Tammy Robertson, speaking during public comment, urged the Medical Lake Planning Commission to place a high priority on protecting wetlands, lakes and forests and asked commissioners to state their personal priorities on environmental protection. “Planning commissioners, please state your own personal possession, position, and priority in protecting and preserving our natural environment, lakes, wetlands, and forests,” Robertson said, asking whether that priority is at the top, middle or bottom of each commissioner’s list.

Robertson also asked the commission to invite state agencies for education and technical assistance, naming the Department of Ecology, the Department of Natural Resources and the Department of Fish and Wildlife as potential presenters. She said the city’s recent email to commissioners incorrectly characterized Ecology materials: quoting an email from Jeremy Sykes of the Department of Ecology dated July 17, Robertson said Ecology told local jurisdictions it “doesn’t have a model ordinance per se, but we do have a lot of guidance intended for local jurisdictions to use when updating their wetlands CAO provisions.”

Robertson asked why the city had described a “model ordinance” as part of Ecology’s guidebook and urged commissioners to respond to resident-submitted amendments when they are filed. She said the commission should be a “sounding board” for new ideas and should ensure resident suggestions receive written responses.

No action was taken; Robertson’s remarks were received during the public-comment period and were not followed by a formal response or vote.