Letter to the Editor: Orcas Park & Rec Levy a Sound Step Forward

I am not on the Orcas Park & Recreation District board, but I have paid close attention to the process. I believe they have gone beyond “due diligence” in creating a strong, reasonable and viable framework to replace the now defunct Orcas Rec that provided valuable programs for our kids as well as taking much needed responsibility for a few other programs and facilities that benefit every Orcas Islander.

The most difficult task for the board we elected last year was an elephant-sized catch 22: they have no power to negotiate as yet. Without funding they are bound to merely draft ideas. None are set in stone. So they did their best to draft a budget that would cover programs that existed under the Orcas Recreation Program, maintain real estate (in this case, Buck Park, which is in desperate need of attention that the school is unable to provide) and administration. There currently is no deal in place with the school – there cannot be until the recreation district is funded.

There is draft funding in place for administrative positions. Those positions are also merely placeholders for what may be needed. I have complete trust that this board, made up of our friends and neighbors who each have run successful businesses, will operate with the highest fiscal responsibility and standards. Our money will not be spent frivolously.

“Draft” is the most important concept to understand. Concerns have been raised as to specific line items in the budget. I feel these concerns are legitimate at face value. However, once understood, the specifics of the draft budget will be open for discussion once the levy is approved.

This levy will be good for six years. By law, it cannot be raised except for 1 percent annually, plus new construction assessments. In six years, the community will have a chance to review what has taken place and choose to continue funding or not. It is also important to remember that this is Orcas money being controlled by Orcas residents for the benefit of Orcas Islanders.

The OIPR concept is an open slate. I have complete confidence in this community’s ability to work together and build something very special for all Orcas Islanders.

I urge you to vote “yes” in support of Orcas Park and Recreation.

Kevin O’Brien