PORT TOWNSEND — Port Ludlow Associates’ representatives and area residents faced off Tuesday and Wednesday before Jefferson County Hearings Examiner Irv Berteig concerning the Port Ludlow Resort Plan Revision.
The revision, which is a plan for a $30 million expansion of the resort, is the center of a heated debate.
Among people present at the hearings was one shred of agreement — that although the public hearing is required for the revised plan, an appeal will be filed by the losing party no matter the outcome.
“Sure, absolutely we’ll appeal,” said Greg McCarry, Port Ludlow Associates chief executive officer and president, if the revision is denied.
“We think we’ve got a good deal that fits the legal requirements.
“We’re determined to complete it.”
Since 1994, Port Ludlow Associates, the entity that owns The Resort at Port Ludlow and related properties, has fine-tuned the Port Ludlow Marina Project.
The proposed revision would change the focus of The Resort at Port Ludlow from a conference facility serving large groups to a destination resort serving tourists.
If Berteig’s decision is appealed, the case could be heard by an appellant hearings examiner and then proceed to Jefferson County Superior Court.
About 60 Port Ludlow residents attended Tuesday’s hearing at Joseph F. Wheeler Theater in Fort Worden State Park, and approximately 45 attended on Wednesday.
According to a staff report, Port Ludlow Associates wants an increase of 60 slips at the marina, 104 more residential units and new commercial facilities to replace the existing Harbormaster Restaurant.
Port Ludlow Associates is also seeking to adjust property line boundaries in Ludlow Bay Village to consolidate 40 existing lots into 11 lots, obtain a new shoreline permit and obtain approval for overwater development.
“We’re recommending approval of the major revision of the resort, except for the over-water development,” said Al Scalf, Department of Community Development director.