1 - Oppose - Againt Fox Ridge.
Posted By: Brad Bolender on Wednesday, April 28, 2004
I read through the letters today and decided to add another comment.
I have read about some water issues around the state due to over development.
Now I am thinking the state and local government would do absolutly nothing to prevent developers from building so many houses that water becomes and issue.
They want that tax money and you handle your own water problems.
I have a horrible time with rust in my water systemI know its not on my end because I have all new pipes.
I also could see a time when the issue of a drop in ground water could occure due to the general lack of seasonal rain in the NW.
The problem is when its a crisis there is no turning back.You cant just stop drawing water.
I myself would hope that the number of houses is greatly reduced.

2 - Oppose - Oppose Fox Ridge!!!
Posted By: Laurie Kennedy on Thursday, March 04, 2004
I have grown up here,We have seen plenty of change. We strongly oppose of more development!!! Laurie Kennedy

3 - Oppose - Ill miss you Fox Island
Posted By: SCOONIS on Wednesday, December 24, 2003
Been several years now since I stepped foot on Fox Island (Ketchams Tree Farm)... Most memorable times, beautiful land, scenic views...FI was getting crowded for me in the 80s, cannot imagine what it is like now. I feel for your turmoil. Do what you can to preserve, the beauty and privacy and safty of that community, from those greedy out of town developers.
signed,
scoonis moved to California

4 - Oppose - Out "Foxed Ridge" Development
Posted By: don bergman on Monday, December 15, 2003
All of us on the island owe a debt of gratitude to the various agencies within Pierce County that stopped the development at Fox Ridge from the blatant and illegal actions they had committed. The disregard for the conditions of the clearing and grading permit were a wanton attempt at increasing the value of the view lots and in essence a thumbing of their collective noses at the regulations any of the rest of us would have been held accountable for, had we ignored those rules. I am convinced that when the developer was caught and his misdeads exposed, there was the thought that all he might have to do was pay a paltry fine and continue on with his slash and burn mentality. Well, score one for the good folks this time. The original developer has been exposed for what he was and those who financed his operation were left to pick up the failed attempt and then plead that they needed special consideration in light of the fact that they had spent so much money on the support of this wayward developer. The very folks who now own this property dont care about the quality of life on this island. They dont live here and in fact their only concern is to maximize the return on their investment. The rules apply to all of us and the special interests of those who now own this property should hold no more weight in the court of public opinion or a court of law. If they want to develop the property let them do so under the new guidelines. I am sure they will still do quite well and the lesson for future developers and real estate agents (you know who you are) will hopefully be to respect this rural enviornment or move somewhere else to ply your less than noble trade.

5 - Oppose - The Fox Ridge
Posted By: Myron & Nancy Swanson on Monday, November 24, 2003
Keep Fox Ridge zoned as R-10.

6 - Road improvement.
Posted By: Brad Bolender on Friday, November 21, 2003
The main thing I would like to see if this plat is approved is road improvements.
I would like to see the road widened or at least a lane for the people in the development to get off the main road without having to slow everybody up.

7 - Support - I support Fox Ridge
Posted By: Cathy Shirey on Friday, November 14, 2003
The reasons given so far to date; that oppose the development due to the resent zoning laws, do not seem to realize that Fox Ridge is going on fact that they have certain grandfather rights that predate the present 10 acre lot size.
They are vigorously pursuing this through the court in defense of their right. The original developers request for the plat was entered into the county
system in 1994 when the Fox Island zoning was one acre per lot.

Water is plentiful on Fox Island and the plat has the assurance of the Fox Island Mutual Water Company that they have the
capacity to serve the plat.

In the last year there have been more new homes built on Fox Island than Fox Ridge has requested for this plat. And it looks like the current building boom on Fox Island will remain at a pace of one to two new house starts per week even without Fox Ridge.

Too all of you that love the pristine wilderness that Fox Island now affords. I would be comforted to know that surely you must be on a lot that exceeds or meets the present zoning? If not then you are enjoying this pristine wilderness at the expense of the property owners that have chosen not to develop there property. And it is now time for you to step forward and as these lots at Fox Ridge become available, buy them up and put them into a land bank to insure that this Island will remain pristine so others may enjoy this land at your expense.

For those that assert that this property is unstable and in a slide area, come forth with an up to date engineering assessment that points that out.

