To the editor:

Our economy is in serious trouble. Global and national trends are out of our local control. However, we can and should act locally.

An investment in our local economy is desperately needed. Our port has for over four years studied a plan to expand the marina at Langley. What started as a grandiose pretty picture has evolved into a most modest plan still worth pursuing. The port has listened to its citizens for over a year and arrived at a plan that will help invigorate our local economy.

The tax increase proposed will put the port tax rate to a

1990 level, while still leaving that rate well below the state average for all ports.

The recreational, economic and public safety benefits are significant. An additional transportation hub from our island will help in both good times and in emergencies.

Whidbey Island started as a community dependent on water travel. In the near future, we may need to look to the past to find a solution to our present transportation needs.

I encourage all voters to seriously consider voting for the port levy. It may be the best investment for our local economy in these troubling times.

Geoff Tapert

Port Commissioner

Port of South Whidbey Island