Thank you, Tim St. Clair for your excellent article, "More people mean more lost views," August 8. While this is not a new concern, your "tell it like it is" report is appreciated.

I have great empathy with Dennis Hoelscher as I lost half of my view - the middle part - when a two-story home was taken down and replaced with a three-story one last year. We had a lovely view of the sound and the ferry terminal. Not any more.

And nothing could be done about it. When sent by the city Department of Planning and Development the proposal for this home to be built, I responded with a letter stating my case, even though I knew there was no chance for change of action. My letter did not even get the courtesy of a form letter reply.

While sad about my personal loss, I am also concerned with what is happening to the neighborhood. My view-blocker is a very large home which dwarfs the other houses around it. It does not fit in. I realize this is happening all over the area, not just West Seattle. The breakdown of the traditional established neighborhoods is indeed unfortunate. But larger, grander homes bring the city more tax $$$. That may be the bottom line.

My recent property value shows a sizeable increase in my property, meaning that my taxes are to go up. However, with my loss of view the market value has been diminished.

Good luck to Councilman Richard Conlin with the sustainable single-family housing ordinance. Whether or not this comes to pass, at least it is being addressed. I am encouraged.

Marcia Van Doren-Graves

Fauntleroy