And lastly the accusations that Fox Ridge is trying to bribe the Islanders to support their development by offering a large sum of money to an Island Organizations worthy cause, is unfair. With impugning their motives to infer that it is a bribe, you discount that this may be a genuine gift and a
windfall for an organization to further improve Fox Islands livability.

regards
Cathy Shirey

8 - Oppose - Fox Ridge Development
Posted By: John & Janet Stroup on Friday, November 14, 2003
We are opposed to this development as well, for most of the reasons already expressed by others. We will continue to feel this way unless the developers make a SUBSTANTIAL reduction in the number of lots. Weve witnessed in our previous home & neighborhood how insidious the decline in a precious area like ours can be. Gradual & then at some point its no longer the place you want to live. This is not only a quality of life issue, its also one of the long term value of your real estate as well. We also wonder about the fresh water supply & salt water eventually leaching into it. Check out other more developed islands.

9 - Oppose - Fox Ridge Development
Posted By: Jeff & Susan Bland on Friday, November 14, 2003
Several excellent reasons to continue to deny Fox Ridges development have already been expressed, all of which we agree with.

To that mix I would like to add the question of law enforcement. With islands growth (and the times) we see a growth in crime. Until the county provides sufficient 24/7 law enforcement on Fox Island how can anyone, for whatever reason, think adding ANY new homes is a good idea?

We on Fox Island are at a crossroad. The time when this was a rural island is gone. But our island services have not grown in the past 25 years. The post office has exploded out its walls, we almost lost the gas station and the deli, and somebody wants to put more homes here?

I say its time that the residents of the island organize to demand the services from the county our CURRENT population deserves before any further building is approved.

10 - Oppose - OPPOSE FOX RIDGE
Posted By: Hammonds on Friday, November 07, 2003
We moved here to get away from the city life and return to a place with nature and a relaxed pace of life. Fox Island is a wonderul, quiet world with deer freely wandering on our land and a multitude of birds happily scampering the grounds or flying tree to tree.
Fox Ridge is far too concentrated for our island and would be more appropriate in a community looking to expand.
Leave Fox Island with the quiet we have come to value.

11 - Oppose - fox ridge
Posted By: jeff and kathy schmunk on Friday, November 07, 2003
errosion problems , too much development is going on, where are the poor deer supposed to go.... these houses should be on an acre or more if this is to happen , what about are water problems on the island and our crime will increase , this is supposed to be a rural area not a developed area

12 - Oppose - Fox Ridge Opposition
Posted By: MaryLou Perry on Thursday, November 06, 2003
Too much demand on limited resources and services. Why crowd onto this island when there is plenty of space elsewhere that would accommodate the project with no problem. Dont you just get tired of "overloading"???

13 - Support - fox ridge development
Posted By: dave mc hugh on Monday, November 03, 2003
I support the fox ridge developement.
These lots will be developed eventually. And the loss of a large donation (bribe) to the community is not worth the opposition. The developers latest proposal indicates that the building site areas are well away from the steep slopes. Surface water will also be directed away from the slope area. FoxIsland is growing in population and this is apart of it.
The additional donation of adjacent land to the cemetery will also help the community.
The cutting of the trees was several years ago and there has not been any indication of a slide in that area.
They have created no cut setbacks from Island Blvd. that greatly exceed the county norm. Which will leave a buffer Zone that will hide this development.
Put me down as one of the giggly guys.
I say let them bribe us.

14 - Oppose - Fox Ridge project
Posted By: Bob Whitney on Monday, November 03, 2003
It is high time you re-wrote the info above to more accurately reflect current info and greatly lengthened the list of valid problelms. As it i it sounds like a commercial written by the developers. At very least you might indicated that comments are on the order of 24 to 1 in opposition.
The project is unacceptable unless the letter of the density regs is adhered to (one house to 5 or 10 acres?). There is no way to remediate the "prior developers" clearcutting. Slides WILL happen if developed. Also, the problems of traffic, _water supply_ and crime are not possible to solve.
Do not re seduced by the "gifts" offered.

15 - Oppose - Fox Ridge Development
Posted By: Karen & George Madsen on Saturday, November 01, 2003
Ive lived here for 16 years my husband for 29. We strongly oppose the Fox Ridge Development for all the reasons listed by other residents. Water, noise, crime, traffic, and not to mention all the construction vehicles that will be rumbling onto the island every day! Its becoming hazardous to ride my bike or even walk along side the roads.

