Editor,

Hospitals are as important to a community as other major services such as a fire department and a police department because they work hand in hand to protect us all. Local hospitals are able to analyze the overall conditions of a specific community to better control infectious disease and viruses, while providing routine healthcare and emergency services equally to all people.

During the recent pandemic, WhidbeyHealth played a significant role in the distribution of vaccines and the testing necessary to evaluate the spread of COVID-19 on Whidbey Island.This unexpected event created a huge financial loss and staffing challenges for the hospital.

Proposition #1 on the Nov. 2 ballot is crucial to maintain WhidbeyHealth Hospital for Whidbey Island residents and visitors particularly at a time when healthcare is being stretched to the limit. This is the first time in 57 years an increase has been proposed and is well past due. Proposition #1 will add revenue to allow the hiring and maintenance of qualified staff and ensure necessary improvements in the hospital communication systems.

Please join me in voting “YES” for Proposition #1 to support local healthcare.

Sally Hardenberg

Freeland