Combined_PCmmtsFrom: M MEIER [mailto:irishstuga@yahoo.com]
Sent: Wednesday, September 02, 2015 4:16 PM To: Lori Barlow Subject: Painted Hills
OBJECTION TO PROPOSED PAINTED HILLS DEVELOPMENT
Current Description: 1) Comprehensive Plan -- Low density - residential
The proposed plans indicate an Apt. Complex consisting of "228" Units on 11.95 acres -
- 19 units per acre -- plus 20' wide " row houses " 2) Existing Zoning
Single Family residential ( R-3) / Low density residential development intended to
preserve the character of existing neighborhood -- (6) units per acre -- single family,
dbl. garages, off street parking & large yards.
What the developer is proposing is totally foreign to the neighborhood and the
Comprehensive Plan.
(6) housing units per acre / vs proposed "228" unit apt. complex / 20' wide lots for "Row
Houses" / 19 Housing units per acre (11.95 acres).
This is the Spokane Valley...not Chicago...New York??!! Why is a zoning change even
being considered? Is this just to satisfy a developer? The developer was aware of the
existing zoning and the fact the property is considered a flood plane and wetland
designation. They need to design a quality development within the existing parameters and take advantage of a creek, animal thru-way and wetlands... a pristine area!
Please represent the hundreds of homeowners. We appreciate where we live and
object to this development. NO ZONE CHANGE!
Don & Sharon Meier
3910 S. Eagle Lane
Spokane Valley, WA
From: Karen Montecucco [mailto:karenmontecucco@gmail.com]
Sent: Thursday, September 03, 2015 9:30 AM To: Lori Barlow Subject: OBJECTION to the proposed Painted Hills Development
Dear Ms. Barlow,
I am opposed to the current high impact plan that Black Realty Inc (copy attached). has for developing the property located at 4403 S, Dishman-Mica Road (former Painted Hills Golf Course) for the following reasons: 1. His application states that this is not a wetlands and by definition an area that has cattails, equisetum, canary red grass etc. All of which are on the land in question. The area also appears on the USDA wetlands map.
2. The area has been designated a FLOOD PLAIN. If the water is managed correctly, we understand that
building can take place, however is moving the water from the subject property (inside the City of Spokane
Valley) to ponds located across Thorpe Road into land in Spokane County allowed?
3. Destruction of Chester Creek (part of the wetlands)
4. The area has been and still is a Wildlife Habitat. Deer crossings, Canadian Geese breeding grounds as well as a population of Raccoon, coyotes, an occasional wolf and moose. 5. The rural roads (Thorpe and Madison) cannot support the high volume of auto trips projected (5700). Also the roads would be totally inadequate if the Painted Hills, Chester Creek and Ponderosa areas had to be evacuated in case of fire. 6. Dishman Mica Road will become a death alley with egress and ingress on a narrow blind curve. 7. Safety of the children that walk, bike, or skateboard to school at Chester Creek Elementary and Horizon. 8. The traffic problem along Madison/Pines will increase traffic through Midilome East and Pine Ridge
Developments. Woodlawn and MacDonald were never meant to be thoroughfares
9. The Fire Department coverage for the proposed area would stretch the current fire stations' ability to offer any
form of protection and EMT services.
10. The Schools in the area have recently implemented a plan for expansion and upgrades to address the increase
in population for the next 10 yrs. This development was not considered in the plan. The high impact of this development would stretch education resources to the maximum. This plan requires severe modification to meet the safety, education, environmental and civic needs of the population of the City and County. Thanks for the opportunity to voice my opinion. Sincerely, Karen Montecucco 3934 S. Eagle Lane
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
From: Chris Bainbridge
Sent: Tuesday, September 01, 2015 8:11 AM To: 'marjhath@msn.com' Cc: John Hohman; Lori Barlow Subject: FW: Painted Hills Development
Good morning Ms. Hathaway.
Your e-mail about Painted Hills has been forwarded to us by the County since this property is within our City limits.
I have cc’d this e-mail to our Planning Department.
Thanks all – Chris
Christine (Chris) Bainbridge, MMC
Spokane Valley City Clerk
(509) 720-5102
From: Vasquez, Ginna [mailto:GVASQUEZ@spokanecounty.org]
Sent: Tuesday, September 01, 2015 8:00 AM To: Chris Bainbridge Subject: FW: Painted Hills Development
Hi Chris,
FYI.
Thanks Ginna
From: MARJORIE HATHAWAY [mailto:marjhath@msn.com] Sent: Monday, August 31, 2015 6:53 PM To: Vasquez,
Ginna; awoodard@spokanevalley.org; rod.higgins@spokanevalley.org; ed.pace@spokanevalley.org Subject: Painted Hills Development
Dear Gentlemen and Ladies
I am one of the many people who will be adversely affected by the current development
planned for the former painted hills golf course. It is obvious that you have not been advised of
all the problems this development would cause or it would never have gotten as far as it has.
The huge influx of people would overwhelm the school system, road network, fire department
and other services in the area. It also doesn't address the environmental problems since the
area in question has wet lands.
If the area had fewer dwellings, hence fewer people, the problems for schools, fire protection,
roads etc. would be more manageable but not solved. It would also need appropriate
pedestrian amenities, wet land protection, and larger park areas, to make it an acceptable
addition to the neighborhood.
I hope you will take these concerns seriously.
Sincerely
Marjorie Hathaway
3819 S. Eagle Ln.
Spokane Vly.
From:Christina Janssen
To:Elisha Heath
Subject:FW: Painted Hills (SUB-2015-0001/PRD-2015-0001)
Date:Wednesday, September 16, 2015 8:12:23 AM
Christina J. Janssen
Planner
City of Spokane Valley
Community and Economic Development Dept.
11707 E. Sprague Avenue #106
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Phone-(509)720-5333
www.spokanevalley.org
(Contents of this email and any reply are subject to public disclosure)
From: BillandLois Jones [mailto:bilojones3@gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, September 15, 2015 5:05 PMTo: Christina JanssenSubject: Painted Hills (SUB-2015-0001/PRD-2015-0001)
September 15, 2015
The City of Spokane Valley Planning Division
We are deep;y concerned regarding the proposed development of this site (Painted
Hills SUB-2015-0001/PRD-2015-0001)
Not only would it cause traffic problems ( for vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians --
MANY being children--)
on adjacent and nearby streets and roads, not previously planned for such a large influx
of traffic, but with so many additional
home units, our local schools would be unable to accommodate all the additional
students. These schools are already serving
more students than had been originally anticipated.
Our other major concerns are for the Environmental Issues involved,
including the purity of our water, flood control and all of
the other problems that occur when these Environmental Issues
are ignored/disregarded when establishing such a huge project.
Before even considering this proposal the City of Spokane Valley
should require an Environmental Impact Statement, especially
due to the extensive changes being proposed to the community
with a project the size of this one.
As an added comment, the streets/roads involved are already on
the edge of being over-burdened daily with far more traffic then
was anticipated when this area was first established.
H.W. Jones and Lois L.Jones
3803 S. Vercler Ln.
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
509-891-2997
From:Christina Janssen
To:Elisha Heath
Subject:FW: Painted Hills golf course development
Date:Wednesday, September 16, 2015 8:12:37 AM
Attachments:Painted Hills opposing letter.docx
Christina J. Janssen
Planner
City of Spokane Valley
Community and Economic Development Dept.
11707 E. Sprague Avenue #106
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Phone-(509)720-5333
www.spokanevalley.org
(Contents of this email and any reply are subject to public disclosure)
From: Desgrosellier, Mandy [mailto:MDesgrosellier@watrust.com] Sent: Tuesday, September 15, 2015 2:53 PMTo: Christina JanssenSubject: Painted Hills golf course development
Please see my attached letter regarding the development of the old Painted Hills golf course.
Thank you,
Mandy Desgrosellier
13004 E. 34th Ave.Spokane Valley, WA 99206509-869-9624
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September 15, 2015
To: Christina Janssen, Planner
City of Spokane Valley
11707 E. Sprague Avenue #106
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
RE: Opposing the proposed Painted Hills Project
FILE# PAINTED HILLS (SUB-2015-0001/PRD-2015-0001)
I would like to express my concern with the Painted Hills subdivision proposed development. I have lived in
this area for the past 39 years and have seen substantial growth during this period. I am not opposed to
growth but have some true concerns for the proposed development on the Painted Hills golf course land. This
area has always been considered a flood plain and has flooded year after year. Almost every year Thorpe
Road is closed for a period of time due to the flooding.
I live on Woodlawn Drive in Midilome East. Our street has become a main arterial for people wanting to avoid
the lights and congestion on 32nd and Pines. The volume of traffic and high speeds people drive has become
very dangerous to kids, pets, and our general population. This has progressively gotten worse/dangerous in
the last few years as other developments have been completed. It’s scary to imagine the impact 500+ new
homes will create. It is also very dangerous currently to turn left onto Thorpe Road off of Dishman Mica.
Having a development on the corner including apartments will be increasingly dangerous/deadly with the
proposed increase of traffic.
My kids attend the local schools including Chester, Horizon and University. The schools are already
overcrowded and are having to bus kids to other schools. I am opposed to the negative impact all of the
existing students will face with the severe overcrowding this development will create.
Please consider paring down this project considerably to preserve our wetlands, wildlife, schools, and keep the
traffic flowing safely. Better yet, maybe the City of Spokane Valley can purchase it back from the developer
and turn it into something the public can use and enjoy.
Thank you,
Mandy Desgrosellier
13004 E. 34th Ave.
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
509-869-9624
From:Christina Janssen
To:Elisha Heath
Subject:FW: Community Bill of Rights
Date:Wednesday, September 16, 2015 8:41:28 AM
Christina J. Janssen
Planner
City of Spokane Valley
Community and Economic Development Dept.
11707 E. Sprague Avenue #106
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Phone-(509)720-5333
www.spokanevalley.org
(Contents of this email and any reply are subject to public disclosure)
From: Lori Barlow Sent: Thursday, September 10, 2015 8:44 AMTo: Christina Janssen; Elisha HeathSubject: FW: Community Bill of Rights
Please add to the record.
From: Chris Bainbridge Sent: Tuesday, September 08, 2015 7:51 AMTo: 'max montecucco'; Dean GrafosCc: Sean Messner; Claire Singer; Cary Driskell; Ben Wick; Chuck Hafner; Ed Pace; Bill Gothmann; Claire Singer; Mike Jackson; "':rod.higgins@spokanevalley.org'"@invalid.domain; Lori BarlowSubject: RE: Community Bill of Rights
This has been forwarded to our Community Development Department
Chris
Christine (Chris) Bainbridge, MMC
Spokane Valley City Clerk
(509) 720-5102
From: max montecucco [mailto:maxmontecucco@comcast.net] Sent: Monday, September 07, 2015 10:17 AMTo: Dean GrafosCc: Sean Messner; Claire Singer; Cary Driskell; Ben Wick; Chuck Hafner; Ed Pace; Bill Gothmann; Chris Bainbridge; Claire Singer; Mike Jackson; "':rod.higgins@spokanevalley.org'"@invalid.domainSubject: Community Bill of Rights
Dear Mayor Grafos,
We wish that you would listen to the PUBLIC OUTCRY concerning the Painted Hills Development.
We believe that the neighbors of this project have the right to veto or drastically reduce it since it is
changing the intrinsic nature and culture of the area.
It may be time for the citizens of the Valley and the County to adopt their own Community Bill of
Rights intiative.
Max and Karen Montecucco
3934 S. Eagle Lane
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
From:Christina Janssen
To:Elisha Heath
Subject:FW: Housing/apartments
Date:Wednesday, September 16, 2015 8:36:46 AM
Christina J. Janssen
Planner
City of Spokane Valley
Community and Economic Development Dept.
