SEP20-0033_Public_Comments1
Lee Napier
From:Chase Buffington <buffington@cispus.org>
Sent:Thursday, August 19, 2021 8:43 PM
To:Lee Napier
Subject:Letter of Support YMCA Mineral
Attachments:YMCA Support Letter.docx
Dear Napier,
A letter of support is attached for the following YMCA being acquired in Mineral, WA. If you need further information or
inquires please contact me for further discussion.
Sincerely,
Chase Buffington
Cispus Learning Center Director
(360) 497-7131
#cispusforever
www.cispus.org
Steering Chair - Washington Outdoor School Consortium
Board Member - E3 Washington
Vice Chair - Morton School District
Vice President - White Pass Scenic Byway
External Email - Remember to think before you click!
This message may contain links with malware, viruses, etc. Please ensure the message is
legitimate before opening it.
operated by the Washington School Principals Education Foundation in partnership with the USDA Forest Service
Cispus Learning Center
Chase Buffington, Director 2142 Cispus Rd • Randle WA 98377
buffington@cispus.org www.cispus.org phone: 360-497-7131 fax: 360.497.7132
Email to: lee.napier@lewiscountywa.gov
SUBJECT: Support of YMCA Application for Comp Plan Amendment
Dear Ms. Napier:
I am writing to express my enthusiastic support for the YMCA’s proposed camp at Mineral Lake in east Lewis
County. As a parent, as a Morton School Board member, and as an educator, I believe this project would be of
tremendous benefit to the children and families in Lewis County, and to all who would visit.
As director of Cispus Outdoor Learning Center in Randle, I can tell you firsthand the power of these outdoor
experiences for children of all backgrounds and ages. Washington state has a long history of providing essential
outdoor education experiences for school students. Outdoor camp helps children learn by engaging their natural
curiosity about the natural world around them.
I can also share that the Y’s proposed camp would benefit the state’s larger effort to increase outdoor
environmental education opportunities. This past legislative session, I coordinated an effort by the Outdoor
School consortium, a collection of other overnight camps in the state, to secure state funding for curriculum and
support for these experiences.
In short, there is tremendous demand for what the Y is proposing at Mineral Lake, for our local community and
those who would visit. As such, I would encourage Lewis County to approve the comprehensive plan
amendment as submitted by the YMCA.
Sincerely,
Chase Buffington
#cispusforever
1
Karen Witherspoon
From:Mark Waters <theMuddster@msn.com>
Sent:Thursday, August 19, 2021 10:53 AM
To:Karen Witherspoon
Cc:Wally Work; Eric Waters; Bren waters; a.shellenback@gmail.com; Justin Shellenback;
kayla_h20@icloud; Kendall Waters; Mark Waters
Subject:YMCA / Nisqually Tribe Joint Venture Mineral, WA
Karen,
As a local property owner (164 Mineral Hill Rd.), and an affected party, I would like to
receive notice on any and all applications, permits or submittals related to the
following Lewis County Tax Parcel numbers;
037019001120
037019001130
038931001130
038931011001
038931011002
038931011003
038931011004
038931011005
038931011006
038931011007
038931011008
038931011009
038931011010
038931011011
038931011012
038931011013
038931011014
038931011015
038931011016
038931011017
038931011018
038931011019
038931011020
038931011021
038931011022
038931011023
038931011024
2
038931011025
038931011026
038931011027
038931011028
038931011029
038931011030
038931011031
038931011032
038931011033
038931011034
038931011035
038931011036
038931011037
038931011038
038931011039
038931011040
038931011041
038931011042
038931011043
Please notify me via email at the themuddster@msn.com and US Postal mail.
Regards,
Mark Waters
33716 36th Ave E
Eatonville, WA. 98328
Sent from Mail for Windows
External Email - Remember to think before you click!
This message may contain links with malware, viruses, etc. Please ensure the message is
legitimate before opening it.
1
Lee Napier
From:Mark Waters <theMuddster@msn.com>
Sent:Thursday, August 19, 2021 2:41 PM
To:Lee Napier
Subject:YMCA / Nisqually Tribe Joint venture on Mineral Lake, Lewis County, WA
Lee & Gary,
Where to begin ? I, along with many residents of the Mineral Lake area, have so
many concerns about this project.
I began coming to the Mineral area as a youth 50 or so years ago. It was an area that
my elder family members had come to know and love after spending countless days
camping, hunting and fishing. They wanted my brothers, cousins and I to experience
an area they were thoroughly enamored with, and enjoy the piece and tranquility (and
some darn good fishing to boot) the area had to offer. By the time I was old enough to
hold a fishing rod, and trout season opened, my great uncles would take us on weekly
(yes, weekly) fishing trips to Mineral Lake. The beauty, serenity and fishing were
unrivaled!
When I became old enough to drive, and the elders could no longer drive or manage
their boat, I would take them…and so the tradition and joy continued.
Fast forward a few years (while continuing to frequent the area/lake), I began dating
my wife. After a several months of dating, Opening Day of trout season comes
along. I mention to her I am going to Mineral Lake for opening day and she says,
“You should talk to my Grandpa and Grandma, they have property on Mineral Lake.”
Naturally, I knew I HAD to marry this woman, ha, ha, ha. All joking aside, I did marry
her, and we had three daughters.
As soon as the girls could walk, they were on our boat and on the lake fishing and
swimming. Throughout their years growing up, they are now 25, 23 and 21, we would
go camping, fishing and swimming at Mineral several times a month throughout the
year. Seeing the excitement and joy in their eyes anytime I mentioned going to the
lake is something I will always cherish. They would always comment about how
beautiful and peaceful Mineral Lake is and have truly come to love the area.
Fast forward again, not too long ago an opportunity arose for us to buy the property
(164 Mineral Hill Rd). It was a no brainer, we wanted to buy the property. In order to
make the purchase a reality, we needed to restructure our family economics situation,
2
which was a bit of a challenge to say the least, but we made it happen. We made the
necessary sacrifices to purchase the property so we could continue to enjoy the
area/lake and so our children could watch their children experience the same joys they
did as children and see the same look of joy in their children’s eyes that we saw in
theirs when at the lake. We currently have one grandchild (6 months old) and he has
already been to, and played in, the lake….and so the tradition continues. My heart is
full.
Unfortunately, this project stands to change the landscape, not only physically, but
also metaphorically, in a significant way. Beyond the minimal ancillary benefits this
project may bring to the greater local area, I cannot see one single, significant, long-
term benefit that this project would bring to Mineral. The significant increase in vehicle
traffic, increased noise related to said vehicle and pedestrian traffic, as well as the
influx of folks on the lake during the best part of the fishing season, and throughout
the entire summer, would have an immensely negative impact on what is, and has
been for decades, a very beautiful and peaceful area.
There are numerous other concerns I have about the project however, I will address
those through the appropriate channels.
I, along with my family and many area residence, am adamantly apposed to this
project moving forward or receiving approval at any level.
I request to be notified via email and US Mail, of any and all Public meetings,
applications, permits or submittals, as well as any associated decisions by Lewis
County and the State of Washington related to the aforementioned project.
Regards
Mark Waters
33716 36th Ave E
Eatonville, WA 98328
Sent from Mail for Windows
External Email - Remember to think before you click!
This message may contain links with malware, viruses, etc. Please ensure the message is
legitimate before opening it.
1
Karen Witherspoon
From:Mark Waters <theMuddster@msn.com>
Sent:Thursday, August 19, 2021 11:15 AM
To:Karen Witherspoon
Cc:Wally Work; Eric Waters; Bren waters; a.shellenback@gmail.com; Justin Shellenback;
kayla_h20@icloud; Kendall Waters; Mark Waters
Subject:YMCA / Nisqually Tribe Joint Venture - WEST FORK TIMBER Property
Karen,
As a local property owner (164 Mineral Hill Rd.), and an affected party, I would like to
receive notice on any and all applications, permits or submittals related to the
following Lewis County Tax Parcel numbers;
011122001002
037078000000
Please notify me via email at themuddster@msn.com and US Postal mail.
Regards,
Mark Waters
33716 36th Ave E.
Eatonville, WA 98328
Sent from Mail for Windows
External Email - Remember to think before you click!
This message may contain links with malware, viruses, etc. Please ensure the message is
legitimate before opening it.
1
Karen Witherspoon
From:Mark Waters <themuddster@msn.com>
Sent:Friday, August 20, 2021 5:31 AM
To:Karen Witherspoon
Subject:FW: YMCA / Nisqually Tribe Joint Venture Mineral, WA
Karen,
In addition to the previously outlined request related to the previously enumerated
parcel numbers, I would like to receive notification on any and all associated decisions
by Lewis County and the State of Washington, as well as all future public processes,
this may be meetings or comment periods for applications or rulings by governing
agencies related to said parcel numbers.
