Rep. Tom Huff (R-Gig Harbor) said local citizens are being overrun by government agencies trying to regulate land use near shorelines, despite overwhelming objections from the public.

“In Kitsap County, you have federal, state and local agencies all coming down with new regulations on the use of private property near shorelines. It’s no wonder citizens are feeling helpless. They have concerns, and they’re not sure where to turn,” said Huff. “We’re asking the DOE to at least postpone implementation of the proposed state shoreline rules, so the Legislature can provide a proper review and allow for public input. There is a lot at stake for these people who risk losing significant value and use of their property. They deserve to have their concerns addressed before we even consider implementing new rules.”

Among the main concerns expressed by lawmakers in the letter to DOE are the costs to property owners and local government, along with the lack of sound, scientific data to support the proposed land-use restrictions without measurable goals for salmon restoration. Huff, who will retire at the end of his current term, serves as co-chair of the Appropriations Committee and acts as chief GOP budget writer in the House, said a conscious decision was made during the last legislative session not to fund such wholesale changes to the Shoreline Management Act as the DOE has proposed.

“The legislative intent is clear. The department was not authorized to overhaul the rules and implement these kinds of changes,” said Huff. “Instead what they’ve done is place the burden on property owners and local governments. These proposed rules amount to constitutional takings of private property and unfunded mandates on local government.”.