North Highline is an area with needs. They need development and services. If Seattle can get more money to care for the area, then it would be better for everyone if Seattle annexes North Highline. Adding 30,000 people to a city of a million will hardly be noticed. Raising the quality of life in White Center will raise the quality of life in Burien.

Seattle has the tax base to provide for North Highline's needs. If they receive millions more under their annexation scenario, we should stop complaining that it is unfair (which it is) and just be happy that North Highline will get the help it needs. It will be better for Seattle because they will have that money flowing through their coffers.

It will be better for North Highline because they will be the beneficiaries of increased spending. It will be better for Burien because we will live next to a thriving community rather than taking on the challenges of a blighted area. The Burien City Council should support HB1139 and help Seattle get the money to do what's best for North Highline.

Jim Branson

Seahurst