I have been invested in the golf course issue from the beginning by attending stakeholder meetings, town forums, open houses and council meetings.

I have listened and tried to understand why a 100-year-old piece of our history and sweet gem in our midst is up for “re-envisioning.”

I participated in the 2020 “survey” but chose not to submit as I realized all answers had no option for keeping the golf course. That was slanted.

Here we are today with the buzz term “re-envisioning” and to what end, may I ask?

This town has been built by generations that raised their families here, worked in the community, contributed countless volunteer hours including planting the iconic poplar trees that, like the golf course, are being re-envisioned. It is dismissive of our history to attempt to be rid of them.

We have growing pains like any other community and must work together collectively, as Port Townsend always has, to solve these issues. I don’t believe getting rid of the golf course is the answer. We are slowly losing our soul in the name of progress.

At best, I believe a hybrid golf course would be a compromise. Please consider Robert Horner’s input to the hybrid golf course plan which includes income-producing opportunities while maintaining the integrity of the game of golf. It would also extend possibilities to future public venues.

I applaud the stakeholders who have had the difficult and time-consuming task of attempting to interpret, protect, and recommend a suitable solution to this controversial and divisive issue. I trust the city council can come to some resolution that reflects the history and uniqueness of the community of Port Townsend and its future generations.

Dorothy Cotton

PORT TOWNSenD