Neary-Sighted

Gambling update

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 20:44:00 +0000

Interesting vote last night of the Lakewood council. For a couple years now, the Lakewood council has been regularly passing what's effectively an emergency moratorium on any proposals to put new minicasinos into Lakewood.

Recently, there's been discussion that this could be stretching the definition of an emergency moratorium a bit far. So last night, we had a proposal on the table that would let the moratorium expire. In its place would be a rule that existing minicasinos would be grandfathered in, but no new casinos could apply.

There's a lot of argument about whether any of this is effective. State law appears to prohibit cities from regulating casinos. It's a bit bizarre ... imagine a state law that said a city could either allow a gas station to open anywhere in a city, or there are no gas stations at all. That's the way minicasinos seem to be regulated in the state. The law seems to say, and this is just odd, that a city cannot regulate casinos though it can ban them entirely. A number of cities have responded to this legislative oddity by passing measures to assert regulation of minicasinos, one model being the ordinance in front of us last night.

However, council memebers Ron Cronk, Pad Finnigan, Helen McGovern and Don Anderson said they didn't want to pass a measure that may not be effective under state law. So the replacement measure failed last night. I supported the measure. I got no problem with the legal right of minicasinos to operate, but at the existing number. Just as we don't want Lakewood to be the only place where you could find a gas station in the area, you don't want Lakewood to be the main place to find minicasinos.

That raises the question of what's next. The people who voted against the regulations can make the same argument about the moratorium that the council has been renewing for quite some time. So will the council majority let the moratorium expire in several weeks? We'll have to see.

Cleaning up an Eyesore

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 15:57:00 +0000

We talked a couple months ago about how a young man wants to beautify the pioneer cemetery on Washington Boulevard as an Eagle Scount project. The cemetery is the place where Steve Dunkelberger and I took the last photo in the Lakewood history book; we thought the site symbolized how the memory of Lakewood history is at risk.

The Scout, Leavitt Castro of Troop 410 BSA, has set up an account for donations: the Old Settlers Cemetery Eagle Project, account number 123697, at Sound Credit Union. The address of the closest branch is 7717 Bridgeport Way, though Leavitt says you can make donations at any of the branches.

Let's help this young man out. The cemetery gets some minimal care but there's no cemetery district or anything like that to manage it; it relies on the kindness of citizens, of which Leavitt is a gem.

Budget Blues

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 21:14:00 +0000

Starting last year, the Lakewood City Council has commissioned five-year financial projections for our city budget. The idea is to look at how potential changes in the various forms of tax revenues affect the budget. No economist knows the future, but we need to plan long-term based on something. The results are in and scary. The report was delivered Monday night by Choi Halladay, an assistant city manager and finance director. It was sort of a kickoff to the budgeting process that starts in late summer.

The news is grim. Even assuming the recovery starts this year, we'd be looking at a $600,000 deficit in 2010; and if the recovery doesn't continue but falls within certain likely expectations, there could be a deficit of $800,000. The deficit for 2011 would be $1 million to $1.33 million. That projection of course assumes similar spending patterns, which is a complex and separate discussion I'll save for another day. There are many variables, not only in terms of what we spend but how quickly we can spur economic redevelopment in Tillicum and Woodbrook and generate jobs and payroll.

In terms of the budget, I'm prepared to make the tough decisions and vote. That's why I ran for office. But if you remember me even as a newspaper editor, you know I stand for better and clearer communication about government. In fact, I fret about it. I'm more worried about whether the public understands how dire the situation is. I'm more worried about whether people understand what's going on in local government.

I can't even begin to tell you how many conversations I've had this year, even during a major recession, where the most well-intended and caring people say, "I know money's tight but you can still spend more money on _____fill in favorite and almost always truly needy cause here___"

We've somehow got to get ourselves reoriented and real, not only to help make the best decisions about what to cut, but also to maintain public confidence in public finances. I suggested to the mayor this afternoon that council members should be going to the citizen advisory groups and briefing them. Lots of times these groups like to suggest how money should be spent; this year more than ever, it will be about how and when we should cut. The coming budget deliberations are not going to be about saving the sacred cows, but deciding which ones should be ground into hamburger.

If you've got the time, you can read the financial projections that start at page 15 at this link.

The Next Lakewood City Council

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 14:57:00 +0000

Yesterday was the filing deadline to run for election to the Lakewood City Council. So now we know who's running.

What this first means to you is that it's not that long before you are going to see signs in yards. However, there's a good chance you won't see as many as usual (or for as many candidates).

And of course, more importantly, this also means some of the people listed in this posting will serve on the council that decides what sort of services the city provides and how your tax dollars are spent.

As has been long rumored, three of the seven council members are retiring: Ron Cronk, Pad Finnigan, and Helen McGovern. The only incumbent to run again, Mayor Doug Richardson, does not have an opponent.

Yep. You read that right. That's sure a change for Lakewood. My guess is that it speaks to Doug's qualities as one of the two members of the original Lakewood council who are still serving with us (the other being Claudia Thomas, of course). And ... dare we say it ... does it speak to a relative satisfaction with city government?

