Editor,

I have been a commissioner for the North Whidbey Park and Recreation District for the last two years. My comments here are my own and I am not speaking for any other members of the board.

First of all, I want to thank our community for their continued support for the district over the last almost 35 years. The district owns and operates the John Vanderzicht Memorial Pool and the Clover Valley Park, off-leash dog pak and ball fields.

In the last two years, with the guidance of the current set of commissioners and the leadership of the current executive director, we have made great strides in getting our arms around the issues we face as a district. There is a lot to do, but we are making great progress. I believe that our tax dollars are being managed better than ever.

We offer a lot of great programs to our community. Our swim school program teaches untold numbers of kids and adults how to swim each year. This occurs through our swim school and our programs through the Oak Harbor School District. In addition, our aerobics classes offer a variety of classes for adults of all ages.

There is open swimming, lap swimming and many other things going on at the pool that meet the exercise and recreation needs for people of all ages within our community. I encourage all of you to come check out the pool to see what it offers that might appeal to you.

One of the reasons I chose to become involved with the board of commissioners is because I believe that the district is an invaluable resource for the community, offering the most inclusive environment you’ll find with some of the best year-round opportunities on Whidbey Island.

We can grow to meet even more of the community’s needs. I am very grateful for the trust and support we have received over the years. There is more to do but we need your continued support.

Again, I want to thank you for your support and hope that you will vote “yes” for the renewal of our Maintenance and Operations Levy on Nov. 7.

Shane Hoffmire

Oak Harbor