The Highline School Board has heard concerns from a number of people regarding the proposed sale of a small slice of district property to the developer of a proposed condominium complex near Seahurst Park. Though there are other points of access to the property, the school district owns the access point most convenient to Westmark Development.

We do appreciate hearing from community members about issues such as property sales. That is why we hold a public hearing before moving forward with any sale. We have taken all comments and communications on this matter very seriously.

We have decided to postpone a decision on the sale until after the city of Burien completes is final environmental impact study (EIS), which is due to be released on May 27.The EIS will address environmental impacts of the development on the park. Citizens will have an opportunity to appeal if they do not agree with the EIS conclusions. That process is managed by the city, not the school district.

We would like to note that the district does not have the authority to block the Westmark development. We have been told that Westmark will access the property another way if the district opts not to sell the property in question.

We value Seahurst Park for enjoyment it affords to all of us in the community and for the educational resource it provides to our students. We hope and expect that the city's EIS process will address the concerns raised by citizens.

Sincerely,

The Highline School Board

Julie Burr Spani

Bernie Dorsey

Susan Goding

Sili Savusa

Michael Spear