Shocked And Appalled - Randall Jones, Bend

Dear Senator Westlund:

I am a project manager for Brooks Resources Corporation here in Central Oregon. I am writing in personal support of the original version of SB 30. My views do not necessarily reflect those of my employer.

However, as a Land Developer myself, and, as importantly, as a lifelong Oregonian and one who's professional career has included environmental consulting all over the Pacific Northwest, I am more than shocked over the proposal to develop a large destination resort in the Metolius River Basin -- I am appalled. The proported idea that such a proposal could be "environmentally friendly" is an oxymoron in the Metolius River Basin.

First, the thick volcanic soils in the basin transmit runoff and pollutants as quickly than any soil medium in the State...the fate of such water and contaminants is the Metolius River itself. This river resource is precious and unique. There literally is nothing like it in the entire State or the Northwest. It is a precious and unique PUBLIC resource. No amount of legislation, development design, or collection of conditions of approval can ever negate the certain and negative water quality effects such a proposal will incur. Moreover, no private-land-rights argument will prevent such impact.

As an unreplaceable PUBLIC resource, I do demand that my elected State Representatives take a strong hand in passing the original version of Senate Bill 30. While such an action may step on the County's toes, in an era of a multitude of attempts to reasonably provide opportunities for housing, jobs, and management of growth, Jefferson County needs to step away from such an offhanded proposal in such a sensitive locale. They should know better, because once approved, the County will have no better capacity than anyone else to prevent significant environmental impact to this State Water -- the Metolius River.

Indeed growth must be well managed in Oregon. The bulk of my professional career has been focused on answering those issues. My efforts have resulted in national community design awards, demonstrated environmental restoration that occurred along with development, and the development of many community master plans that have allowed cities and counties in Oregon grow well, expand their tax base, and foster development that minimized environmental impact. These projects were also profitable for the private sector. The proponents of the development in the Metolius Basin and the opponents of SB 30 can also be strong voices in the arena of growth management. Such answers need not come at such a monumental probable cost to this State, our citizens, or me as a caring responsible taxpayer.

Thank you for receiving my strong support of the original version of SB 30.

Randall A. Jones
Bend, OR