How the current site of Gig Harbor High School nearly became a cemetery

The anti-development battle in Gig Harbor during the 1960s revolved around a proposal by Mountain View Funeral Home & Cemetery to establish an 80-acre cemetery near the city limits. Local residents, including influential figures like Jake Bujacich, expressed strong opposition, citing the existing Haven of Rest cemetery and concerns about the impact on the community. The public outcry led to the rejection of Mountain View's initial permit request by the county planning commission. As Gig Harbor initiated plans to annex the land, Mountain View sought to revise its proposal to a smaller, 38-acre cemetery. However, the county ultimately approved the revised plan, despite community objections.

The outcome of this dispute not only shaped the immediate area but also facilitated the development of Gig Harbor High School and Discovery Elementary School on part of the land. Today, the remaining 39 acres from Mountain View's original holdings are being eyed for a new housing subdivision. This historical conflict highlights the complexities of community growth and land use in local governance.