Suquamish Olalla Neighbors
Old Man House State Park Resolution

On behalf of the Suquamish Olalla Neighbors we urge the State of Washington to seek a solution for the Old Man House State Park on the Port Madison Reservation that respects the sacredness of this land to the Suquamish Tribe and helps to heal past wrongs to the Tribe and divisions existing in the local community.  We recognize that the area that includes Old Man House State Park has a unique and historic significance to the "First Residents" of this area.  We also acknowledge that the park is highly valued by the current area residents and is the focal point of many neighborhood activities.

Our concern about this issue stems from our purpose in fostering a sense of community and understanding among tribal and non-tribal residents of the Port Madison Reservation.  We support the Suquamish Tribe in its right to self-determination and governance while also promoting friendship and healing between tribal and non-tribal residents.

The Suquamish Olalla Neighbors support the transfer of Old Man House State Park to the Suquamish Tribe. We look upon the Tribe's formal proposal of a community management plan for the park as an opportunity to build harmony and mutual respect among neighbors. We believe that this can be done in a way that allows all those who now enjoy the park's amenities to continue to do so.