I'm sure Doug will still be out and about because that is the kind of candidate and council member that he is. On a personal level, I'm happy for him that his election will clearly be less personally stressful.

The bigger surprise is that normally, even Mother Theresa would get an opponent in Lakewood. The fact Doug didn't says a lot of things, probably better said when I'm not starting on a head cold. Right now, let's just call it pretty interesting.

So this is how the election shapes up now for the other three. The candidates are:

Position 1, currently held by Ron Cronk: Mary Moss and Darrel Shiley.

Position 2, currently held by Pad Finnigan: Mike Brandstetter, Connie Coleman-Lacadie, and Levi Wilhelmsen. I believe this will be the only race with a primary, hence expect to see some signs.

Position 3, currently held by Helen McGovern: Sam Ross and Jason Whalen.

What's interesting about all of these people is that while they have different philosophies of government, I would define them all as very positive people.

Some of them have been very critical of individual things the current council has done, which is of course good and the sign of critical thinking and a healthy democracy. But I know all but one of them reasonably well, and even from what I've heard about the other person, I'd be honored to sit on a council with any of them. This list of good-hearted people bodes very well for Lakewood.

OH HEY .... One more thing. I've signed up for Facebook to try to find another way to share news with people. You can sign up for my page without having to 'friend' me, which can be awkward if we don't know each other personally. So check out the page, http://www.facebook.com/pages/Walter-Neary-Lakewood-WA-City-Council-Walters-Lakewood-Journal/105879106413?ref=nf

Return of a Potent Memorial

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Thu, 21 May 2009 15:49:00 +0000

It's so moving to see the young people of Clover Park High out in the bright morning sun. They are laying out the neat rows that become a powerful memorial to those who died in service to our country and to freedom. I live just a couple doors down from the school and this weekend will watch many people wander among the names, and/or hunt for a specific name. The Clover Park Memorial will surely get more visitors this year, as it should. Other scenes from last year's event, such as the one at right, can by seen by clicking here.

Lakewood Seeks Youth Council members

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Tue, 19 May 2009 15:42:00 +0000

One of the cool things in Lakewood is a youth council, a group of high school-age youth who model the city council in providing recommendations about public policy and perform community service.

We've received some applications, and the first round of interviews has been held. The founder of the program, City Councilwoman Claudia Thomas, says they are great youth who want to give back. The program has two purposes: give the city a pipeline to what youth are thinking and feeling, and help the youth channel their energies toward public service.

The odd thing this year is that they are ALL from Lakes High School. (and they are mostly girls, which is apparently a bit normal year to year)

Well, Lakes is a great school and the largest. But we got others that Lakewood youth attend. The most obvious is Clover Park High School, but in previous years we've had youth from Bellarmine Prep, the A.I. School, Harrison Prep, Charles Wright, and home schools. We've also had youth from Steilacoom High School because part of the Oakbrook neighborhood is within the Steilacoom district.

So ... well ... help! Know of any youth who might be interested? The letter that we sent to schools follows. Sorry for the length, but I figured it would be easier than something you'd have to download.

POSITION: Youth Councilmember to the Lakewood City Council

DATE OPEN: Monday, March 30, 2009
DATE CLOSED: Friday, June 19, 2009 at 5:00 p.m.

TERM: September 2009 through July 2010

BASIC FUNCTION: Under the direction of a designated City Councilmember, convey to the City Council issues having city wide impact to youth; research, collect, analyze and compile data and information for inclusion in reports; maintain records and files related to youth issues and youth programs.

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES: Convey to the Mayor and City Council, through oral and/or written presentations at City Council meetings, issues impacting youths that may have city wide impact; assist other students to become involved in their communities; prepare a variety of correspondence, reports and other materials. Maintain records of all communications between Youth Councilmembers and City Council; provide summary status reports relating to issues presented to Council and resolutions, if any. Organize and coordinate youth forums and activities; communicate with youth throughout Lakewood as well as to citizens, community groups, Human Services Collaboration members and outside organizations. Interact with principals and students of designated public and private schools in person and on the phone. Participate on a variety of City committees, study groups and task forces; attend a variety of meetings as assigned. Perform related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Any combination equivalent to: an entering High School student in good academic standing, including a good attendance record. Past leadership experience and/or involvement in school or community organizations and/or events desired. Must attend a school in Lakewood or reside in Lakewood.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
ENVIRONMENT: Business and school environment. Able to attend Lakewood City Council meetings on the first Monday evening of each month at 7:00 p.m. and Youth Council meetings on the first and third Monday evenings of each month at 6:00 p.m.

PHYSICAL ABILITIES: Hearing and speaking to exchange information.

TO APPLY: Submit a letter of interest stating a) why you want to be considered and b) any past/present/future involvement in your school (i.e. clubs, student government, etc.) or community to: City Manager’s Office, Attn: Deanne Wegmann, Executive Assistant, Lakewood City Hall, 6000 Main St SW, Lakewood, WA 98499-5027 by 5:00 p.m. on the closing date. Please include your contact information on the letter.

