Editor,

We want to thank Island County Commissioner Helen Price Johnson for all her work to protect the public’s right to beach access at Wonn Road.

Her determination, tenacity and willingness to stand up in the face of adversity moved us from a blatant land grab in 2008 to an unacceptable settlement proposal in 2016 to probably the best resolution that could have been achieved short of a trial — with all its inherent uncertainties and risk.

The goal always was public access. There is always a price to be paid for peace of mind and resolution.

The only precedent that was set proclaims that, if you want to deny the public their rights in Island County, you had best be prepared to go to the mat with Commissioner Helen Price Johnson.

Now we move on. Thank you again, Helen.

Tom and Sally Cahill

Freeland