Margaret Carnegie, Chair

North Rose Hill Neighborhood Association

Kirkland, Washington

March 25, 2009

Council Members

City of Kirkland

Dear Council Members,

At the March North Rose Hill Neighborhood Association meeting, during a KAN report, the "Buy Local" program was introduced. During the ensuing discussion the issue of the proposed committee leadership was raised. Some attendees felt strongly that the proposed leadership was a mistake due to negative sentiment by the neighborhood due to both former and ongoing issues. There was intense opinion expressed that the Honda expansion, which went against the rules established by the 85th Corridor Study team, and which still negatively impacts neighbors with noise and light issues, negates the neighbors' hard work and ignores citizens' quality of life.

The issue of responsibility for both the former and current decisions however, was placed on the shoulders of the city manager, who did not adequately prepare the current Economic Development Manager with information that would result in the best possible community support. If the city is truly interested in getting neighborhoods excited about the "Buy Local" program, it seems advisable to choose a "uniting" leader.

The North Rose Hill Neighborhood citizens want to support the "Buy Local" program and therefore recommend a leader who can provide a more positive "face" to the program.

Sincerely,

Margaret Carnegie