Regarding Withdrawn Support - Mark Dohrmann, Portland

Senator Dallum:

I wrote you once before asking you to support SB 30 banning Destination Resorts in the Metolius Basin and within a 3 mile radius. You've mentioned you supported it then withdrew your support:

After discussion with the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs and discover that they had not yet taken a position on the bill
After giving careful thought to the 'Fairness' of interfering in Jefferson county matters
Regarding your second point I'd like to make sure you understand that Jefferson County holding meetings in the basin and allowing testimony from locals is not the same as giving them 'fair' voice in the matter of changes to the Metolius Basin. Jefferson County DID not consult the Camp Sherman Local advisory committee, but did consult local developer(s). Jefferson County has since re-formulated there interaction with an advisory committee in a manner that leaves little opportunity for dissenting opinion.

Additionally, Jefferson County swept aside elements of the old County comprehensive plan that gave special protections important to the Metolius Basin. Clearly, the County is driven by the need for new revenue sources. It would seem they are willing to trade away an Oregon Landmark to achieve this goal.

Regarding your first point you say you weren't sure of the importance of the Basin as sacred ground to the tribes; are you aware that Cabin owners spend thousands of dollars each time any ground disturbing activity is needed around their property to assure that cultural artifacts aren't upset or lost? Do you think the Tribes AREN'T concerned about hundreds and hundreds of semi-permanent new 'residents' in their historical hunting, fishing and ceremonial grounds?

Senator, if gov't didn't on rare occasion intercede to protect State and National Treasures places like the Rogue River, Oregon's Coast line and Crater Lake would not be preserved as they are today. I don't believe anyone wakes up and says "Jez, I'm really sorry we protected those places".

Please renew your support of SB 30.


Mark Dohrmann, President
Metolius River Homeowners Association
Jefferson County Tax Payer and visitor to the Metolius these past 35 years.