Development company representatives spoke before the Des Moines council on March 22, providing input for the city's vision for Pacific Ridge and suggestions for zoning in the neighborhood along Pacific Highway South.

By the time the hour and a half long dialogue ended, however, the issue was no longer just about Pacific Ridge.

The issue quickly had turned to improvement throughout the city of Des Moines.

All of the developers agreed that Pacific Ridge, just north of Kent-Des Moines Road, is not the area that Des Moines should be putting its time and money into right now.

Instead, they talked about taking advantage of what all agreed is the crown jewel of Des Moines-the marina.

The developers also agreed that Sound Transit is important to the growth of the city. They noted that Des Moines would benefit greatly if Sound Transit light rail eventually has a stop in the city, preferably on Pacific Highway South.

Sound Transit anticipates eventually extending light rail from Sea-Tac International Airport to Des Moines and south to Tacoma.

At one point, Councilman Dan Sherman tried to bring the topic back to Pacific Ridge. But the developers again diverted the council discussion from Pacific Ridge to other areas of Des Moines.

"You're looking at solving your problem, rather than taking advantage of your opportunity," Bruce Lorig of Lorig Associates said.

Dana Cline, a representative from Urban Partners, which is developing the private areas of Burien's Town Square project, added, "You were brave enough to ask a group of people to be here, now be brave enough to hear what they have to say."

Near the end of the meeting, Mayor Bob Sheckler thanked all of the developers who attended the meeting, and credited them for offering their opinions to the council.

In other business, council members were informed that violent crime in Des Moines decreased by 16 percent in 2006.

Sheckler said he was encouraged by the news, noting it was the second year in a row that the city experienced a decrease in serious crime.

"It sends a message. If you are thinking about committing a violent crime in Des Moines, think again," he said.

Lawmakers also were encouraged by Gov. Chris Gregoire's signing last week of a streamlined sales tax bill.

Des Moines stands to benefit more than any other city in the state from the streamlined sales tax, Sheckler noted, with a potential for over $800,000 in new revenue for the city as a result of the bill.