OPINION: My Turn 
February 19, 2004 

RETURNING
Returning Suquamish site would right an old wrong

To the Editor:

Suquamish Olalla Neighbors would like to thank the many, many people who have participated in the process surrounding the proposed return of Old Man House State Park to the Suquamish Tribe. The process has included all segments of the community, including:

• The Suquamish Tribe, which has twice invited the entire community into the Tribal Center to hear everyone's opinions and suggestions regarding the care and management of the park, and then partnered with the nontribal community to draft a management plan incorporating that input.

• People from throughout North Kitsap who participated in those community meetings, filled out surveys, sent in letters or e-mails, or in other ways commented on what they'd like in the plan (over 400 comments were included in a database used in developing the plan).

• The interfaith community in North Kitsap and beyond, which is actively supporting the tribe regaining a culturally and spiritually priceless part of their legacy. Other organizations have also passed resolutions of support.

• The State Parks Commission staff, which has maintained a high standard of professionalism as they processed an enormous amount of input and responded to requests for information.

• Many, many individuals and groups who sent letters and e-mails expressing their desire to right a historic wrong, their belief that the tribe can best care for and interpret this cultural legacy, and their confidence that we all -- tribal and nontribal -- will continue to enjoy this small but beautiful park.

Of course, some have raised questions. Here are some of those issues, and responses:

• Maintenance: The tribe has budgeted $50,000 over five years and has staff prepared to care for the park.

• Accountability: A Community Advisory Committee will meet regularly with the tribe's executive director and Tribal Council.

• What happens if the tribe fails to keep the park open to the public: the tribe has agreed to a limited waiver of sovereign immunity, which allows legal remedies.

There will be plenty more opportunities for people to ask questions, express their opinions, and to hear the views of others. The Washington State Parks staff plans to hold one or more community input sessions in the coming months, and the Parks and Recreation Commission will take testimony at its Aug. 12 meeting.

We hope this process will continue to be marked by a spirit of collaboration and respect, a spirit in keeping with Chief Seattle's legacy.

Sarah van Gelder

Co-chairwoman
Suquamish Olalla Neighbors
Suquamish