— from Karen Key Speck —

Recently I responded to a local island resident who complimented me and my company for regulating my vacation rentals in a manner as to be the least intrusive to neighbors and to his concern about Vacasa mass marketing to Orcas Island residents.

I appreciate those words. I and my company really do care and want you to feel as positive as possible about those who vacation-rent through my company – owners and guests.

I am concerned about the Vacasa mass-marketing to Orcas Island received by most postal patrons. The person they hold out as their Orcas Island property manager is based in Seattle! More importantly, absentee management is just as impractical as absentee ownership when renting to others.

If one does an internet search on companies like this one, public reviews as well as reviews from company employees can be found, One will also see the glossy marketing letter mailed to Orcas residents is far from an accurate picture. The more various searches one does online, the more negative comments reveal about this company.

If San Juan County is true in its desire to regulate and legislate its vacation rentals, requiring a “local” property manager would be wise for owners, neighbors and companies like mine that have been playing by the rules since the County’s ruling in 1999.

I would suggest you contact your local councilman and express your views.  (360) 378-2898. Orcas County Council representative Rick Hughes and the two other county councilmen can be reached by email at county@sanjuanco.com

**If you are reading theOrcasonian for free, thank your fellow islanders. If you would like to support theOrcasonian CLICK HERE to set your modestly-priced, voluntary subscription. Otherwise, no worries; we’re happy to share with you.**