WPM Files SEPA Appeal Brief - Round 1

Water Planning Matters Files Closing SEPA Appeal Brief to Blaine’s Avista Development

Whatcom County, WA — A Critical Step Forward

Water Planning Matters (WPM), formerly known as the Blaine Water Coalition, has taken significant action. We filed our closing brief in the largest SEPA appeal in the City of Blaine’s history. This follows five unprecedented days of hearings on the proposed 490-unit Avista at Birch Point project. This development is one of the largest ever proposed in Whatcom County.

Earlier, Whatcom County filed its own SEPA appeal against the City of Blaine and settled. Our appeal challenges the City’s approval, assumptions, and determination. We argue that Blaine is using outdated standards for wetlands, creeks, and stormwater ponds. By doing so, the city shifts flooding, pollution, and millions in infrastructure costs downhill onto Birch Bay residents and BBWARM ratepayers.

Understanding Stormwater Management

The phrase "stormwater knows no boundaries" highlights a crucial point. Rainwater runoff, along with the pollutants it carries, does not respect property lines or jurisdictional borders. This affects everyone downstream. Managing stormwater is a shared responsibility. It involves individual property owners, city officials, and federal agencies. Cooperation is essential to prevent pollution and flooding.

Stormwater runoff is a natural process driven by gravity. It collects water from impervious surfaces that do not absorb moisture. This water is directed downhill, often through a network of ponds, ditches, drains, and pipes. These systems carry runoff across different properties and into local water bodies, such as Birch Bay.

Financial Implications for the Community

It will cost Whatcom County and the Birch Bay BBWARM ratepayers close to $9 million to provide the necessary pipes and conveyance systems. These systems are essential to collect the downslope stormwater that ultimately ends up in Birch Bay. This financial burden highlights the importance of responsible development and effective planning.

The Role of Community Advocacy

As concerned citizens, we must advocate for transparent and accountable planning practices. WPM focuses on ensuring compliance with municipal, county, state, and federal regulations. We aim to prevent conflicts of interest and bias in reports, studies, presentations, and communications with the public.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

The Avista at Birch Point project represents a critical moment for our community. We must stand together to ensure that our water resources are protected. Our health and the environment depend on responsible development practices.

For more information, you can access the full brief and hearing record here.

Media contact:

Tina Erwin, Otto Pointer

Co-Founders, Water Planning Matters

info@waterplanningmatters.org