Miscellaneous Items - 6/10/09

Update Frequency.  The slower frequency of updates has brought some questions.  We have been trying to do some extra projects and gardening including trying to keep the deer at bay with fencing only to have trouble with slugs and cutworms eating our new starts.  We feel like parents trying to protect their young ones until they are old enough to be on their own.

 

Garden Tours?  We have had a number of people mention that it would be nice to have a tour of some of the Illahee area gardens.  They noticed the advertisements for the Bremerton Urban Garden Society (BUGS) edible gardening tour a couple of weeks ago and thought it would be good to try something of the sort for Illahee.  Let us know your thoughts on this and if there is enough interest we will try to get the interested parties together.  If you know of some interesting Illahee area gardens (flowers and or vegetable), let us know, and we will pass that on also.  .

 

Canada Goose Gathering.  Recently there was an early morning gathering of Canada geese along the beach that numbered 32.  There were 4 goose families, one with four fairly good sized goslings, and the others smaller in size and numbering 5, 4, and 1 goslings.  There were four mated pairs that had no offspring, and two that were without mates.  We were able to get a picture of three of the families, which is attached at the end of the email.

 

Other Wildlife.  The river otters have been active as have the ravens and the bald eagles. 

 

Illahee Preserve.  We went for a walk in the Illahee Preserve on Wednesday evening and were greeted with newly laid wood chip trails, courtesy of the East Bremerton Rotary.  They evidently had a bunch of chips that were delivered to the new parking lot today (Wednesday) and decided to put them on some of the new trails they had blazed from the new parking lot.  We were amazed at the amount of chips they put down in one evening.  We have also impressed by the number of people using the Preserve. 

 

Thanks to the Preserve Volunteers!  Thanks to the Rotarian's, the Illahee Preserve Stewardship Group, and the Illahee Forest Preserve (the non-profit support group for the Preserve) for all their trail work and support of this forest treasure.

 

Jim Aho

Miscellaneous Items - 5/27/09

Letters to the Editor re Homeless in the Illahee Preserve.  There was a recent letter to the editor in response to the Kitsap Sun article covered in our last Update.  The blog entries following the initial article weren't very thoughtful or helpful in our mind, but the responses to the letter to the editor were much more interesting and insightful.  See the attached link: http://kitsapsun.com/news/2009/may/20/homeless-camps-raising-the-ire-of-illahee-park/

Response to the Illahee State Park Email.  In our last Update we included the text of an email expressing concerns about housing the homeless in a mothballed Illahee State park.  We received comments on both sides, with many of them phone conversations.  Most of those who live near the park and use it often have not experienced problems.  We talked with Steve Ryder, one of the Park Rangers, who said in the four years he has been there that there have been very few incidents and that Illahee is a very quiet and peaceful park, specifically when compared with other parks he has worked in.  He gave as an example this past Memorial Day weekend when the park was full and there was only one havesting citation issued at the beach. We had one person write us that after their hip surgery they started walking through the Park, but stopped when they saw some suspected drug people, which was the only other negative response.  The consensus was that there will always probably be some incidents at any public facility, and that there needs to be some regulatory presence, which is what the email was getting at.  Thank you to all for letting us know your thoughts!

Illahee Bird Watching.  Attached is the results of a recent bird watching event, and an announcement of another one coming up.

On Saturday, May 23rd Idie Ulsh led a guided bird walk thru Illahee Forest Preserve.  A total of 31 different species of birds were identified by sight or sound.  Highlights included a "first time" identification of a Hammond's Flycatcher.  Numerous Western Tanagers were heard thru-out the forest, but not seen.  A Wilson's Warbler was sighted near the gate on Thompson Lane.

Illahee Preserve Birding Tour
Idie Ulsh will be leading a bird walk thru Illahee Forest Preserve on Saturday, June 13th.  The focus will be upon sounds of forest birds.  Idie Ulsh is a Master Birder and past president of Seattle Audubon.  Idie is remarkable with her abilities to bird by ear.  Meet in the new parking lot located on Almira Drive at Illahee Forest Preserve.  From the traffic light on Highway #303 at Lowe’s Hardware, take Fuson Road up-the-hill and follow the hard right hand turn onto Almira Drive.  The parking lot is just ahead on your left.  Space is limited to about 12, so advanced sign up is required.  Bring binoculars. Bird books optional.  Start time is 7AM.  Questions or sign-up?  Please contact Vic Ulsh at work (360) 479-6900 orvic@bradleyscottinc.com.

River Otters.  We have had two emails asking what to do about river otters.  One has 5 of them living under their house and the other wasn't specific.  We used to have three of them living near us, but we have some small dogs that get loose now and then and are small enough to go through the brush to their den, and so we think they moved, and probably ended up at these other residents.  It shouldn't be too long before the otters will have their young and will hopefully move on. 

Suggestion?  Those with the otters are asking for suggestions on how to deal with them, other than contacting the Department of Fish and Wildlife.  If you have any ideas, let us know and we will pass them on.

Status of Incubating Goose Eggs.  We had reported earlier of a disturbed Canada goose nest that still had two eggs in it.  We tried incubating the eggs for five days without success (see the attached photo).  We finally broke open the eggs to see if they had been fertilized and the found they had with nearly complete chicks inside that would probably have hatched if they hadn't been disturbed by probably a raccoon or possum. 

Jim Aho

Meeting Reports - 5/22/09

Tuesday's Illahee Preserve Meeting.  One of the nice things about having the Press at a meeting is they have a deadline and one doesn't have to wait long for their report.  Such was the case for the Illahee Preserve meeting on Tuesday (5-19-09).

 

Brynn Grimley Article.  We have been impressed with the Kitsap Sun reporters and especially Brynn Grimley who frequently covers Illahee items.  She did an excellent job of covering Tuesday's meeting - click on the following link for her story: 

http://kitsapsun.com/news/2009/may/20/homeless-camps-raising-the-ire-of-illahee-park/

 

Monday's Illahee Community Meeting.  One of the primary objectives of the Illahee Community meeting on Monday (5-18-09) was to see if the community could come up with a "counter proposal" to the Timbers Edge plans, that the Illahee Community could live with.  There proved to be too many different thoughts and ideas expressed by attendees for there to be any consensus, so it was decided some of the key representatives would try to pull together the various issues and come up with a draft for the larger group to go over at a later meeting. 

