Editor,

In response to a recent article on code violations, this seems to be a big issue that has been on the back burner, as low priority for awhile, as the property owners who ignore these violations should have their wages/tax refund garnished to compensate the county if possible.

Also, violations are not necessarily a mental health issue but, if it is it should be the caretaker’s responsibility since some are paid by the state.

Homes that are a health hazard like the one on our street where the code enforcer has posted a warning notice on doors for over a year, can cause death. It is full of feces, flies, rats, raccoons and cats that come and go through an open door at this house, transmitting diseases to the public. These houses should be boarded up immediately for public safety, especially since there are two daycares on this street.

As for Island County Commissioner Jill Johnson’s suggestion to put out porta potties and wash stations, would you have this done on your block to encourage more transients to move there? Next will be cable TV. This has been going on for a long time and nothing has been done.

Why try to put a bandage on it? You need to group together and form a task force to control the issue. You need to have a shelters, rehab, mental evaluations and work with them to find work. Many of them are able bodied.

As far as foreclosed homes, there should be some way the county can make it the bank’s responsibility to manage those homes.

Let’s tackle the problem!

DEE HOLWITZ

Oak Harbor