Regards,
Mark Waters
33716 36th Ave E
Eatonville, WA 98328
Sent from Mail for Windows
From: Mark Waters
Sent: Thursday, August 19, 2021 10:52 AM
To: Karen Witherspoon
Cc: Wally Work; Eric Waters; Bren waters; a.shellenback@gmail.com; Justin Shellenback; kayla_h20@icloud; Kendall
Waters; THEMUDDSTER@MSN.COM
Subject: YMCA / Nisqually Tribe Joint Venture Mineral, WA
Karen,
As a local property owner (164 Mineral Hill Rd.), and an affected party, I would like to
receive notice on any and all applications, permits or submittals related to the
following Lewis County Tax Parcel numbers;
037019001120
037019001130
038931001130
038931011001
038931011002
038931011003
2
038931011004
038931011005
038931011006
038931011007
038931011008
038931011009
038931011010
038931011011
038931011012
038931011013
038931011014
038931011015
038931011016
038931011017
038931011018
038931011019
038931011020
038931011021
038931011022
038931011023
038931011024
038931011025
038931011026
038931011027
038931011028
038931011029
038931011030
038931011031
038931011032
038931011033
038931011034
038931011035
038931011036
038931011037
038931011038
038931011039
038931011040
038931011041
038931011042
038931011043
3
Please notify me via email at the themuddster@msn.com and US Postal mail.
Regards,
Mark Waters
33716 36th Ave E
Eatonville, WA. 98328
Sent from Mail for Windows
External Email - Remember to think before you click!
This message may contain links with malware, viruses, etc. Please ensure the message is
legitimate before opening it.
1
Karen Witherspoon
From:Mark Waters <themuddster@msn.com>
Sent:Friday, August 20, 2021 5:32 AM
To:Karen Witherspoon
Subject:FW: YMCA / Nisqually Tribe Joint Venture - WEST FORK TIMBER Property
Karen,
In addition to the previously outlined request related to the previously enumerated
parcel numbers, I would like to receive notification on any and all associated decisions
by Lewis County and the State of Washington, as well as all future public processes,
this may be meetings or comment periods for applications or rulings by governing
agencies related to said parcel numbers.
Regards,
Mark Waters
33716 36th Ave E
Eatonville, WA 98328
Sent from Mail for Windows
From: Mark Waters
Sent: Thursday, August 19, 2021 11:15 AM
To: Karen Witherspoon
Cc: Wally Work; Eric Waters; Bren waters; a.shellenback@gmail.com; Justin Shellenback; kayla_h20@icloud; Kendall
Waters; THEMUDDSTER@MSN.COM
Subject: YMCA / Nisqually Tribe Joint Venture ‐ WEST FORK TIMBER Property
Karen,
As a local property owner (164 Mineral Hill Rd.), and an affected party, I would like to
receive notice on any and all applications, permits or submittals related to the
following Lewis County Tax Parcel numbers;
011122001002
037078000000
Please notify me via email at themuddster@msn.com and US Postal mail.
Regards,
2
Mark Waters
33716 36th Ave E.
Eatonville, WA 98328
Sent from Mail for Windows
External Email - Remember to think before you click!
This message may contain links with malware, viruses, etc. Please ensure the message is
legitimate before opening it.
1
Lee Napier
From:Eric Waters <iaff3390@gmail.com>
Sent:Friday, August 20, 2021 10:50 AM
To:Lee Napier
Subject:Comments: RZ20-00002 and SEP20-0033
August 20, 2021
Lee Napier, Director
Lewis County Community Development
2025 NE Kresky Ave
Chehalis, WA 98532
RE: Comp Plan Amendment (RZ20-00002) and SEPA (SEP20-0033)
By Email
Dear Director Napier,
As an affected property owner, 164 Mineral Hill Rd., I strongly oppose the YMCA’s Comprehensive Plan Amendment
(RZ20-00002) and SEPA (SEP20-0033). A rezone from Forest Resource Land to Master Planned Resort will allow a full
urban development to occur in a pristine and serene area of Lewis County. It will start the process of destroying the
quality of life that my family has enjoyed for generations.
In reviewing the 12-30-2020 Application for Amendment Questions and responses by the applicant, it is clearly
communicated the YMCA Greater Seattle rezone and Comprehensive Plan Amendment is intended to fix a Seattle YMCA
camper problem. The proposed amendment will begin the process of destroying the natural and cultural attractiveness
of the area and will create irreversible adverse impacts on environmental and natural features and cultural and historic
resources and their settings. This amendment will allow for the destruction of the essence that has attracted people to
the area for generations.
I understand (SEP20-0033) is a non-project application. However, the applicant’s assertions and theoretical analysis are
meaningless. Site specific data and analysis must be used to ensure complete concurrency for this application and any
future applications. The applicant’s references to projects outside the Mineral area are not relevant.
If you have any questions related to my comments do not hesitate to contact me.
Best regards,
Eric Waters
253-677-7755
Iaff3390@gmail.com
External Email - Remember to think before you click!
2
This message may contain links with malware, viruses, etc. Please ensure the message is
legitimate before opening it.
1
Lee Napier
From:Mark Waters <themuddster@msn.com>
Sent:Thursday, August 19, 2021 2:35 PM
To:Lee Napier
Subject:FW: FW: YMCA / Nisqually Tribe Joint Venture
Attachments:FW: YMCA / Nisqually Tribe Joint Venture
Sent from Mail for Windows
From: postmaster@outlook.com
Sent: Thursday, August 19, 2021 2:34 PM
To: leenapier@lewiscountywa.gov
Subject: Undeliverable: FW: YMCA / Nisqually Tribe Joint Venture
Delivery has failed to these recipients or groups:
leenapier@lewiscountywa.gov (leenapier@lewiscountywa.gov)
Your message couldn't be delivered. It appears that the email address you sent your message to
wasn't found at the destination domain, or the recipient's mailbox is unavailable. The email address
might be misspelled or it might not exist. Try to fix the problem by doing one or more of the following:
• Send the message again. Before you do, delete and retype the complete address. If your
email program automatically suggests an address to use don't select it.
• Clear the recipient Auto-Complete List entry in your email program by following the steps in
this article. Then resend the message, but before you do, delete and retype the complete
address. If your email program suggests an address to use don't select it.
• Contact the recipient by some other means (by phone, for example) to confirm you're using
the right address. Ask them if they've set up an email forwarding rule that could be forwarding
your message to an incorrect address.
If you're still unable to fix the problem, ask the recipient to tell their email admin about the problem,
and give them the server that reported the error below.
For Email Admins
When Office 365 tried to send the message, the external email server returned the error below. This
error was reported by an email server outside Office 365, and if the sender is unable to fix the
problem by correcting the recipient's email address or clearing the Auto-Complete List entry, then it's
likely a problem that only the recipient's email admin can fix.
2
• Check the error for information about where the problem is happening. For example, look
for a domain name. The domain name will tell you which organization was responsible for the
error. The recipient's email server could be causing the problem, or it could be due to a third-
party service that your organization or the recipient's organization is using to process or filter
email messages.
• If you can't fix the problem, contact the responsible party's email admin. This could be
the recipient's email admin, your smart host service admin, or someone similar. Give them the
error and the name of the server that reported the error to help them troubleshoot the issue.
Unfortunately, Office 365 support is unlikely to be able to help with these kinds of externally reported
errors.
