It was shocking to read Ken Hall’s insightful expose of the behind-the-scenes machinations that have characterized the Grouse Ridge gravel mine proposal. It’s appalling, really, that the powers-that-be thought that citizens wouldn’t see through the quid pro quo deals between Weyerhaeuser, Mountains to Sound Greenway, DDES, numerous King County officials and several environmental consulting firms. Through numerous cozy political and personal relationships, individuals and agencies who are supposed to protect our interests looked out for themselves first.

By manipulating the bureaucratic process, they have made a sham of the spirit of the State Environmental Policy Act and have virtually ignored several King County regulations. Because so many government officials and self-appointed protectors of the environment have put their self-interests before the public good, the Grouse Ridge project is headed for a protracted and costly legal battle.

The Grouse Ridge cabal clearly thought the folks east of Issaquah were a bunch of yokels who wouldn’t figure this all out. But we can, in fact, read who’s on which board of directors, we know how to get our hands on the texts of state and county laws and we can raise money and hire lawyers. And we’re willing to go the distance to protect our water, the Valley wildlife and our children.

See you in court.

David Billick

North Bend