Public Hearing on Proposed Wawona Demolition Scheduled

I've received word that Seattle City Councilmember Peter Steinbrueck has scheduled a public hearing on Wawona Wednesday, July 12 at 2 p.m. at City Hall. As chair of the council's Urban Development and Planning Committee, Steinbrueck is a staunch supporter of historic preservation and our irreplaceable maritime heritage. He served as chair of the recent Maritime Heritage Task Force, which made several recommendations on the preservation of the entire region's maritime heritage, not just Wawona. I spoke with him just days after the publication of the "demolish and dispose" letter from Mayor Nickels' office, and he was very upset at the mayor's tactics. I'm told the July 12 event won't be a formal hearing, but rather an update on the Wawona situation during his regular committee meeting.

Every supporter of Wawona, maritime heritage, and historic preservation should come to the hearing. You may have an opportunity to speak, but even if you don't, your presence will demonstrate the importance of this issue to the community. Wear a heritage-oriented t-shirt, carry a sign, or just be there! The address for city hall is 600 4th Avenue. The hearing will be in the council chambers.

If you can't attend, please contact Steinbrueck's office and share your views. You can call him at 206-684-8804, or e-mail him at peter.steinbrueck@seattle.gov. Snail mail is the most powerful tool: The address is Seattle City Hall, PO Box 34025, Seattle, WA, 98124-4025.

Any thoughts on what the hearing should focus on? Do you think the hearing is a bad idea? Please comment below.