Proposed project could be disastrous

Editor,

A "hurry up" process to approve the largest subdivision Polson has seen could occur over the Christmas holidays. If allowed to go through, without strict oversight regarding the short and long term effects to city water, sewer, roads, safety and other city services, there could be disastrous results.

The city councilman/developer trying to get his development approved is the head of (the council's) planning/zoning and water/sewer committees. And he has powerful influence over other departments and activities which concern the public interest.

Not only does he have a unique opportunity to influence processes, but the company representing his proposed development also represents the city in growth planning. How is this possible? One has only to look to the city council for that answer.

I learned of the proposed development in the Nov. 4 Leader. A letter to the editor provided significantly more information concerning the conflict of interest issue. By mid-November, I obtained a copy of the minutes of the Oct. 12 City-County Planning Board meeting. I was appalled that the pre-application was allowing such slippage around the issues of impact statements.

Toward the end of November I realized that my own residential street, Hillcrest, would be highly impacted.

However, I'm more concerned about the sewer and water issues. How can this community afford to "approve" a development containing 254 residential lots, 50 commercial lots and an uncertain number of multi housing units when we are not even certain that the water pressure to our present homes will remain adequate.

The water and sewer issues require much more serious, extensive, expert review.

Almost no one on Hillcrest knew anything about the proposed development's easement allowing for access to our road. Fewer people still had knowledge of the huge impact the development will have on water and sewer. The lack of information is astounding. Whose fault is that?

My fears are twofold: That the project will be railroaded through and receive approval without adequate impact studies and/or citizen participation; and that the apparent conflict of interest has already compromised the planning and zoning process.

Margie Hendricks

Polson