As residents of Washington State, we have witnessed the devastating effects of unnecessary land destruction for establishments that do not serve our community's best interests. The proposed $61.5 million Lacey police department, also referred to as a "Cop City" to some, is one such establishment. This project threatens to destroy 12 acres of our precious forests, using our hard-earned tax dollars in the process.

Our state is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse forests in the country, which play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and combating climate change. Yet we stand on the brink of losing a significant portion of this green space for a project that does not align with our community's needs or values.

Moreover, Washington State grapples with an escalating homeless crisis that demands urgent attention and resources. It is disheartening to see millions being funneled into projects like a "Cop City" while so many citizens lack basic necessities like shelter and food.

We believe that these funds could be better utilized by investing them into initiatives aimed at addressing homelessness or improving existing public services rather than constructing new police departments.

This issue hits close to home for us because we have seen what happens when we don't use our voices - when we allow decisions that harm both people and nature to go unchallenged. We refuse to stand by as more forest land gets destroyed for unnecessary establishments while critical issues like homelessness remain unaddressed.

We urge you to reconsider this decision - halt construction on Lacey’s 61 million Dollar police department, preserve our forests, redirect taxpayer dollars towards resolving pressing social issues like homelessness instead. Sign this petition if you agree; let's use our collective voice for positive change in Washington State!