Editor,

This month, the Whidbey General Hospital bond was approved with 61.53 percent of the vote.

Support was widespread up and down the island — the bond received majority approval in 33 out of 37 precincts, and in several precincts, it garnered more than 75 percent. Sincere thanks to the many bond supporters, particularly the Friends of Whidbey General Hospital, who worked hard to educate the public and spread awareness of this measure.

To pass, the bond needed a supermajority of 60 percent, which is challenging to obtain. It’s hard to raise taxes, and it should be. Bond approval is an enormous vote of confidence and trust. As CEO of this hospital, I assure the taxpayers of Whidbey Island that we take this responsibility very, very seriously.

Our promise to you, the community we serve, is to wisely invest your tax dollars to build not only a state-of-the-art facility, but also a healthier future for Whidbey Island. As we work to fulfill this promise, financial stewardship and accountability throughout Whidbey General Hospital will be our highest priority. We will also look for ways to keep you informed about our progress and to engage you in the process as much as possible.

Thank you for your vote and for your ongoing support.

Tom Tomasino

CEO, Whidbey General Hospital