16 - Oppose - Fox Ridge Development
Posted By: Alex Mihali on Sunday, October 26, 2003
I wish to thank the Dietzlers for the update on the current comprehensive land plan. In view of the less than forthright approach to the initial clearing of the Fox Ridge site, I strongly urge the Pierce County regulators to require the developer adhere to the current statues as noted in the 2002 land plan. We also have to question the numerous smaller building sites that are occuring on Fox Island, not just this one development.
We live on an island with finite resourses and a limited road infrastructure. So in some near distant future as our wells are unable to provide basic quantities of water and our roads are a parking lot, where will the developer or the County planers be to rectify their actions??
I strongly urge that the Planing Commission be proactive and support the members of this community and limit the building sites per current land use.
Thank you

17 - Oppose - OPPOSE FOX RIDGE DEVELOPEMENT
Posted By: Joe Wagstaff on Sunday, October 26, 2003
I moved to the island in 1979 to live in a rural environment. In those days hardly a car was meet after passing the turn-off to the store.

Recently, I stopped behind a school bus bringing the kids back home from school, 0just past the cemetary. I was the 20th behind the bus. I know that the bus drivers are rather good about pulling off the road when they have the space and let the back up pass.

I started noticing and discovered that between Fox Island and Gig Harbor, the road is all double yellow "no passing" the entire way except about 1.5 miles and most of that is located on 70th Ave thru a rather densely populated area of homes. Now, we have the prospect of this development adding an additional 100+ cars per day.

The roads dont support the development to that intensity.

I consider all the other comments from residents as valid regarding slide areas, as well as the water drainage.

The lack of concern for the environment the developer has shown in the past also make it obvious that they cant be trusted. Now they want to bribe the island organization with a few dollors to get support to get approval. Once their project is approved, theyll disregard all safeguards against water drainage and slides. The adjacent property owners will be left with the problem.

I strongly oppose the development!

18 - Oppose - Oppose Fox Ridge
Posted By: Patricia Peterson on Friday, October 24, 2003
Lets remember why our restrictive zoning was approved a number of years ago;
We have one narrow, two lane bridge for access. We have municipal well water, we have septic systems with no plan to bring sewer over the bridge.
While I, like many, oppose this on emotional and esthetic principals, we have every right to oppose it for the same concrete, practical reasons we were able to have the contested zoning initially. Are teh developers going to build a new bridge, water and sewer systems for the island?

19 - Oppose - Fox Ridge Development
Posted By: The Oxiers on Friday, October 24, 2003
Fox Island is a quiet, wonderful place to live. We have been here for 17 years and never have we ever heard of such bribery as this. It is pretty bad when a company has to stoop to that to break the rules. One house per acre is how it is and they are no exception. Stand up for our Island everyone and dont let them ruin it.

20 - Support - support for Fox Ridge
Posted By: chris Unger on Friday, October 24, 2003
This is a once and a lifetime chance to add property to the cemetary and financially revive FICRA. Our support is needed to impliment the proposal.
Without our support for the plan we will have no say in the future construction of Fox Ridge as well as no donations.

21 - Oppose - Fox Ridge--No Exemption to R-10 Rural Density
Posted By: Vida Piera on Thursday, October 23, 2003
I oppose granting an exemption to the R-10 Rural Density Classification for this property. Frankly, Id prefer the site remain undeveloped.
Furthermore, that $100,000 bribe was an insult!
Fellow Islanders! Lets not open the door to this developer or we can say good-bye to our our island as we now know it.

22 - Oppose - Zoning Law Violation
Posted By: Ken & Vivian Friermuth on Thursday, October 23, 2003
My parents and siblings lived on this island from 1964 until 2000. I just repurchased the house I grew up in June this year. EVERYONE SHOULD READ THE POSTING OF MARK & KATHY DIETZLER FROM 10/21! THEY ARE ABSOLUTELY CORRECT IN THE RESEARCH THEY HAVE OBTAINED! I thank them for posting the zoning laws that I was familiar with but could not quote. THIS PROPOSED DEVELOPER IS NOT IN COMPLIANCE! They cannot develop NO MORE than 1 house per 5 acres. If he is allowed to exploit this issue, the floodgates will have been opened. The tranquility Island residents now enjoy (except for those currently on the "freeway" of Island Blvd) will be lost forever!
WE VEHEMENTLY OPPOSE!

23 - Oppose - Litigation
Posted By: Angela Aliabadi on Wednesday, October 22, 2003
Has anyone seen the lawsuit that was just filed by the developer? My neighbor got a copy inthe mail the day after the meeting. They are named as a party to the lawsuit because they signed a petition against Fox Ridge. The courts have so far stopped this development due to the clear cut. What are we going to do about this lawsuit?

24 - Oppose - Fox Ridge Development
Posted By: Ron & Marcia Duncan on Wednesday, October 22, 2003
We strongly oppose for all the reasons already listed.

25 - Oppose - Stop the Fox !!
Posted By: Joel and Holly Wecker on Tuesday, October 21, 2003
Others have said it all so well. This is our one chance to do the right thing. They promise $100,000. Now maybe if they would build a sidewalk/bike lane all the way across the island....Hmmmm..........

