09/07/2007: "Statement Against the Stormwater Funding Referendum"

Please Vote to Approve: We need the Stormwater Utility
We depend on rain water. But rainfall that washes over roofs, driveways and roads can erode shorelines, flood roads and homes, and carry pollutants (petroleum, heavy metals, animal waste or sediments) into creeks and marine waters. The recent report card on Puget Sound's marine environment, State of the Sound 2007, indicates declining marine and fresh water quality. A major reason is the increase in stormwater run off.

We can improve water quality by responsibly managing our stormwater runoff. 81 other municipalities in the region have done so. A diverse citizens committee worked over many months through public open meetings and thoughtfully evaluated nine options for funding. They concluded that we all contribute to stormwater by using the roads and shopping in the villages and recommended that we all help fund the solution with a reasonable fee that is simple to administer.

We need comprehensive stormwater management. We can achieve a future of continued growth and prosperity for all the residents of the islands while maintaining a healthy environment. The current simple, affordable utility fees help keep San Juan County waters clean and healthy.
Please vote to Approve.

Lisa Byers, Orcas Island
Peter Kilpatrick, San Juan Island
Jim Slocomb, San Juan Island