To the editor:

Now that the fundraising effort to purchase the Trillium property appears to have been successful, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate everyone who took part. Before all the “i’s” are dotted and “t’s” are crossed on the conservation easement, I would like to make one suggestion.

Near the top of a cleared hill which commands an excellent view to the south and where paved roads have already been installed, I would like to suggest that approximately five to 10 acres be reserved for future development. The kind of development I am suggesting would be a lodge of approximately 100 rooms, with a design similar to Sun Mountain Lodge in Winthrop. This would allow overnight stays for hunters, fishermen, kayakers and horse enthusiasts.

Kayakers could drive to Bush Point in a van with a kayak trailer to disembark. Zip lines through the tree canopy could be used for an adventure course, teaching participants about the importance of the canopy environment. A few stables to accommodate the horses would also appear to be appropriate.

The result could be a destination attraction and an economic engine for Whidbey Island, attracting visitors from around the globe. The lease payments would go to a county currently starving for revenue, as would the property taxes from the structure, hotel taxes from the lodging and sales taxes from the sale of items from a gift shop or quality restaurant.

Geoff Tapert

Langley