Dear Editor:
Regarding the controversy over the Walden Lake golf course and the Walden Lake Community Association, please allow me to give another point of view.
My husband and I moved here more than 15 years ago, from Seattle. At the time, my husband was an avid golfer. The purchase of our beautiful home in Emerald Forest was not because of the golf course but was a plus for my golfing husband. However, even then, the course, clubhouse offerings and other amenities were suffering from neglect, poor management, lack of funds, etc. We attempted to support the golfing community here in Walden Lake but found too much lacking. Eventually, long before Steve Mercer, we gave up our membership and took our business elsewhere.
Our observation was that in the 1970s, the golf course and club may have been full of potential and offered what the community is seeking. Times change, and it seems like the biggest problem here comes back to lack of funds.
I understand the disappointment of the members of the golfing community who are attempting to halt the changes that seem likely to take place in one form or another. I do respect their commitment to have their voices heard.
But I ask: Why have the property sit in disrepair and get in worse condition through neglect? What happens to views and home values for all of Walden Lake residents? This could be one of those situations where the future may present something better, but the past has to be let go to enjoy the future.
As for the WLCA Board of Directors: We support them 100% and find each person to be worthy of our trust. They are volunteers, who give a lot of their time to represent our community. They cannot make decisions that please everyone. The complaints against some board members to attend or not attend meetings, that they attended a “secret” meeting and other comments all have reasonable explanations. We have no reason to doubt that these dedicated folks are trying hard to navigate through difficult and unknown territory.
As far as Jan Griffin and Karen Olson “stepping down,” because of term limits or other complaints, this is uncalled for. Two better-qualified and committed people are hard to find. Besides, no one else, it seems, wants these unpaid and under-appreciated “jobs.”
As president of our HOA for a number of years, I can speak from experience that some residents are quick to complain and try to bend the deed restrictions but are short on showing appreciation.
We say thank you and keep up the good work.
As far as Web Melton, our WLCA attorney: He is the best in the business. If he doesn’t respond to questions, it is because he does not have any new information. It has been stated many times that the golf course is separate from the WLCA’s responsibility. Melton is giving legal advise to the board members. They are attempting to abide by his advice. Hopefully, responses will be coming from the owners of the golf course, and the community will be a part of what those plans and actions are. Perhaps what is happening now is preparation for changes to come that we will all benefit from.
Carrine Narey
Walden Lake