11707 E. Sprague Avenue #106
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Phone-(509)720-5333
www.spokanevalley.org
(Contents of this email and any reply are subject to public disclosure)
-----Original Message-----
From: Tina Hensley [mailto:tinasf1971@yahoo.com]
Sent: Monday, September 14, 2015 1:10 PM
To: Christina Janssen
Subject: Housing/apartments
Christina,
Ref. file # Painted Hills (sub 2015-0001/PRD 2015-0001)
I am writing in response to opposing this development.
Our schools have been over crowded and our children shipped to other schools since we have lived in this area 7
plus years. We already have to deal with dividing our kids/families because of this issue to some degree.
Children want to go to school with there siblings and friends in there neighborhood. It brings them security and
comfort when away from their parents. I know this first hand. My son was told he was going to be bussed to a
different school from his two other siblings in the spring when we enrolled him at Chester Elem. School. He cried
and had anxiety over this for an entire summer until the day before school started that fall and we were told he was
the only one from the list of kids that got in.
This is not good for our children and it's not good for us as neighbors. Having our kids all go to the school they
belong to helps parents developed support between the community and with our schools.
Adding 300 plus housing apartments will overload our schools so badly that it's going to create a lot of division in
our schools and community. Our kindergarten parents are already having to stand in line 1:00am , 2:00am the
morning of enrollment. How many other schools in Spokane Valley or Spokane have to do that?
Secondly, if this is even a fraction of a chance of contaminating our aquifer or wild life how can we even be
considering this.
Again I oppose this building of 300 plus units in the painted hills area. It would be in the best interest to our
children and community if this development was denied.
Thank you
Tina Hensley
3401 South McDonald
Spokane Valley Wa 99206
Sent from my iPhone
Eric Lobdell
3841 South Bates Drive Spokane Valley, Washington 99206 509-720-8357 elobdell@gmail.com
September 12, 2015
Christina Janssen
Planner
City of Spokane Valley
11707 East Sprague Avenue #106
Spokane Valley, Washington 99206
Re: File # PAINTED HILLS (SUB-2015-0001/PRD-2015-0001)
Dear Christina Janssen:
My wife Angie and I are deeply concerned about the development plans for the former Painted Hills Golf Course by
Whipple Consulting Engineers and Black Realty. After careful consideration, we find several reasons to oppose this
project, as described below.
Existing road capacities cannot accommodate the expected traffic increases that will come with this project.
Additionally, traffic-related safety concerns for nearby school areas and pedestrian children who walk along
South Bowdish Road and other area roadways have not been addressed.
There are numerous environmental concerns including destruction of delineated wet lands, existing natural
ponding areas, aquifer contamination, and the effects on Chester Creek. The City must require an
Environmental Impact Study and Statement before this project can be approved and must ensure that
there will be no harm to the natural or human environments there.
School overcrowding is already a problem in this part of the Valley. Adding 300+ new homes will exacerbate
that issue and negatively affect the quality of education available to our students.
The project’s effect on the flood plain may be illegal. Flood plains cannot be changed in a way that
adversely affects existing property owners, and this project has failed to demonstrate that this will not
occur. The risk of future lawsuits which could impact taxpayers is high.
There is a convent of cloistered nuns adjacent to an area where an apartment complex has been shown on
development plans. While we are not Catholic, we do respect these nuns’ commitment to their faith.
Placing an apartment complex in that location would be shamefully inconsiderate.
We are not the only residents in this area opposing this development. Unless these concerns are completely
addressed to the satisfaction of existing residents and property owners in the surrounding area, the City of
Spokane Valley must put the needs of the community and environment ahead of the business and financial goals of
the developers.
Sincerely,
Eric Lobdell
From:Eric Lobdell
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:PAINTED HILLS (SUB-2015-0001/PRD-2015-0001)
Date:Friday, September 11, 2015 10:04:36 PM
Attachments:PAINTED HILLS project concern letter.pdf
Dear Ms. Janssen,
Please find attached a comment letter for the project with file PAINTED HILLS (SUB-2015-0001/PRD-2015-0001).
Please confirm that you received this.
Thank you,
Eric Lobdell
From:Christina Janssen
To:Elisha Heath
Subject:FW: Save Painted Hills Golf Course.
Date:Wednesday, September 16, 2015 4:25:22 PM
Christina J. Janssen
Planner
City of Spokane Valley
Community and Economic Development Dept.
11707 E. Sprague Avenue #106
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Phone-(509)720-5333
www.spokanevalley.org
(Contents of this email and any reply are subject to public disclosure)
From: Bill Grafmiller [mailto:bill@grafsgolfstudio.com] Sent: Wednesday, September 16, 2015 4:08 PMTo: Christina JanssenSubject: Save Painted Hills Golf Course.
Dear Christina Janssen
I am in total support of saving the Painted Hills Golf course. I do feel that the City of Spokane
Valley let the community down when It was sold to James Black. We the Painted Hills men's
club approached
Dean Grafos and Chuck Hafner about saving the golf course by purchase for the valley
residence. We also approached the city of Spokane valley City Counsel about them buying
the golf course for the valley residence so they would have there own place to play golf. At
that meeting if you were not present Mr. Stone the Parks Dept. Manager made a
presentation that the course would be better served if the city purchased it for family
recreation that would include the driving range par three for family's to play and the rest put
into sports courts and area for play and wild life. He was turned down by the counsel. I feel
that the counsel was already in bed with the James Black Company for the revenue that
would be coming from the homes that would built in the flood plain. Now did I mention flood
plain. In 2000 I believe the golf course was under water for the entire length and width. I
served on the flood plain committee with Mr. Mike Senske shortly after that flood. We had a
guest speaker from WSU that informed the committee that when the 100 yr. flood would
happen that every thing on the course and across to high way 27 would be under water. The
water would be at the door step of Horizon Middle school. After that the committee got a
grant to dredge the Chester creek just north of the golf course to Shaffer road and then build
a huge holding hole that can be seen on the west side of Mica Dishman highway at
intersection of 32nd ave.
When Mike Senske owned the golf course the EPA and who ever would not allow him to
take any earth from the property or bring any earth into. they also would walk the creek
looking for any infractions that the golf course may have done. He was not allowed to build
permanent standing building’s that were in the flood plain on the property. Now how in the
hell did that all change. Must be some money's exchange some place would you think? Did
the EPA and City change the playing field for there own enrichment? Now we get into the
over load of traffic and people in one area. Our schools are not prepared for the load of
students. The roads will cause stress on traffic flow. and we do not need any more low come
housing. I am already looking at in my neighborhood a apartment building that is run down
and nothing from the city to protect my neighborhood from deteriorating more every year. It
seems that the City of Spokane Valley council is more interested in planting trees on Sprague
and building pathways and allowing the community structure to decay. Have your committee
get a court order to hold up the James Black Project. And find out why the EPA changed the
Flood plain ruling and if that is legal. Why one could not build and now one can. I wish you all
on the Painted Hills Prevention Assoc. all the luck in your endeavor.
Bill Grafmiller
10808 E. 33 Ave.
City of Spokane Valley
From:Christina Janssen
To:Elisha Heath
Subject:FW: FILE# PAINTED HILLS (SUB-2015-0001/PRD-2015-0001)
Date:Wednesday, September 16, 2015 4:25:52 PM
Christina J. Janssen
Planner
City of Spokane Valley
Community and Economic Development Dept.
11707 E. Sprague Avenue #106
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Phone-(509)720-5333
www.spokanevalley.org
(Contents of this email and any reply are subject to public disclosure)
From: Shauna Howell [mailto:howellcreations@gmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, September 16, 2015 1:38 PMTo: Christina JanssenSubject: FILE# PAINTED HILLS (SUB-2015-0001/PRD-2015-0001)
Dear Christina Janssen,
I am writing concerning the plan for the old Painted Hills golf course:FILE# PAINTED
HILLS (SUB-2015-0001/PRD-2015-0001). As a neighbor to this property I feel a need to share my concerns with the current plans for it's use.
I went to the informational meeting held at Chester Elementary and felt that the plans for the
number of house and other buildings was an extreme amount that would highly increase traffic. They stated in their traffic survey they felt that people would not use pines. However,
they failed to realize that pines is the way parents will get their children to and from all three schools: elementary, middle and high school. Pines is not a road structure designated for this
amount of traffic. This increase in traffic would increase risks for students walking to and from school.
In addition the increase of homes would over crowd our already crowded schools. I
understand a bond has been passed for the elementary, however, that is to allow for growth over an extended period of time and did not take into consideration this added development
that would greatly increase the number of students. We already have to turn students away and bus to other schools. The bond also does not compensate for our crowded middle and
high schools.
I am also concerned about the destruction of delineated wetlands, the City needs to require and environmental impact statement due to the depth and breadth of the project which will cause
harm to the natural environment and the community surrounding this area.
Thank you for your time in considering a few of my concerns.
Sincerely,
Shauna Howell3802 S. Vercler Ln.
Spokane Valley, WA 99206509-251-0474
From:Gloria Roberts
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:Painted Hills SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
Date:Thursday, September 17, 2015 6:48:06 AM
SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
Hi, I live in Alderwood Estates close to the proposed Painted Hills project. I am AGAINST this proposed project.
Thank you,
Gloria Roberts
12421 E. Aunnic Lane
Spokane Valley, WA. 99206
From:canyonlakers2000@yahoo.com
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:Save "Painted Hills"
Date:Wednesday, September 16, 2015 4:39:41 PM
I am against building new homes in the previously allocated “Painted Hills Golf Course” area.
We do not need, or is there any benefit to the surrounding community to build any homes
there. Furthermore, to build “Hi-Density” housing would only increase crime and further
decrease existing property values.
David Rollins
From:Jon Couture
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:Painted Hills NO-WAY
Date:Wednesday, September 16, 2015 4:53:51 PM
Attachments:9.16.15 Painted Hills signed16092015.pdf
From:Bernard London
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:PAINTED HILLS HOUSING PROJECT SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
Date:Wednesday, September 16, 2015 5:00:10 PM
I AM A CONCERNED RESIDENT!
I live in the ponderosa area and frankly I am appalled that anyone would consider
such an inappropriate use of a remarkable piece of land.
The property in question is surrounded by single family homes, some with large
acerage and multi dwelling/condensed housing would be a very poor fit indeed for
this area.
I strongly oppose any permitting or any zoning that would allow permitting of multi
dwelling/ condensed housing in this area.
Furthermore I must oppose any development of this kind due to the very negative
impact such a development would have on the environment.
As a sidebar to this I would make a suggestion that the City of Spokane Valley
purchase the property, renovate it and reopen it as a golf course.
Sincerely,
Bernard London and family.
From:Maggie Matlock
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:Painted Hills Project SUB-2015-001/PRD-2015-0001
Date:Wednesday, September 16, 2015 8:15:06 PM
Dear Ms. Janssen,
We're writing to express my concern regarding the Painted Hills project.
My husband and I moved here two years ago and loved the rural feel of the area. We enjoyed playing golf at Painted
Hills when we would visit my husband's parents, and fell in love with the area. We don't have children but can
understand people's concerns regarding traffic and school overcrowding. Having that many homes built on the golf
course property would be a shame. We understand that Thorpe floods during a normal winter and can't believe the
city would allow building on land that floods. People who buy these homes will have nothing but problems.
Please do whatever you can to prevent this project from happening. The builder is only concerned with profits, not
people or the neighborhood.
