Editor,

I as stunned and angered by the news reported regarding the costs of changing the name of our hospital.

Did it really need three “consultants” to help those involved choose a new name? Did we even need a new name?

Words have meaning. Hospital is a place where  health issues are investigated and, hopefully, cured, including emergency treatment.  “General” conveys variety or usual.

When we see Whidbey General Hospital we know what it is. “WhidbeyHealth” could be a spa, exercise club or a store selling health related products, among other things.

It is interesting that the estimate of $90,000 to $115,000 is just that, an estimate.

That means we don’t know what future costs will be.

Have they forgotten that it took three efforts to get voters to support the bond? I do understand the rebranding is not charged to the bond — it comes out of a different pocket.

I admire the Oak Harbor School District, which did a lot of the work in house.

Weren’t there many intelligent citizens here who could have contributed greatly?

These expenses came after Whidbey General Hospital decided in 2014 that money could not be found to place solar panels on the new building.

Imagine that — in the year 2014.

We all want a pleasant welcome, a clean environment, competent employees, and excellent health care. All of these I have enjoyed through the years.   Whidbey General is, and has been, an asset to the island, but this situation is disappointing.

Audrey Samelson

Coupeville