Contributed by Harvey HImelfarb of Orcas Island.

I am serving as co-chair, along with Dave Zoeller, of the citizens’ Renew Our Land Bank effort on Orcas. Because this issue is important to me, I have carefully read all the letters in our local newspapers and on-line news sources that argue for or against the renewal. I understand that all the letter writers contribute to a useful public discussion about the future of our community, and I appreciate their willingness to state their views in public, even if I disagree with their reasoning and their conclusions.

In considering these different points of view, I have noticed that almost all of the writers who urge a “no” vote include some significant praise for what the land bank has accomplished. They state their appreciation of the land bank’s protection of open space, of farmlands and scenic views, and the value of public access to cherished places. They then declare that they do not support its renewal. Some writers leave that illogical leap unexplained; others provide reasons.

Each individual reason they give is worthy of consideration, but these stated reasons are all different from each other and unique to each writer. Some focus entirely upon one land bank project of which they disapprove, using that single example to suggest that the entire land bank is unworthy of support. Others worry about our present economic situation and question continuing any tax at this time, no matter who pays it, how much or for what purpose or what value is received. And there are other individual reasons given as well, more than can be mentioned here.

However, when I read the letters of those who support the renewal of the land bank, I find, surprisingly, only a single, central reason for their support expressed over and over again: they think the land bank is a remarkable expression of the unique human community in this unique place, acting with forethought, to protect what is so loved and so special about these islands.

They see the land bank as an effective and fair way of preserving some of our cherished places and quality of life against the undeniable reality of future development.  They like the land bank’s mission of protection and public access and the fact that it is an instrument of our community’s will, responsible to – and reliant upon – our citizens.

In my own view, the land bank’s past work has been exemplary but remains unfinished since the buildout of these islands is only a matter of time. Additional protection of precious places and acquisition of more public lands are needed to assure that these islands retain their magical quality and are ecologically and economically healthy into the future. The values of our community are expressed in what we do as a community, and we should all be proud of our land bank. We should extend its mandate and take pleasure in its future accomplishments! I intend to vote in favor of its renewal.