Very truly yours,
Maggie and Walter Matlock
5521 S Mohawk Dr.
Spokane, WA 99206
(509) 868-0197
Sent from my iPad
From:AJ Stinson
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:Painted Hills Project SUB 2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
Date:Wednesday, September 16, 2015 8:52:00 PM
Dear Christina,
I am writing to you to express my opposition to new proposed housing development Painted Hills Project SUB
2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001. It is a against current zoning laws and would put an undue burden on the local schools
that are already at capacity or above. There is no need for such a large project, period. The decrease in property
values will be unacceptable and will add dangerous amounts of traffic to an already busy area. Please keep the
Painted Hills area wonderful just the way it is.
Thanks for your time,
Andy and Kristen Stinson
Sent from my iPad
John & Kathy Sisser
3909 S Robie Road
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
509-990-6119
John.sisser@hotmail.com
November 12, 2018
Lori Barlow, Spokane Valley Community and Public Works Department
10210 E Sprague Ave.
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Lbarlo@spokanevalley.org
RE: Painted Hills Devolvement
Ms. Barlow;
I am writing concerning the EIS Scope for the Painted Hills Project. With the Developers plan to
do a cut and fill to elevate the base of the area to deter the flow of water from Chester Creek,
where will the water go and at what price does the City want to take liability for this activity.
With the amount of fill being suggested for this project, can our streets take the additional
weight from the trucks hauling in the dirt. Who will pay for the damage? Once the dirt is in
place and we go through our first winter with runoff and spring rains, what is the impact of the
water as it moves through the area? Who will pay for the damage left behind, when the project
is built out and the HOA does not have the funds to repair or files bankruptcy? The city will be
liable. As a tax payer, I do not want that liability. Look at Phillips vs. King County M & O Failure.
Now let us look at the traffic impact. Where will they get the 170,000 to 330,000 cubic yards of
fill? Hopefully the shortest distance between the sites, does not include driving down Pines
Road past three schools and the neighboring neighborhoods. These roads can not take that
kind of impact, let alone the safety of the kids crossing the street to and from school.
What is the impact on wildlife that make frequent stops in this area. Today, two eagles were
spotted on the site. Where will the deer and other wildlife go to bed down and graze daily?
The Developer can file a Traffic Impact Study, but the numbers are only as good as the time
they take the study. Projections are impossible to make. In 2001 or 2002, we were discussing
the pushing of Woodlawn thru to 40th. I asked the Consultant about the impact of cars coming
thru to drop kids off at Horizon and Chester to avoid the traffic light at 32nd and Pines RD. He
told us that would not happen. Go to the schools any morning and see where the traffic is
coming from. He also told us that when they opened the Evergreen Overpass, people in our
area would continue to use Pines Road to get to the Mall. Another false conclusion.
Please do not allow this project to continue until all areas of this project can pass all the
Environmental Impacts that need approval.
Sincerely,
John and Kathy Sisser
From:Kirk Sandon
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:Painted Hills Project SUB-2015-0011/PRD-215-0001
Date:Wednesday, September 16, 2015 9:00:09 PM
Mrs Janssen,
I am very concerned about this proposed project on the former Painted Hills Golf
Course.
It is very disappointing that the golf course left to begin with, but now to propose high
density housing with little to no thought for the impact to schools, fire, roads is too
much.
I understand that the developer wants to make money so needs to sell homes, but
feel that high density housing is not the way to do it in our community. I would be
perfectly fine if it was zoned the same as Midilome or Midilome East currently is.
This would allow the land to be developed but the quantity of homes would be at a
much more manageable level than the proposed 580 units.
Please reflect on this as you consider this very important decision.
Thank you for you time,
Kirk Sandon
From:charlene.k.knight@comcast.net
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:Painted Hills project SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
Date:Wednesday, September 16, 2015 9:37:16 PM
Ms Janssen,
I am a Painted Hills resident and have been for 18 years. I love our area and want it
protected. I very much object to a high density housing area being developed in
what was the Painted Hill Golf Course. We already have new homes going up in the
Chester Creek subdivision and to add more homes on these roads will cause a a
huge increase in traffic without any improvements to the roads. I'm also concerned
in the event of an evacuation because of wild fires (which this year is a big concern
for all of us) there will be problems just getting out of the area because of the
increased cars on the road. Five hundred new residencies will put an average of
1000 more vehicles on our roads. In the past few years we have had 2 areas
developed, Alderwood and Chester Creek. To add into this mix over 500 more
residencies will put a tremendous strain on the existing services further overcrowding
the schools, not to mention increased mail service, garbage service and
maintenance of the existing roads needed. Please let our voices be heard
concerning this development. We do not object to progress but at what cost to our
community. I would not object to some development in the area but adding 580
homes including apartments, row houses and low end housing units is not the way to
do it. I realize that the whole thing is about MONEY. The developer making money,
the city having an increased tax revenue but there are other considerations, will the
city be able to provide the services necessary to support this increase in housing?
These are just issues I think should be addressed.
Charlene Knight
5315 S Mohawk Drive
From:Joedy Friemel
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:Sub-2015-0011/prd-2015-0001 painted hills project
Date:Wednesday, September 16, 2015 10:16:32 PM
Christina,
I am writting to express my concern over this project and ask that it not go forward. Low income housing more
apartments and NO NEW SCHOOLS, THIS IS NOT THE ANSWER. The people of spokane valley need solutions
to the issues we already have and this is not one. Developers In this town have spent years not paying for the
development they have done from the stand point of road impact, wildlife impact, schools, and basic infrastructure.
We moved to this area of town because of its quality of homes and family environment, not to have it ransacked by
another greedy developer taking advantage of some stupid growth development plan loop hole. PLEASE stop this
development. I am sure that as beautiful as the county golf courses are we could always use one more, developing
more apartments in this town is not good for anyone who owns a home in this area and you could single handily be
responsible for that.
Thanks for allowing me to comment,
Concerned citizen of spokane valley
Joedy Friemel
3524 s vercler
Sent from my iPhone.
From:Keith Stracchino
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:in re: SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
Date:Thursday, September 17, 2015 12:07:02 PM
I wish to register my strong objection to the planned high-density housing development to be
constructed at the current Painted Hills golf course site. I have lived in the Ponderosa area since
the Fall of 1983, in the elapsed time I have seen 'development' after development rammed
through by local and county government over the objections of the local residents. In each case
the population density of the area has been increased, with little or no consideration being given
to the effects of greatly increased road traffic, increased fire evacuation difficulty due to restricted
access, school over-crowding, all despite the obvious need. I have watched as a seasonal
wetland was converted into a golf course, and now it is to be converted into yet more paved over
environmental degradation. A creek, which at one time ran through my property, vanished long
ago when it was blocked off during the Painted Hills golf course construction. It would appear that
in the minds of local and county government officials the wishes of the so-called property
developers are, per se. superior to the wishes of the local population, the same local population
which inevitably inherits the incidental costs of providing the support infrastructure for the new
development via taxes.
It is my understanding of democratic government that it represents the interests of ALL of the
populace of a nation, state on locality, not just a favoured sub-set. Kindly consider in a fair and
balanced manner, the interests of the general public in this case. Good town and country
planning requires a sensible balance between built-up area and open space, our local and county
government appears to consider open space to be nothing other than vacant building land.
From:jerry basler
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:Painted Hills SUB2015-0001/PRD 2015 0001
Date:Friday, September 18, 2015 9:35:03 AM
Attachments:Christina Janssen Planner.docx
Please confirm receipt.
thanks.
Jerry Basler
Christina Janssen Planner
City of Spokane Valley
11707 E. Sprague Avenue #106
Spokane Valley WA 99206
RE: Painted Hills (SUB-2015-0001/PRD-2015-0001
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Painted Hills Planned Unit Development. This
proposed project appears to have several questions associated with environmental aspects, built
environment, safety, and health.
First, the area inside the City of Spokane Valley is zoned either low density residential, or medium
density residential. As this project is adjacent to the Urban Growth Boundary with Spokane County, the
zoning in Spokane County is rural zoning. Although this project is being submitted as a Planned Unit
Development under City of Spokane Valley code, it contains several questionable aspects.
1. Normally du/acre is used to determine density. In this case we also subtract the 30% open
space, so the actually density is approximately 4.3 units per acre. This would be considered the
“high end” of a normal single family residential zoning, of 1-5 units per acre, and above any type
of County rural zoning of a 1 unit per 10 acres minimum. It becomes obvious that this dense of
a development does not fit into the current built environment and surrounding zoning.
2. Using the standard of 2.5 residences per unit, = 757 individuals, the surrounding roads are not
equipped to handle the projected traffic. Unfortunately the traffic study submitted by the
developer, does not take into account University High School, Horizon Middle School, and
Sunrise Elementary, and the traffic it projects into the surrounding area. Mainly the traffic
congestion that will occur at S. Pines Rd. and 32nd, E. Thorpe Rd. and Dishman Mica, Bowdish
and 32nd , and the traffic that will cause serious impairment at 16th and Pines. Currently it is a 5
way unmarked intersection functioning at a level “F”. This project will overwhelm this 5 way
intersection. Additionally, there are several other intersections that will be seriously impacted
by this development that were not included in the traffic study.
3. There is an identified “fish” bearing stream on the southwest of the property, this development
will seriously degrade the stream in temperature and function, due to the increase in runoff
contaminants from the development, and the increase in water temperature that will occur due
to the development of open space into heat absorbing/reflecting of pavement and buildings.
4. The traffic study failed to “count” traffic at specific locations at specific times, especially at 32nd
and Pines, and 32nd and Hwy. 27, at peak hours when students are arriving and leaving
University High School. Additionally, the traffic counters were only counting traffic in certain
directions, which gives the impression of less traffic at specific locations in the area, in an effort
to avoid the “peak” hours of University High School, Horizon Junior High, and Sunrise
Elementary. This is of major concern.
5. Most of the subject area is a floodplain. Which will require extensive “stormwater planning”,
including how stormwater will be handled. At the time of this letter, there has been no solid
coordination plan as to where and how the stormwater is going be handled in relation to the
developer owning or leasing nearby land to be used in stormwater management, and has not
shown any (lease paperwork), (sales agreements), or (easement paperwork), allowing them to
use adjoining property for stormwater dispersion.
6. How is the dirt associated with the project going to be handled, I didn’t get a clear indication
from the SEPA checklist. As you know, any fill dirt over 100 cubic yards moved off-site requires
permits, and must comply with standards on how it is to be disposed of, if moved off-site, and is
regulated by the Department of Ecology.
7. The plans as presented by the developer show a mix use of housing incompatible with the
surrounding uses. To the north is single family house. To the east, single family housing
blending into open space. To the south, single family housing, blending into open space and
large tract residential. To the west is open space.
8. The proposed development does not match the current comprehensive plan, (not any future
comprehensive plan), but the current comprehensive plan of Low Density Residential, which
translates into the zoning of 1-5 units per acre, which generally consists of single family
residential, not townhouses, apartments, and zero-lot line development as proposed.
9. The developer does not show any “enhanced” pedestrian improvements including enhanced
sidewalk or bike paths along Madison, and further north along Pines, south of 32nd. A project of
this size will increase traffic, posing a threat to the safety & welfare of pedestrians in this area,
and to surrounding neighborhoods.
10. Due to the size of the project at full build-out, the Central Valley School District’s three schools,
University High School, Horizon Middle School, and Sunrise Elementary will be beyond full
capacity due to the influx of students from this development, based on current and projected
infrastructure needs in the Central Valley’s School Districts Capital Facilities Plan.
11. As you know, concurrency and consistency are required under the Growth Management Act.
The City does not show in it’s capital facilities plan, or future road plans, improvements that will
be required to surrounding roads, due to the impact and the size of this project.
