Citizens demand transparency in land use planning decisions

During a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding public participation and transparency in local land use planning. Justine Edgar, a resident of Burien, highlighted issues surrounding the 2044 comprehensive plan draft and the draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). She emphasized that her neighborhood, Lake Burien, did not receive proper notification about critical land use changes, which she argued contradicts the principles outlined in the Growth Management Act. Edgar called for a review of the distribution list used for notifications, asserting that affected residents must be adequately informed.

Another resident, Janelle M. Lee, echoed these sentiments, criticizing the accessibility of the comprehensive plan draft, which she described as illegible and non-searchable. Lee also raised urgent concerns about the drainage infrastructure in Boulevard Park, citing ongoing flooding issues exacerbated by inadequate systems. She urged local officials to prioritize updates to the drainage infrastructure, especially in light of recent severe weather events.

The meeting concluded with the council approving the consent agenda unanimously, despite the absence of some members. The discussions underscored a growing demand for improved communication and infrastructure planning in response to community needs.