HomeMy WebLinkAbout75.Gray, B. 5-7_I support the updated Jefferson County SMP (54)
Michelle McConnell
From:Barbara Gray [bluedahlia@cablespeed.com]
Sent:Friday, May 07, 2010 6:07 PM
To:Stewart, Jeff R. (ECY)
Subject:I support the updated Jefferson County SMP
Categories:LASMP Public Comment
Over four years in the making, citizens, stakeholders and county staff, have worked
diligently to update Jefferson County SMP that meets the community's needs while based on
sound peer-reviewed science that supports the policies and decisions. Citizen involvement and
community outreach was outstanding and the Department of Community Development (DCD) provided
multiple opportunities for involvement over a four year period, including several direct
mailings to shoreline property owners. The Board of County Commissioners took extra time to
analyze every piece of testimony and to incorporate their ideas, where appropriate. As a
result, the updated SMP is a well balanced approach to meet needs of both property owners and
Puget Sound?s ecosystem.
Specific elements of the updated SMP that I support include:
1) 150 foot buffers which were supported by significant testimony at all meetings and
hearings, are supported in the current science as a compromise of buffer widths necessary to
protect shoreline functions.
2) Provides for flexible buffer modification where modifications are appropriate (i.e., where
there is no net loss to shoreline functions)
3) Clear language and policies make it easier for citizens to understand the SMP
4) Clear regulations provides land use consistency and improves property values
5) Prohibits commercial net pen farming
6) Minimizes the need for shoreline armoring by encouraging non-structural remedies
At this time I urge you to finalize and adopt the locally approved and updated Jefferson
County SMP as it is presented to you.
Barbara Gray
1004 McPherson Street
Port Townsend, WA 98368
1