WHAT’S HAPPENED RECENTLY
Jan. 26 - The State Parks Recreation Commission holds its only public meeting (via zoom) on the Navy’s application for a 5-year permit to conduct covert military training in up to 28 Washington State Parks. 53 people (87%) speak against granting the permit; only 8 (13%) speak in favor.
Jan. 28 - The State Parks & Recreation Commission approves granting the permit by a narrow 4-3 vote. The swing vote on the Commission apparently bases his approval on limiting the permit to night time only training for 9 months, after which the Commission will review the permit. Approval comes despite the Commissioners and Parks Staff admitting that the proposal is inconsistent with State Parks’ mission, values, and goals; overwhelming public opposition, including hundreds of
comments against; an online petition which now has over 7100 signatures; and formal resolutions against by Jefferson County, Port Townsend, Coupeville, and Langley.
Feb. 10 - State Parks publishes a “Notice of Action” declaring that the proposal will have “no significant adverse environmental impacts.” Publication starts the legal appeal period; appeals must be filed by March 11.
Feb. 11 - With one day’s notice the Parks Commission meets to “clarify” that after 9 months the “night time only” permit restriction can be lifted by staff with no public notice or review.
"NOT IN OUR PARKS" COALITION FORMS
WEAN and other organizations opposed are responding by launching a major campaign.
• Not In Our Parks, a coalition to oppose military training in Washington State Parks, has formed and welcomes more coalition partners. The campaign website (www.NotInOurParks.org will go live on Monday, March 8. It will provide tools to easily contact the Governor and
legislature, sign a petition, stay informed about the campaign, and what you can do. There will be linked social media sites as well.
• WEAN expects to file a lawsuit, also on Monday March 8, challenging the Parks Commission’s approval.
• The following weekend there will be a “Day of Action” at different state parks, including tailgate tabling, “picketing” and signage at park entrances, petition signature gathering, and handing out informational fliers. Events are being planned at these State Parks: Deception Pass;
South Whidbey; Fort Worden; Fort Flagler; Camano Island; and Cama Beach.
To help or get more info, contact: allisivy@gmail.com
FOR MORE INFO CONTACT WEAN: WEAN@Whidbey.net
More updates will be forthcoming.