Editor,

Island County’s current Emergency Moratorium, as written and enforced, places an unnecessary and harmful freeze on all non-residential building permits. This means essential property maintenance — like roof repairs, hot water heater replacements, HVAC system upgrades, or septic repairs — is now prohibited for at least a year in RAID areas on Camano and Whidbey islands.

Small businesses — our hair salons, coffee shops, medical and dental offices and more — are the backbone of our local economy. Denying them the ability to maintain and protect their properties threatens their survival. Mortgage lenders and insurance companies require property owners to uphold maintenance standards. Island County’s moratorium now stands in direct conflict with these obligations, putting owners at financial and legal risk.

The impact is not theoretical. The Bayview Car Wash, for example, sought to upgrade its water reclamation system but was blocked from even submitting a permit application due to the moratorium. This is just the beginning.

Island County must amend the Emergency Moratorium immediately to allow for essential repairs and maintenance. Property owners must retain the right to protect their investments and continue contributing to our vibrant communities.

We can protect our islands while also protecting the people and businesses who call them home.

Steven Myres

Freeland