| When I was seven or eight years old my Dad had a friend who when he came by, would bring me smart pills. Even at that age I questioned my Dad and his friend about their real qualities. I was assured with a smile that they were what he claimed, Smart Pills. They looked like and tasted like M&Ms so I did not push the issue too far.
Now thirty years past, I am hearing the same use of smart in “Smart Growth.” Does adding the word “smart” in front of anything make it so? Commissioner Botkin wants you to think so.
There are some aspects of “Smart Growth” that most of us could support — filling in existing lots, rebuilding older areas, renewing areas that may be contaminated, adjusting codes for older areas, etc. But how do you define “Smart Growth?” It means different things depending on whom you talk to. So other than making us feel good, it means very little unless clearly defined.
On February 12 the county sponsored a forum on “Smart Growth” in Poulsbo. Poulsbo Place was used as an example of “Smart Growth.” Patrick Condon, the expert, was from Canada. He did not want to use Poulsbo Place as the example of “Smart Growth” after finding out 900 square feet cost $230,000 dollars. I personally think Poulsbo Place was nicely done, but is it “Smart Growth?” If so, we can say that “Smart Growth” is something small that is very expensive.
Mr. Condon did say a household needed to make $65,000 to qualify for his Canadian development that is in design. The average household income in Kitsap County is $42,000 dollars. When Mr. Condon and Paul Nelson, the other expert from Pierce County, were asked to name ONE place ANYWHERE that I could buy an affordable “Smart Growth” house, they could not do so. Their best answer was to rent a studio apartment or use federally funded housing. I ask the question of the Homebuilders today.
At the risk of offending friends and those who have supported me, I want to say I am very concerned about the present position the Homebuilders (HBA) seem to be taking on “Smart Growth.” Should we work with people such as Commissioner Botkin who have by their actions opposed Homebuilders, business and property owners? Yes, whenever possible, provided it does not comprise core values or give them an undeserved platform. I am concerned on both counts.
I also understand from Michael Svardh that the author of The Vanishing Automobile (a negative critique on “Smart Growth”) offered to come and speak at the dinner forum to offer some balance. That offer was rejected through Homebuilders Executive Director Art Castle.
As leadership in the Homebuilders considers “Smart Growth” as well as other issues, I hope you will keep in mind the make up of the organization. It has many small builders, who are just trying to keep one job ahead of where they are today. People in leadership are often in larger companies; have interests in development, and a crew where it does not hurt so bad to take the time as you do to work with HBA. How will your actions affect the smaller company?
It seems “Smart Growth” is not what it claims when implemented. A goal of equality sounds good but we all know it is the opposite that happens. Why agree to a goal knowing it is untrue? It seems the use of the word “smart” is not much different from what I heard 30 years ago. But now it looks real expensive and taste like, well, you know.
Please call me if I can answer any questions. I would rather risk offending you with an honest direct opinion, than risk going along with something I don’t think is right.
Scott Henden
Kingston. | 