26 - Oppose - Fox Ridge Proposal
Posted By: Hal and DeeAnn Cline on Tuesday, October 21, 2003
Im against this proposal and resent the brib offer of $100,000 that by the way probably represents the profit on the sale of just one of the lots.

It seems that a statement from the Fox Island Water Association is due as to excactly how much water we have to serve how many over what period. We too are tired of annual limitation on the use of water during the summer. The development going on even now would seem to tax the system. When is enough enough?

This Fox Ridge development should not have more than about ten lots. The water drainage and desired density will be harmful if they are granted the higher number of lots they desire.

And...what about all those cars and all coming onto an already taxed roadway?

27 - Oppose - No Fox Ridge
Posted By: Johnson on Tuesday, October 21, 2003
We live here because its not Bellevue, Redmond, Bothell or Silverdale. The current plan for Fox Ridge is not only dangerous but also completely out of character for our community.
The offer of money to FICRA is an insult, as if those of us who live here dont understand the cost of their "gift" vs. the profits they expect to gain.
Provide a plan that shows some rational thought regarding traffic, water, sewage and geological stability, until that time we will actively oppose Fox Ridge.

28 - Oppose - Oppose Fox Ridge Development
Posted By: Sidney & Yulin Rittenberg on Tuesday, October 21, 2003
The developers know that their scheme to make money at the expense of our environment and life style will be very unpopular, which is why they are throwing us a sop by offering to donate a little money. We dont need their money, but we do need to keep our island a good, serene, healthful place to live, which is why most of us came here in the first place. I dont think anyone in the county government has the right to approve this project. If they once set this bad example, we will soon be deprived of our water, stuck in traffic, and finally crowded out of our homes. Let them turn their greed elsewhere!

29 - Oppose - Fox Ridge Development
Posted By: Roger and Ann Machin on Tuesday, October 21, 2003
Two definitely against

30 - Oppose - Fox Ridge I
Posted By: Tony Moore on Tuesday, October 21, 2003
I am opposed to the plan as it was presented at the FICRA meeting - too many houses, lack of consideration for the infrastructure and rural nature of Fox Island, and lack of solid scientific, engineering and hydrological analysis to evaluate the enviromental / ecological impact on the site and surrounding area. Good studies and evaluation should process site layout and individual lot siting in this case. I feel that Island View Properties interrupted the discussion and work of the committee for the sake of pushing ahead with a lawsuit. I also feel IVP and their representatives were less than open with the public at the community meeting in not disclosing that they had already initiated the lawsuit at the time of the meeting - my summons is postmarked 10/15 (same day as the meeting)

31 - Oppose - too many houses
Posted By: karen on Tuesday, October 21, 2003
51 new houses would mean at least 100 more cars on Fox Island. Not only the traffic problems, but what about the water and septic issues?? Our properity taxes are already too high, more houses would just increase the taxes more. I strongly suggest that The people of Fox Island should just say NO...

32 - Oppose - Fox Ridge Development
Posted By: Mark and Kathy Dietzler on Tuesday, October 21, 2003
On March 12, 2002 the Gig Harbor Peninsula Community Plan ("The Plan")was adopted. The Plan was written to be consistent with Pierce Countys Comprehensive Plan and the States Growth Management Act.

The proposed Fox Ridge development includes tax parcel numbers 01-2-02-4-030 (24.33 acres), 01-20-02-4-031 (48.25 acres), 01-21-27-5-001 (3.1 acres), and 01-21-27-5-002 (3.1 acres). Each of these properties is zoned R-10.

R-10 is defined in pertinent part in The Plan and county zoning ordinances as follows:

"The designation is intended to maintain rural character and open space ... Residential densities allow a basic density of one dwelling unit per 10 acres. If at least 50 percent of the property is designated as open space, a density of two dwelling units per 10 acres is allowed. If at least 75 percent of the property is designated as open space, a density of 2.5 dwelling units per 10 acres is allowed.”

The goal and intent of rural land use planning in pertinent part, according to The Plan, is as follows:

"Preserve the natural, forested and pastoral character of rural lands outside the Urban Growth Area. Ensure that development which does occur in rural areas is planned in an environmentally conscientious manner as to be compatible with this desired character through the control of lot sizes, intensity and density of land uses, and protection of open space. Within the rural area, historic communities such as Fox Island shall be recognized."

