The Maven published an article in the September issue about Northgate activists. The article stated: "THORNTON CREEK LEGAL DEFENSE FUND (TCLDF) and CITIZENS FOR LIVABLE NORTHGATE (CFLN) have extended an olive branch, by suggesting their willingness TO forge a 'win-win' compromise allowing the developer to proceed with its project provided it agrees to daylight Thornton Creek."

The part about suggesting that there are ways to forge a win-win situation is correct. The part about allowing the developer to proceed with the project if Thornton Creek is daylighted is incorrect. Before TCLDF and CFLN drop any litigation against the City of Seattle and developer, the proposed development must daylight Thornton Creek in conjunction with any development, provide adequate stormwater detention for the entire mall and comply with all requirements of the Northgate Area Comprehensive Plan.

There has been no discussion between the City, the developer and TCLDF and CFLN regarding what would be necessary to end litigation. In fact TCLDF has filed new litigation against the developer under the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act for flooding and property and environmental damage caused by the mall's undetained and untreated stormwater flowing immediately into Thornton Creek.

The misrepresentation of TCLDF and CFLN intentions has created a misunderstanding among SOME community members as indicated b the Letter to the Editor from Sue Geving in the October issue of the Maven. It is unfortunate that because of the September article, SOME community members believe TCLDF and CFLN would attempt to "cut a deal" with the City and developer that did not TAKE INTO ACCOUNT all Northgate community members VIEWS and needs. No deal has been discussed, nor will one be without including ALL community views.

By Bob Vreeland, TCLDF