Editor,

Let’s compare the behavior of two wealthy men regarding beach property near their houses.

In a recent example, the Whidbey News-Times reported Bruce Montgomery’s efforts to prevent the removal of his illegally constructed wall which blocks 100 feet of Wonn Road, a public access to the beach adjacent to his house.

In contrast, we are reminded of another sort of man, Frank Robinson, who, in October 2012, offered to donate to Island County 300 feet of shoreline near the Mutiny Bay boat ramp and his Whidbey Island home.

After an outpouring of public urging, the Island County commissioners at that time accepted his gift.

Now, on any pleasant day, this beach is used by island residents and visitors for picnics, strolling, wading and family fun. On an attractive sign installed just this week, the words, “Frank D. Robinson Beach,” honor this generous man.

Island County, including Whidbey and Camano islands, is a place of community and loyalty.

Part of that cooperative spirit finds expression in the generosity of prosperous individuals and families who have made this county their home and have donated to its parks, schools and charities. If our Island County commissioners agree to be paid off in cash and landslide-prone property, Mr. Montgomery may keep his wall, but his name will never find the respect earned by Mr. Robinson.

It is not too late for Mr. Montgomery to choose the regard and friendship of islanders.

If he does not make that choice, we must rely on our elected Island County commissioners to protect our public lands from encroachment.

To leave your opinions for all three commissioners by phone, call 360-679-7354 or email Helen Price Johnson at district1@co.island.wa.us; Jill Johnson at district2@co.island.wa.us; and Richard Hannold at district3@co.island.wa.us

Gloria Koll

Freeland