Editor,

This is an open letter to Oak Harbor city leaders:

Now that plans to construct a rehab center on a prime piece of waterfront property have been scuttled, we have been given yet another chance to re-think our priorities and how we want our city to be viewed by our citizens and visitors alike.

Today, we are greeted by an ugly octopus strangling a ship as we enter Pioneer Way. Then, there is the sewage plant being located near our busiest and most scenic public beach.

Even considering the now-defunct plans to put a rehab center in the same downtown area shows a lack of concern for the message being delivered to our citizens and visitors alike.

If we were vying to be the ugliest and most unfriendly city in Washington state, we would win hands down.

Is this really the message we want to send out just when our business leaders are trying hard to make the downtown area more shopper- and tourist-friendly?

As others have in the past, I urge the city leaders to reconsider using that prime piece of waterfront property for something that can enhance the entire community.

Others have suggested that the land in question is better suited for a seafood restaurant, civic center or performing arts venue.

Maybe before jumping at the next offer for use of the property, you should take a look at other cities that have improved their ambience.

You don’t have to look too far.

Oak Harbor has the setting to make it an attractive seaside community. All it takes is a little more attention to detail and less attention to covering a piece of land.

Helen Bates

Oak Harbor