Lakewood 101

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Fri, 15 May 2009 21:25:00 +0000

Lakewood city government is bringing back the popular "Lakewood 101" class, a shorter version of "Lakewood University." Citizens can get firsthand information about the important issues of the day with detailed handouts and clear explanations. These courses have been popular because there's time to talk specifics as well as the context of important subjects. I've yet to meet anyone who didn't rave about these classes because the classes offer all the specific information you ever wanted, without filters.

Previous sessions included an introduction to several aspects of public policy and ran over a couple of evenings. The latest version of Lakewood 101 demands less time, but should still be very informative. This year’s focus will be on public safety and economic development. Because of that specialized focus, and because it's been awhile since the last classes, previous Lakewood University students are welcome to attend and should certainly benefit.

It's all on one evening, 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 3. The class will be at the new police station, 9401 Lakewood Drive SW.

RSVPS are requested at 589-2489 or citymanager@cityoflakewood.us. Doors will open at 5 p.m. with refreshments.

A Very Good War

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Mon, 11 May 2009 15:46:00 +0000

Hundreds of children from throughout Puget Sound found fun and education in Lakewood over the weekend during the return of the Civil War Re-Enactment.

The news media was really kind to this event. I am floored by the wonderful video that KING TV photojournalist Ron Sanford put together. Check it out on the KING website.

There were some other great reports in The News Tribune, such as a blog posting in advance of the event by Brent Champaco and an article by John Gillie. Funds raised covered expenses (insurance, portable toilets, etc...)

We had been a bit concerned that Mother's Day might put a damper on attendance, but attendance was great on Sunday. There were a lot of happy-looking moms! Good weather and our lovely Lakewood setting had to help.

I was a bit surprised and embarrassed about how many Lakewood residents grumbled to me and my fellow ticket-takers about paying for admission. There were hundreds of re-enactors who traveled on their own dime to be there and perform. It would never occur to me to demand the Lakewood Playhouse or the movie theaters give me free admission because I live in Lakewood. But I guess this event seemed different to people because the event was staged in a park. I hope people realized the money covered expenses as well as the restoration of Lakewood's wonderful pre-Civil War treasure, Fort Steilacoom.

Starlite, Star Not so Bright

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Fri, 01 May 2009 21:41:00 +0000

Interesting window in the ongoing battle against property crime today from the Lakewood city manager's report ... Quoting the article ...

In September 2007, the Police Department’s Proactive Property Crimes Unit (PROAC) started an investigation into a subject that was paying boosters to steal DVDs from area retailers so that she could resell them at the Starlite Swap Meet. The subject was eventually identified and located. Several boosters were arrested during the past year who confirmed they were stealing DVDs for this subject but would not cooperate further with the investigation.

In March 2009, PROAC was able to identify a person that was willing to sell DVDs to the suspect, presenting them as stolen. The 150 plus DVDs needed for this operation were provided to us by Target Stores Investigation Division, who also assisted with video surveillance during the controlled exchanges. The PROAC unit secured a court order for body wires and audio surveillance was conducted as well.

The suspect was recorded ordering DVDs, telling them what stores to avoid and reminding the boosters to not get caught.

The investigation netted 3 search warrants, a residence, a vehicle and the swap meet location. The search warrants brought the recovery of over 1,500 DVDs still in the factory wrappers, and the suspect was arrested at the swap meet. This investigation revealed that the subject had cost area retailers between $800,000 to $1,200,000 in product loss and lost sales. The investigation is continuing into other subjects engaged in the same criminal activity based out of other retail locations in Lakewood.

The arrested subject was charged with Organized Retail Theft, Possession of Stolen Property and Trafficking in Stolen Property. The Prosecutor’s Office is also exploring the charge of Leading Organized Crime.

$800,000 to $1.2 MILLION? That's real money that belongs to business owners and companies for investment and payroll. It's good the priority in town is the battle against violent crime, but this goes to show crimes against businesses and property do real damage too.

Symptoms

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Fri, 01 May 2009 21:08:00 +0000

Among my fondest memories of working at the University of Washington were the opportunities to represent the UW School of Public Health and to meet a couple times the science writer Laurie Garrett.

Anyone who has read "The Coming Plague," and everyone should, must have extra interest and awareness as the nation finds itself in the middle of swine flu furor. I do know firsthand there are some wonderful people working in the field of public health. They're sure not motivated by money. What I mostly remember is that the School of Public Health never got anywhere near the dollars that doctors get when they do research on cancer, heart disease or surgery. People like to give money to fight diseases, not to help the folks who try to prevent disease. And yet it is the army of folks in the field of Public Health who we are all relying on now.

How suddenly that was so. This morning, my son and I were joking about whether his school would close because of swine flu panic. And then a few hours later, a friend posted on Facebook that she knew one of the children at Lakes High School now being tested for that condition. She said the youth were in an intensive care unit and at least one of them had been to Mexico. The story she told on Facebook has since been amplified by the local paper. And I felt that odd little rush ... like that little rush I felt the day driving into the Federal Way Park and Ride when the radio said someone had crashed a plane into the World Trade Center.

Lord knows, I know not to panic. I worked too often with folks in public health to expect this is anything but a scare, a warning, and isolated set of incidents. No reason to think it's the plague. That's panic. That's just silly.

And yet.