The proposed Fox Ridge development does not embody the spirit, history, and character of Fox Island or its residents. Pierce County should insist that the Bellevue developer comply with the Plan and current R-10 zoning provisions to allow Fox Island to retain its rural character and charm. The Fox Ridge proposed development should be limited to no more than 20 homes in accordance with the law.

33 - Fox Ridge Development
Posted By: Bill and Sheila Spinn on Tuesday, October 21, 2003
We have just moved here from Arizona and spent three years looking at homes until we found what we wanted on Fox Island. The beauty of this place is the fact it does not seem part of a city or larger metropolitan area. We would caution the residents to be very careful about over development. I had lived in Arizona for over 50 years and watched developers eat away the environment and native beauty. Our animals had no place to go with their natural habitat taken. People became more and more aggressive with congestion and noise bombardment. 51 houses on this small island is a lot. We want to live out our lives here on Fox Island. We would hate to see over development and the problems that go with it put us in a position to have to move in the future.

34 - Oppose - Oppose: Fox Ridge Fiasco
Posted By: Patti & Steve Devine on Tuesday, October 21, 2003
Fox Ridge is a future lesson on how to not let developers come onto the island and do what they want! How did it happen in the first place? Alot of damage was done and the county "didnt know" this was happening at the time? We have only lived here since 87 and the changes are unbelieveable. The 1 house per acre has definately helped to maintain the ruralness of our community. If Fox Ridge is to be developed then fewer then the 51 houses and stay away from the bluff!

35 - Oppose - Oppose - Water
Posted By: Donn Falconer on Tuesday, October 21, 2003
The main point of this is the availability of clean fresh drinking water. I have been on the island since 1987 and I have seen the quality of drinking water suffer. A bellvueesque development would place demands on the current supply that this island could not supply. I do not feel that they should be able to buy support.

36 - Oppose - There has to be an end sometime.
Posted By: David Lester on Tuesday, October 21, 2003
As I read all the currently posted messages I was thinking back to the last two places I lived:

South Carlsbad (La Costa), CA:
When I left there in 1987 there were still beautiful flower fields and even a cow pasture. El Camino Real was a four lane road with some budding strip malls rising up. Traffic was bad on rush hour but not the rest of the time. When it was close to retirement time we went back there (1999)to see if maybe we would move back. No flower fields, no cow pasture, and El Camino Real is now EIGHT lanes and is a parking lot most of the time: URBAN SPRAWL.

Woodinville, WA:
Moved there in 1987 to an area on the Woodinville-Duvall Rd near Avondale Rd. Very rural, traffic on W-D rd was reasonable anytime. Now, urban sprawl has taken over, the roads are all overloaded and I understand there are growing water problems. W-D Rd is a parking lot 6 hours a day.

Other examples: Issaquah, Bellevue, Silverdale, and yes, Day Island.

Lets not be too embarrassed about "Im here now close the door" We all used good judgement to get here while there was still room with a rural environment. Sooner or later there will not be any more room and the door will be closed except for turnover. We need to be careful about when that is. There has to be an end sometime. Developers dont like to here that because then they cant make anymore money. For them more is better and they dont have to live here (or if they do it will be in a 30 acre gated compound). 100K is a drop in the bucket for them. Get real, they do not care. If you doubt that think about the illegal tree cutting.
I dont need to repeat the many infrastructure concerns already stated in the other postings (water, traffic etc) but I would like to remind us all: this place is served by ONE, two-lane bridge and ONE, two-lane road. If these guys get their way we better start planning our second bridge and freeway!

Lets draw the line now. No changes in zoning!

37 - Oppose - vote against
Posted By: Brad Magnuson on Tuesday, October 21, 2003
adding more homes to such a pristine, quiet island community would be a disaster. more homes equals more traffic, and would lead to things like building grocery stores, etc....why ruin a good thing? i fell in love with Fox Island the first time i was on the island, because of how quiet it is, and how beautiful it is. i had looked into buying a home that was already on the island, that i had found for sale, however, i cant afford it at the present time. i would not own a car if i lived on the island, i would rely on other means of transportation, to reduce things like smog and pollution. i would urge all island residents to cast their votes in oppostion to this plan

38 - Oppose - Fox Ridge Development
Posted By: Dave & Diane Kilner on Tuesday, October 21, 2003
My husband and I moved to Fox Island just over a year ago. I used to walk from 12th Court to the Fox Island Bridge daily with my dog. Just in the last ten months, the traffic has gotten so bad on Island Blvd., that I do not feel safe walking on the roadside. Adding 50+ new homes will make the situation even worse. I dont appose adding new neighbors to our wonderful little island, but adding 50+ homes with two cars each is much different than adding eight or ten homes. Allowing this to occur would be a disaster for our wonderful island community!

