By Lois Krafsky-Perry, News Editor
August 2, 2019
July 29, 2019 – Sequim, WA – The Guy Cole Center, located at Carrie Blake Park was filled beyond the 775 allowed capacity, as citizens also gathered outside the building, to voice their opposition to the proposed Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) plans. The Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe is referring to the building project as “A Healing Clinic.”
Local law enforcement patrolled inside and outside the building.
Mayor Dennis Smith offered opening remarks about the city’s role in the permitting process for the potential MAT center. “We have state law to follow,” he announced.
Mayor Smith then explained ground rules to the attendees and cautioned them not to clap or be unruly. “Be respectful, keep an open mind, and do not applause” announced Smith.
Barry Berezowsky, department of city development , read and explained an overview of anticipated process steps, from literature – which was already provided – at the entrance table. Brochures and information about the Tribe’s clinic was also supplied near the entrance door. Berezowsky spoke approximately 15 minutes.
Over 45 people spoke during public testimony and the majority of the speakers were against the project.
Jodi Wilke, who leads the large group “Save our Sequim,” requested a moratorium for one year to allow for discussion. She mentioned a zoning impact study for nearby business areas. She said zoning is inappropriate as such and there is a lack of statutory authority. She referred to City of Sequim Resolution 2018-24 during her testimony.
Bob McGonigel blamed the city planners. “They are your head guns with state Senators and the Governor,” announced the Sequim resident, as he pointed towards the table where the city attorney Kristina Gross, Charlie Bush City Manager, and Berezowsky sat. He also raised the issue of the purchase of an additional 20 acres, which would bring the property for the clinic to approximately 40 acres.
Colleen Raber, who has recently moved to Sequim from a small town, asked, “Have you considered unintended consequences?”
Several people asked for a moratorium, in agreement with Wilke, including former 24th Legislative District candidate Steve Gale.
As the last speaker cleared the microphone area, the next thing on the agenda was scheduled for, “Council Discussion.”
“We heard from you people,” said Mayor Smith, as he added, “you spoke in a civil manner. There are several things to do…” As he maintained control of the elected city council, he then adjourned the meeting without completing the agenda item calling for discussion by the council.
The council apparently was not given their right to speak and/or make any motions or offer discussion; therefore, there was no opportunity for a motion on the moratorium, as requested by the citizenry.
A meeting is announced for August 8th at Guy Coles Center, where the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe plans to hold a meeting at 6 PM. “Join us to learn more and to share your perspective about the Healing Campus,” was the message on the poster.
The room at the Guy Cole Center was packed as the City Council listened to individuals comment on the proposed MAT clinic.
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