The hearing room was full, with many people standing and another 25 or 30 watching on a screen in the lobby of the County building.
The UGA request was termed “the 1,000 pound gorilla” in the room by more than one person, referring to a proposal by Tethys Enterprises to build what could become the largest bottling plant in the country on the property. But, the city calls the UGA request not project specific.
The city says it needs industrial land and is proposing, in effect, downzoning waterfront parcels on Fidalgo Bay from industrial use to allow industrial use on the expanded UGA parcel. But, the testimony throughout the 3-hour meeting focused on opposition to the Tethys project and to the city’s UGA request.
Most of the testimony opposed the UGA request citing technical issues with the city’s application. Others testified that the city needs the industrial land and asked that the issue be docketed for further review, which would include an environmental review and public hearings.
Tom Glade, who heads Evergreen Islands, tried to draw the UGA request to Tethys by saying that Tethys has been paying the city’s expenses in the case. He said, “From the get-go, this has been about Tethys.”
Jim Casey, who identified himself as a former manufacturer in Anacortes, said he is concerned about what’s going on in Skagit County, saying, “Does Skagit County want to be known for exporting tulips or plastic bottles?”
Anacortes resident Matt Follett told of his moving to Anacortes because he loves Fidalgo Island. But, he said he was laid off in 2009 as a construction worker. “In the end,” he said, “it’s all about jobs.” He urged the County Commissions to docket the UGA request. “I’m in favor of looking in to it.”
The County Commissioners will make a decision later. Written testimony will be accepted until 4:30 pm on Mionday, April 14.