Small increase keeps invaluable service

On Aug. 18 we have an opportunity to support one of our important Island County service institutions, Island Transit. In approving the tax cap initiative, we created the opportunity to say what services we want. So, Aug. 18 is where the rubber meets the road. Local support is the only way transit is going to get its funding needs met.

Island Transit has served Island County since 1987 and now offers a number of fare-free services on Whidbey and Camano, including Fixed Route, Route Deviation, Paratransit, Vanpool, Rideshare and Bike and Ride. Service is now connected to both Mount Vernon and Everett. Specially equipped buses are fully ADA compliant and, in addition to bikes, wheelchairs and other mobility equipment are routinely carried. Travel training is offered to help those who request it. Service animals are welcomed and small pets in kennels are carried.

In 2008, Island Transit carried almost 1.4 million riders, including nearly 40,000 paratransit riders and 270,000 route deviation riders. In 2008, vanpools accounted for nearly a quarter million riders. Altogether, that’s a lot of cars off the road and a lot of service provided for our senior and disabled population.

Transit receives two thirds of its revenues from a 0.6 percent sales tax and has since its inception in 1987. Since 2007, that revenue has declined by 23 percent, and interest income has declined by 45 percent. Fuel costs through 2009 will have doubled. The requested increase of 0.3 percent is a very small price for the services rendered and a price I’m willing to pay.

We need to support Island Transit by a large turnout and yes votes on their small sales tax request.

Bill Thorn

Camano Island