Last week, San Juan County, Town Council, and other leadership put Governor Inslee and the Washington State Ferries on notice. A letter, co-signed by dozens of civic leaders, was published in the Orcasonian and sent to state and federal officials:

"On behalf of the residents, business owners, and essential service providers in San Juan County and Town of Friday Harbor, many of which are co-signers to this letter, we are compelled to collectively bring to your attention the serious consequences of the significant disruptions to Washington State Ferries (WSF) service on the Anacortes / San Juan Islands route. The negative impacts of unpredictable and unreliable sailings and frequent cancellations caused by vessel and crew shortages, vessel maintenance and failures, and other persistent complications across the ferry system are compounding to critical levels..."

You can read the complete text of the letter here. This month, Vashon will publish our Community Forum report-back, which echoes many of these problems and solutions, and goes even deeper in exploring impacts and answers.

As the WSF fleet continues to dwindle, our sustained, long-term citizen-action will be critical to the survival of our island communities. If you have not yet reached out to your elected officials, visit VashonChamber.com/FAR and download your action sheet today!