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From: Scott Davidson <br /> To: Jeremy Johnston <br /> Cc: Laura Osiadaa <br /> Subject: Strong Opposition to the Proposed Easton Subarea Plan—Request for Reconsideration <br /> Date: Wednesday,April 15,2026 7:25:26 PM <br /> CAUTION:This email originated from outside the Kittitas County network.Do not click links,open attachments,fulfill requests,or follow <br /> guidance unless you recognize the sender and have verified the content is safe. <br /> Dear Kittitas County Board of Commissioners and Planning Department, <br /> I am writing as a property owner in the Easton area to formally oppose adoption of the draft Easton Subarea Plan(V3.0). <br /> After 26 years of service in the U.S.Air Force,I chose to settle in Easton specifically for its rural character,independence,and minimal regulatory <br /> environment.I am concerned that this plan,as currently written,introduces policies and long-term actions that risk fundamentally altering those qualities. <br /> While the document emphasizes preserving Easton's"quiet,rural,and outdoor-oriented identity,"several proposed policies appear to conflict with that <br /> objective.Provisions that support expanded mixed-use development,increased housing flexibility within LAMIRDs,and additional public infrastructure <br /> introduce a level of growth and oversight that may be inconsistent with maintaining the character residents value. <br /> I also have concerns regarding the level and representativeness of community input.The plan references multiple engagement opportunities;however, <br /> documented participation appears limited.For example,one open house included approximately 15 attendees out of a population of just over 400 residents. <br /> That level of participation raises legitimate questions about whether the plan reflects the broader community's priorities or those of a small subset of <br /> participants. <br /> Additionally,the plan identifies real infrastructure constraints—including septic limitations,emergency access challenges,and gaps in services—yet <br /> simultaneously proposes expanded housing options,reduced barriers to accessory dwelling units,and new public amenities.Without clearly defined, <br /> sustainable funding mechanisms or infrastructure solutions,these proposals risk creating long-term financial and operational burdens for existing residents. <br /> The inclusion of potential public facilities such as restrooms,expanded trail systems,and additional community infrastructure also raises concerns about <br /> ongoing maintenance costs and the likelihood of increased tax obligations.Many residents moved to Easton to avoid precisely this type of expansion and <br /> associated financial impact. <br /> I am also concerned about the broader direction of"managed growth"outlined in the plan.Easton's identity has historically been defined by low-density <br /> living,personal responsibility for land stewardship,and limited government intrusion.Policies that encourage increased density or expanded regulatory <br /> frameworks—even within designated areas—risk setting precedents that extend beyond their initial scope. <br /> For these reasons,I respectfully request that the Board of County Commissioners not adopt the Easton Subarea Plan in its current form. <br /> At a minimum,I ask that the County pause this process and conduct a more robust,transparent,and well-publicized community engagement effort to ensure <br /> meaningful participation from a substantially larger portion of Easton residents and property owners. <br /> Easton's strength lies in its rural character,independence,and small-community values.Any long-term planning effort should reflect those priorities clearly <br /> and consistently. <br /> Thank you for your time and consideration.I am available to discuss these concerns further and can be reached at[your email address]or[your phone <br /> number]. <br /> Respectfully, <br /> Scott Davidson <br /> Parcel#858834 <br />