Dear Editor,
I am writing to express my concern about the proposed Nedonna Wave Development, which directly conflicts with the principles and policies outlined in Rockaway Beach’s 2007 Comprehensive Plan. Although the plan is overdue for an update, it remains the foundation for ensuring sustainable development that balances growth with environmental preservation.
The Comprehensive Plan prioritizes the protection of critical environmental areas, including wetlands, groundwater aquifers, and riparian corridors. Key policies from the plan highlight the city’s responsibility:
- Critical Groundwater Protection: “The City recognizes that Rockaway Beach lies in a critical groundwater area and shall refuse to permit uses which the Department of Environmental Quality determines could pollute or adversely affect the aquifer.”
The proposed development risks impacting the aquifer, contradicting this policy. - Wetlands and Riparian Corridor Protection: “Rockaway Beach will consider options in the future to adopt local standards to protect riparian corridors and wetlands… consistent with Statewide Planning Goal 5.”
Allowing development in sensitive wetland areas undermines this intent to balance growth with resource protection. - Coastal Shorelands and Wildlife Habitat: “Major marshes and significant wildlife habitat shall be protected… New development shall protect existing streams, riparian corridors, wetlands, and drainage ways.”
The development is inconsistent with directives to preserve wildlife habitats and minimize stormwater impacts. - Land Use Philosophy: “…those areas where development can occur should be more intensively used than sensitive lands such as the wetlands around the lakes, and steep slopes.”
Sensitive lands like wetlands should be preserved, with high-density development directed to less sensitive areas.
Approving this development would not only violate these policies but also set a troubling precedent, weakening Rockaway Beach’s commitment to sustainable development. Protecting our wetlands ensures ecological health, safeguards vital water resources, and upholds the values embedded in our community’s guiding document.
I urge the city council to honor the principles of the Comprehensive Plan and reject developments that threaten the integrity of our natural heritage. Rockaway Beach’s future depends on responsible decision-making today.
Sincerely,
Daniel Howlett
Here’s a link to the Rockaway Beach Comprehensive Plan:
Comp Plan Rockaway Beach
Daniel Howlet
Rockaway Beach, OR/Portland, OR