 

Other Actions.  The Community did vote to establish a fund raising team to look at various options in anticipation of significant legal costs in the future.  If anyone is interested in helping, let us know and we will pass your name on.  The group also voted to establish a committee to look at the possibility of becoming a Wildlife Habitat sanctuary similar to the city of Shoreline.

 

Illahee State Park Email Comments.  We received a number of responses, both verbal and written, regarding the email that we included in our last Update that expressed concern about the homeless using a mothballed Illahee State Park.  We will pass along some of those comments in a later Update.

 

Status of the Nesting Goose.  We finally have one gosling from the nesting goose family.  It appears the nest was discovered by something on Wednesday evening as early Wednesday morning there was one gosling with the mated adults, one warm egg still on the nest, one egg that had evidently rolled down from the side-hill nest, and one egg that was some distance uphill that had been smashed and eaten.  We were advised that we should put the remaining two eggs under a warming light to see if they might hatch, but now three days later, nothing has happened.  If this is the same mating pair as last year they had a nearby nest of three eggs that never hatched and they eventually abandoned the nest, so I guess we should be happy to have the one gosling.

 

Wildlife Stories?  Let us know your wildlife stories so we can pass them on.

 

Jim Aho

Miscellaneous Items - 5/18/09

Monday Illahee Community Meeting.  The Monday (5-18-09)meeting @ 6:30 pm at the Unitarian Fellowship Church on Perry Ave is a quarterly ICC meeting, but theprimary issue to be discussed is whether the Illahee Community can come up with a counter proposal to the Timbers Edge plan.  There is evidently a draft of a proposal that will be passed out at the meeting.  If you have any questions we will be glad to pass on what we know.

 

Tuesday Illahee Forest Preserve Meeting.  This meeting will be held on Tuesday (5-19-09) at the Eagles Nest at the Fairgrounds beginning at 6:30 pm.  The primary issue on the agenda is a sheriff''s representative to talk about various issues within the Illahee Preserve, the major one being homeless camps.  This should be a great interest to Illahee residents because of the potential for fire damage to the 460 acres of Preserve forest land in an otherwise urban setting. 

 

Concern Regarding Homeless Camps in Illahee State Park.  We received a copy of an email that was sent to Patty Lent, who was quoted in a Kitsap Sun article as suggesting that if Illahee State Park is mothballed that maybe the homeless could camp and help take care of the Park.  We think that the Park will not be mothballed, but found the email very insightful regarding possible issues with those using the facilities.

 

I realize that your suggestion regarding the use of Illahee State Park if it is closed to the general public because of budget constraints was based on your compassion for the individuals that are homeless. My wife and I have lived adjacent to the park for 23 years. I have been a park volunteer in the past. We know exactly the events that occur in the campground on a daily basis under "normal conditions". The campground host is not there to be a friendly guide for campers, they are there to control the behavior within the campground. Sometimes they do and sometimes they are not able to maintain control. I truly believe that you don't understand the impact of your homeless shelter proposal.

It is true that I do have somewhat of an "not in my backyard" attitude but we understand the unpublished events that happen on numerous occasions within the campground and the remainder of the park. Today neighborhood families will not let their children walk through the campground and park without supervision because of what has happened in the park. I know of adults that won't walk into the park without a weapon on their person. The park manager and assistant park manager carry weapons for their own protection. These conditions exist in a facility open to the general public. Do you have any concept of what conditions would be like if the front gate were locked and as you suggested the facilities become a homeless refuge?

I do hope we can continue this dialogue.

 

Let us know your thoughts and we will pass them on.

 

Jim Aho, Phone 479-1049

Miscellaneous Items - 5/15/09

Important Meeting on Monday.

 

ICC Meeting Monday (5-18-09).  A very important Illahee Community Club meeting will be held Monday evening at 6:30 pm at the Unitarian Fellowship Church at 4418 Perry Avenue.  The meeting is the quarterly ICC meeting, with the primary item on the agenda being to come up with a community "counter proposal" to the Timbers Edge project.

 

Counter Proposal.  The reason for coming up with a "counter proposal" is to see if the community and the developer can come up with an agreement both parties can live with.  The developer and his engineer have decided what kind of development they would like build, but the community has some major concerns with what they are planning, so now it is time for the community to come up with a counter proposal of what kind of development they would like to see.

 

Primary Meeting Goal - A Counter Proposal Acceptable to the Community.  We have talked with many and all have agreed that the developer should be able to develop the property, but not with the adverse impacts on the community, the creek, and the aquifers.  During prior discussions with community members alternatives have been presented and seem to have a common theme.  It is that common expressed theme that we think will be expressed on Monday and will result in a proposal that is acceptable to the community.

 

Illahee Residents Need to Attend.  This single project has the potential to impact the Illahee Community more than any single project in recent decades.  We would encourage as many people as possible to attend.

 

Help With Fundraising?  Linda Hinde, an ICC board member, is wondering if there are any volunteers who would like to work with her on looking at fundraising possibilities?  Let us know if you would like to help and we will pass the information on to Linda.

 

Another Important Meeting on Tuesday.

 

Illahee Forest Preserve Meeting on Tuesday (5-19-09).  Another important meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 19, 2009.  The Illahee Forest Preserve meets at the Eagles Nest at the Fairgrounds from 6:30 to 8:00 pm.  The primary item on the agenda for this meeting will be a meeting with a Sheriff's representative to talk about what to do with the homeless who are setting up camps in the Illahee Preserve.

 

Homeless Camp Report Today.  We received the following report of more homeless in the Preserve:

 

I just received a report of 3 (or possibly more) new homeless camps within Illahee Forest Preserve.  Location is reportedly near Highway #303, just south of the Park-N-Ride.  The report suggested the property adjacent Safeway has gotten so full of homeless camps that some of the homeless are now moving their camps directly across Highway #303 into Illahee Forest for more space.  Apparently there is a faint trail access along the fencing immediately north of the vacant car sales lot.  This is not believed to be the primary point of access because the trail is not well defined.  I hope to check this situation out myself early Saturday morning.

