Editor,

In 1996 a majority voted to save the Greenbank Farm from development. The Greenbank Farm Management Group was formed as a nonprofit to manage and run the farm as a tenant of the Port of Coupeville.

This year, after a considerable time of unsuccessful negotiation, it was decided that the port’s working relationship with the management group would cease at the end of 2015.

During the period of engagement significant developments were made in the social and business communities especially in Central Whidbey.

One of the very significant events held annually was the Holiday Market that extends for four weekends prior to Christmas.

It is a market that, during an otherwise dark ending of fall and the inception of winter, provided light, holiday job and a significant attendance at the Greenbank Farm.

People who came to this event were energized and enthused with the Christmas and holiday spirit. Many were also hungry and patronized the cafe where they bought lunch, pie, specialty items and coffee.

After being tempted by various items on sale from the home artisans and craftspeople, visitors were stimulated to wander through the cheese shop on their way to the artist galleries.

This has been a major income time for those stalwart tenants on the Greenbank Farm. This year it has been said that the management group has made it difficult, if not impossible for this event to occur.

The reasons given are an assumption of lower attendance by vendors, a sudden initial and new requirement for a $4,500 deposit and a lack of management personnel for support.

Since the management group is still receiving all of the local rents, any profits from events and $4,162.50 payment every month from the port, it is not understandable why this event cannot occur as it has in the past, most especially since it benefits the farm so greatly.

I would hope that those residents who have donated their time and funds for the success of the farm through all these years will, together with the tenants, all of whom have said they will continue on the farm, will make their voices known to the Greenbank Farm Managment Group and make a Holiday Market for all.

Marshall Bronson

Commissioner

Port of Coupeville