Email to the Editor: Citizens to Save the Cedar River Library Again Share Appreciation

Late yesterday afternoon, we received the Hearing Examiner's Decision on our Appeal of the Land Use Decision regarding KCLS's intent to move the entry of downtown Library over the Cedar River.  While disappointed with the Hearing Examiner’s ruling, we appreciate Mr. Olbrecht's effort, fairness and patience in the handling of our Appeal.

Thank You to everyone in our community who has contributed time, talent or treasure to enable our Cedar River Library to remain at its special location above the River; there for the enjoyment of current residents and coming generations.  We are grateful and proud of the many people who wrote letters, collected petitions, commented on news articles, voted in polls, shared on Facebook, spoke at city council and KCLS meetings or who talked with a neighbor about your love for our beloved library. Much has been gained through your efforts: reaffirmation of the citizens' right to petition, the right to vote for our preferred library location, and the right for a larger, more complete facility than KCLS proposed. In short, the right and the significance of citizens to participate in and be heard on important matters affecting our community has been reinforced.  Discussion of each library's proper role within its community has again become a greater part of the public dialog, and our special and unique library regained a larger public awareness regionally. 
 
Together our citizens encouraged one another to speak out for important things.   The speaking out and citizen participation needs to continue and there are many avenues available.  Continue making Renton a community; continue to give it your voice. 
 
Sincerely,
 
David A. Keyes
On behalf of Citizens to Save the Cedar River Library Again

Editor's Note: The Renton Reporter has a breakdown of the ruling.