 

Illahee State Park Update.  We received the following information from our State Representative Christine Rolfes regarding what was happening with the State Parks.

 

State Parks and Recreation Commission
schedules special meeting in Olympia
OLYMPIA – May 11, 2009 – The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission will have a special meeting May 19, to adopt an implementation plan for the 2009-11 budget, contingent upon the Governor’s signing.
The special meeting will be at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 19, in Room N 108 of the Tumwater Office of the Washington State Attorney General, 7141 Cleanwater Drive S.W., Olympia. The agenda is available online at www.parks.wa.gov. Time for public comment will be made available for items on the agenda.
Parks will remain open during the 2009-11 biennium as the result of action taken by the Legislature to establish a new revenue source for State Parks. When vehicle owners register a new vehicle or receive their annual license tab renewal notice from the Washington State Department of Licensing, their total bill amount will include a $5 donation to keep parks open, unless they specifically choose not to include the donation. Budget language adopted by the Legislature says that parks will remain open in 2009-11 unless sufficient revenues are not collected from the program.
In its Operating budget, State Parks will take a reduction of $52 million in General Fund tax dollars in 2009-11, out of $100 million General Fund in the current budget. The Legislature intends that most of this funding will be replaced by the new donation program and a temporary shift of fuel taxes associated with off-road vehicle and marine recreation uses. In addition to replacement funds, expenditure reductions are necessary which are outlined in the implementation plan. These reductions include holding staff vacancies and reducing functions at headquarters to reduce $3.8 million; consolidation of region offices from four to three to save $1 million; reduction of non-core programs at $1.3 million; and reduction of equipment expenditures by $2 million.
The plan also will include a fee increase of $2 for camping effective July 1, 2009. The camping fee increases were authorized by the Commission in August 2008 but were administratively delayed until the budget process was completed. The fee increase will apply to new reservations made after July 1. The increase will bring the range of camping charges to $19 to $24 for standard (tent) sites and $25 to $33 for utility sites.
The agency’s Capital Program budget for new projects is $25.5 million in state bond money, reduced by 60 percent from the current budget. The agency must cut indirect and management costs by approximately $3 million. The plan also reduces reliance on outside consultants and reorganizes Capital Program staff in the three remaining regions. 
The Commission has been encouraged by the Legislature to continue pursuing transfers of 13 parks that were deemed potential transfer candidates earlier in the state budget process. Any of these that are not transferred to be operated by other local governments will remain open under State Parks management in the 2009-11 biennium, unless collections of new donation and other revenues prove insufficient.
The Commission also will consider a proclamation of appreciation to the public, the Legislature and the Governor for demonstrated support of State Parks during the past several months while the state budget was being prepared.
The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages a diverse system of more than 121 parks and several recreation programs, including long-distance trails, boating safety, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. The 96-year-old park system will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2013.

 

Canada Goose Report.  The Canada goose goslings are emerging.  We have had one family with 4 goslings that are getting quite big, and another family with 5 small goslings.  The goose that we are monitoring is still sitting on her nest.

 

Jim Aho

Miscellaneous Items - 5/11/09

Illahee Creek Culvert.  Last summer the Illahee Creek culvert under Illahee Road was cleaned of sediment such that a bobcat loader could be driven in the culvert.  It quickly filled up from our normal rains and after the last rain we took the picture at the end of this email to check the impact of the last storm.  The culvert performed better than expected though the gravel bank inside the culvert is growing.  The county is proposing an annual cleaning of the culvert to prevent it from filling up and possibly washing out the road.

Last Week's Rain.  We received the following report (on May 6th) on how much rain was received in Illahee last week.

I was amazed at the 2.49 inches in 24 hour period ending Tuesday evening.  This is the most 24 hour rainfall since the December 3rd 2007 storm.  With today's rain we may well be over 3 inches for the 2 day period. 

Miscellaneous Items - 5/10/09

Deer Solutions Received.  We received a good response to the question of how to keep deer from decimating gardens and landscaping.

 I use a product called Bobbex that keeps deer from eating my roses.  You can get it at nurseries.  It’s a very foul-smelling spray, but when I cut a rose and bring it indoors, I don’t smell the Bobbex at all.  On the other hand I wouldn’t use it on anything I intended to eat; I heard it’s made from coyote urine.

A large caliber revolver would solve the deer problem. However that could get you in trouble with the law. Alternative: get a hunting license and a bow and solve the problem that way. Kill pun (intended) two birds with one stone. deer problem gone and food for a year.

We've been in Rue Villa for 43 years and have been visited by deer every year. Our plantings are native rhodies, ferns, evergreen shrubs etc. As has been said many times, the deer lived with the native American long before we got here.

We have been rather successful in keeping deer out of our garden by using a "Scarecrow".  It's a motion activated sprinkler.   This is a link to a picture with description on Amazon.  http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000071NUS/?tag=googhydr-20&hvadid=3511465617&ref=pd_sl_92buo5st8s_e

I heard that if you contact a zoo and get lion feces and put them around your fence deer will not cross. I know someone who says dog feces do the same. I have not tired this. There might be a good source of this if you visit Squim Wild Game Park.

Now, what do you do to live with River Otters?

Deer: my only suggestion is to make up a solution of egg and water (like one egg in an osterizer of water. or even half an egg), and spray it on the targeted shrubs, maybe once a week (or more with the rain?) Deer do NOT like the taste of eggs. With regards to landscaping "go native" those plants which are native to this area stand the best chance of surviving the deer onslaught. Viewcrest hasn't seen any yet, but they do come out of the Cheney estate sometimes. Rosemary and hemlock should slow them down, too.

My wife drove a friend to Bainbridge Island some time back  to a house she was staying in for a visit.  The owners weren't there, but there was a key in the backyard.  Unfortunately, the owners had forgotten to disable the deer protection system for their beautiful property.  When my wife and her friend went to get the key, they were soaked by hard-hitting sprinklers triggered by motion-detectors.  This may be too expensive for most, but apparently it does work since the beautiful backyard was untouched by Bambi's lips.