12. As you know, concurrency and consistency are required under the Growth Management Act.
The the City does not show it can effectively provide police services to meet the demands of the
increased population. Currently the City has 11 officers per 10,000 residents, well below the
City of Spokane at 18 per 10,000 residents. (per 2012 Uniform Crime Reporting Program). As
police services are contracted with the Spokane County Sheriff’s Department, and due
continued budget constraints, this number per capita has not increased substantially since 2012.
13. As you know, concurrency and consistency are required under the Growth Management Act.
The City, and the developer, have not effectively shown that there is the infrastructure, or
future identified funding sources to effectively facilitate the processing of sewage and
wastewater with a project this size, without large future financial outlays, including bond sales,
to fund these improvements. Again these funding sources need to be identified by the City.
Additionally, there is the issue of the cost’s associated with agreements with the City of
Spokane, or Spokane County, depending where the sewage and wastewater is going to be
treated, that will be needed in the future.
In regards to the above, which I’ve listed below,
1. stormwater,
2. sewage and wastewater,
3. traffic,
4. built environment,
5. inconsistency between the comprehensive plan, the zoning ordinance, and the development
plans and size,
6. impact to 3 schools in the immediate area,
7. Wildlife and environmental concerns,
8. Safety
9. Lack of identified current and future funding sources by the City of the Valley, required by the
Growth Management Act,
-which combined together, all relate to health, safety and welfare of the nearby neighborhoods, and the
students at University High School, Horizon Junior High, and Sunrise Elementary School. This project
rises well above a standard Environmental Determination of Non-Significance (DNS), or even Mitigated
Determination of Non-Significance, (M-DNS).
Combining all the questions still unanswered with the application and SEPA checklist, the size of the
project, and all the impacts associated with the development, (current and future), this project will
require an Environmental Impact Statement to be prepared by the developer to further investigate and
discuss the many “unresolved” issues associated with this development proposal.
Thank you for your consideration,
“SIGNED”
Jerry Basler
13011 E. 27th Ave,
City of Spokane Valley, WA 99216
From:Randy McNiece
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:Deny the development at the Painted hills golf course site
Date:Thursday, September 17, 2015 11:30:48 AM
Christina: Yesterday I delivered a letter to you at your office outlining a few of the many reasons you
should deny the request of Dave Black and Brian Walker (developers) to remove the painted hills
golf course site from the flood plain and allow for the development of over 550 cheaply build
residences. My reasons included the obvious ones of flooding (which will happen regardless of what
the developers tell you), huge impact on schools, traffic, crime and significant wildlife displacement
issues. However there is another important issue This is a once in a life time opportunity for the
city of the valley to make a statement with the 99 acre parcel. If the city and the valley chamber are
truly interested in creating an environment to attract both business and new residents, this is it.
Rarely does any city get the chance to have that large a piece of property available to provide a
community attraction that will lure folks to the valley. (example: Manito Park). Just sit back for a
moment and don’t focus on the near term greedy developers but rather on what you can do for the
long term quality of life in our community. If some forward thinking folks could get involved, this
could be a real coup for the valley. Particularly when I understand the funds may be available to
repurchase the property and give the developers a way out. We certainly do not need 580 ( or any
for that matter) poorly build high developer profit residences that will shortly look like the
development across the 32nd from University high school. Tell me how much law enforcement time
and money is spent right there. You will get the same in this proposed development. The citizens of
the valley deserve to have this development denied, not reduced in size, but denied to give those of
us that are concerned the opportunity to propose other alternatives
Thank you,
Randy McNeice
Intermountain Leasing LLC
PO Box 14758
Spokane Valley WA 99214
888.308.5327
509.924.0280
509.924.0294 fax
www.intermountainleasing.com
From:Debi Ferguson
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:Pained Hills project-SUB-2015-0011/PRD 2015-0001
Date:Thursday, September 17, 2015 10:44:13 AM
Dear Christina,
I am writing you as a resident of Painted Hills and I am concerned about the new housing project as
listed above.
I am confidante if you were a resident of Painted Hills you would be writing this letter with the same
concerns.
I am concerned about:
- Fire problems and the fire could spread up Painted Hills very fast to all homes and the Firetrucks
could not get to the homes or the people.
- Schools and the safety of the children walking to schools, and the schools are overcrowded now.
After school children would be playing and their safety with all the traffic would be in jeopardy.
- Flood in that area is a real concern due to Thorpe Road has been closed many times with flooding
across the road, you may check to verify that.
- Traffic would be congested and dangerous for all when you have so many people in one small area.
- Robbery would be a concern for all people in this area and the safety of the residents.
Thank you and I hope you will support the residents living here now with no new housing.
Debi Ferguson
#509-891-2315
From:Christina Janssen
To:Elisha Heath
Subject:FW: Painted Hills Project-SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
Date:Thursday, September 17, 2015 9:17:31 AM
Public
Christina J. Janssen
Planner
City of Spokane Valley
Community and Economic Development Dept.
11707 E. Sprague Avenue #106
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Phone-(509)720-5333
www.spokanevalley.org
(Contents of this email and any reply are subject to public disclosure)
-----Original Message-----
From: Deana & Dave [mailto:deeniew1@yahoo.com]
Sent: Wednesday, September 16, 2015 1:15 PM
To: Christina Janssen
Subject: Painted Hills Project-SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
To whom it may concern:
My husband and I have lived in this area since 1976. We have seen a lot of development happen that was not
supposed to happen due to zoning and marshland. We now have a duplex where no multiple unit was supposed to
be built and we have a huge apartment complex down by the Lutheran Church and another set of houses going in on
an area that was deemed marshland. All of this and we have the same two accesses in and out of the Ponderosa!!
There are deer hit constantly because we keep building in their habitat and they have no where else to go. When are
we going to put a stop to all this!!! All of our neighbors around here feel the same as we do. Not to forget a lot of
people think the speed limit up here is only for certain people because 45 plus seems to be the norm!!!
Sent from my iPad David &Deana Winebarger. 10625 E. 44th Ave.
From:Christina Janssen
To:Elisha Heath
Subject:FW: Painted Hills Preservation-sub-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
Date:Thursday, September 17, 2015 9:08:44 AM
Public Comment
Christina J. Janssen
Planner
City of Spokane Valley
Community and Economic Development Dept.
11707 E. Sprague Avenue #106
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Phone-(509)720-5333
www.spokanevalley.org
(Contents of this email and any reply are subject to public disclosure)
-----Original Message-----
From: Hillis [mailto:hillisjohnston@yahoo.com]
Sent: Thursday, September 17, 2015 9:07 AM
To: Christina Janssen
Subject: Painted Hills Preservation-sub-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
Dear Christina Janssen,
Please save the Painted Hills Golf Course-Recreation Area from turning into a high density housing development
with all the problems associated with same.
Hillis Johnston
Ponderosa resident
Sent from my iPhone
From:DAVE SIMMONS
To:Lori Barlow
Subject:Painted Hills Golf Course Property
Date:Friday, November 16, 2018 5:00:52 PM
November 16, 2018
Lori Barlow
Spokane Valley Community and Public Works Department
10210 E. Sprague Avenue
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Dear Ms. Barlow,
Please consider this response to the request for public comment regarding the EnvironmentalImpact Statement on the proposed development of the former Painted Hills Golf Course.
We are concerned that this proposed development will significantly impact the surrounding
area - both during the construction phase and more importantly, over the long term. The entireSpokane area is seeing significant growth and it is critical that this growth be managed in a
manner that is responsible to both the current and the future residents. We have but one chanceto 'get it right'. We feel that the reviews of these kind of developments are often focused on
the benefits of those who seek to develop the project. Our belief is that the local governmentand agencies have an obligation, first to the existing residents and secondarily to those that
would implement changes. We are not opposed to growth, but we are concerned that it isdone with the proper perspective.
The Land Disturbance Permit Application and proposal for the development of the former golf
course represents an extreme change to the land under development and the surrounding area.We believe it is unreasonable to change this natural area in the manner proposed. Over
300,000 cubic yards of infill will permanently change the land and remove what has been aseasonal wetlands. The process of bringing this material onto the site will be very disruptive
to the current residents and users of the road system.
We are also wary of long term impact this proposed development will have on the surroundinginfrastructure, including overcrowding in the schools, traffic safety, evacuation in the event of
events such as wildfire and increased expenses in improvements and on-going maintenancethat the developer typically does not cover.
Thank you for soliciting public input on this proposed development. We hope that the current
residents' voices are truly heard and considered as well as those who stand to benefitfinancially from this project.
Sincerely,
Dave & Teresa Simmons
4523 S. Farr Rd.
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
From:Barry Bauchwitz
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:Painted Hills Project1sub 2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
Date:Thursday, September 17, 2015 9:03:19 AM
I am writing to you in reference to the pending development of the former Painted Hills Golf Course. My wife and
I, as well as our neighbors, are vehemently opposed to the proposed development of the former Painted Hills Golf
Course into high density housing! We bought in this neighborhood specifically because of the green belt area the
golf course provided. The neighborhood is close to all three schools (elementary, middle and high school) as well
as the diverse demographics of the area. We are in a relatively low crime area and the it’s a quiet and well cared for
housing development. Moreover, the people in the gated development, just east of us, bought into that development
specifically due to the adjacent golf course! Now all of those reasons appear to be disappearing.
HIgh density housing will negatively impact traffic and noise. They will negatively impact roads which will require
widening, additional traffic lights, etc. They will negatively impact schools which will be subject to additional
students not in the current budget or plan. All of these factors will have a negative impact on the city and county
budgets. They will degrade the quality of the neighborhood and our property values. This will ultimately result in
even lower tax revenues for the city and county. Crime will increase as higher density and additional population
will add to it. That will also mean additional law enforcement personnel will be needed. Again, higher costs for
the city and county.
One neighbor has already sold their home and moved out of the neighborhood in advance of the construction! More
will follow. Shame on the city for allowing this sale and shame on the city for not using the land to create a
wonderful regional park. A creek runs through some of it and it could have been spectacular and enhanced the
beauty and semi-rural heritage of the Spokane Valley.
Thanks,
Barry Bauchwitz
388bear@live.com
From:gen heywood
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:Painted Hills project -SUB - 2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
Date:Thursday, September 17, 2015 8:47:48 AM
Dear Christian Janssen,
Please, add my voice and concern to the many from my neighborhood about the Painted Hills Golf Course being
made into a high density housing development.
Please, do not allow this land to be turned into high density housing. I am concerned about the continued
overcrowding of our schools, roads,and the quality of life in our neighborhood.
We walk these roads with our children and our pets. The addition of these homes will make the roads less safe.
I am angered and frustrated that the city is allowing changes to existing zoning and allowing high density housing.
This appears to be more concerned with money to the city than concern for the welfare of this neighborhood, its
character, our schools, and the wildlife.
Do not allow the changes to existing zoning. Please, remember the quality and character of this neighborhood, our
schools, and our connection with nature. Please, do not allow the high density housing on the Painted Hills Golf
Course - Recreation Area.
Sincerely,
Genavieve Heywood
5112 S Mohawk Dr
Spokane,Valley WA 99206
From:Kay Boger
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:Painted Hills Project--SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
Date:Thursday, September 17, 2015 7:45:32 AM
Attachments:flood.pdf
Hi Ms. Janssen,
I agree with the points you made on the flyer:
More overcrowding of schools
Additional vehicle trafficDecreased property values
More displacement of wildlifeZoning changes
However, I have one more area of concern and it is that Painted Hills Golf Course is a Flood Plain. It is referenced on the flood plain map with the Spokane County Assessors website.
