DISTRICT 1 NEWS

December 2014

Though the year is winding down, there is still much happening in the Commissioner's office. Last Monday's meeting included two items I want to draw your attention to. Please be sure to share your comments for the use of Conservation Futures Funding (see article below).

Golf Cart Zones in Island County

After a four year effort, I was thrilled on Monday that residents of the Beverly Beach community finally were successful in their quest to establish a golf cart zone for their neighborhood. The County Commissioners unanimously supported the creation of golf cart zones in appropriate areas, a petition process, and fees to support the program. Here is a link to the rules governing golf cart zones in Island County. This action creates more mobility for our residents, better supports aging in place, sends a message that our County values people with all abilities and provides for a greener transportation alternative. If you would like to explore this option for your neighborhood, please contact me for more information.

Conservation Futures Funds

Island County is known for its beautiful rural landscapes, tall stands of timber and public beach access. The Conservatin Futures Fund is a property tax levy established in 1992 to provide resources to preserve the County's natural spaces and precious resources. The levy rates for the coming year are established by the Board of Commissioners within very strict limits. I see this as a vital program for our County and advocated strengthening the program with the allowable 1% increase plus new construction. The other Commissioners were supportive of the levy with the new construction increase only. Though not ideal, it is a bi-partisan compromise which preserves the program for the future. In contrast, last year there was a commissioner wishing to end the program all together.

Last week the Board received considerable public input in support of this funding and the resources it is intended to protect.

Now the Commissioners need to establish priorities for the 2015 project applications. One concept is to focus on maintenance and infrastructure at properties already protected with Conservation Future Funds. This could mean improvements to parking lots, signage, benches or other enhancements. Last year priorities were set by the Board without an opportunity for public input. I did not want that to happen again. Please send me your ideas in the next few weeks.

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It is an honor to serve you,

Helen Price Johnson
Island County Commissioner, Dist. 1

district1@co.island.wa.us

(360)679-7354

PO Box 5000

Coupeville, WA 98239