I disagree with Mark Dombroski that there are “two” Bainbridge Islands – one of “optimistic, clear-eyed people who’d like to work for the greater good, the other marred by indecision, infighting and crippling negativity.”

While I agree “most citizens ignore their government,” I don’t believe “the only people who attend council and committee meetings are retirees in search of entertainment.”

Alas, Dombroski failed to speak to the underlying cause of council divisiveness and those who advocate.

Indeed, this latter group has committed untold hours and enormous effort to protect this unique, small-town community most “optimistic” folk likely came here to enjoy. Why work so hard and be so vocal? Because COBI has had a “hidden” agenda prior to and during Dombroski’s tenure.

We might not see the level of opposition and frequency of suits witnessed today if the utility project offshoot of “Winslow Streetscape” and “Winslow Tomorrow” included a clear commitment that the size of water pipes would not increase and building heights not exceed their present one and two stories. And if the entire project did not appear as a Winslow “face-lift” to increase tourism as the “bait” for more continual construction to help pay salaries at City Hall.

Bottom line, COBI has been “out of integrity” with this public by furthering a non-voter approved spec-marketed growth agenda since 1994 in direct opposition to our core values.

Amidst all the good things Dombroski did, he did not put an end to the manipulation at COBI’s executive level and cabal that upset so many and fostered the 4-3 conflict of council.

Most residents have no idea what is happening to maximize growth here. Projects sit in city planning long before the public sees them. When they do, their history, costs and momentum make it difficult for any pre-council comments or petitions to reverse.

Here’s the kicker: Dombroski did admit Winslow Tomorrow was a mistake in a private meeting during his first two weeks of office. His willingness to do so then was admirable. But he didn’t follow up and lost the opportunity to create harmony and partnership at the city.

Despite the number of “optimistic” folk referred to by Dombroski, we have yet to make this pledge as an intact community.

Larry Koss

Bainbridge Island