If they approve the zoning changes where will all the water be diverted too? Hayden Homes is
building across the road and there is a marked increase in water along the railroad tracks.
I think this area should remain a wetland or perhaps the City can leave it as a golf course and incorporate it into Parks and Recreation.
Thank you,
Kay Boger509.994.4283
From:Christina Janssen
To:Elisha Heath
Subject:FW: Painted Hills project-SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
Date:Thursday, September 17, 2015 3:24:36 PM
Attachments:Painted Hills project–SUB-2015-0011_PRD-2015-0001.docx
Christina J. Janssen
Planner
City of Spokane Valley
Community and Economic Development Dept.
11707 E. Sprague Avenue #106
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Phone-(509)720-5333
www.spokanevalley.org
(Contents of this email and any reply are subject to public disclosure)
From: Hoffman, Larry [mailto:hoffman@wsu.edu] Sent: Thursday, September 17, 2015 2:42 PMTo: Christina JanssenSubject: Painted Hills project–SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
Hi Christina,
Please let me know if you are unable to open the attachment and I will resend.
Thanks
Larry Hoffman
Painted Hills project – SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
September 17, 2015
Dear Christina Janssen,
While it has been our experience that the City of Spokane Valley has historically sided with
developers and the additional tax revenue new development brings to their coffers, we felt this
issue was important enough for us to go on record in support of the Painted Hills Preservation
Association and their stance against developing high density housing in place of Painted Hills
Golf Course. As residents of the Painted Hills and Ponderosa community, we have witnessed
firsthand the negative impacts of poor infrastructure planning at the expense of current tax
paying residents. Painted Hills Golf Course has struggled financially over the years to stay
operational but with an investment from the city, and possibly other interested investors, and
proper management going forward, it has the potential to generate revenues as well, and at
the same time preserve the open space and wetlands most of us appreciate in our community.
There has been talk recently about adding a sports complex, softball fields, and volleyball courts
in the valley. All good ideas for providing programs and healthy recreational opportunities for
children and young adults, but a city owned/managed public golf course will cater to all ages.
Our hope is that the city will do the right thing and retain this beautiful course for its residents,
many of whom moved to the area because of the proximity to golf. If, as we expect they will,
the city and developers continue to move forward with their plans of new housing, high density
or otherwise, we encourage the City Council and Planning Department to require that the
developers address the necessary infrastructure improvements – new schools, roads (including
traffic mitigation), drainage, law enforcement, fire and emergency services, and wildlife
protections – before they proceed. Otherwise, not only will we lose a beautiful area and
resource that can’t be undone, but we will be asked to pay additional taxes to cover these
expenses.
Sincerely,
Barbara Berkseth and Larry Hoffman
3715 S. Woodruff Rd. Spokane Valley
Cc: Painted Hills Preservation Association – P.O. Box 142207 Spokane, WA 99214
From:Christina Janssen
To:Elisha Heath
Subject:FW: NO on Painted Hills project
Date:Thursday, September 17, 2015 3:22:07 PM
Can’t figure out if I sent this already.
Christina J. Janssen
Planner
City of Spokane Valley
Community and Economic Development Dept.
11707 E. Sprague Avenue #106
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Phone-(509)720-5333
www.spokanevalley.org
(Contents of this email and any reply are subject to public disclosure)
From: Wendy Tanner [mailto:just4wendy@msn.com] Sent: Thursday, September 17, 2015 12:32 PMTo: Christina JanssenSubject: NO on Painted Hills project
Hello Ms. Janssen,
I am writing in regards to the Painted Hills project - SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001.
Please preserve this area and do not allow apartments and/or high density housing projects to
come in.
If you need to have my reasons for the concern, please let me know. Right now I will keep
things brief and just communicate that we who live close to that area are definitely not
interested in having these kinds of changes.
Thank you for your time.
Wendy Tanner
From:Sue Passmore
To:Elisha Heath
Subject:FW: painted hills golf course development
Date:Thursday, September 17, 2015 3:49:41 PM
FYI
From: Ben Wick Sent: Thursday, September 17, 2015 3:45 PMTo: Mike JacksonCc: Sue PassmoreSubject: Fwd: painted hills golf course development
FYI
Begin forwarded message:
From: Barry Baker <bbaker@bakerconstruct.com>
Date: September 17, 2015 at 12:55:25 PM PDT
To: Denny York <dennyyork@fairmountmemorial.com>
Cc: Arne Woodard <awoodard@spokanevalley.org>, Chuck Hafner
<chafner@spokanevalley.org>, Ben Wick <bwick@spokanevalley.org>, Ed Pace
<epace@spokanevalley.org>, Dean Grafos <dgrafos@spokanevalley.org>, Katherine
Morgan <katherine@spokanevalleychamber.org>, "Small,Benjamin"
<bsmall@cvsd.org>
Subject: Re: painted hills golf course development
I don't think it is the Chambers place to get involved in this one
Sent from my iPhone
On Sep 17, 2015, at 11:52 AM, Denny York <dennyyork@fairmountmemorial.com>
wrote:
Hi Folks,
I along with Katherine and Ben belong to a group called the Breakfast
Forum-33 men and women from all different businesses and industry-
Randy McNiece is one of those members.
I’m passing his letter along-the Chamber isn’t taking a position on this
because we haven’t been involved and it hasn’t come up as far as I know.
Just thought you might want his information.
Thanks,
Denny
Denny York*
President/CEO*
Fairmount Holdings, Inc*
A Division of Fairmount Memorial Association
<image003.jpg>
dennyyork@fairmountmemorial.com
509-459-3347-Office
509-993-6938-Cell
508 N. Government Way, Suite B
Spokane, WA 99224
WWW.fairmountmemorial.com
From: Randy McNiece [mailto:randy@intermountainleasing.com] Sent: Thursday, September 17, 2015 10:44 AMTo: Denny YorkSubject: painted hills golf course development
Denny: I don’t know if you and the valley chamber are aware of what is
going on with the old Painted hills golf course. As you probably know, the
course filed BK and eventually fell into the hands of developer Dave Black
due to a series of poorly planned and executed alternatives. At this
point, Black is proposing to build over 500 low end residences on the 99
acre site which previously was in the middle of the flood plain. Many in
the valley can not figure out why the city of the valley did not buy the
course and run it as a municipal course for the benefit of the citizens.
Instead they chose to spend their money on a piece of property owned
by Jack Pring at Sprague and herald that currently has no use. With that
all being said, there is a well organized group that has formed to stop the
development but more than that. The group would like to see the
property used purchased by the city for an alternative use such as green
space, park, wildlife preserve just to name a few. The decision to let
Black go ahead with his high density very low end project will be made by
the Planners at the city of the valley on September 20. This development
is a disaster for our community. I understand from the group that there
are grants and financing available repurchase the property and make the
99 acres a center piece for the valley community. The problem is the city
of the valley is probably going to give him the go ahead regardless of the
travesty it causes. I have attached a flier from the group for your review.
Personally I think a smaller city like the Valley rarely has an opportunity to
create a signature area within their city with 99 contiguous acres. Mike
Wacker in our group lives across the street from the site. I personally see
hundreds of deer, elk, moose, turkeys, geese, ducks, coyotes and many
other little folks on the site very often as I pass by there every day. It is a
real shame for the city of the valley to allow this to happen when they
could really make a statement about the quality of life in the Spokane
valley by getting on board with an alternative solution. Is the chamber at
all interested. Time is short—brochure attached
Thank you,
Randy McNeice
Intermountain Leasing LLC
PO Box 14758
Spokane Valley WA 99214
888.308.5327
509.924.0280
509.924.0294 fax
www.intermountainleasing.com
<Painted Hills.(1).pdf>
From:Christina Janssen
To:Elisha Heath
Cc:Chris Bainbridge
Subject:FW: Painted Hills Project Concerns
Date:Thursday, September 17, 2015 4:21:47 PM
Chris,
I am including you here because she would like this included in the next Council meeting.
Christina J. Janssen
Planner
City of Spokane Valley
Community and Economic Development Dept.
11707 E. Sprague Avenue #106
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Phone-(509)720-5333
www.spokanevalley.org
(Contents of this email and any reply are subject to public disclosure)
From: Marcia Sands [mailto:marcia_sands@comcast.net] Sent: Thursday, September 17, 2015 4:16 PMTo: Christina JanssenCc: mayor/ councilmembersSubject: Painted Hills Project Concerns
Hi Christina, Mr. Mayor & Councilmembers:
I am writing because I have recently become aware that there is a proposed
High Density Housing Development at the location of the former Painted Hills
Golf Course. I argue that this location is not appropriate for residential
development based on the following:
- The location is within the FEMA 100 year flood plain (Photo attached). It
is designated as AE. Spokane Valley Municipal Code Ch. 21.30.090 –
Provisions for flood hazard reduction Section 5. “AE and A1 – 30 Zones with
Base Flood Elevations but No Floodways.
a. In areas where a regulatory floodway has not been designated, no new construction,
substantial improvements, or other development (including fill) shall be permitted within
Zones A1 – 30 and AE on the community’s FIRM, unless it is demonstrated that the
cumulative effect of the proposed development, when combined with all other existing and
anticipated development, will not increase the water surface elevation of the base flood more
than one foot at any point within the community.
b. In the unnumbered A zones, the development may not increase the water surface elevation
of the base flood by more than one foot at any point.
c. In the A zones where base flood elevations have been provided, but floodways have not
been established, the development may not increase the surface water elevation of the base
flood by more than one-tenth of a foot at any point.
d. All adjacent or other property owners impacted by the development within the floodplain
must give their written, notarized approval for any increased base flood elevations upon their
property.”
Even if you are able to demonstrate that the development meets these
requirement AND you get permission from Washington Department of Ecology –
as required in Subsection 1.e. of the same Chapter – there is the human aspect
to take into consideration. A golf course or multi-use park is the perfect use for
that property because if it floods, and it does flood, there is very little damage
to construction and people’s lives who are affected by the flooding. The
developer will come in, build, sell and leave taking away a nice little profit leaving
the City, State and Federal governments to pay for the cost of housing that is
damaged due to flooding. Please make a responsible decision for the community
that you serve and use common sense. Do not allow further development in flood
plains.
Furthermore, mitigation of the flood hazard in this location will only cause other
locations up and downstream to have more flooding than they already have. As
you are probably aware the FEMA map for this area was updated in 2010 and
many people learned that their houses are located within the flood plain that
they did not know about when they chose to build there.
- Schools – The schools in our community are already overcrowded and
underfunded. The addition of 580 units worth of children to this system
will severely impact these resources. There is no cost to the developer to
provide for more classrooms and teachers. The cost of more schools will
be put upon our community. But until more schools are built our children
will be stuck in overcrowded conditions. This will reduce property values.
Good schools that are not overcrowded is a major draw to people looking
to move to Spokane Valley.
- Roads – The existing two-lane roadways surrounding this parcel are
inadequate to handle the additional traffic that would be generated by
such a large high-density development at that location.
I am not anti-development but I do think that development should be completed
in locations that are not going to have substantial adverse impacts to the people
living in them in the future or the community in which they are located. Just
because someone is able to purchase a property very inexpensively (because it is
a flood plain) does not give them the right to make a profit at the expense of
everyone else.
Please do the responsible thing and vote to not allow residential development
(especially high-density) at this location.
I request that this email be included in the minute of the next city council
meeting. Thank you for your consideration
Marcia Sands
10618 E Ferret Dr.
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
From:Christina Janssen
To:Elisha Heath
Subject:FW: Painted Hills Preservation
Date:Thursday, September 17, 2015 4:22:14 PM
Christina J. Janssen
Planner
City of Spokane Valley
Community and Economic Development Dept.