The only thing about keeping deer out your probably that I have heard is to tie Irish Spring soap all around your property that they don't like the smell.

Deer discouragement:  Blood meal quite often works.

Sandpiper Picture Update.  The last egg in the nest did not hatch.

Canada Goose Nest.  We have included three pictures of a Canada goose sitting on a nest.  The first photo is without zooming in and the others are with the zoom.  She has been there for three weeks now and we have only seen her leave the nest once, though she could be leaving when we aren't around.  As such we don't know how many eggs there are in the nest.  We think it takes about a month before they hatch and will report on the outcome. 

Timbers Edge Email.  We received the following email with regards to an email sent by the Timbers Edge engineer.  We have permission to share it and it shows how many feel about the proposed development as currently planned.

The Illahee Community is a well organized group of citizens who represent a diverse segment of our community.  We live here, understand science, do not play politics, and I for one, and don’t appreciate
the "big boys" exchanging emails of a case that is on appeal to the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners, and let me refer to this as "Timbers Edge".

Secondly, Mr. Mark Kuhlman does not represent the Illahee Community, and should not be giving advice or lead you to believe that his thoughts regarding Timbers Edge, have been discussed with our community or that they represent the views of the community. These exchanges of emails regarding closed record appeals then appear in your files from Mr. Kuhlman and end up as new information in projects that come before you at hearings.  DCD should be very careful with what they say, how they say it, and to whom they exchange these emails.

Fourthly, regarding the recent emails between Kuhlman, Grellner, Keeton and Greetham, I believe you should refer to page 21 of the Brown and Caldwell Report for the Central Kitsap Wastewater GMA Compliance Plan prepared in February 2008.  "Recent investigations have shown that groundwater recharge from septic systems represents a sizable proportion of the annual aquifer recharge.  This has led to a recommendation that the County encourage on-site septic systems over the sewer hook-ups where appropriate densities occur."

Lastly, as a holder of Senior Water Rights and Wildlife Protection Rights per my
registered certificates, I would hope that these old homestead certificates have
some meaning in Kitsap County.  With these water rights and wildlife protection
rights as a homeowner, I am affected by decisions made in DCD on my 15 acre
parcel adjacent to your proposed development both on the shoreline and uphill at Timbers Edge.  I take this very seriously, as I watch the base flow and salmon
disappear in Illahee Creek.   I expect more from your department, then these
email exchanges provide.  I expect science, not guessing games to show what I
already know, that IIlahee Creek is in danger at this time, because of aquifer
recharge issues.  This is not about politics.  This is about very important
decision making taking place in your departments.  This is about the conditions
on Illahee Creek.  This is about the death of something bigger than your
exchange of emails to "get the project in”.  These are decisions which could
adversely affect Illahee Creek, a place where fish have historically thrived and
now base flow is threatened and on the decline.

May 18th Meeting.  Remember that one of the major agenda items for the Monday evening (May 18th) Illahee Community Club meeting (6:30 pm at the Unitarian Church) is to discuss Timbers Edge and come up with a settlement offer the community can live with.

Jim Aho

Miscellaneous Items - 5/6/09

Back in Town.  We are back after a nice trip to several of the Hawaii islands and came back to see brown silt-laden water out in the bay from the storm surges that decimate Illahee Creek during every significant storm. 

 

Illahee Creek Culvert.  Irwin Krigsman said if the county had not cleaned out the culvert last year, Tuesday's storm would have likely clogged the culvert, flooded their property, and possibly taken out Illahee Road.  That is one of the primary reasons residents are so concerned about stormwater and its impact on the creek, not to mention its effect on salmon and riparian habitat.

 

Cumulative Effects on Culvert.  The problem is the cumulative effects from upstream developments that did not adequately evaluate the effects of stormwater on the stream, nor were they concerned with aquifer recharge - some of the issues that the community is concerned about with the Timbers Edge project.  The County approved all the previous developments, including Timbers Edge, which leaves the community with the after affects and the job of trying to restore the damage.  As one resident said, "this is getting very frustrating."

 

Deer Issues.  Not everyone in Illahee likes deer, or should we say they don't like what the deer do to their yards and gardens.  We have had a number of responses indicating their frustrations (see the below received response). 

 

These critters might be cute, but they are very destructive .
We live in Illahee and every since these cute fury critters have found our property, they have grazed on every living piece of vegetation that we have planted including a garden which has become none existent as they tell there buddies about the smorgasbord and dining pleasure that our neighbors and we provide.
They have take thousands of dollars worth of expensive landscaping and have grazed on it until there is nothing left but twigs and sticks left.
I wish there was something to do to get them out of this area so everyone who had invested thousands of dollars could get there wonderful landscaping back. What was once like Buchard Gardens has now become Stump Gully.
Does any one want to adopt our "Could Care Less About Your Landscaping Deer" ?
Please let these cute furry Vegetation Exterminators find greener pastures.

 

Our Deer Experience.  There was a big doe that some had named Sophia that would usually have twin fawns each year and they regularly visited our garden (she was killed by a car several years ago).  We tried special sprays, hanging extra fragrant soaps, garlic plants, and finally had to resort to extra high fences.  Last year the deer even went through the plastic mesh fencing that was getting old and had lost its strength.  We found they are especially fond of beans and we will soon be trying to protect them again from the deer.

 

Deer Solutions.  Let us know if you have some solutions that work and we will pass them on.

 

Coyote Sighting.  The following report was received recently.

 

Last Wednesday morning when returning from my morning run shortly after 6am, I saw a coyote running West on Wise Street then turned South on Sunset and made a right turn into the Illahee Forest behind the golf course.

 

ICC Non-Profit Status Approved.  We recently received word that the Illahee Community Club's IRS status was upgraded from a 501.c.4 to a 501.c.3, effective in 2008.  We understand the ICC has been working on this since they decided to reorganize in November 2007.  Some of the longtime members who were around in 1959 when the Club requested IRS status, thought the ICC was a 501.c.3 so it took a little time to get everything straightened out and the new paperwork submitted.  Thanks to all those who persisted in getting that task done.

