorial, in any fashion, disrupted the

process in looking at the Falls Crossing project proposed by Puget

Western. It was merely my intention to voice my opinion and make

concerned citizens aware of elements that may affect the project or the

decision process with regards to the project. And believe me, it was all in the

best interest of the community.

Jim McKiernan