Private deck proposal sparks public‑access debate during Cash Store hearing

Public comments and letters centered on the proposed elevated deck attached to the Coupeville Cash Store. Staff told the Commission it received two written comments specifically about the deck: one strongly opposed the elevated private deck and another urged that, if built, it should provide public access. In the hearing, Commissioner questions and written submissions showed divided views on whether deck elements should be limited, required to include public access, or mitigated through conditions.

Barbara Summers, the applicant, told the Commission that the deck’s primary design goals are to preserve the building’s historic façade, obscure propane tanks and utilities, and avoid further visual impacts while maintaining private property rights; she said she was “not interested” in making the deck public and argued that public access to private property would require condemnation or other formal processes. Commissioners noted precedent on Front Street and said shoreline master program rules and the public hearing examiner will address access requirements during the shoreline variance review. Staff summarized the written comments: “both of them are in relation to the deck…1 was vehemently opposed to the proposed deck and the other wanted to emphasize that if it was going to be built that it should have public access.”