To the editor:

Right now, we islanders are looking at an amazing chance to create a sweet park right downtown, an opportunity that simply can’t come round again. I hope you will join me on voting YES for the purchase of the Sakai property.

Right by the library and several schools, the Sakai property is big (23 acres) enough to host a wide range of activities, from P-patches to play places, and offers a little bit of wilderness for wildlife too.

The 2-acre pond can be stocked for young fisher folk, and I can imagine a living gardening book there; edible landscaping for all to share.  Winslow is packed with people but short on recreational green spaces and this historic property offers breathing room for future generations, who will doubtless be even more crowded than we are today.

The selling price is totally reasonable, as established by the price paid for the property the new Harrison Clinic is on, nearby and zoned the same way. What about taxes?

Personally, I rather like to pay my local taxes, which support so many services and amenities that benefit my family, myself and the entire island community. The tax burden will be light (about the same as a take-out dinner for two) and will simply replace expiring taxes of similar amounts.

If you are still wondering about the proposal, ask yourself, would this lovely green space feel more refreshing if crammed with housing and/or businesses?

Whatever you decide, thanks for voting!

ANN LOVEJOY

Bainbridge Island