A few facts are in order after reading the “National Parks vs. Land Bank lands” letter from Dorena West-Mooney.

First, it’s important to know the whole picture. The Land Bank owns 4.5% of the County’s land base. With all other public lands thrown in, the County’s total conservation land is 16.5%. The total for the city of Anacortes is 30%, nearly double. Skagit County has 60%. We have the lowest amount of conservation land of any County in Western Washington. What’s more, on average across the state higher percentages of public land = lower tax rates. Developed areas require more services leading to higher taxes. This bears out in more than a hundred studies from around the country.

The Land Bank is also much more than an acreage figure. Yes, 32 of its 39 Preserves are open to the public, but the Land Bank also leases 500 acres to local farmers; coupled with its conservation easements on private lands, 29 local farms are producing food for the community.

Management also matters, and the Land Bank is taking the lead to preserve rare Garry oak habitat, protect wetlands and create healthy more fire-resistant forests. Our wildlife and water supplies depend on these.

Last, the Land Bank is not asking for anything new: the REET has remained the same since its inception. It is a one-time transaction fee only paid by new property buyers. It is not a tax on existing homeowners. It also creates the opportunity for the County’s affordable housing REET since they are linked by state law. We are fortunate to have both. We live in an amazing community where people care about our natural resources and also provide housing opportunities even in the face of high prices.

Vote yes on Prop 1! Renew our Land Bank. It matters for all of us.

Mike Pickett