The Tri-City Herald's Nov. 18 editorial supported the city of Pasco's "spin" on annexation but again missed the primary concern of 4,000 Franklin County residents -- maintaining quality of life.

As explained in the city of Pasco's recent political mailing, annexation would allow housing density to double or quadruple over existing neighborhood zoning and impose land use restrictions after only one year of new owner inactivity.

These policies will encourage continued irresponsible growth decisions, which have resulted in traffic congestion, crime and school overcrowding in nearby Road 68 neighborhoods.

The city and county have started negotiations but unlimited garbage pickup seems to be the only offer on the table. During Oct. 17, 2005 public annexation hearings, the city suggested it may be willing to guarantee zoning consistent with county lot sizes. Until the city offers legitimate concessions, the concerns of affected property owners are being ignored.

The current debate would be less controversial if the city would offer to guarantee lot sizes no smaller than current county restrictions and extend transfer of land use privileges from one year to five years after property purchase. I urge the county and the city to begin real negotiations or drop the process altogether.

Mike Thien, Pasco