Diagnostic information for administrators:
Generating server: CO1PR05MB8119.namprd05.prod.outlook.com
leenapier@lewiscountywa.gov
Remote Server returned '550 5.1.351 Remote server returned unknown recipient or mailbox unavailable -> 550
permanent failure for one or more recipients (leenapier@lewiscountywa.gov:550 No such user
(leenapier@lewiscountywa.gov))'
Original message headers:
ARC-Seal: i=1; a=rsa-sha256; s=arcselector9901; d=microsoft.com; cv=none;
b=n9fzbi9OkLxe7g0Rt2/lmxR1bqCEAx1I9+yh4xFIkMIqj6hvuPtBzF4fDG4+7E/rlhT5I4aZDTJ7EnlshsXROU0
kG9Ss3C3unUmGPioGi1Gx/pVfK//tvm/iNmW3+aozL5i9MwGDGP9olg9M9YeQMSHXpe+k1SHsJMhmOesH+rii7kw0
SUdB2kIx//N5B33AMq8XS/Qj3qFj8tmd6aAJGBri+N3edmvZ89HSgr4fNbcUr4kOitDbUmL3jGMS6j/TKlFboyXri
MpTDE4LKshkV6k348IWIOMy1U6+2HBDAbxNZXoxvXmQkZea34AuvKItCTT2fsPQo7g5+y3jZ8GA2Q==
ARC-Message-Signature: i=1; a=rsa-sha256; c=relaxed/relaxed; d=microsoft.com;
s=arcselector9901;
h=From:Date:Subject:Message-ID:Content-Type:MIME-Version:X-MS-Exchange-SenderADCheck;
bh=PSob5OKxzYLzrK6e64KqyXADBeZgJnCqQ5+NtgjwzNQ=;
b=NPs4NDj5ODi6av4vw9neRVV8arJXObvXF7RfeCfHGRPdQ085/n7f3isrNVnNyPL6hW/4DXvUNq+Piyeta0hibKO
3Pynaai08Cg1YR5T8JTdI+3atXuJwshxWOtoO2DnTwrwYl0W3SOkU1NjPO19nRhuIQ5Ca+tKunR9nnQaJRkDjdX2G
YEcSoQhWDmvYJ/xrYAlMC0cIQBSRgrb9GYRm0jaxSXF3pDieMaDNnr4hMX4XeCPk+dMVXMYRMFBXKk5sUtkBT1lEh
6fiGHjoHpdyyir08pbXdSQQziZ3g374Hag/9rsEwE3O15BOxSJay9gEbKFIQ80FcH3DeA/mMKcxrQ==
ARC-Authentication-Results: i=1; mx.microsoft.com 1; spf=none; dmarc=none;
dkim=none; arc=none
DKIM-Signature: v=1; a=rsa-sha256; c=relaxed/relaxed; d=msn.com; s=selector1;
h=From:Date:Subject:Message-ID:Content-Type:MIME-Version:X-MS-Exchange-SenderADCheck;
bh=PSob5OKxzYLzrK6e64KqyXADBeZgJnCqQ5+NtgjwzNQ=;
b=BtzWDkU869OijML1AsBkf+MV6DohBkd996nfV5sONBylc7fsQ8f0tyKIo2zMF3wSDfo7k26WkcEje5ItifXemkk
v6Nbl+Rk3Tyc39emLGRE1yxARdGsc+unoYnL+2p4OsX4RzwN3l2fhjRTDqhmFW6gZm96hAY9lftBYw1L7aF99B0s2
3
jjBpB1kDfDrq1tOfyEZD1Wp9k6vI89IBLqn3nzCkpCwPKgQGyry993HECT9K1J0Acfkh/dt+2P8tLNderyPUNI1Jv
dBY5EqexFYYW53EeiAcOZWi4T5EUytAwOHwTjfm9pJx1pHgG4RG/AUjchUoNob/CXLm56IGIpaRyA==
Received: from MWHPR05MB3614.namprd05.prod.outlook.com (2603:10b6:301:43::32)
by CO1PR05MB8119.namprd05.prod.outlook.com (2603:10b6:303:fb::24) with
Microsoft SMTP Server (version=TLS1_2,
cipher=TLS_ECDHE_RSA_WITH_AES_256_GCM_SHA384) id 15.20.4457.6; Thu, 19 Aug
2021 21:34:18 +0000
Received: from MWHPR05MB3614.namprd05.prod.outlook.com
([fe80::9047:f3fb:b822:4272]) by MWHPR05MB3614.namprd05.prod.outlook.com
([fe80::9047:f3fb:b822:4272%5]) with mapi id 15.20.4457.005; Thu, 19 Aug 2021
21:34:18 +0000
From: Mark Waters <themuddster@msn.com>
To: "leenapier@lewiscountywa.gov" <leenapier@lewiscountywa.gov>
Subject: FW: YMCA / Nisqually Tribe Joint Venture
Thread-Topic: YMCA / Nisqually Tribe Joint Venture
Thread-Index: AQHXlTOqGgS5PIbZIUKytZBnwseBcKt7WT0t
Date: Thu, 19 Aug 2021 21:34:18 +0000
Message-ID:
<MWHPR05MB3614FF3A243FE9BBA2B52057B4C09@MWHPR05MB3614.namprd05.prod.outlook.com>
References:
<MWHPR05MB3614EAE1BFB6F96440C26073B4C09@MWHPR05MB3614.namprd05.prod.outlook.com>
In-Reply-To:
<MWHPR05MB3614EAE1BFB6F96440C26073B4C09@MWHPR05MB3614.namprd05.prod.outlook.com>
Accept-Language: en-US
Content-Language: en-US
X-MS-Has-Attach:
X-MS-TNEF-Correlator:
x-ms-exchange-messagesentrepresentingtype: 1
x-tmn: [/ngiTkqXPIZMbacS9BWDvDn10TGQjyyp]
x-ms-publictraffictype: Email
x-ms-office365-filtering-correlation-id: 898c55e8-f363-47b3-fc67-08d96359198d
x-ms-traffictypediagnostic: CO1PR05MB8119:
x-microsoft-antispam: BCL:0;
x-microsoft-antispam-message-info:
llQl+u5//LkCihEKIpd1KV//9cDskZkipYLf1Fz/1jgk1F6s5XCfNS3ghYF30W+QofIQ1LHJdGjdxMd2dWqzsE3oK
faohge3rAdIMeEJ+oej9FvuDrMqhCoRAvRUZ4ay4vDBC9v15+/p9Zdyi8ET8NlPhXOMeTPJ9v7ZCQhwwl+R/srAKV
SRYUfTJTKhRVz50UKY8L6XYv9WS1CLSzrN8+ShGCFS8rrojmuiJSlVLNGLizeGT2edo4s6u/2eQAY8DQTOO4tiwlf
wKNtPYaNpOTRlIm/HP+GG7DoRQnz5zaib08xykfWGrAaiNGD21APTvpsuDvOH8SIOt0FCGMz1Ymmnuu7zXQhQ39nN
DbULRzOeHZgUHKWqnywuOQgc4kfC00zmu+hDE69y7uvWrIZrI8za80iBzC0zVCVKaFFVw8Uar49P/5WJpqceWFZgv
Z0LtPyh8GdsjAwnUCdljTEAler/jOMw5dLYl+haKJW7ckA=
x-ms-exchange-antispam-messagedata-chunkcount: 1
x-ms-exchange-antispam-messagedata-0:
lN/mGfyr2Zx6q2qyZ6/cBHtJbDt/Nc0ZHSqIoLdDcRgHqYXkSq+fpV7wIBW1d9wfsctIdrXMn6JMO1XDCjOxI1Lrc
FgT8f+O+jKI2ZueNpnr+jAg7MQgBI71b3eKg3OGGcF9G9aPe0GmF9nPjPRaMQ==
x-ms-exchange-transport-forked: True
Content-Type: multipart/alternative;
boundary="_000_MWHPR05MB3614FF3A243FE9BBA2B52057B4C09MWHPR05MB3614namp_"
MIME-Version: 1.0
X-OriginatorOrg: sct-15-20-3174-8-msonline-outlook-e6bda.templateTenant
X-MS-Exchange-CrossTenant-AuthAs: Internal
X-MS-Exchange-CrossTenant-AuthSource: MWHPR05MB3614.namprd05.prod.outlook.com
X-MS-Exchange-CrossTenant-RMS-PersistedConsumerOrg: 00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000
X-MS-Exchange-CrossTenant-Network-Message-Id: 898c55e8-f363-47b3-fc67-08d96359198d
X-MS-Exchange-CrossTenant-originalarrivaltime: 19 Aug 2021 21:34:18.0831
(UTC)
X-MS-Exchange-CrossTenant-fromentityheader: Hosted
X-MS-Exchange-CrossTenant-id: 84df9e7f-e9f6-40af-b435-aaaaaaaaaaaa
X-MS-Exchange-CrossTenant-rms-persistedconsumerorg: 00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000
X-MS-Exchange-Transport-CrossTenantHeadersStamped: CO1PR05MB8119
4
External Email - Remember to think before you click!
This message may contain links with malware, viruses, etc. Please ensure the message is
legitimate before opening it.
1
Lee Napier
From:S Lago <slago@live.com>
Sent:Friday, August 20, 2021 12:54 PM
To:Lee Napier
Cc:Sean Swope; Lindsey Pollock; Gary Stamper; TeamRidgefield@dfw.wa.gov;
Stacie.Kelsey@dfw.wa.gov
Subject:Greater Seattle YMCA/Nisqually Tribe Mineral Lake Project
Dear Ms. Napier, Community Development Director,
I am writing in regards to the proposed Greater Seattle YMCA / Nisqually Tribe – Mineral Lake Youth Camp.
At this time, I am against the development of this site as a camp.
I am concerned there have not been any public meetings regarding this project.
The report by GeoEngineers (ref 2) (section 4.3 “No elk or evidence of elk concentrations were observed during site
reconnaissance.”) is an abject lie! Our family and friends hunt, hike, and recreate in that area and we have never not
seen evidence of elk or deer in that area.
And that is the least of my concerns. I have concern about the strain it will put on our already beleagered volunteer fire
department, I have concerns about traffic, I have concerns about the potential damage to fish and wildlife habitat, I have
concerns over the water issues...and more
While this project may benefit Mineral and the surrounding communities, there is also the potential for great harm.
There needs to be public meetings where the residence of Mineral can voice their concerns about this project and hear,
first hand, how the County intends to hande the issues of concern before this project goes any further!
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Starla Lago
Mineral, Wa
Sent from my iPhone
External Email - Remember to think before you click!
This message may contain links with malware, viruses, etc. Please ensure the message is legitimate before opening it.
1
Lee Napier
From:Klinton Patrick Caillier <Klinton.Caillier@cwu.edu>
Sent:Wednesday, August 18, 2021 1:52 PM
To:Lee Napier
Cc:jaclyncaillier22@gmail.com
Subject:"Greater Seattle" YMCA Mineral Lake Project comments
Good afternoon, Lee.
I'm writing to you based on my concern for the Mineral Lake YMCA project. My name is Klinton Caillier and I
work as a state licensed Senior Wastewater Operator for the City of Tacoma. My past work has included
Department of Fish and Wildlife water quality and chemistry testing on all the large lakes in eastern
Washington and salmonid studies. My wife works for the National Park Service as a dispatcher, is an ex
Federal Law Enforcement Officer, and has taught trail groups at the Environmental Learning Center, on Lake
Diablo in the North Cascades. We are local community members of Mineral and live at 158 Glacier Drive in a
large private community called LB Ranch. I'm vice president of the HOA for LB Ranch. I believe all of this is
relevant to what I'm writing to you about based on our previous and current occupations.
