Editor,

It’s hard to be to be a leader in our world today. Since its founding in 2012, Citizens of Ebey’s Reserve, or COER, has held the interests of the community above all other interests. We followed in the footsteps of others who freely expressed their concerns about jet noise.

Coupeville Mayor Molly Hughes has been a champion for the people of Central Whidbey and town of Coupeville. She has shown up and spoken out when she believed it would help. We understand that words can be taken out of context and given unintended meanings by those who want us to “just get used to the jet noise.”

There is no doubt that Coupeville’s mayor, COER and other groups that oppose the Navy’s one-sided decision for more jets and flights are all committed to the people who live, work and recreate in Central Whidbey.

COER is committed to the vitality and sustainability of our historic rural communities, especially Coupeville, where most of our members live. We will continue to work with our elected local, state and federal leaders to reduce Growler jet noise and it’s multiple health, safety, economic and environmental impacts.

We are part of a larger effort to return to a balance between military and civilian interests in NW WA. Northwest communities like Coupeville must not be ‘taken’ by the DoD and the Navy — only to become collateral damage for training missions that could take place at better and safer locations.

For more information about COER, visit citizensofebeysreserve.com

Maryon Attwood

Coupeville