I write in support of the Executive Director of the Greater Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce, Jill Johnson’s, decision to protect the privacy of her members. Afforded the same choice when faced with one of the inevitable consequences of joining the political fray, I would have done the same.

Now it is time to leave the front page stories and blogs behind and decide what kind of community we wish to be. Will we continue to be progressive as the chamber, the transit and all our other community minded organizations and businesses strive to be? The foundation of a community is based on its infrastructure. The schools, fire protection, police forces and transportation our tax dollars pay for enhance the quality of life for every citizen whether they directly use them or not.

I’ve never had a fire nor do I have children in the school system but I still support the school levies and fire protection propositions. I am confident that our police force is comprised of individuals with the community welfare as their ultimate goal. I respect the level of competence I witness whenever I see our first responders and fire fighters in action. I know that every employee of Island Transit goes to work every day thinking of how they can better serve the citizens of Island County.

Please join me in voting for the health and vitality of our community by casting a “yes” vote for transit. Thank you.

Henry Trusler

Oak Harbor