Several points are needed to clarify the recent article on Bellevue’s shoreline management program. Most lake properties were developed under a 25-foot setback requirement established in the 1970s. The majority stayed back more than 60 feet from the shore.

In 2006, Bellevue increased the limit to 50 feet, thinking all shorelines were critical areas needing restoration to natural conditions. However, in 2010 the state declared otherwise, stipulating cities only need to assure protection of existing ecological conditions.

The City Council will be considering this as they arrive at a plan appropriate to the urban conditions that exist today.

Martin Nizlek, Bellevue