If honorable, city will decline WSF payoff | Letters | Dec. 10

Published 3:13 pm Friday, December 10, 2010

It may be that the subject of a boatyard is not realistic at this time.

But if, at some future time, the stars were to align and the opportunity for a community boatyard were to become otherwise feasible, it would have to be located on an industrial waterfront site.

Only one such location is left on this Island. It is currently owned by WSF. Although no one at WSF seems inclined to talk about it, title to that property is encumbered.

Covenants suggested by the state Shorelines Hearing Board allowed the parties to settle litigation challenging the City of Winslow’s issuance of a permit that would have allowed construction of four condominium units.

Because of those covenants, only three units were built and a portion of the remaining site was expressly encumbered with covenants intended by the board to run with the land forever.

The city was not a beneficiary of those covenants. Its only role was to enforce them.

The only reason WSF is offering the city anything to resolve this matter is that someone (presumably in the AG’s office) has advised that the covenants in question pose a risk.

That risk will not go away unless all the beneficiaries agree to surrender their rights under those covenants.

For the City of Bainbridge Island to now trot itself out as the beneficiary of those covenants, solely to avail itself of an unearned windfall for use in shoring up its own financial mess, is disgraceful.

For now, the city should just say “No!” to the money being offered by WSF. Then be patient. And when enough time has passed, their wisdom and character will do us all proud.

If the city takes the 30 pieces of silver being offered by WSF, those responsible run the very real risk of being remembered as lacking in both.

John H. Wright

Bainbridge Island