 

State Registration.  The previous ICC state paperwork was found to be up to date.  It had been registered with the Secretary of State and Audrey Boyer had been paying the required State of Washington's yearly filing fee (thank you Audrey) which kept the club current with state officials.

 

Timbers Edge Appeal.  We aren't sure what to report on this.  We know the lawyers involved had a meeting to discuss the possibility of compromises.  We know the appeal was filed.  We have seen some recent emails initiated by the Timbers Edge engineer that the county is responding to.  The community will also need to respond.  This will certainly be a discussion item at the next ICC quarterly meeting.

 

Commissioner Appeal?  We have been asked again about what we should expect when the ICC appeal goes before the County Commissioners.  The assessment of many is that Commissioner Baurer talks as though he is concerned about the environment, but doesn't vote that way.  Commissioner Brown voted with the community on the Outfall Project, which was encouraging.  And Commissioner Garrido is an unknown at this point.  Commissioners as a whole tend to vote with the decision of County staff and the Hearing Examiner, even if those decisions are poor for the environment and go against the community.

 

ICC Quarterly Meeting.  We just talked with Barney Bernhard, the ICC president, who advised us the Illahee Community Club will be holding itsquarterly meeting at the Unitarian Fellowship Church on Monday, May 18th, at 6:30 pm.  On the meeting agenda there will be a discussion of what kind of compromises the community will agree to with the Timbers Edge project.  This should be an interesting meeting.

 

Our Assessment.  While many are hopeful there could be a settlement with the Timbers Edge group, we have not found them to be very accommodating or interested in compromise.  The bottom line with them are the small lots (mostly 3400 sq ft) which gives them the maximum number of houses, and therefore maximum profit.  Because they were "grandfathered" with the higher density (5-9 units per acre), that is what they have planned for, even though they could now go for 1-4 units per acre. 

 

County Position?  While the county has supported the development with their decision that there will not be any significant environmental impacts, a decision the community is vigorously contesting, the county has shown a willingness to work with groups working towards a settlement. 

 

Your Thoughts?  Let us know your thoughts on these matters.

 

Jim Aho

Miscellaneous Items - 4/25/09

More Deer Photos.  We received some more deer photos taken in the Gilberton area.  Below is the text of the email.

 

Continue to enjoy your updates and photos even though I don't live in Illahee.  Attached are some photos of a mostly white buck that has been around for a while.  The photos are a little "fuzzy" because I went to 20X digital zoom since my camera will only go to 5X optical.  The DSC0260  photo is from late last summer and clearly shows his spike horns.  The rest were taken last week and he has clearly grown larger.  I wonder if this deer may be the result of a cross between a native Black Tail and one of the white deer that are grown at the Bed & Breakfast across from 3rd on Illahee.  I know that these white deer have "escaped" before because the wife and I helped the owner herd them back onto his property.  I'm sure there have been other sightings in the area?????????

 

Loon.  We have had a loon around here that was first seen on April 2nd and again on April 24th.  We usually see loons in the fall when they pass through and again in the spring.  We are wondering if this is the same loon that was seen earlier this month and wonder if it is staying around, nesting, in the area.

 

Wigeon.  Another strange bird sighting was a mated couple of wigeon that seemed to be hanging around in the area.  We were hoping to get a photo and don't know if they are still around or decided to go north.

 

Timbers Edge Appeal Filed.  We were able to get a pdf file of the appeal that was filed on Friday by the Illahee Community Club.  It evidently was a collaborative effort that reads rather well considering there were a number of people working on it.  Let us know your thoughts and we will pass them on.  We were also reminded that the Club is collecting funds for the appeal and hope that by posting it to the community, that it may bring in additional funds.  The pdf file is attached.

 

Jim Aho

Miscellaneous Items - 4/23/09

Canada Goose Nest.  Our neighbors have a Canada goose that has been faithfully sitting on a nest for the last three days.  We tried to see if we could see how many eggs there are as she leaves the nest for about a half hour each morning, but she had covered them up with small feathers and nesting material.  We were hoping to monitor the nest until the eggs hatch but will be out of town for a week.  If someone else has a similar situation and is willing to take photos, we will pass them on.

 

Deer Photos.  Attached are some photos that were sent in after the dead deer photo.

For all those that were upset about photos of the dead deer, here are some photo's of a very lively one in my back yard.

 

Illahee Dock Inquiry Inspiration for Squid Jigs.  During the winter months the Illahee dock is often lined with squid fisherman.  We have been monitoring the squid fishing there for years and this year especially noted the wider hooked squid jigs were much more productive than the old style that has been around for years.  After the article in the Kitsap Sun, we know they are not only locally produced, but their inspiration was from a trip to the Illahee dock.  The link for the story is:

http://kitsapsun.com/news/2009/apr/20/squid-jigs-made-by-bremerton-couple-hit-the-big/

 

Timbers Edge Appeal.  We understand there are several persons working on the Timbers Edge appeal to the County Commissioners that is due on Friday, 4-24-09.  We will try to get a copy, since it will become a public record, and pass it on as an attachment.

 

Illahee State Park.  We have been asked what can be done to help make sure Illahee State Park is not mothballed or turned into a homeless camp.  We aren't sure how to respond, but did notice in the Kitsap Sun a short article on Wednesday that the House passed a measure to add a $5 "opt out" fee to annual vehicle registrations in order to keep our state parks open.  The bill then goes to the Senate.  The Park's Commission hopes the new fee will add $20 million for parks.  We will continue to try and monitor this, but could use some help since we will be out of town for a week.

 

Jim Aho

Wildlife & State Park Info - 4/18/09

Recent Photos.  In the past few days we have been receiving a number of wildlife photos.  In this update are some bird photos.  Deer (alive) photos will be sent in a later update.

Killdeer Nest & Killdeer.  The first three photos were evidently taken on Thursday.  Following is text of the email we received.

Here are some pictures of our Killdeer and her nest.  She first scolded me, then tried to lead me away with the old broken wing trick, then she watched as I took pictures of her babies.  Where's Waldo:  In picture 10 can you find the nest?

