10/06/2005: "Objections To Charter Short-Sighted & Short-Term"

Editor:

I recommend that everyone who reads Steve Ludwig's letter opposing the proposed Home Rule Charter realize that if the Charter is adopted, this county will, for the first time, have the mechanism in place for people like Steve to attempt to make their dreams of better government into reality.

Better government is realized through reform, and the Home Rule Charter contains the one and only mechanism for the people of San Juan County to participate directly in reform. That mechanism is the Initiative and Referendum process, something that is not available in any way shape or form at the present time.

Politicians ride into office on waves of support generated by campaign promises, but as we all know from experience, they seldom if ever fulfill those promises. Politics today is all about rhetoric. An Initiative, however, is an actual expression of the will of the people, and in some cases it will not be denied.

Do not think that there is some sort of schism in the ranks of those who originally supported the Home Rule Charter effort. If the Charter is adopted, those naysayers will have exactly what they say won't exist - a way for THE PEOPLE to change the way they are governed. Examined carefully, the current objections are short-sighted and short-term.

Bob Querry
Friday Harbor
Former Freeholder, Dist. 1