It took some convincing before many long-time Issaquah residents could embrace the development of Issaquah Highlands.

Nothing seemed more valuable than the forested hillsides that were part of the Issaquah Valley Aquifer watershed (providing some of the purest water on the planet).

However, the vision of an environmentally friendly urban village that would reduce car dependency promised to be a project (almost) worthy of the extreme clearcutting.

Now, how in the world does a gas station coincide with that promised vision?

Environmentally, a gas station was prohibited in the original development agreement. The operation of a fossil fuel station creates a huge carbon footprint. Coupled with ongoing air pollution/vapor problems, a gas station is anything but green (even with “lipstick” of solar panels).

Economically, who would bear responsibility for harms caused to the aquifer? (Because eventually, even state-of-the art tanks leak).

Short-term economic vitality often results in long-term environmental consequences – cleaned-up at taxpayer expense.

Today, many Issaquah Highlands residents join with others to call upon the city to insist that promises made – like a grocery store and not a gas station — be promises delivered.

Linda Seebeth

Issaquah