Your Vote, Our Island: Shaping Orcas’ future together

||| FROM MEGAN METCALF for ORCAS COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTER |||

At the Orcas Community Resource Center, their mission is to support and strengthen our island community. As an organization dedicated to providing essential services and fostering community well-being, they understand firsthand the impact of local policies on our residents’ lives. 

The Resource Center is at the forefront of addressing critical issues on Orcas Island, from housing support to food security. Their work has shown them how local decisions directly affect the daily lives of our neighbors. They believe in the transformative power of voting. While it may seem like a simple act, casting your ballot has profound implications for our island’s future.

As residents of Orcas Island, our votes carry exceptional weight. Our small, tight-knit community amplifies the impact of each ballot cast. When you participate in elections, you’re not just expressing your personal views—you’re advocating for your neighbors, family, and future generations. Your vote helps shape decisions on vital matters like ferry services, affordable housing, and healthcare, education, and environmental conservation, ensuring they align with our community’s needs and values.

The act of voting reflects a deep commitment to Orcas Island’s future. It’s a powerful way to protect what makes our community special and to voice our collective concerns. In our small population, every vote truly counts and could be the deciding factor on critical local issues.

As we approach the upcoming election, let’s embrace our civic duty with enthusiasm. Voting is more than a right—it’s a gift that allows us to actively participate in crafting our island’s future. By participating, we contribute to the strength and vibrancy of Orcas Island, ensuring our unique voice is heard.

Let’s unite in this vital process, using our votes to safeguard and enhance the character of our beloved island home. Together, we can continue to shape a thriving, healthy Orcas Island that reflects our values and aspirations.

Our election date this year is November 5, 2024. The deadline for registering to vote online and by mail is October 28th, although you can still register up to and including on November 5th if you visit a San Juan County election office in person. To register to vote or check your registration status, visit vote.org or vote.wa.gov.