This project has come to my attention by word of mouth. We have not received any notice in the mail for this
project. The public outreach has been nonexistent, until last week when a meeting had to be moved from a
Lions Hall meeting to a larger venue. It didn't seem like they were there to answer questions but to sell their
project proposal. If you have any notes from that meeting, I would appreciate a copy. I have large concerns
about the emergency response, wastewater, surface water, drinking water, and environmental impact on
area.
The emergency response from the volunteer fire department is not sufficient. The sheriffs don't patrol our
area unless there is an issue. This could lead to poor search and rescue response for children or adults at the
proposed site. The Lewis County Sheriff's Office is stretched thin in the area as well, Pierce County to the north
across the Nisqually River.
As for the wastewater treatment, is it a commercial mound system or lagoon system? The impact of septic
trucks constantly pumping this out and sending it to Tacoma, who is the only local receiving treatment plant
around will leave a large carbon footprint. The surface water runoff to the lake will need to be treated and
tested routinely like any other commercial facility in the state. There is no storm water or wastewater
treatment facility in the town of Mineral. Who will be filling out their monthly reports required for their NPDES
permit if they discharge anywhere? The drinking water and fire suppression required for this facility might
exceed the aquafers' ability to maintain the local community.
This year helicopters pulled from the lake to fight a local forest fire. In doing so they had to draw water from
right in front of where the planned facility will go. The safety of the camp guests and staff is important during
this. The local osprey and bald eagles that nest on the shore will be disturbed as will the fish hatching grounds.
Is there a plan to mitigate any of these concerns? The submittal response from 7/9 by SCJ Alliance Consulting
services seems like they are trying to strong arm your department. All of the county's responses from earlier
Letters of Incompleteness were well founded and made perfect sense. The tone of their response for the
completeness determination on July 9th is essentially them telling you its complete and you must move
forward. When you won't see plans until the 30% drawings. That's engineer speak for rough napkin drawings.
90% drawings and punch lists are what we want to see before a project gets approved.
2
The road improvement section doesn't specify how they will handle Mineral hill roads' non-existent shoulder
from the town of Mineral to the turn off for the proposed camp. If right across the Nisqually River between
Elbe and Ashford a private person can't build a lodge / hotel a quarter mile from the river due to
environmental concerns, then why can a conglomerate do it right on a lake?
The little investigation I've done into the YMCA since finding out about this plan has me concerned. The YMCA
doesn't pay property taxes. Which means no local money is returned for infrastructure up-keep. The local
community members are flipping this bill based on our taxes. The business tax that they pay might go to
Olympia but not back into the local area. The project on certain articles states its over 2000 acres but, in the
submittals, I'm only seeing 643 acres, which is it? There is no evidence that the YMCA or Nisqually Tribe is
going to give back to the community.
Even the submittal response doesn't mention the amount of tribal activity that will occur but just the number
of kids based on their other camps. Based on the news articles I've read it's all about the children and tribal
members. Will the local community members be allowed to get YMCA memberships and use the facility? If
they add in hiking or biking spots open to the general public, we are going to see waves of more people up
here. Take a look at the Little Mashel Falls or Pack Forest in Eatonville. These sites are swamped with cars
parked all over the road with little regard for the natural surroundings. We all live out here for the peace and
quiet as well as the beautiful environment. A large corporation like the YMCA tries to do good things for
children but the evidence on what they do for the environment, or the local community seems to be an
afterthought.
I would love to hear more from the Tribe about their presence in this YMCA partnership. The long-term goal of
the camp is only being described in numbers of campers and employees. It is not being descriptive of how the
tribe will be interacting with the land, the camp itself and the area around it. The first attached news articles
make me wonder if the Nisqually Tribe has longer term plans in the area, we won't be aware of until after its
all built. The second article speaks to the environmental impact of a large camp resort YMCA already owns.
There is some great incite in these two articles.
https://www.seattleymca.org/blog/partnership-nisqually-indian-tribe-new-overnight-camp-and-
environmental-education-center
Partnership with Nisqually Indian Tribe
on New Overnight Camp and
Environmental Education Center |
YMCA of Greater Seattle
Planning Underway for Project at Mineral Lake in Rural
Lewis County. SEATTLE — The YMCA of Greater Seattle
(YMCA) and the Nisqually Indian Tribe are joining forces
to create a new overnight camp on land adjacent to
Mineral Lake in rural Lewis County.. In addition to a
traditional camp offering youth and families from the
3
local area and throughout Washington access to hiking,
swimming ...
www.seattleymca.org
https://www.columbian.com/news/2021/aug/09/what-would-you-need-to-give-up-to-save-salmon-in-
washington/
What would you need to give up to
save salmon in Washington? - The
Columbian
In this photo provided by the California Department of
Fish and Wildlife, a juvenile Chinook salmon leaps from
the raceway at the Iron Gate Fish Hatchery, Siskiyou
County, Calif., July 7, 2021 ...
www.columbian.com
History is a better guide than good intentions.
I hope you hear our concerns and deeply reevaluate this proposed "Greater Seattle" YMCA plan. We don't
need a company in Seattle dictating how our small and great community expands. Please be the reason for
keeping Lewis County wonderful.
Sincerely,
Klinton Caillier
253-686-5350
External Email - Remember to think before you click!
This message may contain links with malware, viruses, etc. Please ensure the message is
legitimate before opening it.
1
Lee Napier
From:steve mayer <theoregonone@hotmail.com>
Sent:Friday, August 20, 2021 4:57 PM
To:Lee Napier
Cc:Sean Swope; Lindsey Pollock; Gary Stamper; TeamRidgefield@dfw.wa.gov;
Stacie.Kelsey@dfw.wa.gov
Subject:Subject: Greater Seattle YMCA/Nisqually Tribe Mineral Lake Project
Dear Ms. Napier, Community Development Director,
I am writing in regards to the proposed Greater Seattle YMCA / Nisqually Tribe – Mineral Lake Youth Camp.
At this time, I am against the development of this site as a camp.
I am concerned there have not been any public meetings regarding this project.
I have concern about the strain it will put on our already beleagered volunteer fire department, I have concerns about
traffic, I have concerns about the potential damage to fish and wildlife habitat, I have concerns over the water
issues...and more
The report by GeoEngineers (ref 2) (section 4.3 “No elk or evidence of elk concentrations were observed during site
reconnaissance.”) is an abject lie! Our family and friends hunt, hike, and recreate in that area and we have never not
seen evidence of elk or deer in that area. The local Elk herd spend a lot of time in the area they are wanting to develop.
What is the benefit to Mineral and the surrounding area? There is potential for great harm to the ecosystem, and the
aquifer that residents rely on. There needs to be public meetings where the residence of Mineral can voice their
concerns about this project and hear, first hand, how the County intends to handle the issues of concern before this
project goes any further!
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sent from my iPhone
External Email - Remember to think before you click!
This message may contain links with malware, viruses, etc. Please ensure the message is legitimate before opening it.
1
Lee Napier
From:badarn ---- <badarn@msn.com>
Sent:Friday, August 20, 2021 11:58 AM
To:Lee Napier
Cc:Sean Swope; Lindsey Pollock; Gary Stamper; TeamRidgefield@dfw.wa.gov;
Stacie.Kelsey@dfw.wa.gov
Subject:Mineral Lake YMCA/Nisqually Tribe Planned Camp
Dear Ms. Napier – Community Development Director,
I am writing in regards to the proposed Greater Seattle YMCA / Nisqually Tribe – Mineral Lake Youth Camp.
I am against the development of this site as a camp. Besides the fact that I grew up on this lake and resent
having to share it with money grubbing, inconsiderate organizations, the following are just some other issues
that I have with the proposal.
Impact to Mineral Lake, lake use by community and boating/fishing public. - As stated on the YMCA
blog/website (ref 1), the camp will provide “swimming, canoeing”, this will require a portion of the lake be
restricted from the public use, as all “youth” camps require a “safe swim/safe aquatics” area. This is a safety
requirement even for state parks. Based upon the proposed location of the lodge and future cabins (as discuss
and shown at the Mineral Lake Lions Club presentation (ref 6)) I foresee the YMCA/Nisqually Tribe requesting
a portion of the lake being docked, roped/buoyed, and “safe zoned”. I believe based on 12+ years as a
Scoutmaster whom attended many different camps that the logical location would be directly in front of the
lodge (even as at other YMCA camps/Camp Coleman as example). See screen grab of (Insert #1) Camp
Coleman and my predicted location of the “safe swim/dock” area (Insert #2).
I am also concerned that since the YMCA / Nisqually Tribe are considering a “canoeing” program they will be
petitioning the state limit speed (even lower that currently established), restricting boating hours, and limiting
“safe zone” buffers along the shoreline for the canoeing activities. This would further restrict the general
publics use of the lake for fishing and recreating.
Impact to local wildlife – The proposed camp and use by campers (400+/-) and staff (100+/-) will have a
significant impact on the local Blacktail Deer and Rocky Mountain Elk population. The camp development will
reduce and disrupt this forested wildlife area used by these mammals. Currently there are deer and elk on this
property and I disagree with the report by GeoEngineers (ref 2) (section 4.3 “No elk or evidence of elk
concentrations were observed during site reconnaissance.”) and would be willing to escort you or any state
agents on this property to show you evidence. The state currently sets aside areas and season (hunting season)
so these animals have a safe and low stress area during fawning/calving season and winter season. The state and
federal government also have implemented road and access restriction in these areas to help with conservation
efforts.
