U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer (6th Congressional District) last week called on the Defense Department to incorporate greater public input into military project planning.

In a letter to Assistant Secretary of Defense John Conger, Kilmer asked for implementation of a new policy that would allow for extensions on public comment periods.

Residents of the Olympic Peninsula have voiced concerns about the Navy’s public outreach on an electronic warfare range proposal.

“To ensure communities have ample opportunity to have their voices heard, I request the DOD implement a policy that maximizes the opportunity for the public to participate and inform the existing process,” Kilmer said in the letter. “Specifically, I request the Department to implement a new policy that would require agencies that solicit public comment for less than 30 days and did not receive a comment in response, to extend the comment period by an additional 30 days.”

Kilmer’s letter is supported by environmental organizations like the Sierra Club, Earthjustice, the National Parks Conservation Association, the National Resources Defense Council and the League of Conservation Voters.

“Olympic National Park is the most visited national park in the Northwest, a huge tourism and recreation benefit for the Olympic Peninsula, so it’s important what happens there,” Rob Smith, Northwest Regional director for the National Parks Conservation Association, said.

“The Navy is important to the peninsula, too, and should remember to listen to its neighbors. We thank Rep. Kilmer for trying to get those voices heard.”