The horrific murders at Robb Elementary have us reeling once again. I hope that this is the time when we are finally able to take action to try to stem these terrible incidents in schools, churches, and elsewhere. We are better than this. Now is the time to prove it.
We have some local issues that need our attention as well. The Orcas Island Health Care District has launched a survey as part of a medical needs assessment. You can complete the survey here. The commissioners will use the findings to set priorities for their work and funding going forward. Access to quality health care is a critical community issue.
The Summer season officially starts this weekend, and we started the day with yet another ferry cancellation due to short staffing. The inter-island run has become unpredictable. This is a huge issue for workers who commute between islands, for the court system that relies on bringing jurors over for trials, and for students who attend school on other islands. The issues at Washington State Ferries run deep and will not be resolved quickly. Governor Inslee has allocated additional funding for WSF, and this is a key first step. This expenditure needs to be approved by the legislature. Contact Alex Ramel at 360.786.7970, and Debra Lekanoff at 360.419.5266 if you would like to add your voice to this issue.
And some good news. The Land Bank and San Juan Preservation Trust are the highest bidders for the Glenwood Inn property. Read more about it here.
This Memorial Day, I think about the sacrifices of so many in wars, on the front line of the pandemic response, and those who serve this country in so many ways. And to all we have lost, we remember.
Thanks to all who step up. Your efforts do not go unnoticed.
All the best—
Hilary