I am also concerned that since the YMCA has “partnered” with the Nisqually Tribe the hunting practices and
season could have a severe impact on the local elk and deer herds/population. As stated on the YMCA blog
“The partnership will provide Nisqually Tribal members with expanded access to berries, roots, and other native
plants for spiritual retreats and vision quests and will offer opportunities for game and bird hunting to fulfill
cultural and traditional experiences. The Tribe plans to help build the next generation of stewards of this land by
working directly with the YMCA to develop programming and curriculum for Tribal families and by providing
the Tribe access to the camp’s facilities.“ (ref 1) the Nisqually’s will be hunting this land, which implies that the
2
general public will not be allowed to hunt this area (How is hunting on a youth camp safe or will they restrict
access during the tribal hunting?). Also, the tribes have in the past show contempt for conservation activities
and limiting of hunting elk. If you have questions please contact WDFW and ask about the decimation of the
Colockum Elk Herd. (ref 3) Tribes are not required to document and report their harvest to the state, so the
impact is only a projected number.
Transportation – the Mineral Hill Rd (north) would be uses as access to the camp based on the YMCA’s
documentation. As a resident of the area I can attest that Hwy 7 and Mineral Hill Rd will be dramatically
impacted as will the local community. Based upon yearly experiences during holiday weekends (Memorial Day,
Independence Day, Labor Day) and opening weekend of trout fishing season the traffic is so bad on Hwy 7 that
it is backed up from the Elbe Bridge to/or past Pleasant Valley Road. (2.17 miles). On opening weekend of trout
season it is not unusual for traffic to be backed up both north and south for .5 mile. A 30% - 57% (ref 4)
increase of individual/private vehicles will cause a significant problem for local population and increase the
wear and tear of the roads which will increase the oil and vehicle fluids into the local water systems (damaging
fish habitat) and I believe a increase in trash along the road (based on personal experience after long weekends.
Remember state DOT has documented the negative impacts on salmon/fish/watershed from increased vehicles
on the roadway.
Water Use/Table – I am very concerned about the negative impact to local water resources both the lake and the
water tables. In reviewing Lewis Counties Aquafer Recharging Area (ref 5) it appears that a fairly large area of
level 2 “moderate” area will be under the camp and main lodge area. This could have an impact on the local
watershed.
Increasing the “well water” use by 100+/- staff and 400+/- campers during the driest part of the year will cause
dramatic use and draws on the water needed and used by the local community. The camp will need to use water
for showering, cooking, cleaning, etc. and the volume of use could me more that the system could handle.
I have a questions for the YMCA/Nisqually Tribe regarding how many fulltime residences will be living onsite
year around, as a deterrent to homeless/vagrant/drug use/crime? Will they commit to hiring more than 50% of
the staff/builders/etc for full time camp staffing? Will the YMCA sign a legally binding contract with Lewis
County that this property will not be turned over to the Nisqually Tribe if the YMCA decides in the future to
close the camp, perhaps deeding the property back to the local community or the state? Why isn’t the
YMCA/Nisqually Tribe purchasing one of the camps that are closing, i.e. Boy Scout camps, Church Camps?
Lastly, as a resident I believe Lewis County Development should be focused on the development of the
community and those developments that will provide significant tax revenue increases and job opportunities.
The YMCA/Nisqually Tribe will pay no taxes as stated at the Lion Club presentation (ref 6), as a 504c3 and
tribe, therefore Lewis county will gain very little if any tax increase or benefit from this camp. This will then
become a property tax increase to local communities.
I believe the Greater Seattle YMCA is looking at establishing this camp opportunity outside of King County
because the property values/costs are lower and trying to get away from the problems they, Seattle/King
County, have committed for themselves. Water, Land, and Road use/development within King County has
become so restrictive that the YMCA knows it would take an act of Congress to build a new camp within King
County. They are looking to take advantage of Lewis County and rural communities. It also appears that the
YMCA was trying to keep it hidden from locals, state agency’s (WDFW contact Region 5 office) and news
agency’s (The Chronicle) that the Nisqually Tribe would be the “purchasing partner” (ref 1) for this property.
I believe that the Nisqually Tribe is looking to increase their land holding, similar to the Nisqually Community
Forrest, which will limit use of these land/potentially waters by other residents and local citizens. If the
Nisqually Tribe gains control and use of this land they will be able to control and restrict use, and the State will
not be able to or willing to stop them. This is proven time and time again at state hunting and fishing setting
3
meeting with WDFW.
Please keep Lewis County residents and communities as your focus, especially the small Mineral community!
Thank you
Arne L. Shields
Reference Information:
Ref 1 - Greater Seattle YMCA blog - https://www.seattleymca.org/blog/partnership-nisqually-indian-tribe-new-
overnight-camp-and-environmental-education-center#:~:text=SEATTLE — The YMCA of Greater,Lake in
rural Lewis County.&text=The YMCA is in the,to begin developing the property.
Ref 2 -GeoEngineers Critical Areas Letter -
https://lewiscountywa.gov/media/documents/2021.04.05_YMCA_Mineral_Lake_Critical_Areas_Letter_00Lcg
hc.pdf
Ref 3 -Colockum Elk - https://www.co.kittitas.wa.us/uploads/cds/land-use/Conditional Use Permits/CU-09-
00005 Teanaway Solar Reserve/16_SEPA_AttH_Wildlife_Mitigation_Plan.pdf
Ref 4 - Mineral Lake Trip Generation -
https://lewiscountywa.gov/media/documents/2021.04.05_YMCA_Mineral_Lake_Trip_Generation_Memo.pdf
Ref 5 -Lewis County Aquifer Recharge -
https://maps.lewiscountywa.gov/maps/Environmental/cnty_aquifer.pdf
Ref 6 - Video of Lions Club meeting with YMCA - https://fb.watch/7uJYSwrzu3/
External Email - Remember to think before you click!
This message may contain links with malware, viruses, etc. Please ensure the message is
legitimate before opening it.
1
Lee Napier
From:Marcelle Stenzig <marcelle.stenzig@gmail.com>
Sent:Friday, August 20, 2021 2:00 PM
To:Lee Napier
Subject:Mineral Lake YMCA/Nisqually Tribe Planned Camp
Dear Mrs. Napier – Community Development Director,
I am writing in regards to the proposed Greater Seattle YMCA / Nisqually Tribe – Mineral Lake Youth Camp.
I am against the development of this site as a camp. Following are just some of the issues that I have with the proposal.
Impact to Mineral Lake, lake use by community and boating/fishing public. - As stated on the YMCA blog/website (ref 1),
the camp will provide “swimming, canoeing”, this will require a portion of the lake be restricted from the public use, as
all “youth” camps require a “safe swim/safe aquatics” area. This is a safety requirement even for state parks. Based
upon the proposed location of the lodge and future cabins (as discuss and shown at the Mineral Lake Lions Club
presentation (ref 6)) I foresee the YMCA/Nisqually Tribe requesting a portion of the lake being docked, roped/buoyed,
and “safe zoned”. I believe based on 12+ years as a Scoutmaster whom attended many different camps that the logical
location would be directly in front of the lodge (even as at other YMCA camps/Camp Coleman as example). See screen
grab of (Insert #1) Camp Coleman and my predicted location of the “safe swim/dock” area (Insert #2).
I am also concerned that since the YMCA / Nisqually Tribe are considering a “canoeing” program they will be petitioning
the state limit speed (even lower that currently established), restricting boating hours, and limiting “safe zone” buffers
along the shoreline for the canoeing activities. This would further restrict the general publics use of the lake for fishing
and recreating.
Impact to local wildlife – The proposed camp and use by campers (400+/-) and staff (100+/-) will have a significant
impact on the local Blacktail Deer and Rocky Mountain Elk population. The camp development will reduce and disrupt
this forested wildlife area used by these mammals. Currently there are deer and elk on this property and I disagree with
the report by GeoEngineers (ref 2) (section 4.3 “No elk or evidence of elk concentrations were observed during site
reconnaissance.”) and would be willing to escort you or any state agents on this property to show you evidence. The
state currently sets aside areas and season (hunting season) so these animals have a safe and low stress area during
fawning/calving season and winter season. The state and federal government also have implemented road and access
restriction in these areas to help with conservation efforts.
I am also concerned that since the YMCA has “partnered” with the Nisqually Tribe the hunting practices and season
could have a severe impact on the local elk and deer herds/population. As stated on the YMCA blog “The partnership
will provide Nisqually Tribal members with expanded access to berries, roots, and other native plants for spiritual
retreats and vision quests and will offer opportunities for game and bird hunting to fulfill cultural and traditional
experiences. The Tribe plans to help build the next generation of stewards of this land by working directly with the
YMCA to develop programming and curriculum for Tribal families and by providing the Tribe access to the camp’s
facilities.“ (ref 1) the Nisqually’s will be hunting this land, which implies that the general public will not be allowed to
hunt this area (How is hunting on a youth camp safe or will they restrict access during the tribal hunting?). Also, the
tribes have in the past show contempt for conservation activities and limiting of hunting elk. If you have questions
please contact WDFW and ask about the decimation of the Colockum Elk Herd. (ref 3) Tribes are not required to
document and report their harvest to the state, so the impact is only a projected number.
