We endorse Paul Henriksen for Lopez Port Commissioner for his vision to pull our community together, not to divide us with the wishful thinking that the port can fix some of our most pressing problems as a community.

We have a direct view of the actions and improvements to our airport, as well as the flight paths, as the largest residential port neighbor. We don’t agree with the negative concerns from some port neighbors, our impression has been very positive with all the changes and improvements the port has accomplished through the years. We also value our first responders being able to live very close to the airport in a port-owned house, one that the port is working towards an official designation for first responders as a priority tenant.

We support the port for two decades and have watched from our house, the vital link to the mainland for emergency transports. There is a lot more to be done to create an airport that is open 24/7 for life-saving flights. It needs to focus on its primary responsibility, but it can be a good partner in addressing some bigger community issues. We are a small port with three commissioners that meet once a month with a very limited action arm. This can change but will take time.

Kickstarter successes are already helping businesses start up and thrive, and show how individual support is available for creative ideas that our island population desires. Let the port increase our water access and add safety improvements at the airport.

We are endorsing Paul, who has a proven record of pulling the community together, to keep our port, a vital link to the mainland and other islands. Feel free to send any question or concern to Paul on his website, www.paulforport.com.

Tracey Cottingham and Povl Lasbo

Lopez Island