This is the school where some of my son's oldest and dearest friends go to school. This is close to home. Panic? No. Worry? Yes.

What do we do? Pray.

Update at 7:30 p.m. .... Whew

Tacoma, WA - May 01, 2009 -
Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department received news late this afternoon
from the state Department of Health that the two hospitalized students from
Lakes High School suspected of possibly having Human Swine Influenza have
been confirmed as negative for swine flu. The third student showing milder
symptoms, tested negative by rapid influenza testing and was not hospitalized.
The samples were tested through two different measures and both tests
indicated that swine flu was not present in these cases.

Director of Health for Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department, Dr.
Anthony Chen said, "This is the best possible outcome. Superintendent
Debbie LeBeau was very wise and prudent in her decision to close Lakes
High School until the results of the test were clear."

A Brighter Future

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 15:18:00 +0000

Yesterday was a turning point for Tillicum. It's a bit hard to explain Tillicum to those who don't know it. It's a part of Lakewood cut off from the rest of the city except by I-5. It is bordered by military bases, beautiful American Lake, and a country club.

But it's a poor, poor place with old buildings and a poverty rate that's 60 percentage points higher than the state average. The crime rate's been real low lately, but if you ask a real estate investor from Seattle what he or she thinks about Tillicum, you're going to hear old stories about crimes.

You would think urbanized land next to military bases and an Interstate, and within the shadow of Tacoma and within range of Portland and Seattle, would be a thriving place. The lack of any sewer system has kept building size and investment down.

Yesterday, the Lakewood City Council voted to hire a contractor for $9 million - $3 million less than estimates - to bring sewers to Tillicum. This will be huge. It will create an atmosphere where we can get things like newer housing and hotels and restaurants. The contractor is Northwest Cascade, a local company.

So that was step one. Step two was introduction of a plan that would allow Tillicum to unfold in some sort of sensible way that balances the interests of private property owners with certain public needs. We want businesses that bring employment. We want to get rid of whatever trashy housing remains; and yet not displace people who've lived there for years and can't normally afford to live in an area that is going to be, for lack of a better term, gentrified.

The plan was just provided in draft form last year. There are going to be scads and scads of public meetings in Tillicum, so nothing is settled. It's based loosely on a wonderful private collaboration awhile back led by BCRA architects that envisioned a vibrant, lovely, thriving area. (The cover of it is pictured above)

We're a long ways from approving anything in the plan like flexible parking and design standards. We have some time because it's going to take a couple years to get the sewers in and make private investment worthwhile. Let's hope people collaborate on a great vision and plan for the community, agreeing to disagree on some things and moving on. The potential is enormous.

You can download the draft ... draft ... did I say draft ... Tillicum plan here. It's a 13M file; the city is selling CD copies for $1.

Lakewood Museum Update

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 16:58:00 +0000

The Lakewood Historical Society may very well shut its temporary museum to focus on developing its permanent home, members agreed last week.

There was a very productive summit called last week.

It only attracted 20 people, which is disturbing, but not at all surprising. I was pleased to see Mayor Doug Richardson there, along with the two people who co-chaired the cityhood campaign many years ago, Andi Gernon and former Mayor Bill Harrison.

The turnout was not surprising, especially when you consider that it was clear the 'program' was going to be about whether to keep the temporary museum going. A Lakewood museum is only probably going to attract a large following when it can develop exhibits and programs related to two of the most exciting parts of Lakewood history, a raceway and an airfield. Right now, you have to care about what's basically a history of a suburb ... and not everyone does.

That said, everyone who comes into the 1,300-square-foot museum is astonished at the large amount of information ranging from pioneer times to the story of Chief Leschi, the old maps, furniture, etc...

However, the society just can't keep up the rent. So members agreed to soldier up for as much as six months, trying to find a free or much less expensive space. That might happen, either by alliance with some other nonprofit group, or finding some kind landlord who wants space occupied at an attractive rent in a recession. If it doesn't happen, then items will likely be put into storage and small exhibits posted in some of the businesses around town.

As a co-founder of the museum, I welcome this as something we simply must do. When we started 2.5 years ago, we hoped that creating an active schools program and building connections with the many small museums in the area would bring in more people. Well, despite a couple people working incredibly hard, it hasn't. So it goes. We look forward to a new home. We can all agree it's going to be an amazing place to interpret our rich history for future generations.

Increasing the Collection of Traffic Fines ... and Getting Feedback in the New Media Age

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 01:40:00 +0000

There's been a lot of buzz about how electronic media will allow elected officials and citizens to exchange ideas. So I tried a little experiment, and posted some news on Facebook and on Twitter.

The news was that the city of Lakewood's collection of traffic fines is up 40 percent for the first three months of 2009 compared with the first three months of 2008, for total of about $200,000 more. I have to say, I didn't get a lot of feedback, but what I got was very high quality.

This is what I posted, because I was interested in what people thought: Lakewood WA traffic cameras collecting 200K more so far in 09, up 40%. Keeping drivers safe or fining people too much?

One person on Twitter, a former co-worker, wrote: or just creepy Big Brother technology that should rile small "l" libertarian minds like yours?

