I was viewing a recent meeting of the Burien City Council when everyone was discussing the viability of the environmental studies structure planned for Seahurst Park and realized that I had some concerns.

First of all, I have to say that I have known Georgette Valle practically my whole life and consider her a friend and have great respect for her contributions to local politics as a former city council member and a legislator in Olympia. She has campaigned tirelessly for this project since its conception.

I have personally been to some of the fundraisers and been a donator towards its construction. Georgette is a big fan of environmental education and related issues.

At this meeting it was revealing that over half a million dollars have been raised, but according to projected cost estimates done by both the city and privately it falls more than $300,000 short of the expected building cost.

I find it had to fathom that a building of modest size cannot be built for the amount already raised, especially when considering the city already owns the property and may even be able to waive some of the bureaucratic costs. The plan was also to build over an existing foundation which should reduce the eventual cost even more.

Here is an idea. How about purchasing modular building (such as Lyndal or Justice if they still exist)? The style would appropriate and would look great and yes, be on budget. There also might be some local promotional angle, another cost savings.

I was surprised that so many on the council and project managers thought is normal and reasonable the modest public building should cost over $900,000. It makes me pause and wonder if more budgetary constraints are needed.

Mark Pitzner

Burien