39 - Oppose - Fox Ridge Development
Posted By: Mike Eschbach on Sunday, October 19, 2003
I am against the Fox Ridge development. Ive read the arguments posted on this sight and Im in agreement.

One aspect that has not been mentioned is the precedent that this sets. Once this camel gets its nose under the tent every developer will want exemptions from the zoning restrictions. Then what will we have? Dont expect Pierce County to look after our interests or even do what is enviromentaly sound.

40 - Oppose - Common ground
Posted By: Sarah Feagin Anderson on Sunday, October 19, 2003
I keep informed about the goings-on with the fox ridge development, and I understand everyones frustration, I grew up on the Island beggining in 1973, my parents still live there. I have witnessed developments, tree removal, and the water problem(which by the way was also happening in the 70s)Make no mistake, Im against the development, but lets be realistic, its comming. The best thing to do is find a way to make it as positive as possible. Request that the builders make it as low impact as they can, "green building" materials, sand filtration bog septic, Soloar energy panels, and maybe tax incentives for hybrid car owners. This could be turned into a real showcase for environmentally responsible development. Driveways of cobble stones instead of pavement allow for more water absorbtion as well. On Fox Island there has always been a sense of protecting our surroundings, while enjoying our neighbors, maybe we can find a way to do both again.

41 - Oppose - Water, Traffic, Quality of Life, Crime, Sewage
Posted By: Marylynn and Steven Eltrich on Friday, October 17, 2003
We moved to Fox Island for quality of life and the quiet solitude the island offers.

Last year we had water restrictions and no water pressure.

We have seen increased crime and traffic problems with irresponsible drivers who feel that because they live here they can drive/race on the roads even though other islanders walk with children and dogs or even ride horses along side the road.

I would hope that everyone would see the very blatant offers of money and acreage as "buying us off".

As far as reducing the lots from 63 to 51, and the "less roadways,and more even distribution of traffic...hmmm lets see if each home has at least 2 cars we have 102 more cars on the island or lets times that by 3. Even distribution of traffic for whom?

We vote: NO.

42 - Oppose - Fresh water supply
Posted By: James Roupe/Sandy Murren on Friday, October 17, 2003
Where will the fresh water supply come from for the various new households? Has any study been done to determine the amount of fresh water available to Fox Island Residents today and ten years from now?

43 - Oppose - Fox Ridge
Posted By: D. Andorosko on Friday, October 17, 2003
I moved onto the Island in 1989 . I still enjoy living here. I have seen the Island grow with cleared areas and no large trees left. What happened to the law that said only one house per acre or more??? I am also worried about the water situation on the island. We have been growing and where will the water come from next??

44 - Support - Fox Ridge Development
Posted By: Dave Jennings on Friday, October 17, 2003
It seems to me that the last people to move here are the first to whine about others wanting to move here. I praise the developer for being bold enough to fight the already over regulated pierce county process. To add to this process is just another loop for developers to be hasseled. I hope the people will not be selfish. Its ok to scrutinize but dont try and stop or punish the people trying to develop this beautiful place we live.

45 - Oppose - Homeowners Dan Association
Posted By: Dan Stewart on Friday, October 17, 2003
Sorry I missed the meeting. Who are the Homeowners in the association?

46 - Oppose - Fox Ridge Development
Posted By: Lars Holmber on Friday, October 17, 2003
My wife and I strongly oppose the Fox Ridge Development. The density, at 51 new home sites, is totally excessive.
This type of endeavor is driven by financial greed on behalf of the developers, and it is only natural that they would think that throwing some money to the community would sell their ideas. $100,000 to the community center is hardly worth risking the Fox Island ecosystem AND tranquility. Things are changing around here too quickly as it is.
From what we understand, the land in question is already platted for a total of 33 lots - 12 on one side of Island Blvd and 21 on the other. The ONLY reason the developers want to increase the number of lots is for their financial gain. They could not care less about Fox Island and its residents or ecological system. The bottom line is their pocket-book. Lets keep this in mind when they promise to throw $100,000 to the community by donating to the community center. That sum (or any for that matter) would hardly be worth it. We would be most thrilled if this land in question was not developed at all.

47 - Oppose - Fox Ridge Development
Posted By: Dr. Ralph G Vedros on Friday, October 17, 2003
51 new homes is entirely too many for the resources of this island to support. Last summers drought reduced the water supply to a point that we were very much restricted in our use of water. We cant let this happen again.

Also, the traffic along Island Blvd has increased tenfold over the past five years. These additional new houses would greatly add to the traffic density. I cannot support this large development.