Another person offered two thoughts:

Assuming accident rates are down 20% in camera zones, how does that compare to non-camera zones? w/out those numbers, can't tell.

I responded that there was indeed a reduction and then the other person responded: Thx. If trying to decide if cameras improve safety, prob should get stats on camera v. non-camera areas. 20% citywide is good news.

and meanwhile, another person who've I've never met in the flesh asked for more info. I gave her some News Tribune stories about the subject of traffic fines and traffic cameras. She responded Cool, just curious. Wenatchee is in process of installing red-light cameras.

So that was Twitter.

Meantime, here was the reaction on Facebook. Four very thoughtful reactions:

It depends, if it's you running the red lights. It is frustrating when the light turns green and you have to wait for 4-5 more cars as they keep going through.

It is obviously not high enough. People are still running the lights. It is a major cause of traffic death here in Florida where the red light means next 3 cars.

My theory: Weak budgets and hungry cops. At a minimum, I suspect there is pressure from the top to enforce hard, it seems to be that way everywhere these days.

Keep up the GOOD work. TOO many people speed every day and there is NO reason to drive fast. We are not driving the Indy 500 here - Speed KILLS!

I have to tell you ... I was very impressed with the points of view.

BUT

and there's a BUT

Not a single one of these folks lives in Lakewood.

So ... great views. Great Internet exchanges. Zip interaction with Lakewood.

I think in part it's because Lakewood folks are not on the Internet as much as they will be in, say, a few months or a year. Or .... it might just be I'm not in the right places. So now I am posting this on my Lakewood blog ... will be interested to see if I get more reaction ...

A Great Boy Scout Project

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 18:03:00 +0000

Great news from The Sub Times about an Eagle Scout project that would beautiful a true and prominent eyesore, the old cemetery on Washington. Please consider getting in touch with the young man and showing your support.

Historic Woodbrook and a book-signing

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 17:15:00 +0000

I stopped by the Barnes and Noble in Lakewood to visit my daughter and was delighted to learn there's another photo book out about Lakewood history. They're having a booksigning 1 to 3 p.m. this Saturday, April 18, for "Woodbrook Hunt Club."

If you don't have the book yet, it would be great if you can stop by. For one thing, your presence and purchase would show support of another Lakewood history book. The Woodbrook Hunt Club has quite a history that's otherwise pretty much just represented by some excellent posts in the Tacoma Library such such as this one and this one. Imagine trying to re-enact that second photo with today's liability laws!

Your presence would also show support of the Lakewood Barnes and Noble having a book signing; back when Steve Dunkelberger and I compiled the Lakewood book they were not doing those. It's great to see the Barnes and Noble stepping up and being part of the Lakewood community.

'Course most importantly ... if you get the book you'd learn more about Lakewood's rich history!

Our Endangered Lakewood Museum

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 15:57:00 +0000

As one of the co-founders of the Lakewood History Museum, naturally I'm being asked about the announcement that the museum may have to close. You might want to read the article first. Then here are some thoughts:

- When we started the museum, there was an assumption that a lot of people who grew up here in the 20s and 30s would donate. Certainly, some have, and we are grateful. But donations have not met expectations.

That may well be the fault of our historical society. We may not have asked as effectively as we could have. It's not from lack of energy. A committee has been working very hard to translate good feeling for the community into a museum where we can interpret the Chief Leschi and turn-of-the-century periods that were such an important time. So far, the support just hasn't been there.

- The museum does make a rent payment now for the space in the Colonial Center. Some people have questioned that expenditure since we also need to save for a permanent home. To be honest, I am a bit frustrated with people who don't like the rent payment. If I had a nickel for every time someone said to me "Oh, I bet someone will donate you a storefront/land" then we'd have our $25,000 in nickels.

What Lakewood needs is someone to actually make a donation of space in support of local heritage. As someone who screens donation requests for my company, of course I know these donations don't just happen. Again, it might be our fault for not asking correctly. But what Lakewood needs are people to donate, not people who say there must be a donor somewhere.

- The other thing that's surprised me is the lack of interest in city government and the City Council for history. Frankly, I don't blame my colleagues. They're actually being pretty logical about it. If you asked a City Council member who cares about Lakewood history, they would list three people named Walter, Becky and Glen. There are about 13,000 people who vote regularly in Lakewood elections.

If there's no sense voters care about Lakewood history, it's not going to show up on the radar.

Government goes to those who show up.

And again, I'm not blaming anyone. You could argue the historical society has not done enough to mobilize the interest that we know is out there. There are plenty of volunteers in the historical society and the Landmarks and Heritage Advisory Board who work hard, but in obscurity. I know I could have done more, but my day job has got very busy. The people fortunate enough to still be employed are all working hard. Which brings me to the final thought ...

- It's a lousy economy in which to be running any sort of nonprofit. My day job includes getting requests for support; clearly, a lot of these nonprofits have just become incredibly desperate. Nonprofits in general are suffering. Many that provide human services will sink despite crushing human needs. Surely arts and culture groups will go down first. As a member of the Pierce County allocations committee for ArtsFund, I despair for coming months. Some potential donors will have suffered horribly in the stock market alone. You will see a lot of museums reducing efforts or closing.

