— from Norm & Christy Zimlich —
We’ve lived here full-time for 12 years, and we definitely “get it” that Orcas isn’t Seattle. It isn’t even Bellingham or Anacortes or LaConner. Orcas is a unique environment in almost every way, and that calls for unique applications to everything people need to live here, including fire and emergency services.
Now, some vocal locals insist that anyone who moves to Orcas should recognize those differences and be prepared to suffer the consequences. Some even declare themselves ready to face a car wreck, fire, or heart attack out on the Rock without any coddling at public expense.
Most of us, however, are not quite that hardy. We believe that safety and emergency services are one of the critical things that make living on this island feasible for everyone: children, adults, and seniors alike. We elect the Commissioners who govern this public service, and OIFR provides ample opportunity for us to participate in its planning and budgeting process. That includes a long-range plan, which has been publicly debated and adjusted accordingly. The end result of a good process is now before us for a vote which will affect everyone’s future on Orcas.
Please join us in voting YES on the OIFR levy request.
Well I have lived here for 23 yrs and I feel
at this time that there is a lot of questions about
the future levy. Why are they asking for almost
as much money as the 1999 levy which was for capital
expenditures but now we need money to maintain these
entities but should it be as much as before ?
I have been attending the meetings for over 10 years
so I am very familiar with the budget.
I feel that some expenditures are not necessary in order to continue the level of service that we have
now.
Please attend some of the meetings that are coming up
so that you can be informed and ask questions.
Pierrette Guimond
Orcas