Eggs Hatch.  On Friday we received the fourth photo and the following text:

3 of the 4 eggs hatched today.  The chicks are even harder to see than the eggs....

Eagle on Nest.  Today we received the eagle nest photos and the following text:

Attached are photos of an eagle sitting on a nest in Manette taken 4/18/09.  The Lombard Poplar tree has just begun to leaf out in the past 2 days.  I expect we should be getting very near hatch date for this nest within the next week or so (assuming 35 day incubation period). 

Plans for Homeless in Illahee State Park?  In Saturday's Kitsap Sun there was an article about the cut in social services that contained one solution that was being proposed which is to recommended Illahee State Park be used to house the homeless if the park is going to be mothballed.  We thought Illahee residents might like to look at the linked article.

http://kitsapsun.com/news/2009/apr/17/groups-preparing-for-the-rollback-of-health/

Thank You!  Thank you to all for sending the photos.

Jim Aho

Illahee Preserve & Misc Responses - 4/17/09

Preserve Issues.  We just received the following email regarding something happening (Friday morning) at the Illahee Preserve:

 

On the way to Lowes passed the new Illahee Preserve parking lot and noticed a large fabric object just inside the gated area. Looked like a collapsed tent.

On the way back from Lowes noticed sheriff and numerous other people gathered near the fabric. Just got a glimpse in passing by.

 

Homeless Camps?  We think the gathering is a planned meeting to discuss what to do with the homeless camp sites that have been discovered in the Illahee Preserve. 

 

The Issues.  Some think that with the economic downturn that the homeless should be allowed to camp in the Preserve.  The Illahee Forest Preserve group, while being understanding of those wanting to help the homeless, is concerned about the fire danger to the Preserve and the surrounding urban area.  The Preserve is 460 acres and the surrounding forested areas would bring the total to approximately 600 to 700 acres that would be in jeopardy if there was a fire.  This is major public safety issue that needs to be responded to quickly.

 

Questions Regarding the ICC.  We routinely have been asked about the Illahee Community Club.  It would be nice if they had a FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) document, and we will ask them about producing one. 

 

Answers on the Application Form?  In the meantime we looked at their 2009 Application for Membership form, and found it listed the purposes of the organization, that answers many of the questions.  The application containing the purposes is attached.

 

Financial Support of the ICC.  Contributions to the ICC can be sent to the Post Office address noted on the attached Application Form.

 

Additional Reports of Car Break-Ins.  See the following of others who were impacted by the car break-ins:

 

We live on Olive Ave. off Rest Place. We also had our vehicles ransacked and had items stolen. My husband's backpack , seahawks jacket, and mis. items were taken. He forgot to lock his truck. My sons car also was gone through. I guess we all need to be aware of who is walking through the neighborhoods.

 

Deer Photo.  We apologize to those who were upset with the picture of the dead deer along the road.  We were asked to resend the update as there were those who could not read it with the picture at the bottom.  Let us know if you would like us to do that for you.

 

Jim Aho

 

Miscellaneous Items - 4/16/09

Illahee Car Prowling.  A reminder that there are car prowlers around.  We highlighted Terry's last sentence as it is a good reminder that Illahee is not immune to problems.  See the following:

 

You may want to send a reminder out to the community to be diligent in their efforts to keep their homes secure.  I live on the Rest Place off Roosevelt.  On Thursday night, I had a GPS unit and a few CDs stolen out of my truck.  I had planned on taking my daughter to Girl Scouts that night so didn’t lock my truck.  Ended up my wife took her so I didn’t get back to my truck.  Anyway, when I came out in the morning, I found my center console opened and my notebook lying on my seat.  The  GPS unit and CDs were gone. They didn’t bother with my baseball glove or umbrella so they were selective about what they took. 

My guess is that either it was a kid, or just someone walking the road at night that looks for open vehicles.  Even though we think our community is safe, there are those out there that shake up our lives and remind us that we are not a secure as we hope.

 

Timbers Edge Post Cards.  The county sent out about 600 post cards to "persons of record" noting that the Timbers Edge project was "approved with conditions."  Most of those receiving the cards had signed petitions opposing the development, which is why the number was so high.

 

Decision on the County Website.  The post card went on to say the "Decision" could be viewed at the county website which was given as:  www.kitsapgov.com/dcd/he.  Many had problems locating the decision and tried to use the Application Numbers given on the Notice.  The decision was down on the list and was noted as "Case 080828-068."  They certainly don't make it easy to find the decision, much less to read and understand it on a computer monitor. 

 

Non-Computer Users.  There are a number of people who do not have access to computers or the internet and have been unable to access the decision.  We have suggested they call the county for paper copies.  We don't know what the county response has been.

 

Appeal to be Filed.  The Illahee Community Club will be filing an appeal to the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) on behalf of Illahee residents, which now has a new deadline of April 24, 2009.  They are collecting money to pay for the appeal and would appreciate any help residents can provide. 

 

Bird Reports.  The American Wigeon (ducks) left the area in late March and early April.  The ravens have been seen venturing toward the shoreline area, but they only stay a short while as the crows, that seem to be concentrated along the shoreline, create quite a raucous when they see them, and seem to chase them away.

 

Deer Reports.  Not many deer reports coming in, but that should change soon as the local gardeners start planting their gardens and the deer discover them.  And as soon as we wrote the above we had the attached photo emailed to us.

 

Jim Aho

Community Meeting Results - 4/9/09

Results of Monday's Meeting?  We have been getting numerous inquiries as to what happened at Monday's meeting with regards to Timbers Edge and whether it was decided to file an appeal with the County Commissioners.  We have been told if we put out a timely update, the questions would not be necessary.

 

April 9th Deadline Met?  We have also been getting emails wondering if the April 9th deadline was going to be met.

 

Monday Meeting Results.  Attorney Ryan Vancil discussed the HE decision and the next options open to the community.  It was stated that the ICC would only carry an appeal forward if it was the community's wishes, and if there was sufficient financial support.  The attendees at the meeting then voted to appeal the Hearing Examiner's Decision and furthermore committed to cover enough of the costs to get the process started.  (Note that we are hesitant to discuss the exact dollar amounts in this email, so call us if you want that information.)

