• Setting the Record Straight on the NSTO

    Posted on July 13, 2024

    In a Letter to the Editor of Sound Publishing regarding the so-called “preferred route” from Kingston to Port Gamble article, Doug Hayman writes:
    “Majority of the public is in opposition to plans to go through NKHP. There were three public meetings about this study. There was overwhelming opposition to the trail going through the North Kitsap Heritage Park and instead, calls for paths to connect various communities. […]

  • Comments re: KC Public Works on the TIPS

    Posted on May 11, 2024

    Reviewing the draft report on the North Sound to Olympics Trail Study (NSTO), two things stand out: 

    Public Comments, Appendix A
    And overall project cost, Appendix F
    Reading the public comments in Appendix A confirms that there is overwhelming community opposition to going through North Kitsap Heritage Park, even from people who ride bicycles. […]

  • Critical Areas Ordinance – Comments Part 6

    Posted on May 10, 2024

    9. NO NET LOSS OF ECOLOGICAL FUNCTIONS, NO ADVERSE IMPACT, and MONITORING

    The current CAO has two performance criteria for wetland buffer decreases:  (1) “provide as great or greater functions and values as…under the standard buffer”  (also referred to as “equivalent functions and values”) and (2) “no adverse impact” for buffer averaging. […}

  • Critical Areas Ordinance – Comments Part 5

    Posted on May 8, 2024

    7. SPECIALISTS AND REPORTS

    There are multiple ecological functions of buffers. Evaluation of functions may require expertise in wetlands, streams, habitat, soil science, hydrology, hydrogeology, and/or stormwater.

    Currently, the department appears to rely entirely on wetland reports and habitat management plans from wetland specialists and fish/wildlife biologists, respectively. However, their expertise may not extend to all the technical areas necessary for adequate evaluation of buffer functions. […}

  • Critical Areas Ordinance – Comments Part 4

    Posted on May 6, 2024

    5. BOUNDARY MARKING AND MEMORIALIZATION

    For critical area or buffer boundaries to be honored in the future they must be memorialized for future owners and residents. Current code lacks such provisions and transgression of boundaries is not uncommon. It is too tempting and easy for a current owner to extend a garden or yard by importing fill. The current requirement allowing wood posts, even if treated, is only a short-term solution. […}