48 - Oppose - What is the County doing?
Posted By: Angela Aliabadi on Friday, October 17, 2003
I am curious as to why permits were ever issued for a development on a slide area in the first place. Fortunately, the developer broke a law with the clear cut and was stopped in time. It would be a travesty if Fox Ridge is allowed after all the hard work that was done to stop these guys. Pierce County bears some responsibility in all this in that they need to demand up to date geological testing before approving any kind of permits on the south slopes of the Island. It worries me that the developer made it sound like he has a cozy relationship with John Ladenburg. Ladenburg, are you listening? We oppose this development, its dangerous and irresponsible! And remember, once these guys (the developers)are done here, they will go back to California and well have to deal with the mess! By the way, we all need to thank Fox Island resident and environmental attorney Jim Kelly for his pro bono legal services. It was because of Jim that the clearcut issue made it all the way to the Supreme Court.

49 - Fox Ridge Development
Posted By: Michelle Jennings on Friday, October 17, 2003
If this is a slide area there should be a study presented by the developer to prove that the land is stable. I think that 61 homes is to many I am concerned about the affect that this many homes will have on our water quality and the sewage run off. I am not opposed to a smaller development but only if it is proven that this development does not put other residents in danger.

50 - Fox Ridge Development
Posted By: Michelle Jennings on Friday, October 17, 2003
If this is a slide area there should be a study presented by the developer to prove that the land is stable. I think that 61 homes is to many I am concerned about the affect that this many homes will have on our water quality and the sewage run off. I am not opposed to a smaller development but only if it is proven that this development does not put other residents in danger.

51 - Oppose - Fox Ridge Development
Posted By: David & Kathy Smith on Friday, October 17, 2003
The Fox Island Community Group formed during the battle with Tacoma Narrows Constructors over setting a commercial buoy in Hale Pass, OPPOSES building 53 homes in a rural area with limited roads and water supply. This is not in line with the what the county planners (and FI residents)have planned for this small, ecologically fragile island. One house per five acres is in keeping in line with what is the current zoning codes. The developer of Fox Ridge has already shown his complete disdain for the residents and for the environmental balance of the island by his prior actions (of cutting down trees illegally)

52 - Oppose - Drinking Water
Posted By: Marilyn Tolan on Friday, October 17, 2003
I oppose the Fox Ridge Development unless a complete study is made of the drinking water situation on Fox Island. We depend on wells and the more houses that are built the less water for each individual home.

More than that, I have seen the remnants of previous slides and cannot believe the the property indicated is safe without a complete geological study.

This is a rural area and we should keep it that way. The traffic on the main road is already too much!

Sincerely, Marilyn Tolan

53 - Oppose - Fox Ridge Development
Posted By: J.C. Bower on Friday, October 17, 2003
I would be interested to know just where the developed area would secure the water needed for it?
Im sure traffic would be another factor.
Slides resulting from sewage another.Lower neighbors should be concerned.This happened in University Place years back. People sold to correct their problem.
Appears Fox Island will in time just be a bigger "Day Island". At least Day Island had an Artesian well years back.

54 - Oppose - Geological Report
Posted By: Lou Bacigalupi on Friday, October 17, 2003
I moved here for the rural living. I moved from Santa Cruz Cal. where developement converted our way of life. Im not a "Im here now, close the door" person. Im also pragmatic about building on lots where people have invested their hard earned cash. I DEFFINATELY OPPOSE mass developement. The developer is gone with his profit and no resposibility and leaves the mess to the rest of the community. Slides cost us lives and money in 1983 so I know what happens. I am still concerned about the water. Where will the water Co. get it. From our private wells? The more they drill, the deeper the table goes. I strongly support a need for a geological report before anything is even concidered. This report should also account for water and the future of its availability.

55 - Oppose - Fox Ridge Development
Posted By: Karen Reid on Friday, October 17, 2003
After reading the comments of everyone else I have to agree that that sure sounds like too many houses. What geological studies did they present at the meeting? FEWER homes seems to be the only answer for this development.

Is everyone aware that on that side of Fox Island the Navy is INTENDING TO ENLARGE its operation with the installation of a huge 250 yard barge wtih lights and that will support cars. Please attend the meeting (when its held) and contact John Blaser to voice your support in opposition to the every growing, every more load Navy operation on 3rd Avenue. There are plenty of other areas the Navy could go to away from the waterfront on Fox Island. It was never the intent that this operation would grow. I live l/2 mile east of the Navy and they kept me awake all last Saturday night "we had to finish some testing". Contact John Blaser at flybuilder@centurytel.net or call him at 549-4223.

