It is interesting to read in the Kitsap Peninsula Business Journal (2/3/2011) how important the wastewater and water reclamation project in Belfair is to the local community, Mason County and State Government. The report says “These facilities are touted to be a safe, efficient and environmentally friendly alternative that protects Hood Canal water quality and quantities, while it meets Class A standards for future water reuse.”

The article is very informative explaining the benefit of reducing demand on established water supplies and how the wastewater and water reclamation project will reduce that demand. There is explanation of how the system removes nitrogen content in sewage, wastewater is treated to “Class A” standards for re-use and how this benefits not only the community allowing re-use of water but also benefits the ecology of the fragile Hood Canal ecosystems.

In addition, the construction has employed three construction crews of 10 for more than 60,000 hours since the project started a year ago. Not to mention the materials used and transported that created or supported even more jobs.

This is a great thing for a small community. So my question is why is a project in South Jefferson County that includes wastewater treatment along with many other environmental protections so violently opposed by a small number of people? And consider this, it’s not your tax dollars being spent, it’s private money that will generate tax dollars! I think the supporters of the Pleasant Harbor Marina and Golf Resort should start to loudly endorse the jobs created, the economic stimulation, and the effort to realize the “Tourism based economy” that is part of the economic development plan of South Jefferson. All those benefits while taking innovative steps to not only protect but to improve the environment, promote cultural resources, and educate visitors on how we can protect our land and heritage.

Let’s quit being selfish and short sighted, only finding reasons why something won’t work, and start being pro-active to find solutions that will satisfy and benefit the greater majority. Where is the voice of the people I listen to at economic development meetings and Chamber meetings who complain about tourists that drive by but don’t stop, lack of jobs, and the difficulty making progress with a government that says it wants to improve the economy but seems to block every effort? It is no longer acceptable to sit quietly and let a few people dictate the future for you, your family and your grandchildren.

And for those that will ask, I am not a new comer to Hood Canal. I have lived in this beautiful area for most of the years since 1975. I worked for the USFS in Hoodsport while going to school. I’ve spent the last 10 years taking tourists from all over the country, and many parts of the world, out into Hood Canal to dive and see things most people only see on a National Geographic TV special. The health and protection of Hood Canal is my livelihood. I want grow old here. I want my children and grandchildren to be able to work here, learn to preserve what we have, and to take care of me in my old age.