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Ocean City State Park in danger
Brian Hovis, a planner with the Southwest Region of the Washington State Parks, confirmed today that Ocean City State Park is on the “mothball” list, due to budget cuts. “There would be public access, but none of the facilities will be open,” he said.
In the “mothball” scenario, Ocean City would be one of the parks to go self-service only, meaning hikers and picnickers could still use it.
Could people camp there?
“No,” Hovis answered.
This is still tentative, based on preliminary figures showing the state planned to cut the Parks department by $23 million. “We’re waiting to hear back from the legislature what the final budget will be,” Hovis said, “then the (Park) commission will make its decision.” That should happen at the end of April.”
Hovis was actually calling this newspaper on Wednesday to publicize a meeting next week. “This meeting is about long-term planning that was already scheduled, but I am sure that there will be interest in the budget reductions.”
The meeting is on March 18 from 7 to 9 p.m. in the council chambers at Ocean Shores City Hall, 800 Anchor Avenue, NW, Ocean Shores.
Information about State Park’ budget reductions
more on next week’s meeting:
agenda for the next Park commission meting:
This could be a major blow to our business community. It is time for each of us to be counted in this planning process.
I Attended a recent review of the Grays Harbor Vision 2020 process. They are moving forward without Ocean Shores. Our lack of participation is pretty obvious in the resulting plans. On the otherhand Pacific Beach and Seabrook were well represented and it shows.
We need to get involved WITH the county and the state to make sure that we are represented in decisions. PLEASE plan to attend the session referenced in this article. We also need to start now, by contacting our elected representatives and making sure our voices are heard. By becoming part of this process, we can make a difference!