To the editor:

I cannot imagine a more juicy headline: “Port abandons marina expansion, buys tavern instead.”

That is what Ed Jenkins is proposing as an appropriate use of public funds and attention. Perhaps the port director could tend bar?

Had Mr. Jenkins bothered to ask the Langley merchants, he would have learned that the overwhelming majority favor the marina expansion. Voters too agreed, which is why Chris Jerome and Curt Gordon were elected and Ed was not.

What is needed is a clear vision of a larger marina that would provide opportunity for more moorage for residents, more guest moorage for transient boaters, more space for light-water craft, access to deeper water for fishing and crabbing, more interesting access for divers, additional space for commercial marine service and repair — all now included in the program for the expanded marina. The port is carefully putting together a first phase that is technically and economically feasible and financially responsible. The actual financial plan will include sources from taxes, operating revenues, grants, long-term leases and private loan guarantees.

As a small-business owner, I am actively involved in this planning, and like other Langley merchants want the best solution for the marina. Our business is one among others willing to provide a limited loan guarantee for transient moorage to assist in the financing. We have donated our tidelands to the port to make it feasible to acquire a lease from the state Department of Natural Resources.

We believe in the economic and social potential that the marina affords, and will continue to support this worthy and very needed capital project.

Leave the beer hall to someone else, or to Mr. Jenkins, who might do this himself instead of demanding others do it.

Tony Puma

Co-owner Boatyard Inn

Langley