LIHI concerns
To the editor:
I am writing to express my concerns regarding the design capabilities of Low Income Housing Institute, the developers selected for the affordable housing project at 625 Winslow Way, specifically in relation to their ability to create a project that embodies the unique and casual aesthetic of Bainbridge Island.
While I understand the importance of addressing the pressing need for affordable housing, it is crucial that the design of such a prominent project reflects the character and context of our community. Unfortunately, the photos of LIHI’s current projects suggest that their design sense may not align with this vision. In fact, the blue and white “design” of the building’s façade in the article’s photos is grotesque and is not what should greet visitors entering our city.
I urge you to consider whether the aesthetic appeal of LIHI truly aligns with the unique charm and casual elegance of Bainbridge Island. LIHI’s senior design manager says that the Tony Lee building in Lake City has a dark gray and yellow exterior that fits with the car dealerships nearby. That alone should scare the hell out of anyone with any design sense.
In conclusion, I respectfully request that the City Council carefully evaluate the design plans for the 625 Winslow Way project to ensure that it genuinely reflects the distinctive aesthetic of our island. It is vital that we achieve a balance between providing much-needed affordable housing and preserving the character that makes Bainbridge Island a cherished place to live.
John Papajani
Bainbridge Island
Column insensitive
To the Editor:
I write today in response to Tom Tyner’s April 11 column, Cremation much cheaper than traditional burials. While I appreciate the humorous tone Mr. Tyner brings to the often-weighty topic of death, I was disheartened by his remarks likening human composting to “every schlocky horror movie” he’s ever seen.
Human composting, or natural organic reduction, is a legal and carefully regulated process in Washington State; one that many families in our own community have chosen with care, reverence, and love. To compare this deeply meaningful choice to a horror film not only misrepresents the science and intention behind the process but also risks mocking those who have found healing and peace through it.
Families choosing human composting do so because it aligns with their values: environmental stewardship, simplicity, and a desire to return to the earth gently. To reduce this choice to an offhand joke is distressing, especially for those grieving loved ones who have taken this path. These are our neighbors and people who are navigating loss and making the most thoughtful decisions they can for themselves and the planet.
I respect that humor is Mr. Tyner’s métier. But when writing about how our dead are cared for, a little reverence goes a long way.
Jan Doterie
Bainbridge Island
Support local news
In the months to come, as financial uncertainty rocks the nation, the local news decline is only expected to worsen. Already, the decline has seen news coverage severely reduced across the state and newsroom staffs slashed by more than 60 percent.
As a result, Washingtonians have been left with limited access to reliable information about what is happening in their communities, which numerous studies links with negative impacts, including reduced voter turnout, increased political polarization, higher government costs, and reductions in the number of candidates seeking office.
SB 5400 would address the crisis by generating about $20 million annually for qualifying local news outlets in Washington to employ reporters. The funds, paid as grants based on the number of full-time reporters at a news outlet, would be generated by a nominal surcharge on for-profit social media platforms and search engines. No General Fund dollars would be used.
League of Women Voters of Washington
