While water may be a scarce resource on Orcas Island, controversy over water seems plentiful. Of course the scarcity has a great deal to do with the controversy. Unfortunately, a lack of understanding of both vagaries of Washington water law and our island hydrogeology also play a role.
Everyday heroes are rarely acknowledged, and often, when they are singled out for credit, the response is “I was just doing my duty.”
There is no doubt that San Juan County’s $1.8 million shortfall will impact the quality of life that we all enjoy. Some people will lose jobs, others will have their work hours reduced and even more will lose services to which they have become accustomed. The big question facing our community now is what goes and what stays.
I was saddened by the death of Natalie White of Deer Harbor. She has been a valued friend of my family for many years and an important part of our community for all the years I’ve ben here. I was positive her passing would be acknowledged with an obituary worthy of her visit here on planet earth, in our tiny island community.
2009 Annual Budget Message: Washington’s Shrinking Counties
With reference to Guest Opinion by Shawn O’Bryant in your Oct 15 issue, I want to express my strong support for Shawn’s article which I think is well done and expresses very sound argument to keep the Skate park open.
First, there is a ballot drop box at the Orcas Senior Services Center in Eastsound. It is free to use (no postage required). The box is located at the north end of the driveway that directly abuts the lobby doors.
When I agreed to work on Richard Fralick’s campaign for county council, it was the first time I had participated actively in a political campaign. I did so because of my conviction that he was a man of unique abilities and character. Now that I have watched him work for this office, I am more convinced than ever that he is of the best that our system can seek in a representative. He has worked tirelessly, personally attending to details, studying issues, attending meetings, calling voters, distributing signs, giving parties, and writing letters. If he works this hard to get elected, imagine how he will conduct himself if elected.
Last week we hosted a “meet Kevin Ranker” gathering at the home of Christina and Bruce Orchid in Westsound. Kevin spoke to a varied group of neighbors, young and old, liberal and conservative, Republican and Democrat alike. He ably showed each one of us that he is ready to be state senator. Kevin does his homework, staying on top of the issues. He is heartfelt and smart, dedicated to his chosen causes and open-minded. He listens. His priorities include education, the environment, transportation (particularly ferry issues), and the local economy. He knows how to work constructively with fellow politicians to make a positive impact. He has what it takes.
I am expressing a personal view of the measure 1000 having attended my late wife’s death from stomach cancer 20 years ago. Plese be patient with the following comments. It is difficult for me to know the answers.
These are troubling times, and more clouds loom on the horizon.
To our new Rosario caretakers, in my letter to the editors (Sept.24, 2008 issue), regarding the re-visioning of Rosario to reflect a community dream, I neglected something. I failed to convey what I understand to be the Rosario/Moran Legacy. Largely ignored by previous owners of the Rosario Estate, the vision-as-resort has been unsuccessful for numerous and practical reasons. Now, with a plummeting economy, the challenges can only be magnified.
Could you please explain how newly issued property assessments are higher in a plunging real estate market?