I regret that I was unable to attend the Conservation District assessment hearing last Wednesday evening. I had to undergo medical tests and couldn’t easily reschedule.

We moved our family here in 1981 to raise our children in what we felt was a better environment. Several months after setting down roots here I was asked if I might be interested in serving on the Conservation District Board of Supervisors. At the time I knew absolutely nothing about conservation districts or the Whidbey Island District. Needless to say, I liked what I saw and eventually went on to serve as an associate supervisor or supervisor for over 20 years, supporting conservation best practices here, and do what I could to be a good neighbor.

I’m a little saddened to read so much hostility in the posts to the Whidbey News-Times article and am further dismayed to see no statements supporting the district. This district has operated on tiny stipends from the Island County commissioners and unreliable grants for too many years. The district also has lost several good employees for that very reason.

I agree! It is not optimum timing to try to establish this assessment. But, when would be a good time? Many would say never. But, how many of you moved here from suburban or urban or other less pristine settings in order to enjoy what all will agree is a marvelous place? Who is responsible for this being such a wonderful place? Well, the Whidbey Island Conservation District and those it works with have had much to do with it. I’m happy to give a little to help protect a lot.

I hope a few of you will take a moment to reflect on your environment and try to look to the future. The Whidbey Island Conservation District does and has done far more than you might imagine. They would like to do more for you as neighbors.

Norm Banta

Oak Harbor