I was concerned when I read the half page article “Park district sues property owner.” Having been in the courtroom this past Monday, I cannot imagine that the proceeding warranted more than a few statements of fact, if that.

The contents of this article did not resemble what I heard in court, and I find that disturbing. The lawyer for the park department presented their complaint citing an instance when an out-of-town contractor could not begin work at 7:30 in the morning. Ms. Rosser, who was given only one business day’s notification of the hearing, provided documentation that her family had also been blocked from exiting their property on several occasions.  The judge found for the park department (because only the park department had a motion before the court), but stipulated that neither party could block the road.

I attended the court proceeding to provide pastoral support for Ms. Rosser’s mother. Because I am new to the Island and do not know the history of this dispute, I was there to listen and learn. I am concerned that one party in this dispute has so easily manipulated the press by creating a sensationalized and biased story that bears no resemblance to the actual proceedings. I am deeply disappointed.

— Rev. Kathryn A. Morse, Vashon Methodist Church