After reading the Sound Off May 25, 2010, by Helen Price Johnson, I remember back not so many years ago, before Whidbey Island was controlled by the “Club Med” government. County vehicles were humble, older models. But nowadays, our governmental personnel drive the newest vehicles. The county rolling stock and equipment looks brand new, down to the lawn mowers!

Commissioner Price Johnson explains, that they, at the county, have cut all expenses until it hurts and still expected revenue shortfalls, projected in years ago and yet to ask to approve more pork at the August election.

I would expect so Helen. The Nanny Government requires more to continue status quo…

This is Island County, not Club Med! We have a large retirement population. However, what is the real cost of sleepy Island County courts, justice system and daily government?

Is the lack of control by the officials purchasing, authorizing and otherwise paying top dollar for the services we receive? Department heads are just the first place I point my finger. They hire the consultants and lease their way throughout the year. Never stopping and government never stops growing!

Hey, dummy, we’re in a recession too! But the status quo keeps going, only stopping when they run short of loot…

Helen, don’t grovel to the peasants why the king can’t buy stuff. Sack the fat cats who are building mega mansions and kick the lawyers where it hurts! Then, Helen, ask what you can really do for Island County.

Stewart Swenson

Oak Harbor