City officials gathered this evening to discuss the interlocal agreement for the Deschutes Estuary Restoration Project, marking a significant milestone in a collaborative effort that has spanned nearly a decade. The meeting featured introductions from key stakeholders, including city council members, city managers, and project directors from various organizations involved in the initiative.

City Manager Jay Berney emphasized the importance of the agreement, which formalizes a memorandum of understanding signed a year prior. He highlighted the collaborative nature of the project, involving the state, the Squaxin Island Tribe, and local governments, including Olympia and Tumwater. Berney noted that signing the interlocal agreement represents a commitment to long-term partnership and maintenance of the estuary.

Project Director Anne Larson described the restoration as a unique endeavor, being one of the largest estuary restorations in an urban setting in the nation. She underscored the project's significance in demonstrating that urban development and natural ecosystems can coexist and thrive together.

The meeting set the stage for further discussions on the specifics of the interlocal agreement, with the aim of advancing the restoration project that promises to enhance both the environment and the community.