In other words, it ain't just a Lakewood thing. This is not the first time hard economic times have threatened arts and culture. How ironic and yet inevitable ... a museum locked into a cycle of history.

Changes Coming

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 00:38:00 +0000

This week's city manager report brings up two issues that will likely get a lot of attention, and a third item well worth of mention.

Traffic Impacts of Bridgeport Way Project: I'm just going to do light editing of the city manager's report: The area involved is 59th Ave SW to Steilacoom Blvd SW.

The contractor will be doing roadway excavation between Gravelly Lake Drive and Mt Tacoma for the placement of concrete curb and gutter beginning the week of March 22and lasting for two weeks. There will be excavation work for the placement of new traffic signal foundations throughout that area.

As a result, the roadway excavation and placement of curb and gutter will require 24 hour closure of the curb-side south bound lane on Bridgeport Way between Gravelly Lake Drive and Mt Tacoma Drive. Traffic also may be shifted to utilize the center turn lane during peak hours. Intermittent northbound lane closures will occur along the entire stretch from Mt Tacoma Drive to Steilacoom Boulevard.

In other words, it will be a mess. But if you remember how the light signal poles were tilting, and how dangerous it's been to walk along Bridgeport, this is good news. Please, please be patient and take your time driving.

Housing at Steilacoom and Lakewood Drive: Many folks know this as the site of one of Lakewood's early schools, and a place where there's been a lot of wildlife preservation. I think we've all hoped nothing would get built on the residentially-zoned sections there, but it is privately owned.

What that means is you may see construction soon for Oak Grove Village development, a 254-unit Oak Grove Village multi-family residential development approved for construction on the northeast corner of Lakewood Drive and Steilacoom Boulevard. Says the city manager's report: "The project will preserve the majority of the oak trees on the site, while providing the City with a new well-designed residential complex."

Do they have the right to build there? Sure, a property owner does. Should Lakewood continue to zone for high density? No. Should projects like this get tax breaks? No. I'll keep at it, but meantime I wanted you to know you might soon see construction there.

And congratulations: While we are at it, our mayor, who also has the title of Brigadier General, Doug Richardson, retired from the Army Reserve after 32 years of combined active and reserve service. I admire Doug for many reasons, his sense of duty and service one of them. I hated missing the ceremony but the work project I've been on demanded me. He received the Distinguished Service Medal and the applause and congratulations of many people at Fort Lewis ceremonies.

Reflections from Living History in Lakewood about the Seattle P-I ... and Permanence

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 23:17:00 +0000

So this is why I will be taking flowers to a grave in Seattle next Thursday.

They will be for the gentleman at the left there, Thomas Prosch.

At living history events, I portray Charles Prosch, a real-life guy who published a newspaper in Lakewood and Steilacoom in the 1850s and 1860s.

Living history grows into you, I think. When I become Charles, I inherit a proud family legacy. I also, for those few minutes, inherit one of his sons, Thomas.

Thomas Prosch was the founding editor of the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.

My character, Charles, is full of bluster. I get the biggest laughs from people when I brag how I will build Steilacoom into the next San Francisco. Today, we know it didn't turn out quite that way. Charles was like that. I love the man, but he drove several newspapers and a couple other businesses into the ground. That was his style.

The other laugh I get from folks is when I insist they should move to Washington because it hardly ever rains here. I'm dead serious. Charles would say that. He insisted those stories of rain were trumped up by the California press, trying to prevent people from settling in Washington.

Thomas was different. He learned from his dad what not to do in terms of business. He bought the family press out of bankruptcy and founded the Tacoma Tribune before later moving the family to Seattle.

Thanks to his foresight, they all died well off. By what I've seen in his writings, he was much more earnest and serious than his father.

Thomas was also a gutsy journalist. Example: He printed that the Seattle police chief was going to brothels.

The police chief sued Thomas for libel.

Thomas' response to the lawsuit? He printed the names of the prostitutes and the places the chief was visiting.

I admire his courage. This was a guy who had to walk seven blocks up the downtown Seattle hillside from the newspaper to get home every night.

To prepare for living history, I've spent a lot of time in various places digging up information about this family. Call me stupid and silly, but when I dress up in my wool suit I love Thomas like a son.

Years ago, Richard Talcott, of a longtime Olympia family, showed me an album that Thomas had put together for one of his daughters. She died of TB in 1912 when she was 19. It was a beautiful album, full of loving memories of the girl. There were all sorts of things in there, like letters the girl had exchanged with the wife of one of Seattle's founders, Doc Maynard.

Two people wrote deeply loving letters to the girl after her death, addressed to her afterlife, and put them in the album: Her father, Thomas, and her grandfather, Charles.

So call me stupid and silly again, but after I read the album, I took flowers to the girl's grave.

The album shows the girl's grave as quite lovely, with an angel sailing over a large marble tombstone. That's long gone. Clearly, there was vandalism. Thomas, Charles and Virginia all lay there with plain simple concrete plates covering them. But I didn't mind. Vandalism happens. I left flowers for the girl, and prayed thanks to her and her family for what they were and what they had done.

