Development Issues

Development Issues

Overview: The Methow Valley Citizens Council was formed in 1976 when a group of citizens decided to fight a proposal for a large-scale ski resort in the upper Methow. This development would have dramatically altered the Methow’s natural environment and rural character. We carry on that tradition today by ensuring that future developments consider the impact they will have on the valley’s natural environment and rural character. This never-ending work is done by dedicated volunteers who monitor newspapers, agency bulletins and other sources for development proposals, analyze permits and environmental compliance, and work with MVCC staff and board members to develop strategic approaches to address concerns when necessary. MVCC believes that development can be done in a sustainable way that considers the valley’s natural environment and upholds our rural character.

Past Projects:

Hummingbird Heaven Hideaway: In August 2018 Okanogan County issued a SEPA Mitigated Determination of Non-Significance (MDNS) and preliminary approval for Harry Burkholder’s application to develop 6 short plats.  Mr. Burkholder’s application concerns an area that was improperly rezoned from a 20 acre minimum to a 5-acre minimum density. MVCC is concerned about this proposal because there is no legally available water for single domestic use wells and the area in question is hydraulically connected to the closed basin of Thomson Creek.

  • The subdivision in question is located in dense, steep, forested terrain that cannot safely be defended in the event of a wildfire. The roads surrounding this area are narrow, winding, dead-end roads that cannot be navigated safely by emergency and fire-fighting equipment in the event of a fast-moving wildfire.
  • This proposal warrants heightened scrutiny because the area in which the property is located should never have been zoned to allow 5-acre density.
  • Any water available for the proposed developments is likely interruptible, and therefore not an adequate or reliable source.
  • Impacts to critical wildlife habitat require more evaluation.

MVCC has submitted SEPA comments to Okanogan County outlining our concerns. You can read those comments here. A retired Washington State hydrogeologist also submitted public comments on Mr. Burkholder’s proposal that you can read here.