Don't blame Tumwater or the Port - this is being undertaken due to the USFWS and their permitting requirements around the ESA (Endangered Species Act). In fact, the local agencies are trying to make building easier and more streamlined by going through this process. If they don't, individual builders (residential/commercial/etc.) would have to get a permit directly from USFWS. But the real issue not addressed here is that there will be an expected "gopher permit fee" of $58,000 per disturbed acre of property. Have 5 acres in the Tumwater area (city/port/county - doesn't matter) and want to build something? You'll have to pay that fee along with your building permit before turning a shovel of dirt. There are gopher maps and some areas are essentially "gopher free" and not subject to this additional requirement, but most areas of Tumwater and parts south fall under prime gopher habitat. Remember, the city isn't trying to harm anyone - they're subject to the same fees and restrictions as everyone else in this situation.
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