HomeMy WebLinkAboutNatural Resources January 28 20141
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WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
Natural Resources Committee
January 28, 2014
CALL TO ORDER
Committee Member Carl Weimer called the meeting to order at 10:00 a.m. in the
Council Chambers, 311 Grand Avenue, Bellingham, Washington.
ROLL CALL
(10:02:29 AM)
Present: Carl Weimer, Sam Crawford and Barry Buchanan.
Absent: None.
Also Present: Barbara Brenner, Rud Browne, and Pete Kremen.
SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS
1. NOMINATION AND APPOINTMENT OF COMMITTEE CHAIR (AB2014 -021)
Crawford moved to appoint Buchanan.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Weimer, Crawford and Buchanan (3)
Nays: None (0)
(Clerk's Note: Committee Chair Buchanan assumed the role of the chair.)
COMMITTEE DISCUSSION
1. PRESENTATION BY THE LUMMI ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST AND WHATCOM
COUNTY PARKS REGARDING A POTENTIAL ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY ON
LUMMI ISLAND FOR CONSERVATION AND RECREATION USES (AB2014 -062)
Rebecca Rettmer, Lummi Island Heritage Trust Executive Director, submitted and
read from a presentation and handouts (on file) and answered questions.
Weimer asked and there was discussion of water access to places on Lummi Island,
whether there could be a small boat launch on the proposed acquisition property, and
whether there is road access.
Crawford asked and there was discussion of whether they are aware that this gravel
source is unique, whether the mine owners approached the Lummi Island Heritage Trust,
the process for removing the land from the Comprehensive Plan mineral resource overlay,
and public access.
Brenner asked and there was dis and mcussion of whether there can be saltwater
access for sailboats and how the County would facilitate public access and use.
Mike McFarland, Parks and Recreation Department Director, answered questions.
(10:29:52 AM)
Natural Resources Committee, 1/28/2014, Page 1
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Weimer asked and there was discussion of whether this fits in the Parks Plan and the
timeline for this acquisition project.
Brenner stated she may be interested if the County doesn't have to fund from any
fund other than the conservation futures fund. She hopes they can work it out.
Weimer stated it is a unique opportunity, and it fits in the Park Plan. He stated and
there was discussion of whether the receiver is interested in putting together a project.
Robert Nall, Resource Transition Consultants, described the receivership. The
current offer allowed time for fundraising and due diligence. He's in favor of that. They
may be able to pull a deal together in nine to 12 months.
Kremen stated he supports the concept in general. The citizens need access to both
saltwater and freshwater. There was discussion of the cost of this acquisition compared to
other County park acquisitions. Any County economic investment should be a good value.
Browne asked and there was discussion of the reason the mining operation ceased
and the visual appeal of land that was previously a quarry.
Weimer stated and there was discussion of the parties working together on a
restoration plan. He asked if they need anything from the Council at this point.
Jack Louws, County Executive, stated the administration and Parks Department
would work on more information on the specific site to see what would need to happen to
create a park. He will keep the Council apprised of the situation.
Weimer stated he supports the administration keeping informed and involved in the
proposal.
Browne asked and there was discussion of obligations for restoration and reclamation
requirements.
OTHER BUSINESS
There was no other business.
ADJOURN
The meeting adjourned at 10:45 a.m.
ATTEST:
, Council Clerk
—, Minutes Transcription
WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
WHATCOM COUNTY, WASHINGTON
Barry Buchanan, Committee Chair
Natural Resources Committee, 1/28/2014, Page 2