Support 625 Winslow
To the editor:
I am writing in support of the proposed affordable housing at 625 Winslow Way. There has been much noise made by vocal opponents of the project. They try to convey that opposition to the project is near unanimous among residents; that simply isn’t true. The lack of affordability on the island presents a number of challenges, ranging from difficulties hiring employees at island businesses to matters of accessibility, sustainability, and economic justice.
Bainbridge Island is a well-resourced community that has, for decades, made zoning decisions that shut out working-class people. Zoning ordinances are not neutral things but rather legal constructions with histories rooted in racial and class exclusion. Those exclusions continue today, carried forward by communities across the country, including this one. As a result of this legacy, we are under renewed and rightful scrutiny from the state and the wider public. Among our working-class neighbors, the island’s reputation has long been tarnished by progressive posturing about affordable housing and inclusion, but poor follow-through on both accounts. The now classic phrase uttered by many Bainbridge residents, “we support affordable housing but…” rings in the ears of the island’s workforce, a vivid example of a sentiment that houses far too few.
There is no reason to continue down this shameful road. Let’s think about who has been excluded, who continues to be excluded, and get creative about a vision of a truly inclusive Island. I urge the community to support the 625 project as an important first step. An affordable, diverse, accessible, connected, and sustainable community awaits.
Bevan Taylor
Bainbridge Island
Bus driver appreciation
To the editor:
After 25 1/2 years of being a bus driver for the school district, Len Korslund is resigning because of health issues.
He surely misses the interaction with all of the children who rode route 53 to and from Blakely Elementary, as well as the friendships with all of the other dedicated bus drivers and Blakely Staff.
Leonard Korslund
Bainbridge Island
