Editor,

There is a good amount of debate about the private vs. Port of Coupeville potential ownership of the airport in Oak Harbor. I’m pleased to know there will be a public forum to discuss this important issue.

I strongly suggest to those who will be making the final decision to look into the ownership and management of the Block Island State Airport off the coast of Rhode Island.

Block Island, with an area of about 21 square miles, can only be reached by ferry or plane. It is residential and a frequent vacation destination. The airport is small, yet provides necessary service to residents and visitors that travel to and from Block Island. It also provides service to those commuting from Long Island and other parts of New York and Connecticut. Rhode Island, 12 miles from Block Island, is about the size of Whidbey Island (a bit wider), so it would be beneficial to compare notes and see if its managers could provide valuable information to those considering the purchase of the Oak Harbor airport.

It’s a gem that may prove to be a good resource for us here on Whidbey Island!

Leslie Improta

Oak Harbor