Editor’s note: Gomer Evans submitted this letter after reading it at the Master Planned Development hearing March 11.

I am speaking tonight in support of the current Master Plan for the development of Black Diamond. I have been a life-long resident of this town. As a member of this city’s first council and past mayor I was very involved in the original incorporation to create the city of Black Diamond. That was a change that was instrumental in Black Diamond continuing to move into the future in a planned and proper way.

As the times have changed it is more important than ever for this city to manage its future and to do that in a well-planned and reasonable way. Just as it was when we tackled incorporation to ensure that the citizens of this town maintained their voice in change, it is equally important now that we support this plan in order to ensure that the citizens have their say about the structure of Black Diamond rather than facing the day when those decisions might be made by another city or government agency that wants to swallow up our town.

The plan provides the opportunity to: create jobs, provide for underground utilities, make a better and safer environment for children, create a city where businesses are welcomed and thrive, build trails for bikes and walking, create an environment to support our seniors so they can continue to live in their town.

The time has come for us to work together in a cooperative way.

YarrowBay owns this land. They have spent many hours listening to the needs of our community through meetings with citizens and city officials. Since 1996 I have attended the hearings and had an opportunity to share my views and hear others do the same.

Much like when we were discussing the incorporation, we faced individuals who at the last minute tried to derail that change. But the voices of the people of the town prevailed and looking back now we are mighty glad they did. Without the incorporation we would probably just be a part of Maple Valley today.

So keep in mind when you look back at all the work that has been done on this plan. Tis plan was developed with our voices. It is well thought out and it addresses the needs that our voices raised, including environmental issues.

We have a mayor, council members and staff that are definitely capable of overseeing this development. I am confident in their ability to ensure that this plan will serve the diverse needs of all members of our community.

The time has come to make sure Black Diamond grows in the right direction and that people making these decisions listen to the people of this town. As changes have occurred all around us, we did not interfere with that development because it was our town. This is our town. This is our voice. We need to be heard and this plan is right for those of us who live here and know the town the best.

I urge all those involved to support this plan.

Gomer Evans

Black Diamond