 

Additional Funding Required.  While there was a good showing of funds received and promised, additional funding of approximately $900 will be required to fund the Commissioners Appeal, and even more funds will be required for possible later appeals to the Shorelines Hearings Board and/or Circuit Court.

 

Send Checks To.  The ICC is requesting the additional financial help to cover the appeal to the Commissioners and is starting a fund for the legal issues.  Checks can be sent to:  Illahee Community Club, P.O. Box 2563, Bremerton, WA 98310.

 

April 9th Deadline?  The April 9th deadline was extended to April 24, 2009 because the HE decision was distributed to only those residents residing along the newly proposed sewer that is within 200 feet of the saltwater shoreline, and not to the other parties of record.  The rest of the community should be receiving their notices on Friday or Saturday.

 

Community Members Noted Error.  Community members were the ones who noted the distribution error and reported it to the county both by email and in person on Tuesday, 4/7/09.

 

Community Desired Timbers Edge Development.  At the Monday meeting residents were quick to point out they were not against development of the properties, but again not lots smaller than legacy lots (legacy lots are 40' by 90' or 3600 sq ft and many of the Timbers Edge lots are 3400 sq ft), and a development that threatens the demise of Illahee Creek as a salmon stream. There were also those concerned with the existing stormwater problem at the end of Nobles Lane that affects those in the Rue Villa area. 

 

Community Goal?  The goal of some members is to see if the community can come together with what kind of development they can support so that maybe they could avoid another legal battle, since settlement is one of the ultimate goals of the Shoreline Hearings Board, and it would be prudent to work toward that end earlier, rather than later and after spending thousands of dollars in legal costs.

 

Will They Be Successful?  Some of those wanting a settlement are more hopeful than others.  There was an earlier group that tried to work on a possible agreement at a meeting called by Kitsap County, that was not successful.  We wish this new group more success than the last group.

 

Your Thoughts?  Let us know your thoughts on these matters. 

 

Jim Aho

Reminder of Timbers Edge Meeting - 4/6/09

Meeting Tonight (Monday 4/6/09). We have been asked to remind everyone of the Illahee Community meeting tonight to discuss whether to appeal the Hearing Examiner's approval of the Timbers Edge project to the County Commissioners. The deadline for filing an appeal is 4/9/09.

Place - Library. The meeting will be held at the Kitsap Regional Library located on Sylvan Way.

Time - 6:30 pm. The meeting will start at 6:30, but members will be there at 6 pm to answer questions.

Lawyer Present. The lawyer who represented the Illahee Community Club, Ryan Vancil, will be attending the meeting to answer questions.

Funding Questions. As we understand the financial situation it is roughly as follows:

In 2008 approximately $20,000 was expended to cover filing fees, expert witnesses, and lawyer fees for the Illahee Outfall hearing and appeals and the Timbers Edge hearings. The costs exceeded contributions but was covered by a very large contribution at the end of the year.

In 2009 the ICC is essentially starting out with a zero balance, which means an appeal will need to be covered by contributions before it can go forward. The ICC Board of Directors has essentially said they will carry out the wishes of the community as long as it conforms to the purposes for which it was organized and it is supported financially.

Other Questions? There will be members available to answer other questions at tonight's meeting.

Comments Received. We received a comment from a resident this weekend who is worried the residents don't understand the adverse impact that this development will have on the Illahee community if this project goes ahead as planned.

Another Comment. (Paraphrased) We need to remind people that we are not against development. This project as currently configured will likely permanently damage the ability of Illahee Creek to support salmon. A development of lesser density and more infiltration will result in most neighbors supporting the project. The developer had the choice and decided to ignore the community's input and the impact on Illahee Creek.

Jim Aho

Reminder of Timbers Edge Meeting - 4/6/09

Meeting Tonight (Monday 4/6/09)).  We have been asked to remind everyone of the Illahee Community meeting tonight to discuss whether to appeal the Hearing Examiner's approval of the Timbers Edge project to the County Commissioners. The deadline for filing an appeal is 4/9/09.

 

Place - Library.  The meeting will be held at the Kitsap Regional Library located on Sylvan Way.

 

Time - 6:30 pm.  The meeting will start at 6:30, but members will be there at 6 pm to answer questions.

 

Lawyer Present.  The lawyer who represented the Illahee Community Club, Ryan Vancil, will be attending the meeting to answer questions.

 

Funding Questions.  As we understand the financial situation it is roughly as follows:

 

In 2008 approximately $20,000 was expended to cover filing fees, expert witnesses, and lawyer fees for the Illahee Outfall hearing and appeals and the Timbers Edge hearings.  The costs exceeded contributions but was covered by a very large contribution at the end of the year.

 

In 2009 the ICC is essentially starting out with a zero balance, which means an appeal will need to be covered by contributions before it can go forward.  The ICC Board of Directors has essentially said they will carry out the wishes of the community as long as it conforms to the purposes for which it was organized and it is supported financially.

 

Other Questions?  There will be members available to answer other questions at tonight's meeting.

 

Comments Received.  We received a comment from a resident this weekend who is worried the residents don't understand the adverse impact that this development will have on the Illahee community if this project goes ahead as planned.

 

Another Comment.  (Paraphrased) We need to remind people that we are not against development.  This project as currently configured will likely permanently damage the ability of Illahee Creek to support salmon.  A development of lesser density and more infiltration will result in most neighbors supporting the project.  The developer had the choice and decided to ignore the community's input and the impact on Illahee Creek.

 

Jim Aho

Illahee State Park - 4/3/09

State Park Information Received.  We received some more information regarding the mothballing of some of our state parks and a letter that was sent to the state regarding Illahee State Park.  We had previously provided links to local articles in the Kitsap Sun, the Bremerton Patriot, and the CK Reporter regarding Illahee State Park being on the mothball list.

 

Seattle Times Article.  The first is an article in the Seattle Times entitled "Would you pay $5 to keep state parks open?"  It talks about one of the proposals on the table to help fund the parks so they won't be mothballed.

 

Lawmakers eye $5 car-tab fee to keep state parks open

 

The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission has identified more than 47 state parks that could be closed temporarily or, in some cases, transferred to cities, counties or tribes to maintain.