11707 E. Sprague Avenue #106
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Phone-(509)720-5333
www.spokanevalley.org
(Contents of this email and any reply are subject to public disclosure)
From: Daniel R. Sandford [mailto:drsandford@q.com] Sent: Thursday, September 17, 2015 4:22 PMTo: Christina JanssenSubject: Painted Hills Preservation
My family lives in Painted Hills and wants to preserve the Painted Hills golf course property as a
sports/recreational/park area. We feel that the proposed development of housing and apartments would
indeed be detrimental to our community in several ways. We have children attending an already very
crowded University High School, the roads are not conducive to the potential increase in traffic, and
developing of this property into such a densely populated area decreases property values and increases
the potential of crime. If the city/community cannot develop this property into a recreational place for the
community, then I would ask the developers to ask themselves what the true meaning of "greed" is, and
hopefully they would reconsider the density of their proposed development. Thanks for hearing our input.
Dan Sandford and Family.
From:Christina Janssen
To:Elisha Heath
Subject:FW: Painted Hills Project
Date:Friday, September 18, 2015 3:28:09 PM
Christina J. Janssen
Planner
City of Spokane Valley
Community and Economic Development Dept.
11707 E. Sprague Avenue #106
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Phone-(509)720-5333
www.spokanevalley.org
(Contents of this email and any reply are subject to public disclosure)
From: alancoalson [mailto:acoal10@comcast.net] Sent: Friday, September 18, 2015 3:26 PMTo: Christina JanssenSubject: Painted Hills Project
Reference: SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
I’m sending this e-mail to express my concerns about the above
project.
I live in Painted Hills, on Cree Drive, up the hill from the proposed
project. As I understand it there will be a +500 unit high density
housing development down the hill from me in the old Painted
Hills golf course.
Such a large project will, I believe, adversely affect our
community. The following are my concerns:
· The project is way too large for our community – especially
the inclusion of apartments.
· The golf course area has always been subject to flooding
over the years. I’ve lived in Painted Hills since 1979 and
have seen flooding many times in that area over the years.
· The project will certainly affect the wildlife – over the years
I’ve seen deer out in the fields in that area. This would
drive them out. I’ve seen this happen with the other
developments in adjacent areas over the years.
· The schools – University High, Horizon and Chester are
now about at capacity as I understand it – how can the
schools support another 500+ homes and all the children it
will add to the schools.
· I lived here during firestorm and we had to evacuate this
area. I’m very concerned with the addition of all these
homes, using the same roads and the ability to evacuate in
the event of another fire.
· I’m especially concerned about increase in crime in the area
with the addition of apartments as proposed.
· The major street in the area, Madison, already has a high
traffic count. The addition of an additional 500+ units will
cause crowding on this road. At a minimum the city should
require the developer to install turn lanes.
· I’m concerned that this project will adversely affect my
property values.
Thank you for considering my concerns.
Alan Coalson
From:WERNER GAUBINGER
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:Painted Hills project-SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
Date:Friday, September 18, 2015 12:42:58 PM
To Whom It May Concern:
As a resident of the area for 38 years, I OPPOSE the zoning change to high density of the
property
that was, formally Painted Hills Golf Course and adjacent property.
There are many reasons that should be considered, these are just a few:
1. Close proximity of THREE schools. The increased traffic endangering students.
2. Overcrowding of schools.
3. Decreased property values due to the type of development.
4. Lack of compatibility with the surrounding developments.
Please retain the integrity of the area with development that enhances not diminishes what
has already
been established.
Carole Gaubinger
10819 East 46th
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
From:Rob Miller
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:Painted Hills Project - SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0011
Date:Friday, September 18, 2015 11:56:43 AM
Dear Ms. Janssen,
I strongly support the Painted Hills Preservation Assoc. I don't wish to see the Painted Hills Golf Course turned in
to nearly 600 homes. This plan should not even be considered, let alone executed and I explain my position below.
I own a home in the Ponderosa neighborhood. Our family moved here from Portland in 2008. Two of the main
reasons for this move were 1) Smaller and less dense population and 2) Quality K-12 education, specifically U-HI.
A beloved bonus, at that time, was Painted Hills Golf Course. I took my son there all the time and it paid off; He
made the U-HI golf team as a Junior. Building 600 homes in an area that size is simply unthinkable.
I grew up in Spokane Valley (from 1977 to 1985). I graduated from University High School in 1985. I felt I
received an excellent education from the school district and looking back now, I'm sure it was in part due to small
class size. Now, both my children attend U-HI and are straight A students.
If the proposed construction plan moves forward, I'm concerned on many levels, including increased traffic (and all
the negatives that brings), overcrowding at U-HI (thus negating one reason I moved here in the first place),
destruction of an established wetland area, almost assuredly a decrease in my home value as well as an increase in
crime that inevitably follows a high density housing development.
Please consider these points from a concerned citizen.
www.savepaintedhills.org
Thanks,
Rob Miller
10107 E. 39th Ave
Spokane Valley, WA. 99206
509-928-1218
From:Suzann
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:Painted Hills Project Proposal
Date:Friday, September 18, 2015 7:11:58 AM
Dear Ms. Janssen:
As a resident of the Spokane Valley, please accept my comment on SUB 2015-0011/PRD-2015-
001 (the proposed Painted Hills project), and let me know how to follow it up - with an in-person visit if necessary. Thank you!
I strongly object to the changes to existing zoning and think they are short-sighted for the city's
vision.The development would overcrowd an already over-capacity high school. Why doesn't SV
require developers to contribute on this point? I've seen other communities that do not simply allow developers to profit from their sales - but also to invest in the community. SV may want to
consider this.
Especially since I don't see requirements for turn lanes or street improvements. SV is setting up problems for itself, to profit a developer....
A group that is developing an area that is full of wetlands and wildlife - hereby significantly
changing the character of the neighborhood that we choose to live in....
Please PROTECT the valley rather than simply allow PROFIT from the valley.Protect schools.
Protect neighborhoods - streets, wildlife, character, safety....
NO high density housing in overcrowded school districts without forethought to planning to accomodate.
NO zoning changes that alter the character of the neighborhood for thousands of residents, including wildlife.
This parcel has INCREDIBLE opportunity for a group with vision. Unfortunately, this group is
going to put great load on the city with a vision only to profit.
Don't get suckered into it. Think of your legacy.Please let me know what else I can do!
Suzann Girtz13015 E. 39th Lane
Spokane Valley
From:John Siino
To:Christina Janssen
Cc:Mitzi Siino; John Siino at HDR
Subject:Painted Hills Project - SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
Date:Friday, September 18, 2015 6:14:36 AM
Christina Janssen
11707 E. Sprague, Suite 106
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Ms. Janssen,
We just bought our home in the Painted Hills and are in the process of
renovating it. We chose this location specifically due to its open
rural setting. The proposed 580 unit housing development will
dramatically hurt property values and adversely affect our living
environment. My wife and I have experienced this first hand in Reno,
Nevada where a development like this came into our neighborhood.
Traffic accidents and crime soon followed along with graffiti and a
decline in our schools.
Please do not allow this project to proceed.
Call or email me if you have any questions.
Respectfully,
John and Mitzi Siino
12740 E Apache Pass Road
Spokane, WA 99206
509-343-8516
jmsiino_sr@sbcglobal.net
From:Steve Schmedding
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:Painted Hills Proposed Development
Date:Thursday, September 17, 2015 9:48:35 PM
Attachments:Painted Hills Objection.pdf
Ms. Janssen, please accept my letter regarding the proposed development at the site of the old Painted Hills Golf Course.
I was only notified of this proposition today as I prepared to leave town. I wrote this in my
hotel room and can only email the document to you.
Please feel free to contact me at the numbers provided.
Thank you,
-- Steve Schmedding
To: Christina Janssen From: Steve Schmedding
11707 E. Sprague, Suite 106 3218 S. Bates Rd.
Spokane Valley, WA 99206 Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Re: The painted hills project Date: September 17, 2015
SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
Dear Ms. Janssen:
I write you today regarding the subject project proposal stated above. Having lived in the immediate
area adjacent to the subject property for almost twenty years I have intimate knowledge of impacts to
the existing condition if this proposal is receives approval.
For many years I pass three sides of this property as I walk. Over the last five or so I’ve observed an
appreciable increase in the traffic on all three perimeter roads. I attribute this increased traffic to the
newer developments located directly south of the subject property. How does the proposed project
address the traffic impacts of almost five hundred new single family units on the existing infrastructure?
What are the limits and results of the comprehensive traffic study conducted for the proposed
development? How does the SEPA checklist address traffic issue, and what are the resultant
corrections? I’d like to review the traffic study, please direct me to that documents location?
I’ve come to understand that in the past changes to the arterial plan have occurred in the south
Midilome neighborhood area. My understanding is that the proposed arterial that was planned to
connect Bowdish and Pines in/around what would be S. 40th Ave. was eliminated. I have heard that
other existing zoning codes are being considered for modification in support of this proposed
development. Please provide a link to current/proposed changes to zoning in support of this proposed
project.
For many years I have observed wildlife as I walk. This area is a haven for deer, pheasant, quail, hawks,
many ducks and other waterfowl, and coyotes. I’ve even seen a bear and a few cow elk in this area.
Recent housing developments to the east and south have reduced habitat for these populations to the
point that this property is the last refuge on the lower Painted Hills Drainage Plain. How does the SEPA
checklist address the impact to the wildlife in this area? I would request an electronic copy of the SEPA
checklist.
The proposed property exists in the floodplain of the Painted Hills drainage basin. Earlier developments
have already re-shaped the floodplain, and reduced the available area for stormwater/spring runoff
containment. In the last twenty years the golf old course property has flooded many times well into the
late spring, early summer time. Two twenty four inch diameter culvert pipes were recently added at the
eastern end of Thorpe Rd. to alleviate basin flooding and route flow along the eastern property
boundary to attenuate the higher flows. This work was performed years before the most recent sub
division was developed directly south of the proposed site. The culverts were added as a solution to a
problem, then the upstream problem area is further developed? It appears to me that proper floodplain
management methods are not being employed. How does this plat satisfy all elements of the Spokane
Regional Storm Water Manual (SWSRM)? Please direct me to the accepted drainage report for the
proposed development.
The Central Valley School District is faced with an ever expanding student base. Several bond and levy
measures have been presented in the past, some of which were passed. The citizens of the district
desire a good education for the youth but generally are not in favor of poorly planned expansion into
the area. How has the proposed project addressed the impact that this project would have on the
existing educational services and what mitigation is to be provided by the project?
Upon review of the many issues that arise regarding the proposed development, and the lack of
satisfactory mitigation to these impacts it is my opinion that approval for this proposed development be
denied and I request that you consider my decision as the board proceeds.
I can be reached at 509-714-4696 should you have questions concerning my responses to the subject
matter.
Thank you very much,
Steve Schmedding, P.E.
3218 S. Bates Rd., Spokane Valley, WA 99206
From:Lexie Sautter
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:Painted hills project
Date:Thursday, September 17, 2015 9:23:16 PM
Dear City of Spokane Valley,
I am writing to express my concern about the Painted Hills project that is planning to turn the former Painted Hills
Golf Course into a crowded, high-density housing development. This land and the existing infrastructure were not
previously zoned to support this level of density. With three schools in close proximity, our roads are already
choked, particularly at school commute times, and cannot safely accommodate the estimated 5000+ car trips that
will occur with this level of density. Moreover, the roads that will be most affected—Madison/Pines and the narrow
Dishman-Mica road—always have consistent pedestrian traffic, including kids and families walking to schools, and
the significant increase in automobile traffic greatly damages the safe zone that should surround our schools.
