Friends of Leavenworth Dealt Major Blow by Judge’s Decision

Chelan County Superior Court Judge Travis Brandt ruled Wednesday in favor of the developers of the Leavenworth Adventure Park by upholding the previous decision of Hearing Examiner Andrew Kottkamp.

In response, the Board of Directors of the Friends of Leavenworth, which largely represents those in opposition to the project, released a statement shortly thereafter that perhaps signals a change in focus for the group.

The statement reads in part, "We are extremely disappointed by this ruling ... We are now looking carefully into the remaining approvals needed by the City (e.g., Design Review Board) to see whether there are any further opportunities to address the community's concerns about this project."

Friends of Leavenworth also stated that they will be working with residents and officials to change the comprehensive plan, zoning code, and environmental assessment process for future projects in the city.

"It's not a totally unexpected result, but at the same time I know it's very disappointing for a lot of people," said Mayor Carl Florea. "I think moving forward it just shows we have some work to do to make sure that the development we get is the development we, meaning the entire community, can get behind and support."

Florea mentioned cleaning up zoning and other similar actions to align future development more consistent with what the entire community wants.