The proposed construction and development project along Hwy 410 titled "Rainier Gateway" needs to be reconsidered, if not completely stopped. Most specifically, but not limited to, the portion of the project that is in the immediate vicinity of the Veterans Memorial. As a veteran of the U.S. Army for the last 16 years, I have seen other memorial sites disgraced by allowing those that would disrespect it the opportunity to do so. Allowing this project to be built would give anyone who visited the buildings an opportunity to damage, disrespect, and dishonor the site. The possibility of loitering would increase. The site would inevitably be left dirty more often than it could cleaned. The veterans memorial area has a natural beauty that would disrupted by adding any buildings (retail or housing). It would obstruct the viewing of local businesses from the highway as well as the natural landscaping that residents enjoy. Most residents enjoy the open area along the foothills trail. To walk their dogs, play with children. The surrounding residents feel crowded enough as it is. A terrible parking situation would develop for those that live in close proximity. This development project would eliminate the possibility of anyone every enjoying this area ever again. No matter what the "potential" benefits, the project has many more disadvantages and ultimately would dissapoint all who sign this petition as well as many others who enjoy living in the beautiful small town of Buckley, WA. A memorial site is meant to be that, and that alone. Not a centerpiece for a development project. Please do not allow this beautiful memorial to be disgraced in this way. Do not allow the surrounding area to be developed into something that any minority or majority of the town is not in support of. 

Sandy Burkett is the Chairwoman of the Community Services Committee. She is the person that is responsible for approval on community development projects. We need her support. And I need your support to put this in front of her.

Thank you for your time and support,

SSG Tanner Michael Gould

U.S. Army  -  16 years

3 Tours in Iraq

Lost 2 Brothers