I am fascinated by the recent article on the “Eagle Tree” in the June 3 edition. As a past Councilmember, Planning Commission chair, current resident of Mercer Island and president of Quadrant Homes, I know only too well the tensions that go on between providing a reasonable use of one’s property and the overwhelming desire to protect our natural environment which makes Mercer Island such a great place to live.

I am familiar with the project only because I know the proponent and have seen the care and diligence that he has taken to work through a very thorough process and come to solutions that balance these two issues. I have been impressed with both the process and the outcome; a reasonable use of the property while making every effort to protect key resources.

What I find fascinating is the use of the Quadrant Homes name no less than three times. Yes, one of our consultants was used by the proponent, but they actually do have other clients.

In short, let me be clear that Quadrant Homes had no affiliation or association with this process and given the tone of the article, I am just a little miffed at how the author (and Councilman Grady) were trying to imply that by using Quadrant’s consultant, the process was less than transparent. The consultant is one of the best scientists in the business and that’s why we use him. We are the best in the business at what we do because we understand that there can be no sides, only a balanced and thoughtful approach because, guess what — we, the employees of Quadrant Homes, live here, too!

Peter Orser