As this land encompasses wild wetlands, flood plains, and a natural creek, this development will not only displace
wildlife, but fundamentally change the character of the Painted Hills community. Changing existing zoning
designations, in response to developer pressure, while ignoring the concerns and voice of the people who elected
you, allows large real estate groups to tromp into neighborhoods in robber baron style—they are so big and rich
they do whatever they want, knowing that they can buy the city council and bully the surrounding community. This
particular developer, Black Realty, openly expressed complete disregard for community values and concerns in the
public meeting held earlier this year—and we understand that their studies on the impact of their proposed
development on the area have been minimal and superficial, hoping to slide through a process that they have
greased with their promises of new tax revenue.
We beg you to take a more qualitative approach. Please listen to our concerns, support the original zoning
designations, and preserve the quality of life that drew so many of us to the valley. This trust is what we elected you
to do—and we hope you can honor the commitments you made to be stewards of our community.
Thank you,
Dr. Spencer & Lexie Sautter
From:Raymond Mendez
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:RE: SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
Date:Thursday, September 17, 2015 8:04:34 PM
To whom it may concern,
I am the owner and resident of 3705 S Mercy Ct. Spokane Valley. I will like to
express my concerns for the planned housing development of Painted Hills Golf
Course. This development will increase the Average Daily Trip to 5,655 per day to
and from this site, this higher traffic volume will cause delays in the morning and
afternoon commute for most working citizens already established in the area. Please
also consider traffic delays during the construction phase. Furthermore once housing
is fully developed and occupied it will mean that schools in this zone will be
overcrowded, jeopardizing the quality of education given to our children. Also to with
higher populated areas comes higher crime rates, thus decreasing property value in
the near by area.
Please help in preserving the Painted Hills Golf Course as a recreational area.
v/r
Raymond Mendez-Colon
From:Brittany Startzel
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:Painted Hills project - SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
Date:Thursday, September 17, 2015 5:53:12 PM
Hello Christina,
I am writing to share my opinion on the development planned to take place in the Painted Hills
area in Spokane Valley. I have lived in Spokane Valley since I was 2 years old. Growing up in Ponderosa then moving up the hill from Horizon Middle School. I went to school at
University High School from 2003-2007 and stayed in the valley after graduation.
I could not disagree with the planned development more. It will destroy the community, over crowd the streets, displace students, and upset the environment. We have ALREADY hit the
maximum capacity for this part of the valley. I honestly can't imagine more people. I have experienced this first hand. My freshman year of high school, the second year the new U-
High was running, we already had too many students to fit in the classrooms. I had to take classes outside the school in trailers! We already have too many people in the area for a brand
new school to accommodate. Adding hundreds more will cause unbelievable issues.
I would like to give consent to share my story and please use my words to explain to those that want to disrupt our homes. Those of us that already live here, DO NOT WANT THIS!
Thank you for taking the time to spear head this effort. You are so appreciated by all those that
live in the area!
Kind regards,
Brittany Startzel
From:Shannan Skidmore
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:Painted Hills project – SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
Date:Thursday, September 17, 2015 5:28:43 PM
17 September 2015
Dear City of Spokane Valley,
I am writing to express my concern about the Painted Hills project that is planning to turn the
former Painted Hills Golf Course into a crowded, high-density housing development. This land and the existing infrastructure were not previously zoned to support this level of density.
With three schools in close proximity, our roads are already choked, particularly at school commute times, and cannot safely accommodate the estimated 5000+ car trips that will occur
with this level of density. Moreover, the roads that will be most affected—Madison/Pines and the narrow Dishman-Mica road—always have consistent pedestrian traffic, including kids and
families walking to schools, and the significant increase in automobile traffic greatly damages the safe zone that should surround our schools.
As this land encompasses wild wetlands, flood plains, and a natural creek, this development will not only displace wildlife, but fundamentally change the character of the Painted Hills
community. Changing existing zoning designations, in response to developer pressure, while ignoring the concerns and voice of the people who elected you, allows large real estate groups
to tromp into neighborhoods in robber baron style—they are so big and rich they do whatever they want, knowing that they can buy the city council and bully the surrounding community.
This particular developer, Black Realty, openly expressed complete disregard for community values and concerns in the public meeting held earlier this year—and we understand that their
studies on the impact of their proposed development on the area have been minimal and superficial, hoping to slide through a process that they have greased with their promises of
new tax revenue.
We beg you to take a more qualitative approach. Please listen to our concerns, support the
original zoning designations, and preserve the quality of life that drew so many of us to th valley. This trust is what we elected you to do—and we hope you can honor the commitments
you made to be stewards of our community.
Sincerely,
Shannan Egbert Skidmore
12113 E Nez Perce Ln.
Spokane, WA 99206
Sskidmore2@comcast.net
(509) 590-8854
From:Diane Bailly
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:Painted Hills Project - SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
Date:Thursday, September 17, 2015 5:17:20 PM
Dear Christina Janssen,
I am writing this letter out of concern for the proposed development going in at the former
Painted Hills Golf Course site.
I have been the President of the Pine Rock Ridge HOA Board for the last four years. Our
subdivision is located between 39th and 37th with Woodlawn running between our
subdivision of 140 lots. (two vacant lots remaining to be built on) Our beautiful subdivision
backs up on one side to all three Schools making this a neighborhood that children can easily
walk to school. The other side of our subdivision backs up to open land and to the south, tall
stands of pine trees. We are a quiet and clean neighborhood with HOA standards in place.
Traffic on our private streets is minimal and so far traffic on Woodlawn, a city owned street, is
doable. Home prices vary with some homes close to $400K in value and some homes have
the original homeowners still present with our oldest home built in about 2004.
The proposed development will put a tremendous strain on our schools, increase traffic,
displace and endanger our large population of wildlife and seriously overcrowd that parcel of
land. That whole area is on a flood plain which means every one of those homes will need to
carry expensive flood plain insurance.
We have been dry this summer but I remember a couple of years ago much of that golf course
was under water!
I cannot imagine the amount of traffic that will come through Woodlawn! We currently are
responsible as an HOA for all the trees, lights, green space all along Woodlawn. This is a
considerable expense for our HOA and yet that is a public street! Our children cross that
street to go to school and to see their friends. Bikers and walkers use this street extensively.
We have asked repeatedly and have been unable to even get the city to put a 25 mph speed
limit sign at the south end of Woodlawn. (Woodlawn "dead ends" at 40th - 40th goes directly
to Horizon Middle School)
Our residents are so concerned many are considering selling their homes.
Thank you for your attention to this matter,
Diane Bailly
Pine Rock Ridge HOA President
12910 E 39th Ln.
From:Gary Lake
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:Painted Hills Project-SUB2015-0011/PRD-2015-01
Date:Friday, September 18, 2015 7:57:14 AM
I am writing to request that the above PRD be rejected. This PRD will infringe on the property
rights current owners, impacts the neighborhood, and is not conducive with the geography of
the neighborhood.
My family have been residents of the Spokane Valley area since 1990 (before it was a city),
and moved to the Midilome neighborhood in 2002. We previously lived near 19th & Pines.
The Painted Hill golf course played into the decision to move into the Midilome
neighborhood. We knew what the zoning was and felt comfortable about the future of the
neighborhood, and that the zoning would protect the neighborhood.
The definition of zoning in the "Dictionary of Real Estate Appraisal: by the Appraisal Institute”
is: “The public regulation of the character and extent of real estate through police power;
accomplished by establishing districts or areas with uniform restrictions to improvements,
structural heights, area, bulk; density of population; and other aspect of the use and
development of private property". To change the zoning and allow the above PRD is in
violation and contrary of the current R-3 zoning. The above PRD does not protect the
property rights of the current owners, and shows no respect for the current property owners.
The most glaring example is in the proposed PRD, a multi-story apartment complex that to be
built next to a convent of a cloistered sect of nuns.
The previous owner of the Painted Hills golf course downzoned the parcel and other parcels
that were part of the course to the current R-3 designation. This was done in order to
develop a limited number of golf course home sites on the western side of the property. His
proposed plans showed a limited number home sites would be consistent with existing
neighborhood. Due to this, there was little protest. These homes would have enhanced the
value of the neighborhood and been in harmony with the existing homes and infrastructure.
However, to change the existing R-3 zoning to the proposed PRD would destroy the nature of
the neighborhood forever, and devalue many of the existing homes. Some homes, such as
those in the Midilome Greens development, and the view properties to the east, have likely
seen, or will see some loss of market value of their homes due to the loss of the golf course.
The Painted Hills golf course was established in a low level flood zone area that collects and
disperses runoff water. The majority of the course is in a designated FEMA flood zone area
AE, and is a Compensatory Storage Area for runoff water per FEMA. This area has flooded in
the past to the extent of flooding and the closing of Thorpe Road on the southern boundary.
To allow the intense housing that is planned by the proposed PRD has the potential to destroy
the neighborhood as we know it. It is not conducive with the existing use of the
neighborhood and would infringe of the rights of the existing property owners. There are
only two streets leading in and out of the neighborhood, both two lanes streets. The streets
are already very busy during the peak times in the mornings and afternoons, around work and
school hours.
In summary, to change or downzone the golf course site from R-3 to the proposed PRD should
not be allowed. It is not the intent of the R-3 zoning to allow such a use as the proposed PRD.
The current infrastructure cannot handle the number of proposed new households, multi-
family housing, mixed use retail and commercial areas in the above PRD. The geography is not
conducive to a development like this. The vast majority of the current property owners do
not want this development. In the end, if this is approved, the current property owners will
end up paying in the future for damage done to the infrastructure in the neighborhood after
the developer has moved on, while their property values are deteriorating due to this
development.
I realize that a property owner can do, at times, what he wants to do with his property. But
the zoning laws were put in place to protect existing and future property owners, and give
them certain rights. To allow this type of development will fringe in the inalienable property
rights of the current owners and should not be allowed. It is the government's job, your job,
to protect the rights of the current owners. This PRD should be rejected.
Thank you.
Gary Lake
Gary Lake Appraisals
11912 E 40th Avenue
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Cell: 509-991-3034
Tele: 509-921-0828
Serving Spokane County since 1992
From:san122@comcast.net
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:painted hills project sub-2015-0011/prd-2015-0001
Date:Friday, September 18, 2015 9:45:47 AM
We live on 37th and Bowdish and are very concerned about the amount of increased
traffic that this would cause.
Also, we would love to see Spokane Valley use the land for a park for everyone to
enjoy. It seems that there
are already homes and apartments everywhere and we could use some green
spaces.
Dave and Sandy Mueller
From:Connie Oviatt
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:PAINTED HILLS PROJECT-SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-001
Date:Friday, September 18, 2015 9:38:37 AM
We have lived in the Spokane Valley since 1970. I love the valley and enjoy our wonderful
quality of life. We do not want more housing in our area to where the children are not safe to
play, because of overflowing of traffic and people.
We need to save the Painted Hills Golf Course, We need to keep it a golf course so we have a
nice golfing area without having to drive to Liberty Lake or Esmerada to play a round of Golf.
We need it for our future generations.
We do not need low-end housing and apartments to bring down the value of our homes.
Please WE NEED TO PRESERVE THE PAINTED HILLS AREA..
Thanks
Terry and Connie Oviatt
From:Hoffman, Larry
To:Christina Janssen
Subject:RE: Painted Hills project-SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
Date:Friday, September 18, 2015 8:24:27 AM
Good morning,
Thanks for replying. It alerted me to the fact that this was sent from the wrong email address. WSU
has no position either way on this project. A public disclosure request might suggest otherwise.