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2008946248_parksclosing30m.html

 

 

Illahee Resident Letter.  The second is a very well written letter by the Barchecks that is the best we've seen.

 

Subject: Mothballing of Illahee State Park

We read with great concern your proposal to close Illahee State Park and others.  Our neighborhood borders the park and we and many of our neighbors use the park regularly year round.  We see the dock being used by the taxpayers of the Bremerton/Silverdale area for fishing, crabbing and diving.  The oyster and clam beds are used for shellfish harvesting in season.  Many families enjoy the picnic areas and playground facilities.  Illahee State Park has a limited number of camping spots so the potential for revenue collection is also limited but that doesn't mean the park is not getting used.  Your ill fated attempt at collecting parking fees for park entry of a few years ago showed that the taxpayers expect their parks to be funded as a part of the taxes they pay.  Most think that there is enough money in the state budget to get the job done even in an economic downturn.  Illahee State Park is unique because it is close to an urban area so it is very convenient for a large number of people that do not have access to a natural area where they live.  Closing other more remote parks would have less of an impact on the taxpaying public.
Closing the park will make it susceptible to crime and vandalism which could spill over into our neighborhood which is just across the street from the park.  It will become a magnet for the homeless to set up camp since it is within waking distance to food stores and other services.  Closure will make it less desirable and/or unsafe for regular use by the people in our neighborhood even if they are allowed walking entry.  All of this will depress property values and tax revenue from our neighborhood.
Please consider these issues in determining whether you turn Illahee State Park from an asset into a liability for the taxpayers of Kitsap county and Washington state.

Sincerely.
Andy and Sandi Barcheck

 

Thank You!  Thank you for sending in the information so we can pass it on.

 

Jim Aho

Timbers Edge Meeting Next Monday - 4/1/09

We just got back from a trip to California and now its time to catch up on some urgent Illahee issues.

 

Community Meeting Called.  We received notice that a community meeting has been called for 6:30 pm Monday evening, April 6, 2009 at the Sylvan Way Library to discuss what options are available now that the Hearing Examiner approved the Timbers Edge project and denied the communities contention that the project will have significant impacts to the aquifer and Illahee Creek.

 

Legal Questions?  We understand there are many questions regarding the legal process and whether legal options are available once a Hearing Examiner approves a project and denies community concerns.

 

Next Step.  We also understand the next step is to appeal the decisions to the Board of County Commissioners, and that this needs to be done before any other appeals can happen.  The cost of filing this appeal is $500 and it needs to be done by April 9, 2009.

 

Notice Received?  Many in the community who received notice of the August 2008 hearing are wondering why they haven't received a copy of the Hearing Examiner,s decision. While we received an email copy, we also have not yet received a written copy.

 

Limited Notification?  It appears the only people who received notice of the decision are those within the shoreline  sewer area along Illahee Road. 

 

Adjacent Property Owners NOT Notified.  There appears to be no notifications received by those living next to the proposed project.  We just checked on the Nobles Lane area and evidently there are some who are unaware that the project has been approved.  One person said there are only three residents on the street who receive the Kitsap Sun and there was nothing in the Bremerton Patriot on the project.

 

Notify Your Neighbors.  Since the county has failed to notify those most affected by the development, it is up to residents to let your neighbors know about the project being approved and the community meeting to discuss what to do next.

 

Lawyer To Attend.  We understand Ryan Vancil, the lawyer who represented the Illahee Community Club, will be in attendance to provide options and answer legal questions.

 

Legal Representation Costly.  We have been asked to note that last year approximately $20,000 was spent on legal costs by the Illahee Community Club (ICC) and that any decision to continue with a possible Timbers Edge appeal will require financial support from the community. 

 

Past Success Reason for Hope?  The ICC wants to thank those who helped in 2008 with the successful Illahee Outfall appeal and settlement and hope that if a Timbers Edge appeal is approved that it will also be successful.

 

More Information?  We have based this update primarily on recent emails and may have missed some important facts or information.  If so, please let us know and we will pass it on.

 

Jim Aho

Local Video & Timbers Edge Decision - 3/25/09

Local Underwater Video. Next Tuesday evening there will be an opportunity to view a local underwater video presentation at the Norm Dicks Center, see the details below. We are looking forward to seeing what is underneath the surface of our local waters.

You might be interested in this:

Our Underwater Neighborhood: A Video Tour
Join filmmaker John F. Williams for a
tour of our local underwater
wilderness through the magic of
moving pictures on the big screen.
March 31, 2009 from 7-9 p.m.
Norm Dicks Govt. Bldg. Chambers, 345 6th St., Bremerton, WA 98337
$5 suggested donation at the door.

A stone's throw from shore is a world that very few get to see,
yet it is a major part of our neighborhood.
John will be showing excerpts from SEA-Inside: Pacific
Northwest — the only TV series about what's beneath the
surface of our Northwest waters. The evening will include
discussion about how art, science, education, recreation, and
volunteer service are important to the health of Puget Sound.

More info at:
http://SEA-Inside.org

John F. Williams
jw@StillHopeProductions.com

Still Hope Productions, Inc
P.O. Box 1407
Suquamish WA 98392
(360) 598-4152
www.StillHopeProductions.com

Timbers Edge Appeal Denied! While we were hopeful that the Hearing Examiner would listen to the arguments of the community, we were not surprised at his decision, which was sent out by email on Tuesday. We are still going over the 60 page document and will be interested to see what the Illahee Community Club will decide regarding a possible appeal. The appeal deadline is April 9, 2009.

Decision on Website? We will see if we can put the "Notice of Hearing Examiner Decision" on the community website so everyone can read it for themselves.

Kitsap Sun Front Page Article. The Timbers Edge decision made the front page of the Kitsap Sun this morning (3-25-09). We will try to contact the Illahee Community Club's lawyer to get his comments on what happened. Following is the link to the Sun's coverage:

http://kitsapsun.com/news/2009/mar/24/controversial-development-in-illahee-gets-a-go/

Comments? Let us know your thoughts on the decision.

Jim Aho