Living in the San Juans has its challenges, both logistical and economic.

But even as worldwide crude oil prices continue their fall, I have watched the “island premium” for gasoline on Orcas inexorably grow. Perhaps this has to do with the monopoly position of gasoline sellers on the island, but it has reached unreasonable levels.

Regular gas now costs about $1 per gallon more here than in Anacortes and up to $1.50 more than prices in the more competitive areas of Burlington and Mount Vernon, which include not only Costco but also other retail stations. I’d be interested to hear the justification for this growing burden on islanders.

Bob Distler

Orcas