I find good and bad things about Issaquah. All cities have pros and cons. It’s apparent the communities (specifically the highlands), are uniformly designed and developed. I think it creates a sense of warmth and community that I respect – especially if raising a family.

After hearing my friend’s story about the bear, my mind drew a connection between all the stories I’ve read about wildlife (cougars, bears) in Issaquah, and the city’s look and feel.

My quote about safety of families and neighborhood cleanliness was regarding bear sightings. As a direct response to the bears, I know many people who were afraid to let their children play in the backyard at night and who were upset by the garbage mess (from bears eating the garbage). I live on the Eastside, and completely agree with you that we have many other things to be concerned about besides bears. Bears just happened to be the topic of discussion today.

Also your quote, “While people worry about the safety of their family and cleanliness of their neighborhoods, I think, smart bear.” seems out of touch with what Eastside families actually worry about.

How about a survey of families perceptions of safety in, say, Belltown, Tacoma, or even Bellevue and compare that to Issaquah or the Highlands?

Being close to nature and being aware of the animals that live there is something of value to many that live on Eastside. Something to respect, but not something to fear.

And you mock the Highlands for having:
-new construction
-green materials inside and out
-marketable features

It seems like you took this Bear siting as on opportunity to slam your friends’ community – what a nice friend you must be.