2019/07/17 Council Agenda Packet

Economic Alliance SNOHOMISH COUNTY A July 16, 2019 Mayor Cassie Franklin Everett City Council 2930 Wetmore Ave. Floor 10 Everett, Washington 98201 ;P425.743.4567 info u economicalliancescorg RE: Revised City of Everett Shoreline Public Access Plan Dear Mayor Franklin and Councilmembers: 808 134th Street SW Suite 101 Everett, WA 98204 Thank you for allowing Economic Alliance Snohomish County (EASC) the opportunity to comment on the City's proposed Shoreline Public Access Plan. Our partnership with the City throughout the years has been a huge success through collaboration on issues facing the city and the region, improving our economy and the livelihood of our residents. Today, I would like to express thanks for the work done on this plan while sharing some concerns we have with the current proposal. Our concerns are solely focused on shoreline section 3.15. Creating a potential viewpoint at the west -end of the former K-C waste water treatment facility is an inappropriate location for this sort of a public facility. This is reinforced by a recent Washington State Department of Commerce study on Military Land Use Compatibility. We understand the benefits of creating additional public access to ensure a balanced waterfront. However, the potential negative impacts of adding a viewpoint between the waste water treatment plant, the federally -secure Naval Station Everett, and an international seaport should be further considered. We believe we should be creating the friendliest environment for our employers in our community, both public and private, large and small. While Navy must approve final plans on the K-C site (including the waste water treatment facilities), we believe taking proactive measures tonight to prevent potential future conflicts is the best course of action. However, should the Council choose to adopt this plan as is, EASC respectfully requests ongoing coordination in the development of access options to protect both our assets and security at Naval Station Everett, Port of Everett and the public's interest. The partnership with the City of Everett, Port of Everett, Snohomish County, and Naval Station Everett is strong. That collaboration has helped maintain land use compatibility between all parties along the city's waterfront, while making huge strides to create greater economic opportunities. I look forward to continuing this work together and finding a solution that balances our national security and the public's desire for additional public access on the waterfront. ADVOCATE DEVELOP CONNECT