A perspective on the Proposed Westbay LLC Resort Community

Sequim functions as a complex system where financial stability, natural resources, and community identity must remain in balance for the city to thrive. The proposed 650-unit Westbay LLC resort development raises significant questions regarding how that balance will be maintained across several dimensions.

While the project is marketed as a "walkable" community, it would essentially create a resort enclave situated near a Category 1 wetland and Sequim Bay. For a city of 8200 with a majority retirement-age population, these changes could have long-lasting effects on local infrastructure.

Environmental Concerns

The Pitship Estuary is a critical marsh interface that is a natural incubator for Salmon, other fish and marine life as well as a bird sanctuary and migration destination. The southern hillside is very steep and heavily wooded, and is the source of natural clean estuary water. Development will deeply affect this natural resource.  

Infrastructure and Fiscal Considerations

The development of Westbay requires substantial infrastructure investments that currently lack dedicated funding. Based on city data and review, the following fiscal impacts have been identified:

• Sewer Infrastructure: The city would need to construct at least one major sewer lift station at an estimated cost of $11–$14.5 million.
• Debt Projections: Servicing this debt is projected to cost $600,000–$650,000 annually, which would increase the city's total debt load substantially.
• Road and Utility Requirements: These estimates do not yet account for necessary upgrades to West Sequim Bay Road, including widening, sidewalks, and further utility work.

This brief summarizes the core concerns identified by residents, subject experts, and environmental groups to help provide a clearer picture of Sequim’s future. The complete treatise is available in the attached document. Each topic area has a dedicated chapter containing much more detailed information.

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Sequim at a Crossroads 

You can download the entire document in one piece below. 

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