Transportation – the Mineral Hill Rd (north) would be uses as access to the camp based on the YMCA’s documentation.
As a resident of the area I can attest that Hwy 7 and Mineral Hill Rd will be dramatically impacted as will the local
2
community. Based upon yearly experiences during holiday weekends (Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day) and
opening weekend of trout fishing season the traffic is so bad on Hwy 7 that it is backed up from the Elbe Bridge to/or
past Pleasant Valley Road. (2.17 miles). On opening weekend of trout season it is not unusual for traffic to be backed up
both north and south for .5 mile. A 30% - 57% (ref 4) increase of individual/private vehicles will cause a significant
problem for local population and increase the wear and tear of the roads which will increase the oil and vehicle fluids
into the local water systems (damaging fish habitat) and I believe a increase in trash along the road (based on personal
experience after long weekends. Remember state DOT has documented the negative impacts on salmon/fish/watershed
from increased vehicles on the roadway.
Water Use/Table – I am very concerned about the negative impact to local water resources both the lake and the water
tables. In reviewing Lewis Counties Aquafer Recharging Area (ref 5) it appears that a fairly large area of level 2
“moderate” area will be under the camp and main lodge area. This could have an impact on the local watershed.
Increasing the “well water” use by 100+/- staff and 400+/- campers during the driest part of the year will cause dramatic
use and draws on the water needed and used by the local community. The camp will need to use water for showering,
cooking, cleaning, etc. and the volume of use could me more that the system could handle.
I have a questions for the YMCA/Nisqually Tribe regarding how many fulltime residences will be living onsite year
around, as a deterrent to homeless/vagrant/drug use/crime? Will they commit to hiring more than 50% of the
staff/builders/etc for full time camp staffing? Will the YMCA sign a legally binding contract with Lewis County that this
property will not be turned over to the Nisqually Tribe if the YMCA decides in the future to close the camp, perhaps
deeding the property back to the local community or the state? Why isn’t the YMCA/Nisqually Tribe purchasing one of
the camps that are closing, i.e. Boy Scout camps, Church Camps?
Lastly, as a resident I believe Lewis County Development should be focused on the development of the community and
those developments that will provide significant tax revenue increases and job opportunities. The YMCA/Nisqually Tribe
will pay no taxes as stated at the Lion Club presentation (ref 6), as a 504c3 and tribe, therefore Lewis county will gain
very little if any tax increase or benefit from this camp. This will then become a property tax increase to local
communities.
I believe the Greater Seattle YMCA is looking at establishing this camp opportunity outside of King County because the
property values/costs are lower and trying to get away from the problems they, Seattle/King County, have committed
for themselves. Water, Land, and Road use/development within King County has become so restrictive that the YMCA
knows it would take an act of Congress to build a new camp within King County. They are looking to take advantage of
Lewis County and rural communities. It also appears that the YMCA was trying to keep it hidden from locals, state
agency’s (WDFW contact Region 5 office) and news agency’s (The Chronicle) that the Nisqually Tribe would be the
“purchasing partner” (ref 1) for this property.
I believe that the Nisqually Tribe is looking to increase their land holding, similar to the Nisqually Community Forrest,
which will limit use of these land/potentially waters by other residents and local citizens. If the Nisqually Tribe gains
control and use of this land they will be able to control and restrict use, and the State will not be able to or willing to
stop them. This is proven time and time again at state hunting and fishing setting meeting with WDFW.
Please keep Lewis County residents and communities as your focus, especially the small Mineral community!
Thank you for your time,
Marcelle Stenzig, Mineral Home Owner
Reference Information:
Ref 1 - Greater Seattle YMCA blog -
https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fwww.seattleymca.org%2fblog%2fpartnership-nisqually-indian-
3
tribe-new-overnight-camp-and-environmental-education-
center%23%3a~%3atext%3dSEATTLE%20%e2%80%94%20The%20YMCA%20of%20Greater%2cLake%20in%20rural%20Le
wis%20County.%26text%3dThe%20YMCA%20is%20in%20the%2cto%20begin%20developing%20the%20property.&c=E,1
,snjB1t9K4vqHp4CaSvtoO0buRXqcvT7CLRBqFP25QAvbb-
xoIE93oluxIL9FC3TEIuGJ4IbaI1ZjFKDLTxbMM2Mn8wrvYrM41IvVHevefdAKI-H69M1p_2UvO24,&typo=1
Ref 2 -GeoEngineers Critical Areas Letter -
https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2flewiscountywa.gov%2fmedia%2fdocuments%2f2021.04.05_YM
CA_Mineral_Lake_Critical_Areas_Letter_00Lcghc.pdf&c=E,1,HcHC37rIrhuxdxqgv5IovVTklglt7bl0R3d0AG5QzNv6b0dxuAb
9OuIbm7E-cegZ_RWve8u-SiAF77TRqJARiOJyL6xA0bBUJ_Cuavi2W_Bp0IxhKttq83Su&typo=1
Ref 3 -Colockum Elk -
https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fwww.co.kittitas.wa.us%2fuploads%2fcds%2fland-
use%2fConditional%20Use%20Permits%2fCU-09-
00005%20Teanaway%20Solar%20Reserve%2f16_SEPA_AttH_Wildlife_Mitigation_Plan.pdf&c=E,1,EUrO1ny52urezkdnmP
34ZzFgPb-cZESyHe1sLY9S6rYBhiJbIjyVmIx7h7qUBfIowgFduUW71CA-fUGl5cuvenqNvv_t35HbldQYHdChAQ,,&typo=1
Ref 4 - Mineral Lake Trip Generation -
https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2flewiscountywa.gov%2fmedia%2fdocuments%2f2021.04.05_YM
CA_Mineral_Lake_Trip_Generation_Memo.pdf&c=E,1,sT8pZMVykoDFVpydHyShBZa5byLB3NENPhqvEgHBB2gG-
xbls3n907mWz7ER6N_bKXlWausx5-9B0kxO-kbcVHnzFHbFDRjQDC6Z_fsURffRhVH823M-zQ,,&typo=1
Ref 5 -Lewis County Aquifer Recharge -
https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fmaps.lewiscountywa.gov%2fmaps%2fEnvironmental%2fcnty_aq
uifer.pdf&c=E,1,JpCZg187dhuMYOAj7tIkGNdpAllH1z8kuenLzR3TzK_l61v6wEuv81J1DAZdp9DWEc4_riWECGG-
dNZbjh8jwHhyReGV9uQJ2T85YkUwhw,,&typo=1
Ref 6 - Video of Lions Club meeting with YMCA - https://fb.watch/7uJYSwrzu3/
External Email - Remember to think before you click!
This message may contain links with malware, viruses, etc. Please ensure the message is legitimate before opening it.
1
Lee Napier
From:Kendall Waters <kendallwaters55@icloud.com>
Sent:Friday, August 20, 2021 2:36 PM
To:Lee Napier
Cc:Gary Stamper; TeamRidgefield@dfw.wa.gov; stacie.kelsey@dfw.wa.gov
Subject:Mineral Lake YMCA/ Nisqually Tribe Project
Dear Lee,
I am writing in objection to the proposed Mineral Lake, Nisqually Tribe Project. I believe this project would be
detrimental for this town of Mineral, WA.
I have been coming to this lake and our families property since I could walk. We come here to fish, camp, swim
and boat on the lake. This is our escape from the hustle and bustle from everyday life, where we can enjoy the
peace and tranquility. This project would have an overall negative impact on the town from the wildlife, water
resources, vehicle and human traffic.
Based on the YMCA blog they will be providing swimming and canoeing. To do so they would have to section
off part of the lake for the swimming area. They may also try and impose a speed limit for the canoeing, this
will greatly limit the use to the boating public. Due to the size of the project it will have a negative impact on
the wildlife in this area. A project of this size will displace and destroy the homes of many animals. In addition
it has the potential for significantly polluting the lakes, creeks, streams and rivers in this area. Allowing
this project to go through would also add substantial wear and tear on the current roads due to the increase in
vehicle and human traffic. This project will impact the water resources for local residents as well. To support a
camp of this stature it will need a substantial amount of water, this amount of water could impact the local
watershed. The YMCA and Nisqually Tribe will pay no taxes per the Lions Club presentation therefore the
town will gain very little or no tax benefit, it will only raise the taxes for the local community. Another issue
with letting this project move forward is the emergency services. To bring in this many children the risk of a
serious life threatening incident is increased exponentially. This town does not have the resources nor aide to
take on a serious incident for example, a drowning victim. The nearest major trauma hospital would be Good
Samaritan Hospital. This project would be negligent in many ways but most importantly to bring in this camp
knowing the resources for aide cannot support it, you would be putting children's lives at risk. This size project
belongs in an urban setting not a rural setting.
Sincerely,
Kendall Waters
164 Mineral Hill Road
External Email - Remember to think before you click!
This message may contain links with malware, viruses, etc. Please ensure the message is
legitimate before opening it.
1
Lee Napier
From:labrecq2@aol.com
Sent:Friday, August 20, 2021 11:29 AM
To:Lee Napier
Cc:miclar9871@aol.com; Sean Swope; Lindsey Pollock; Gary Stamper;
TeamRidgefield@dfw.wa.gov; Stacie.Kelsey@dfw.wa.gov
Subject:RE: Mineral Lake YMCA/Nisqually Tribe Planned Camp Development
Dear Mr. Napier – Community Development Director,
We are writing in regards to the proposed Greater Seattle YMCA / Nisqually Tribe – Mineral Lake Youth Camp.
