Here’s a thought…
Orcas Council Candidates Talk to Orcas Issues: Part Two — CAO Update, Experience and Goals
(Yesterday we ran Part One of the Orcas Issues' candidate interviews. Following are answers to the second set of questions posted to Rick Hughes and Scott Lancaster.) 4) What is your opinion on the current
County Employees Union Endorses Hughes for Orcas Council Seat
By Colin Maycock, President AFSCME Local 1849 On the 19th of September, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 1849 held regular general meeting and a candidates forum. The forum provided the
Guest Opinion: Council Member Pratt Supports Propositions
To the Editor: Since a number of my fellow Council Members are speaking out in regard to the Charter propositions, I feel compelled to share my perspective. That said, I will serve San Juan County
Orcas Council Candidates Talk to Orcas Issues: Part One — Administrators, Solid Waste and the Budget
(Orcas Issues asked several in-depth questions of our two candidates for County Council for the Orcas West position, from which Richard Fralick is retiring. Following are answers to the first three questions, with answers from
Letter to the Editor: Huge Appreciation for Whale of a Show
For the past several years, Didier Gincig has produced and directed the Whale of a Show at Orcas Center, keeping this wonderful Orcas Island tradition thriving. It has always offered the community a chance to have fun, on stage
Letter to the Editor: In Support of Proposition 1
We have seen a flurry of opinion pieces telling us to reject any change to our Home Rule Charter. I support the changes recommended by the Charter Review Commission, and want to focus here
Letter to the Editor: Scott Lancaster Has Proven to be Conscientious Official
Island West Residents and Friends, This year's election is approaching soon, and all of us will be faced with some important decisions. One is our choice for our next county council member. I have thought
Letter to the Editor: Reject Props 1 & 2 for the Good of All
What Works Best For The Good of All? 1) Representation – Isn’t it better to actually know your representative? Voting for someone you know, because they live in your community versus having everyone select representatives
Guest Opinion: Proposition 3 Ensures Open Public Subcommittee Meetings
By Moana Kutsche You have probably read a great deal about proposed Charter amendments 1 and 2, but not much about the third proposal. Proposition 3 will ensure better transparency in county government by requiring
Writing Effective Coal Terminal Scoping Letters
By Chom Graecen The Scoping Process for Gateway Pacific Terminal at Cherry Point is now in full swing. Yes, we Orcas and SJ residents, have concerns about the potential impacts of our surrounding waters becoming
Letter to the Editor: Charter Review Makes Improvements on Home Rule
Please support the three Charter amendments proposed by the Charter Review Commission (CRC). The Commission was elected by voters to do precisely what they did – review the Home Rule Charter and make recommendations for
Letter to the Editor: Response to Rhea Miller and Kevin Ranker
I admire and look up to both Rhea Miller and Kevin Ranker for their hard work in the past for San Juan County, and for their ongoing commitments. My hat is off to them. I
Letter to the Editor: Citizen-Recommended Charter Refinements Lead to Accountable Gov’t
I urge all to vote "YES" and APPROVE the changes to the County Charter as recommended by the citizen-elected Charter Review Commission. I speak from experience. I have been personally involved with San Juan County
Letter to the Editor: Countywide Elections Illogical; County Manager Needed
Countywide elections are not logical. The current method of voting only in your district ensures that all voters are properly represented on the council. This system provides objective and reasonable representation for all citizens. The
Letter to the Editor: Support Renovation Bond for Safe & Healthy School Environment
I am urging you to support the Orcas Island schools by voting yes on the Orcas Island School District Proposition 1, in the upcoming November 6 election. The Orcas Island School District board has been
