I am writing to correct the historical and factual record about the Gold Rush Golf project raised by Bart Weatherly in his recent letter (Dec. 16, "At what price golf?"). Mr. Weatherly mischaracterizes the intent, size, and approval process for the project. The Gold Rush Ranch project has always included a public golf course and a significant housing component as a means of addressing Sutter Creek's wastewater improvements that need to be made whether or not Gold Rush Ranch is ever built. From day one, the golf course has been specifically designed as a repository for the city's treated wastewater. As was noted by former Councilman Brent Parsons in his recent letter to the editor, the city of Sutter Creek has always understood that the Gold Rush project would include a significant number of homes as a way of providing new tax revenues needed for the wastewater improvements.

Throughout the planning process over the last eight years, we have listened to our community and crafted a project to meet local needs that goes beyond improvements to our wastewater system. For example, the project includes sites for what is hoped to be a new school, a public library and a new fire station, as well as a new network of hiking trails, so the community can enjoy the 300 acres of permanently preserved open space. As the Gold Rush Ranch project continues to make its way through the public review process, we remain committed to an open and constructive dialogue so that we can enhance our community. The people of Sutter Creek deserve a factual and honest discussion of the long history and local benefits that the Gold Rush Ranch project was created to deliver.