We are against the development of this site as a camp. Following are just some of the issues that we have with the
proposal as lifelong property owners in Mineral and have discussed with other local stakeholders.
Impact to Mineral Lake, lake use by community and boating/fishing public. - As stated on the YMCA blog/website
(ref 1), the camp will provide “swimming, canoeing”, this will require a portion of the lake be restricted from the public use,
as all “youth” camps require a “safe swim/safe aquatics” area. This is a safety requirement even for state parks. Based
upon the proposed location of the lodge and future cabins (as discuss and shown at the Mineral Lake Lions Club
presentation (ref 6)) this will likely be the need for the YMCA/Nisqually Tribe to request a portion of the lake being docked,
roped/buoyed, and “safe zoned”.
We are also concerned that since the YMCA / Nisqually Tribe are considering a “canoeing” program they will be
petitioning the state limit speed (even lower that currently established), restricting boating hours, and limiting “safe zone”
buffers along the shoreline for the canoeing activities. This would further restrict the general publics use of the lake for
fishing and recreating.
Impact to local wildlife – The proposed camp and use by campers (400+/-) and staff (100+/-) will have a significant
impact on the local Blacktail Deer and Rocky Mountain Elk population. The camp development will reduce and disrupt this
forested wildlife area used by these mammals. Currently there are deer and elk on this property and we disagree with the
report by GeoEngineers (ref 2) (section 4.3 “No elk or evidence of elk concentrations were observed during site
reconnaissance.”) and have many local (and concerned) residents that would be willing to escort you or any state agents
on this property to show you evidence. The state currently sets aside areas and season (hunting season) so these
animals have a safe and low stress area during fawning/calving season and winter season. The state and federal
government also have implemented road and access restriction in these areas to help with conservation efforts.
We are also concerned that since the YMCA has “partnered” with the Nisqually Tribe the hunting practices and season
could have a severe impact on the local elk and deer herds/population. As stated on the YMCA blog “The partnership will
provide Nisqually Tribal members with expanded access to berries, roots, and other native plants for spiritual retreats and
vision quests and will offer opportunities for game and bird hunting to fulfill cultural and traditional experiences. The Tribe
plans to help build the next generation of stewards of this land by working directly with the YMCA to develop programming
and curriculum for Tribal families and by providing the Tribe access to the camp’s facilities." (ref 1) the Nisqually’s will be
hunting this land, which implies that the general public will not be allowed to hunt this area (How is hunting at a youth
camp safe and/or will they restrict access during the tribal hunting?). Also, the tribes have in the past show contempt for
conservation activities and limiting of hunting elk. If you have questions please contact WDFW and ask about the
decimation of the Colockum Elk Herd. (ref 3) Tribes are not required to document and report their harvest to the state, so
the impact is only a projected number.
Transportation – the Mineral Hill Rd (north) would be used as access to the camp based on the YMCA’s documentation.
As lifelong residents of the area we can attest that Hwy 7 and Mineral Hill Rd will be dramatically impacted as will the local
community. During holiday weekends (Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day) and opening weekend of trout
fishing season, the traffic is so bad on Hwy 7 that it is backed up from the Elbe Bridge to/or past Pleasant Valley Road.
(2.17 miles). On opening weekend of trout season it is not unusual for traffic to be backed up both north and south for .5
mile. A 30% - 57% (ref 4) increase of individual/private vehicles will cause a significant problem for local population and
increase the wear and tear of the roads, which will also contribute to thel increase in oil and vehicle fluids into the local
2
water systems (damaging fish habitat) and we believe a increase in road pollution (The State DOT has documented the
negative impacts on salmon/fish/watershed from increased vehicles on the roadways).
Water Use/Table – We are very concerned about the negative impact to local water resources both the lake and the
water tables. In reviewing Lewis Counties Aquafer Recharging Area (ref 5) it appears that a fairly large area of level 2
“moderate” area will be under the camp and main lodge area. This could have an impact on the local watershed.
Increasing the “well water” use by 100+/- staff and 400+/- campers during the driest part of the year will cause dramatic
use and draws on the water needed and used by the local community. The camp will need to use water for showering,
cooking, cleaning, etc. and the volume of use could be more that the area could handle.
Additional Questions: How many full-time residences will be living onsite year round? Methods to deter
homeless/vagrant/drug use/crime? Will they commit to hiring more than 50% of the staff/builders/etc for full time camp
staffing? Will the YMCA sign a legally binding contract with Lewis County that this property will not be turned over to the
Nisqually Tribe if the YMCA decides in the future to close the camp, perhaps deeding the property back to the local
community or the state?
Please keep Lewis County residents and communities as your focus, especially our small community. This not the right
development for this area. We are adamantly against this proposal.
Thank you,
Gary & Agnes Labrecque
Larry & Mary Raab
Reference Information:
Ref 1 - Greater Seattle YMCA blog - https://www.seattleymca.org/blog/partnership-nisqually-indian-tribe-new-overnight-
camp-and-environmental-education-
center#:~:text=SEATTLE%20%E2%80%94%20The%20YMCA%20of%20Greater,Lake%20in%20rural%20Lewis%20Cou
nty.&text=The%20YMCA%20is%20in%20the,to%20begin%20developing%20the%20property.
Ref 2 - GeoEngineers Critical Areas Letter
- https://lewiscountywa.gov/media/documents/2021.04.05_YMCA_Mineral_Lake_Critical_Areas_Letter_00Lcghc.pdf
Ref 3 - Colockum Elk - https://www.co.kittitas.wa.us/uploads/cds/land-use/Conditional%20Use%20Permits/CU-09-
00005%20Teanaway%20Solar%20Reserve/16_SEPA_AttH_Wildlife_Mitigation_Plan.pdf
Ref 4 - Mineral Lake Trip Generation
- https://lewiscountywa.gov/media/documents/2021.04.05_YMCA_Mineral_Lake_Trip_Generation_Memo.pdf
Ref 5 - Lewis County Aquifer Recharge - https://maps.lewiscountywa.gov/maps/Environmental/cnty_aquifer.pdf
Ref 6 - Video of Lions Club meeting with YMCA - https://fb.watch/7uJYSwrzu3/
External Email - Remember to think before you click!
This message may contain links with malware, viruses, etc. Please ensure the message is
legitimate before opening it.
1
Lee Napier
From:Alexis Shellenback <a.shellenback@gmail.com>
Sent:Thursday, August 19, 2021 4:35 PM
To:Lee Napier
Subject:Mineral Lake YMCA/ Nisqually Tribe Project
Hello Lee,
I am reaching out in regards to the Mineral Lake YMCA/ Nisqually Tribe Project.
My parents (property owners on the lake), grandparents and great grandparents on both sides of my family, have been
coming to the lake for 60+ years, bringing us since we could walk and hold a fishing rod. From opening weekend fishing
every year, to week long camping trips multiple times over the summer, to just taking a drive up to see the mountain on
a nice sunny day. Over the years we have made many memories coming to the lake and have enjoyed the peace and
tranquility. Most importantly, Mineral Lake and the surrounding area, have been a crown jewel in the region for well
over a century. I believe by allowing this project to move forward would create more negative impacts to the area than
positive. From vehicle traffic, foot traffic, boat and/or people on the lake, as well as negativity impacting local
businesses. I am completely and utterly opposed to this project.
Sincerely,
Alexis Shellenback
External Email - Remember to think before you click!
This message may contain links with malware, viruses, etc. Please ensure the message is legitimate before opening it.
1
Lee Napier
From:Jane Hodges <janehodges@hotmail.com>
Sent:Friday, August 20, 2021 4:56 PM
To:Lee Napier
Subject:SUBSTITUTE COMMENT Mineral YMCA/Nisqually Camp site
August 20, 2021
Dear Lee Napier,
I have owned property in Mineral since 2013 and spend about half the year living in town, and I wanted to
express my thoughts in favor of the proposed camp plan. While I have questions about how the site will
operate in terms of emergency services, security, lighting, the possible size and scale of development, and
waterfront and lake usage (questions I don't feel qualified to nitpick about at this juncture and where others
have more detailed/informed queries), I feel that through negotiation the county and town can work out an
arrangement through which the YMCA/Nisqually pay into funds to support the local fire department and
possibly also support and run a public water system. I spoke with a friend who used to work for a tribal
government in risk management and he said it is customary for tribes, especially with hunting rights or other
land usage agreements, to pay a percentage into the local tax base for purposes such as these and that all is
negotiable.
Many longtime Mineral residents or regular summertime visitors feel they "own" the lake and waterfront and
don't want "outsiders" to "disturb their peace." While I understand the town fended off a project in which
timber lands would be sold as 20-acre lots overlooking the water, possibly creating an "affluent hill"
overlooking a "regular folks' village," and why that project was opposed culturally speaking, I feel the YMCA
project brings a combination of factors that would be beneficial to the local community, economic
development broadly speaking in Lewis County, and the national profile of the area as it relates to Mt. Rainier.