So now Thomas's newspaper is gone ... at least in the form he would have known.

I have to drive past Seattle Thursday on business. So I am going to Lakeview Cemetery a second time.

This time the flowers will be for Thomas.

I wonder what he would think. He would have seen so many papers come and go. The idea of only one or two newspapers in a town would have been foreign to him. From the broadsheets of old England, to the blogs of today, the normal state of the printing press is to have many, many voices printing in one community.

Would Thomas understand? Would he accept his paper's fate? Or was he a hard-nosed-enough businessman to find it astonishing the paper lasted as long as it did? Would he be impressed that a group of spunky folks is trying to make a go of the P-I as an online paper?

I dunno. I only know we failed his legacy. We couldn't keep his tombstone standing. We couldn't keep his little girl's tombstone standing. We couldn't keep the printed edition of his newspaper standing.

Somehow, I feel like we failed Thomas. Yet ... this is how life and history work. And I'm betting he knows it's all part of the grand cycle of history. I hope he does.

I'll think on all these things at the grave. And leave flowers shining bright for Thomas. The lesson of his life enriches me. The lesson of his life humbles me, and humbles all we strive to do.

The flowers will fade. Things do.

But the memory will survive as long as I breathe.

More information about Thomas at a UW site and at Historylink

The Most Thorough History of Early Lakewood

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 21:53:00 +0000

In 2005, Steve Dunkelberger and I contributed to a photo history of Lakewood. Steve and I hoped the Lakewood book would shed light on our community's rich history.

Now comes a titan: a major work on a key aspect of Lakewood history by a group of historians with a long record of accomplishment in Tacoma and throughout Washington. They prepared the report because the folks who operate Western State joined with other state agencies to commission a major study of the most historic grounds in Lakewood: the Fort Steilacoom District which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The major landowner right now of that district is Western State Hospital, hence the name of the report. Thus the report chronicles not only the pre-pioneer and pioneer periods, but also the history of mental health treatment in America.

It's all part of a major effort under way to figure out how to preseve and interpret the amazing history here for this and future generations. Some of us will NEVER give up on the dream, for example, that this is the place that children should learn the sobering story of Chief Leschi. It's a story that only becomes more important every time there is a case of racial and ethnic injustice in the world.

But the question of what to do with these lands and who should run and pay for all of it is a question for another day. Right now, you should download this file (and it could take awhile; this is a biiiiig report) and see what's got to be the most comprehensive work ever compiled about Lakewood history.

Enjoy: Western State Hospital, A Cultural Landscape Assessment

Bits and Pieces

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 22:45:00 +0000

Yes, that's a Mardi Gras celebration you see there. I thought I'd include it to add some visual interest to the Neary blog. Learn about the senior Mardi Gras and more in the Lakewood city manager's weekly report, always an informative read.

Tonight's Meeting: The Lakewood City Council will hear comment tonight about a moratorium about mini-casinos. This is a big subject that defies the simplicity of one blog posting, but I mention the meeting at 7 p.m. tonight in case anyone wants to listen. What should be interesting tonight is that we will likely hear from the folks who operated Happy Days on Bridgeport. They want to reopen. I look forward to hearing from all sides on this one.

Police funding: A national website dedicated to information about police products used Lakewood as a case history in the financing of police technology. It's interesting reading in that you rarely see anyone write about such a subject in detail.

Blogging by elected officials: Those of you who recall my little blogging wardrobe malfunction of awhile back might be interested in a thread out of Olympia about their City Council, which apparently actually sends emails during meetings. I jotted down a few thoughts about government blogging, and the original post and the comments are all interesting.

What do business owners think?

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 20:28:00 +0000

It took me a couple days too long to figure this out, but it's really local business owners who ought to be speaking out on the question of whether Fort Lewis should build a mall. I posted a couple thoughts on that subject under The News Tribune's well-reasoned editorial on the topic.

I've come to this conclusion for two reasons. First, I'm supposed to be a 'small government' guy, and that's what I believe in. It's why I'm against the federal government building a mall. So why should a city government be getting involved in something business owners should care about? It's the business owners who should be taking a lead on this subject, if they do in fact see a problem.

Second, the effect on taxes should be a secondary issue. No one should do anything just because of how it affects taxes. It occurred to me that I'd never tell an employer, hey, you should decide to come to Lakewood because we can get more taxes. That would be silly. Employers have to decide to locate where it makes business sense for them to locate. And thousands of employers have already invested based on what made sense of their business, and wisely did not worry or care if the tax dollars they generate went to Lakewood, Tacoma, Puyallup or Lacey.

Of course, those are existing businesses. As the private sector prepares to invest millions in a revitalized Tillicum and other parts of Lakewood .... and for that matter, invests every day in Tacoma, the rest of Pierce County, and Thurston County ... the question of how a Fort Lewis mall will affect them is a very, very real question. This is not a question for just the city of Lakewood; the city should be a minor player. I'll be interested in hear what business owners think of the federal plan, and I will be interested to hear what they say to their members of Congress and Fort Lewis.

