State Parks Commission announces virtual November meeting

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission will convene virtually on November 13 to discuss several key initiatives, including land transfer and park planning efforts across the state.

The primary agenda item focuses on a proposed transfer of a 0.68-acre parcel to the Washington Department of Transportation for a weigh station project. The commission will also review updates on multiple ongoing projects during its work session, including master planning at Blake Island State Park and the Mount Spokane State Park planning process.

The meeting will address practical concerns about park operations, featuring a presentation on camping occupancy data and strategies to increase campsite utilization. Financial discussions will cover the 2023-25 biennium operating and capital budget expenditures, along with Parks Renewal and Stewardship Account revenue.

While commissioners and staff will participate remotely, the agency has designated a public viewing space at its Olympia headquarters, located at 1111 Israel Road SW.

"Written public comments will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Nov. 8," according to the commission's announcement. Comments received after the deadline will be presented to the Commission at its subsequent meeting.

The commission, consisting of seven governor-appointed volunteers serving six-year terms, typically holds nine meetings annually, including four regular meetings at locations throughout the state, four virtual sessions, and one planning meeting.

The virtual session is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. and will be broadcast on TVW, the state's public affairs network. Public viewing options include both online streaming and in-person observation at the Olympia headquarters.

Those wishing to submit comments on specific agenda items, including the Department of Transportation land transfer and park planning updates, can do so via email to designated addresses :

• Property Transfer to the Department of Transportation, commission@parks.wa.gov
• Mount Spokane Update, planning@parks.wa.gov
• Blake Island Update, planning@parks.wa.gov
• Occupancy Data Update, commission@parks.wa.gov
• Financial Update, commission@parks.wa.gov