Seattle Sun Newspaper - Vol. 7, Issue 5, May 2003

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Sand Point plan update

Deputy Hearing Examiner Anne Watanabe recently ruled on the final environmental impact statement for a proposed 65-acre wetland and 15-acre sports field complex at Sand Point/Magnuson Park. The ruling approved most of the environmental mitigations offered by the Parks Department, but found fault with the department's analysis of potential impacts on wildlife. A citizens group called Friends of Magnuson Park hailed the ruling because it halts development of the sports fields until the Parks Department can submit additional data. "With more information available, a more reasoned final decision can be made by the City Council after all of the many adverse impacts of the proposal have been evaluated," said Friends spokesman Douglas Ancona. The Parks Department also considers Watanabe's ruling a victory. "We're pleased with the ruling," said superintendent Ken Bounds. He said his staff will compile and submit the information as quickly as possible. For more information, call Eric Friedli, Sand Point Magnuson Park Director, at 684-8369.