On Feb. 8, we all have the opportunity to make a wise investment in Orcas Island when we vote in a special election for the Orcas Island Park and Recreation District levy. Last year we created the Orcas Island Parks and Recreation district and now is our chance to vote yes to fund the district so that it can benefit our community.

Our elected Parks and Recreation Commissioners have crafted a frugal budget that will allow us to oversee a recreation program for island kids and adults. For the average citizen, for less than the cost of a cup of drip coffee a week, voting yes will mean Orcas can look forward to a future of organized sports and other activities for children and safe and well-kept facilities for people of all ages to play tennis, soccer, baseball, softball, and football and to skateboard. This will ultimately translate into fewer children involved in illegal drugs and alcohol, less kids in legal trouble, and less money spent on law enforcement and juvenile court costs. Voting yes also will mean healthier people and ultimately a healthier and stronger community. What’s not to like about that? Drip coffee is not that good anyways.

America has done well to view our government with skepticism and many people are leery of new taxes with good reason. But don’t confuse the Orcas Rec levy with an in-efficient government-run program. We are talking about a community-supported recreation program run by community members. These neighbors that we trust and have already elected running programs that will improve the lives of each an every person in our community.

We need to act now to ensure safe recreational facilities and organized activities for our community. Ballots will be mailed on Jan. 19. When you receive it, don’t put it aside. Vote yes to fund the Orcas Island Parks and Recreation District and send in your ballot.

Joe Gaydos

Eastsound