56 - Oppose - Why are they offering us "free" money - what are the costs?
Posted By: T. Kelly on Friday, October 17, 2003
Question: Doesnt the county make the laws regarding how many homes per area. Hasnt that already been ruled on in this case? How does FICRA approval relate to adoption of their plan, i.e. does it even matter? Or is the development plan a done deal, and they will do it without FICRA approval -Questions to ponder.

57 - Oppose - Fox Ridge Development
Posted By: Greg Gilbert on Friday, October 17, 2003
We strongly oppose the Fox Ridge Development as it is currently proposed based on the housing density, and the slide potential resulting thereof. By GREATLY decreasing the number of lots down to to 10, and moving the homes 100 to 150 feet back from the hill, and careful engineering design and monitoring of related earthwork, there is a possibility the development would not pose a threat to those below, otherwise the potential danger to the community below is too overwhelming to accept.

58 - Oppose - FICRA Support Comment by Greg Buzar
Posted By: Mike Gordon on Friday, October 17, 2003
Greg; As an active member of FICRA I fail to see the support youre talking about, especially when the president is officially on record with his opposition. Maybe you should attend some of the monthly meetings and try to identify all those "giggly guys" you site in your posting...
I prefer we keep the island rural regardless of the $100K and the additional cemetery space.

59 - An Improved No-cut, No-build buffer
Posted By: CEDRONA on Friday, October 17, 2003
An improved no-cut, no-build buffer along the steep slope areas, which
would be controlled by the homeowners association.

60 - Where Will The Drinking Water Come From?
Posted By: L B Bacigalupi on Friday, October 17, 2003
Will there be another meeting? Has the issue of where the drinking water will come from? Will it effect our private wells?? Please advise.

61 - Oppose - Why is FICRA supporting this?
Posted By: Greg Buzar on Thursday, October 16, 2003
Why is FICRA supporting this? It sounds to me like they want to "buy" support. Its already worked...they wave $100,000 in front of the FICRA leaders, and you guys get all giggly and start campaigning for them......Im against it, hopefully my neighbors are also.........Why do we want to cram a bunch more houses on the island, increase traffic, and ruin the nice, peaceful, rural island that we all enjoy?!? This is absurd. Talk about a scandal...........

Webmasters note: FICRA does not officially endorse this or any other development proposal. We are making available a presentation of the facts provided by Island View Properties at the October 15th Fox Ridge meeting. See above on this page- John Ohlson.

62 - Oppose - Fox Ridge Located Above Known Slide Area
Posted By: Angela Aliabadi on Thursday, October 16, 2003
I do not support this development, it is irresponsible and dangerous. Not only are those of us that live below Fox Ridge in danger, but so are the people that buy the homes. This is a known slide area.

I would much rather see this property with ten homes on it.

The $100,000 is blood money if people end up getting hurt by building activity on an unstable slope. If FICRA accepts this money, will you put it into an account to help rebuild the homes and lives that are damaged by land movement?

This developer needs to have a real geological survey done, with drilling samples. Hell, maybe FICRA should pay for it so we have the facts to back up what we can see with our own eyes. This is probably the worst slide area on the Island, in the past couple of years, there have been some very large slides here. They should take a walk with an Island resident and see the cabins that are demolished and laying on the beach, the house that had to be moved back 50 feet after a massive slide and the other home that is no longer inhabitable, as well as the large landslide on my access road.

My neighbors and I just spent $125,000 putting in a retaining wall so that we can use our road. All of this slide activity is directly below Fox Ridge development.

Aside from density issues and traffic issues, the land slide potential for Fox Ridge is real. The developers arent going to live here, so what do they care?

John, I thought you spoke very eloquently at the meeting last night, as did many other residents. Thanks for standing up.

I would appreciate it if you would forward this email to others. Can we do a message board on the website?

ps: I will take any of these guys on a walking tour, just let me know what day.

63 - Oppose - We Strongly Oppose Fox Ridge
Posted By: Patricia Thon on Thursday, October 16, 2003
We will not be able to attend this meeting. However we strongly OPPOSE this
development by Fox Ridge development.

64 - Oppose - Retain Fox Islands Rural Nature
Posted By: John Ohlson on Thursday, October 16, 2003
I feel that the main issue against the Fox Ridge development is the number of lots involved. The sheer number of lots will have a direct affect on the number of homes that will use our water, create sewage fallout, contribute to the unstable slopes on the southern part of the Island, and generate 51 or more cars per day to drive on our roads.

We moved to Fox Island to get away from the cookie-cutter developments that you find in Bellevue, Issaquah, and Puyallup.

Keep our Island rural, and reduce the number of lots to 30 or less.