Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutG-504 Lundeen 07-10-2023 15825 SW Kimball St Lake Oswego Oregon 97035 7 July 2023 Lake Oswego City Council 380 A Avenue Lake Oswego Oregon 97034 RE: development of Tax Lots 100, 2902, 2000;Tax Map 21E 07CA Waluga Park—West Baliene St. and Inverurie Rd; LU 23-0002 Mr. Mayor and Members of the Council: A proposal has been submitted for extension of the sewer line to accommodate development of the property between the north end of Kimball Street and the north end of Inverurie Road.The proposal is to install the sewer line through the wetlands in that area. I request that the sewer line be placed on the property to be developed in order to protect the already degraded wetlands. You have listened to testimony in the past about the ongoing troubles created by filling in the wetlands along Carman Drive, and then puffing homes on the filled in areas.You have heard about the constant washing out of Baliene Street, which, admittedly, Lake Oswego is good about grading and regraveling regularly.You have been told of the loss of trees and native plants.You know that several of us adjoining the proposed development have put in drains to help keep water away from our houses. One person even put in a pond. Having wetlands nearby acts like a sponge to absorb water runoff, which, in turn, creates a fragile but wonderful ecosystem that nurtures trees and other plants, and provides habitat for wildlife. Running a sewer line through what is left of an already degraded wetlands will seriously injure that ecosystem. One can't even assume that the wetlands will eventually recover, because chances are that future repairs to the sewer system will continue to need to be made,just as repairs to the septic systems in the development along Carman Drive need to be done regularly, due to gravel underlay constantly being washed away. (There is an underground river through this area.) Lake Oswego is known for and does a good job of promoting development. It should also be known for promoting the preservation of important ecosystems that are good for our environment. If the developer thinks the area between Kimball Street and Inverurie Road is ripe for development, let him assume the responsibility for sewer lines and any other necessary utilities and put them on his property.The house sizes may need to be slightly smaller, but it would signal that Lake Oswego puts a value on preserving wetlands and improving our environment, while at the same time promoting responsible development. There is an additional reason for changing the proposed placement of the sewer line. I've lived in my home for forty seven years, and the path between Kimball Street and Inverurie Road (which, if paved, would be an extension of Baliene)was then and still is an important pedestrian pathway through some naturally lovely,wooded, often wet terrain. It's part of a wonderful walking trail that connects us with East Waluga Park, West Waluga Park, and the many neighborhoods around.The path offers us glimpses of the intriguing changes Mother Nature makes throughout the year.This treasure should not be destroyed, but preserved, nurtured, and encouraged. Thank you for taking the time to consider my proposal. I hope you agree that it has much value, and that you keep it in mind as you make your decisions. Sincerely, Kathy Lundeen lundeenk@msn.com Home: 503.636.2996 Mobile: 971.227.6990