While many people have chosen to be in Mineral because it is quiet and has a limited, rural economy -- and I
chose Mineral as a site for an artists' residency because our fundraising-driven economics don't require a
"bustling local economy" for our program to operate, and "being the residency near Mt. Rainer" is a handy
way for folks to remember us -- there are numerous ways in which Mineral is left behind regarding basic
advances in terms of infrastructure (a public water system or recycling collection, for instance), public safety
(our lack of incorporation and small population mean it can take 20-30 minutes for police assistance), and
economic opportunity (a small population, many of whom live on fixed retirement income or seasonal
employment, means there are few people to support new businesses and few young adults running services
business ranging from landscaping to contracting, and those who do run these services are few and hard to
find out there).
Why am I in favor of a camp plan? There are several reasons. The camp can potentially:
• Shift the lake's usage away from so much motorized and beer-can boating toward more family friendly
and all-ages usage
• Shift the town's dependence away from "fishing season" to a year-round economy
• Bring the town desperately needed infrastructure improvements that benefit not just the camp site
but the entire town, such as a potential public water system that we pay for proportionately (with their
site likely the far-largest customer), possible public restrooms, etc.
2
• Shift the town's insular vibe to one that is inclusive, nationally known small community where
everyone coexists in harmony and in nature, with the Y and Nisqually project sited on a low-impact
space across the lake and the "downtown" still as is
• Bring in what Lewis County needs -- a tilt toward "a little more REI, a little less Cabela's" -- less motors,
more self-propelled athletics with a lower carbon footprint, more environmentally gentle camping
• Create ballpark 300 jobs for skilled workers who are vetted to work in community and around
children/educational setting. With this many full-time jobs, there are opportunities to build or rent out
workforce housing, and there would be opportunities for more than one restaurant in town. I know the
American Legion, which is under-utilized except for fishing opener, is approved for at least occasional
commercial kitchen use. It's ready to go...
• Reduce perceptions of rural racism and xenophobia by advancing the coexistence of a camp and Native
American cultural site alongside the town's legacy businesses and activities.
• Dovetail with what I understand are potential plans for Timberland Regional Library to bring one of its
mobile libraries and potential associated programs to the town
• Dovetail with artist programs at Mineral School
• Increase the skilled labor force, especially for seasonal employment and jobs like cleaning, cashiering,
and landscaping/contracting
• Create an opportunity to collaborate with the Nisqually Indian Tribe on joint economic activity that
benefits who lives in/around town and also honors the land's history as Nisqually land -- it is an
opportunity for Lewis County to set an example in how to collaborate.
• Create a valuable stop on the "Road to Rainier Scenic Byway" initiative started a few years ago out of
Pierce County -- including Eatonville, Elbe, Ashford, and with a spur to Mineral -- to bring visitors to
town to see what is there.
• Replace the lost income and job opportunities formerly available via the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad
I could go on and on about the possible benefits to Mineral that I see with this project. I feel it would be
possible (but not necessarily easy), with thoughtful planning and innovative economic development thinking,
to weave the presence of this large site into the fabric of Mineral without excessively burdening the shoreline,
fishing lake activities, emergency services, or resulting new "taxes" anyone faces.
I realize I spend time in Mineral as a "second home" and do not have the deep roots of some people in the
community. However, I can think of no less than 10 new residents of Mineral who have arrived during the
COVID-19 pandemic, and an additional 5 to 10 who plan to permanently move to Mineral when they reach
early retirement. That's actually a sizable volume of demographic change for a town of 200, and many of these
folks are not aware or have only learned recently about the possible camp project. I am interested in seeing
more accessible, family-friendly opportunities in the area, and projects that are led by professional and deep
pocketed organizations who have gone through large site development projects before.
Thank you for your time.
Jane Hodges
206-937-5643 (home office)
206-854-4476 (mobile phone)
Founding Director of Mineral School nonprofit (www.mineral-school.org)
Owner of the Mineral elementary school property
External Email - Remember to think before you click!
3
This message may contain links with malware, viruses, etc. Please ensure the message is
legitimate before opening it.
1
Lee Napier
From:Bob Mohrbacher <bob.mohrbacher@centralia.edu>
Sent:Thursday, August 19, 2021 1:47 PM
To:Lee Napier
Subject:Support for a YMCA Camp in Mineral
Dear Ms. Napier,
I am writing to express my support for the development of a YMCA camp at Mineral Lake. I have followed this project
with interest since I first heard about is some months ago. I attended an online information session and have had some
follow up emails with members of the development team. I believe that this camp would be a positive development for
East Lewis County.
Centralia College works hard to maintain an active presence in East County through our campus in Morton. We are
committed to supporting those communities with educational opportunities and with programming to keep those small
communities vibrant. I believe that a YMCA camp at Mineral Lake would dovetail nicely with the college’s efforts to
serve all of East County.
In addition, youth summer camps are an excellent way to make sure kids get outdoor education and recreation. I went
to summer camp when I was young; many members of my family have spent years working at a variety of summer
camps around Washington State. I believe that the YMCA would bring valuable experiences to kids, would provide an
appropriate level of development in rural East County, and would be good stewards of the property that they are asking
to develop.
On behalf of Centralia College, I would like to express my enthusiastic support for this project. I encourage Lewis County
to approve the comprehensive plan amendment submitted by YMCA of Greater Seattle.
Bob Mohrbacher
President, Centralia College
(360) 623 8552
bob.mohrbacher@centralia.edu
External Email - Remember to think before you click!
This message may contain links with malware, viruses, etc. Please ensure the message is
legitimate before opening it.
1
Lee Napier
From:Jennifer Fueston <jennifer2116@msn.com>
Sent:Friday, August 20, 2021 11:13 AM
To:Lee Napier
Subject:To whom it may Concern;
I am writing today to express my concerns about the YMCA / Nisqually Tribe Camp Project in Mineral.
We are a small community, we rely on the lake, woods and water table for our daily lives. This project would bring
traffic, population and require the use of resources that simply aren’t there. As a non profit this agency would offer the
county nothing in the way of taxes and would cost major road repairs , wells of the community to run dry, massive
amounts of money to fishing and hunting will be lost as well. As someone who resides in Mineral year round we see an
influx of traffic for holiday weekends , opening day fishing and other major events. Our roadways are not equipped to
handle the traffic this eye sore would bring. The YMCA / Nisqually Tribe has been secretive at best with the
requirements of public hearings (offering to give a speech last minute at a members only event very quietly and posting
signs on the far end of town facing railroad tracks ) Obviously they have something to hide. We sought out beautiful
Lewis County to get away from the destruction in King / Pierce . Please please think of the people whom you represent
year round and the devastating impact this project would have on us.
Thank you for your time,
Jennifer Fueston
Mineral WA resident
Sent from my iPhone
External Email - Remember to think before you click!
This message may contain links with malware, viruses, etc. Please ensure the message is legitimate before opening it.
1
Lee Napier
From:Suzanne Boone <wyldunknown@gmail.com>
Sent:Friday, August 20, 2021 11:46 AM
To:Lee Napier
Subject:YMCA/Mineral Lake Development
Dear Mr. Napier,
My family has owned a little house in Mineral since the 1970's. My grandfather built it. We are
just starting the 5th generation of family enjoyment in the town and on the lake.
The lake is unique because it is undeveloped, quiet and clean. Allowing the YMCA to build a camp
to accommodate up to 500 people with 47 permanent structures will destroy the character of
the lake. There will be no more quiet fishing moments and the water quality is bound to suffer.
Yes, I've read about the plans for low footprint existence, etc. That all sounds good on paper
but in reality the quality will degrade.
This is such a small lake. Let them develop somewhere like Alder lake, somewhere bigger, where
their existence will not be overwhelming. For years people have wanted to build on the lake.
Never could. Now, in one fell swoop, close to 70% of the shoreline will be compromised.
Mineral Lake is truly one of the last remaining gems on the NW. To let one group come and and
change it forever is unfathomable to me and my family.
Please consider ejecting this plan.
Regards,
Suzanne Boone
External Email - Remember to think before you click!
This message may contain links with malware, viruses, etc. Please ensure the message is
legitimate before opening it.
1
Lee Napier
From:Nick Boone <ipainttheway@gmail.com>
Sent:Friday, August 20, 2021 12:16 PM
To:Gary Stamper; Lee Napier; Lindsey Pollock; Sean Swope; stacie.kelsey@dwf.wa.gov;
teamridgefield@dwf.wa.gov
Subject:YMCA/Nisqually Tribe - Mineral Lake Camp
To Whom It May Concern,
I write to you today in regards to the new proposal of development by the YMCA of Greater Seattle on
Mineral Lake. I HIGHLY oppose of this proposal.
My great grandparents built a house here that me and my family still use to this day. Having grown up
coming to the town of Mineral since I was a baby and spending countless days fishing and playing on
the lake, I am concerned for the future of both the lake and town. Mineral is a place of solitude, mostly
undisrupted by the growing surroundings. And this is what makes Mineral special. I am also concerned
about the pending changes made to a vital lake to many people. With the proposed construction and
programs, rules/fishing/usage of the lake will all have to change dramatically.
The residents of Mineral and the community of Mineral should always be the first priority in this small
town of Lewis County and this development plan does not reflect that.
Thank you for your time,
Nick
--
Nick Boone
ipainttheway@gmail.com
External Email - Remember to think before you click!
This message may contain links with malware, viruses, etc. Please ensure the message is
legitimate before opening it.