Olympia Ferry Rally Update: Representing Business to Government

By Lance Evans, Executive Director, Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce

I visited Olympia on Wednesday to take part in the Save Our Ferries rally. Here’s a recap of the day’s activities.

The steps of the Capitol in Olympia were the site of a gathering Wednesday of concerned residents who wanted their legislators to know the state ferry system is vital to Washington. Approximately 250 citizens from communities throughout ferry-served locales in the Puget Sound assembled late Wednesday morning to rally for continued state support of our ferry system.

Organized by community activists, the rally featured speakers from a wide political spectrum – State Senators & Representatives, Mayors, Council members, business leaders and citizens actively involved in the issue.

Also making the trip from the San Juans were County Council member Lovell Pratt, Ferry Advisory Committee Chair Ed Sutton, and two Orcas residents – Barbara Bentley and Bernadette Vinson. 

Common themes were apparent from all those who spoke: Washington State Ferries are marine highways; long-term funding of the ferry system is needed to avoid future disruptions; and the iconic Washington State ferry is a state-wide tourist attraction that makes it a part of our state’s economic recovery plan.

State Senator Kevin Ranker addressed rally attendees, stressing the importance of the ferry system as a “gain for state tourism revenue,” and an absolutely necessary transportation system for residents.  When the speakers had finished, rally organizers unboxed petition signatures from over 8,000 supporters, urging the Governor and Legislature to act to preserve this vital mode of transportation.

The rally end after an hour, with interested citizens arranging visits with their legislators.  I joined FAC chair Sutton in a meeting with Senator Ranker.  Though all ferry funding issues are still on the table, Ranker indicated the Anacortes/San Juan Islands/Sidney, BC run would not be eliminated. 

There is little talk now of building new boats; however, plans may call for more small ferries (64 car capacity) for the South Sound region.  Many activists are calling for a repeal of the “Made in Washington” requirement for ferry procurement, allowing for matching Federal funds and potentially lower costs.  Ranker feels this issue is not likely to gain support in Olympia, especially given the economic woes facing the State. 

He also noted that the money slated for the Anacortes terminal upgrade might be available for new boat construction.  Finally, Ranker supports keeping any potential fare increases to a maximum of 2.5% per year, despite some calls for much higher tariffs.

The day ended for me with a meeting with Representative Jeff Morris.  Joined by the entire San Juan contingent, Morris reiterated the plans to continue the Sidney run.  Washington State is trying to negotiate a new contract with British Columbia over landing fees at Sidney. 

Morris noted that since the Motor Vehicle Excise Tax was curtailed, the issue of long-range funding of the ferry system has been a problem.  He and other legislators are resolved to find a new, continuing source of dollars that can be relied upon for funding, including exploring new out-of-state energy surcharges. 

A reservation system for our ferries appears to be on a back-burner for now, as the State has not yet found a system that can be installed for the right price.  Representative Morris’ immediate goals are to find a permanent ferry system funding source, and establish a new ferry procurement schedule.

The Chamber will continue to track these developments and report to our membership.  Please let us know if you have questions or comments.

The Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce can be reached at 376-2273 or at www.orcasislandchamber.com. Monthly meetings are the last Monday of the month, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Library.