Of course, it occurs to me that a lot of businesses might be reluctant to speak out because they don't want to offend members of the military. I've been astonished at the number of people who've told me, 'Hey Walter, it's the Army that wants to do this, shut up.' I'm not sure there will be a full and vigorous debate. But whether they will or not, it's the business owners who should lead any charge.

Strong Reaction

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 18:40:00 +0000

One of the dirty little 'secrets' of civic engagement is that you sometimes have to use strong language to get attention, and then you're expected to apologize for using the language. Ah well. Some things in life, and politics, don't change and are to be expected. I'm delighted the Army's plans to build a major mall are being discussed openly.

There are some interesting discussions started by my comments about the Army's plans to build a major mall. Check out the thread started by a letter in The News Tribune.

One thing I'm getting pretty clearly is that Army folks don't like that their fanciest restaurant is a Godfather's. I get that. The question, in my humble opinion, is how big the Army's entry into building a mall should be.

The Army Salutes Lakewood with the Middle Finger

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 19:39:00 +0000

Yours truly got a bit apoplectic when we learned at a study session last night that the Army still plans to build a mall at Fort Lewis. The News Tribune posted an update this morning. The News Tribune's Dan Voelpel did a great column on this subject awhile back though the article no longer seems to be online so I can't link to it. Dan's column was how most of us heard about the matter for the first time, which makes sense, as the Army is unlikely to advertise its plans to undercut surrounding communities.

I suppose others can be more tactful in expressing their concern, but I sure don't like the idea of tax dollars being used to undercut business in Lakewood. I have never been a big fan of ingratitude. We use the tax dollars from Lakewood businesses to provide services to a lot of folks, including the members of the military so welcome in our community. But that's just one issue. You get into the question of whether government in America should be acting as government, or as a rival to the private sector. The whole idea stinks.

Here's something really funny. One of the efforts that Lakewood has supported is the acquistion of land around the so-called 'clear zone' to help make it possible to keep the military base here. And we are repaid by efforts to undercut the local economy. When did Fort Lewis's mission grow to demonstrate gross ingratitude?

The Army should protect, which it does so well, and leave commercial real estate to the private sector.

A Low Tide on the Lakes

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 22:20:00 +0000

For those of you tracking the lakes issue I posted about yesterday, here's an update.

What can I say? It must be an election year.

One of the unfortunate side effects of the whole mini-casino initiative is that it and other examples of the usual self-destructive behavior in Lakewood public policy locked us up last year. Now that we are in an election year, it seems unlikely the council will make any decision about the lakes until 2010.

Does that matter? I wonder deep down sometimes. It seems to me we owe people a decision about lake access, but even I wonder if there are higher priorities. Only one person spoke up at the hearing last night for viewing platforms by the lakes. Maybe no one cares all that much. Should we be doing something to expand parks access in poorer parts of town as opposed to where most of the street ends are?

Deep down, my core tells me we should do something to expand public stewardship of public lakes, even if it's simply creating some small viewing platforms that close at dusk. So part of me wants to chase this issue, like a dog following a stick someone throws into a lake.

And yet, I am humbled by the reality of Lakewood civics. The "record" teaches us Lakewood has an impressive history of spending vast amounts of time on exactly the wrong things. There are so many examples. When the city should have spent hours talking about storm response, about economic development and creating jobs, about Clover Park schools, about the dramatic changes planned for Tillicum ... instead for example we have spent hours hashing and rehashing and rehashing again the human services budget which is only a small percentage of our overall contribution to the community. A story last month in the daily paper only hints at the percentage of time we've spent on this topic when a majority of council members rubber-stamped spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on a home repair program. Gimme a break. This council is an example in how NOT to allocate time. Can we even be trusted with something as important as the legacy of Lakewood's lakes?

Is the fight over lake access the right we want right now? I dunno. I'm sure the council will discuss the matter again before the election. I'm glad it's not my decision alone, and I look forward to tours of the street ends. Maybe we will meet citizens there who get me excited again about the possibilities.

Access to the Lakes

noreply@blogger.com (Walter) — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 17:28:00 +0000

Tonight's City Council meeting kicks off what could be one of the most devisive issues in Lakewood's history thus far: how to improve access to our lakes. There have been all sorts of forums on the question. Tonight, the council starts a process in which we can demonstrate the strength of public participation and democracy ... but also a process that will almost certainly lead to bitter divisions between property owners and other citizens and lead to lawsuits.

Are the lakes and lake access an important enough subject for all this? Yes. As I have posted before, we owe everyone a decision.

There's been an extensive study process so far. You can read primary sources at http://www.cityoflakewood.us/news-and-events/466-lakefront-street-ends-update.html Now with the council directly involved, the street ends' land will be studied and studied and debated and studied and 'hearing-ed' and studied some more. I hope no one comes tonight thinking any collective decisions have been made. This council should be a long way from making decisions. You can make arguments to do a lot, and you can make arguments to do a little. And one thing we learned in the public process was that each of the street ends' parcels and properties around it are very different. All the properties and surrounding parcels have in common is that they touch water.

And to explain that context best ... I've posted on this issue before, but for now, I commend you to this section of the staff report on the web page just mentioned, written by one of the city's executives, Jeff Brewster. I don't know if this passage says it all, but it sure says a lot.