To the editor:

I was dismayed to read that Proposition 1 was voted down by my fellow Island County residents. I fear deeply for the future of our islands, and am willing to do my part to protect vital services.

I have taken the amount of money that I would have been taxed had this proposition passed and donated it to Island County. I spoke with Helen Price Johnson, Island County commissioner, as well as Elaine Marlow, who is the budget director for Island County, and found the following information:

1. Island County can accept donations to help with the budget.

2. The donations can be designated to a specific department within the county or to the general fund to be used as most needed.

3. The donations are tax deductible.

Whether you voted for Prop. 1 or not, you can still be a contributing member of this community. By donating, you are making a choice, not being dictated to. You do not have to contribute to programs you do not support, but only to the ones you feel are important. You can choose how much you give instead of being required to part with a specific amount, and you can feel good about helping the community in which you live. You do not have to be a property owner to help out. Anyone can join in.

Send your contributions to: Island County Commissioner’s Office, PO Box 5000, Coupeville, WA 98239.

Carole Dawes

Coupeville