The North Kitsap Herald posted a story about Washington Governor Chris Gregoire recently signing a supplemental captial budget that includes money to purchase shorelines along Port Gamble Bay. However, the land won’t be purchased until a clean up agreement for the old mill associated with the historic town of Port Gamble is settled, which is expected to be done this year.
Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe chairman Jeromy Sullivan was pleased to hear of the news – from the story:
Port Gamble S’Klallam Chairman Jeromy Sullivan said Tuesday he’s excited about the governor’s approval of the supplemental budget and the upcoming discussions of the cleanup. The three S’Klallam bands – Elwha, Jamestown and Port Gamble – have shellfish harvesting rights guaranteed by the Treaty of Point No Point, rights adversely affected by contamination.
“Ecology has made it pretty clear that a cleanup plan is a priority, the cleanup process itself is a priority,” Sullivan said. “The Tribe’s always been concerned with the cleanup, making sure it’s done correctly. We’re not interested in how or who is responsible. The outcome is what we’re looking for. The product of a clean bay is the most important thing.
“If we can open up the geoduck bed, and improve conditions for oysters and shellfish, it will be positive for everybody.”