Please remove any reference to this from the file and notify me when this is done and I will resend
with the attachment from my personal Gmail account.
Thanks Christina,
Larry Hoffman
From: Christina Janssen [mailto:christina.janssen@spokanevalley.org] Sent: Thursday, September 17, 2015 3:19 PMTo: Hoffman, LarrySubject: RE: Painted Hills project-SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
That attachment opened with no problem.
Thank you for your comment. It will be added to the file.
Christina J. Janssen
Planner
City of Spokane Valley
Community and Economic Development Dept.
11707 E. Sprague Avenue #106
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Phone-(509)720-5333
www.spokanevalley.org
(Contents of this email and any reply are subject to public disclosure)
From: Hoffman, Larry [mailto:hoffman@wsu.edu] Sent: Thursday, September 17, 2015 2:42 PMTo: Christina JanssenSubject: Painted Hills project–SUB-2015-0011/PRD-2015-0001
Hi Christina,
Please let me know if you are unable to open the attachment and I will resend.
Thanks
Larry Hoffman
1
Elisha Heath
From:Christina Janssen
Sent:Friday, October 09, 2015 11:49 AM
To:Elisha Heath
Subject:FW: Painted Hills Development
Christina J. Janssen
Planner City of Spokane Valley
Community and Economic Development Dept. 11707 E. Sprague Avenue #106
Spokane Valley, WA 99206 Phone-(509)720-5333
www.spokanevalley.org
(Contents of this email and any reply are subject to public disclosure)
From: Alison.E.Bell@wellsfargo.com [mailto:Alison.E.Bell@wellsfargo.com]
Sent: Friday, October 09, 2015 9:43 AM To: Christina Janssen Subject: Painted Hills Development
Christina,
I am late in providing comments –
I would hope that if this project goes through, the City would require adequate turn lanes (more than one entrance/exit
and other street improvements so that the traffic from this development can funnel out onto Dishman Mica Road, not
Madison/Pines due to the schools along Pines including an elementary school.
The traffic is this general area is already very heavy with people speeding through Midilome at 35 MPH in a 25 MPH
zone.
Otherwise I think this development could be quite nice and better than a huge run down golf course with a bunch of
weeds!
Again, with this many homes going in my only concern is traffic because Madison road which runs along the eastern side
of the golf course is not designed for heavy traffic flow.
Thank you ‐
Alison E. Bell
924‐4942
1
Elisha Heath
From:Christina Janssen
Sent:Thursday, October 15, 2015 10:35 AM
To:Elisha Heath
Subject:FW: Painted hills
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
Christina J. Janssen
Planner City of Spokane Valley
Community and Economic Development Dept. 11707 E. Sprague Avenue #106 Spokane Valley, WA 99206 Phone-(509)720-5333
www.spokanevalley.org
(Contents of this email and any reply are subject to public disclosure)
From: jess lawless [mailto:ijlawless@comcast.net]
Sent: Thursday, October 15, 2015 10:30 AM
To: Christina Janssen
Subject: Painted hills
We are opposed to the hugh proposed project at the Painted Hills golf course site. We
would accept a much smaller project. The 580 unit complex is going to have a very
negative impact on the school system, walkers along the street and congestion of traffic
on Madison especially near Horizon Middle school.Chester creek does flood the south
east part of the property and more streets in the project means more run off for
water. There currently is a ditch running parallel on Madison in an attempt to manage
water from Chester creek. Thorpe is still flooding even after an attempt to control Chester
creek flooding. I have lived in Painted Hills since 1973 so am very much aware of the
water, walkers and car congestion. I see as many as 20 deer crossing from the east of
Madison on to the golf course. Has more dead deer been considered due to traffic. The
schools are already full, now add 580 more units? I appreciate the developers want to
create wealth for them selves, they do not live here. We who live south and east of the
project will be negatively impacted forever. Please do not allow a project so hugh to be
built. Thank you, Jess and Mary Lawless
1
Elisha Heath
From:Christina Janssen
Sent:Friday, October 16, 2015 9:52 AM
To:Elisha Heath
Subject:FW: Painted Hills
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
Christina J. Janssen
Planner City of Spokane Valley
Community and Economic Development Dept. 11707 E. Sprague Avenue #106 Spokane Valley, WA 99206 Phone-(509)720-5333
www.spokanevalley.org
(Contents of this email and any reply are subject to public disclosure)
From: Bob or Joan [mailto:bojo2409@aol.com]
Sent: Friday, October 16, 2015 9:35 AM
To: Christina Janssen
Subject: Painted Hills My husband and I live at the corner of 33rd ct and McDonald. We are greatly OPPOSED to the building in P. H. since it will increase the traffic thru McDonald and also on 32nd. We realize the valley is all for this because of the extra tax revenue it will draw but, remember, it's on the backs of the residents that live in Medilome. I already have problems getting onto 32nd and the bias traffic consultant was hired by the builder/reator......DUH!!!! No wonder he sees no problem. These are TOO many homes, built in TOO small an area to accommodate the extra people and traffic. Please take our lives into consideration. Bob and Joan DeGroot 13023 E 33rd Ct
1
Elisha Heath
From:Christina Janssen
Sent:Monday, October 19, 2015 7:29 AM
To:Elisha Heath
Subject:FW: I am not for the houses. Leave it as a lone or put another golfcourse in
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
Christina J. Janssen
Planner City of Spokane Valley
Community and Economic Development Dept. 11707 E. Sprague Avenue #106 Spokane Valley, WA 99206 Phone-(509)720-5333
www.spokanevalley.org
(Contents of this email and any reply are subject to public disclosure)
From: pamelapirkkala [mailto:pamelapirkkala@comcast.net]
Sent: Saturday, October 17, 2015 4:41 PM
To: Christina Janssen
Subject: I am not for the houses. Leave it as a lone or put another golfcourse in
Sent from my Verizon Wireless 4G LTE smartphone
1
Elisha Heath
From:Christina Janssen
Sent:Tuesday, October 20, 2015 8:05 AM
To:Elisha Heath
Subject:FW: Painted Hills Development
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
Christina J. Janssen
Planner City of Spokane Valley
Community and Economic Development Dept. 11707 E. Sprague Avenue #106 Spokane Valley, WA 99206 Phone-(509)720-5333
www.spokanevalley.org
(Contents of this email and any reply are subject to public disclosure)
From: David Roseleip [mailto:droseleip@yahoo.com]
Sent: Monday, October 19, 2015 9:35 PM
To: Christina Janssen
Subject: Painted Hills Development To Whom it May Concern:
We are Dave and Jan Roseleip, living at 3826 S Union Rd., near the proposed Painted Hills
development. We request the development plans be significantly altered to reduce the number of
units and that proper infrastructure be required to handle the increased population. We are very concerned about the environmental impact, impact on wildlife and the crowded traffic impact.
The plan as proposed will change the entire nature of the surrounding neighborhoods, schools,
quality of life and citizen safety. It is ill conceived and needs to have significant changes before approval is given.
We vigorously oppose the plan as presented. Please hear the citizens of the valley.
Sincerely, David and Jan Roseleip
3826 S Union Rd
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
509-951-8482
From: Frank Cobb [mailto:fccobb@gmail.com]
Sent: Thursday, October 22, 2015 5:16 PM
To: John Hohman
Cc: Christina Janssen
Subject: Painted Hills Developement application
Dear Mr. Hohman,
According to the attached study done for Spokane County Engineers in 1999, wetlands were
identified by this report. Please note on the application by Black that it states no wetlands on site.
Thought you should be aware.
Respectfully
Frank Cobb
1
Elisha Heath
From:Sue Passmore on behalf of mayor/ councilmembers
Sent:Thursday, November 12, 2015 8:38 AM
To:City Council; Mike Jackson; John Hohman; Cary Driskell
Cc:Deanna Horton; Elisha Heath
Subject:FW: Painted Hills developement
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
FYI
Sue Passmore, Administrative Assistant to the Mayor and City Council
City of Spokane Valley
11707 E Sprague, Suite 106
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Telephone: (509) 720‐5106 Fax: (509) 688‐0194
Unsubscribe: This email is provided as an informational service to those interested in staying informed on City of Spokane Valley programs, projects and issues. If you no longer prefer to receive these emails, please email spassmore@spokanevalley.org and type “Unsubscribe” in the subject line or call Sue Passmore at 509-720-5106. (Contents of this email and reply are subject to public disclosure)
From: Frank Cobb [mailto:fccobb@gmail.com]
Sent: Wednesday, November 11, 2015 4:04 PM
To: mayor/ councilmembers Subject: Painted Hills developement
Mayor and Council members,
I watched the council video of Oct. 6, 2015 study session concerning this developement. I understand that the
decision to approve or not is out of your hands as one councilman stated at the end of this session.
I sure hope that the City's legal staff is taking a hard look at this because it's loaded with problems for not only
city government but citizens of the city as well. Hope you have all seen pictures of past flooding here. If lived around it for 30 years. I built most of the homes in The Greens at Midilome and watched the whole course lake
up more than once.
There's major problems from my seat:
1. Two out of three of the collection ponds are not on the owner/developer's property.
2. Thorpe Rd. Will be part of the developer's mitigation system. Four culverts have to be built through City property. I see a liability problem here for the City.
3. The developer wants to turn over the ten acre park on Thorpe Rd. to the City. Does that mean the city
becomes responsible for maintenance of the flood mitigation in the park?
4. The developer proposes that the Homeowners Association will be responsible for the maintenance and
operation of the flood mitigation system which also includes a pit on E. 40th one half mile away from the property. We have 41 residents in our community and have difficulty getting one half of them in the M&O of
our neighborhood. How will this work with 580 members?
I'm a retired small businessman and all for economic development. But this developement does not belong in
this corner of the Valley.
Especially in a flood plain.
2
Respectfully
Frank Cobb
1
Elisha Heath
From:Christina Janssen
Sent:Thursday, November 12, 2015 10:44 AM
To:Elisha Heath
Subject:FW: Painted Hills Development and Vision
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
Christina J. Janssen
Planner City of Spokane Valley
Community and Economic Development Dept. 11707 E. Sprague Avenue #106 Spokane Valley, WA 99206 Phone-(509)720-5333
www.spokanevalley.org
(Contents of this email and any reply are subject to public disclosure)
From: Bryan Walker [mailto:bwalker@naiblack.com]
Sent: Tuesday, November 10, 2015 5:19 PM
To: mayor/ councilmembers; Sue Passmore; Cary Driskell; Parks & Recreation Department;
SpokaneValleyPolice@SpokaneCounty.org; Gabe Gallinger; John Hohman; Dean Grafos; Jenny Nickerson; Lori Barlow;
Mike Jackson; Christina Janssen; seanmessner@spokanevalley.org; Mike Stone Subject: Painted Hills Development and Vision
Hi, We are very excited to get out the preliminary vision and concepts for the Painted hills Development. I am sending this out to you for
your information and to show the level of outreach and effort to accurately inform all those involved and or concerned. We have a desire to take a positive and active roll in good communication with the public. A post card with all the website information is being sent to over 1000+ Neighbors as well as an active internet marketing campaign showing how to go to the website including direct contact with me if so desired. Go to the website listed below and take the tour, Over Two years have been committed in building the vision and working through the obstacles that have been presented in planning and design meetings. I think you will find it to be a very well thought out plan and a truly a one of a kind community for the City Of Spokane Valley.
http://www.paintedhillsinfo.com/ If you have any Questions or Concerns please feel free to call or email me directly.
Thank you
--
Bryan Walker 509-951-3669 cell Bwalker@naiblack.com