Outside the Lines: Ferry Tales XX

Mr. Martin Makes A Mess

Prior to the beginning of the Monday July 6th Public Hearing about Guemes Island Ferry fare increases, Don Munks felt compelled to admonish those present that the hearing would be conducted courteously and respectfully. Was this was directed to the Commissioners as well as those in attendance? The meeting was also videotaped and televised.

Public Works director Chal Martin crunched some numbers and informed the BOC that he arrived at only a 216% fare increase. This drew a few snickers and that was the closest thing to disrespect during the public hearing. Martin also argued that the resolution signed by the Commissioners in 2003 was flawed and needed changing. He was unable to address the limited parking issue. He was unaware of Federal money availability and whether or not the Guemes Ferry was eligible to apply. Martin claims the bridge analogy, used by Berk and Associates and the Roundtable, is not valid. He did not look to other ferry systems, within the state, for an answer to the cash handling problem, instead a 4th crew member was hired. Prior to implementing the 4th person solution for cash handling, the State Auditor told the County not to solve a $10,000 problem with a $100,000 solution.{Carl Cady}. Chal did not have a solution for monitoring his proposed annual and semi-annual frequent user pass either. The total percentage of vehicles and foot passenger traffic, by month, needed correcting as well. Needless to say Chal struck out more than once with his Proposal to increase fares.

Glen Veal {GIFC chair} challenged numbers and found several “fatal flaws” in Martin’s presentation. He had done his homework and was better versed than the Director of Public Works. He proposed going to the Roundtable and working out the issues ”behind closed doors”. This comment, with its implied secrecy, wasn’t well received by Vic Schultz, who agreed with Glen on all other issues.

All who signed up to speak did so. All who spoke supported Glen Veal and the GIFC.
The BOC had questions about facts and figures. Ted Anderson actually sounded like an advocate instead of an adversary of Guemes Islanders.

No decision was made and no date set for any such decision. The facts need to be reviewed and evaluated, say the BOC. What a novel idea! Chal Martin needs to get his act together. Perhaps he can take his lead from Glen Veal. Scary to think that he is in charge of the Skagit County Public Works' $37,000,000 budget. I don’t think I would want him to balance my checkbook.

- MJ Andrak

[7.7.5]

The Commissioners will accept written (and emailed) comments through Friday, July 8.

Express Yourself! Click on this link to send a message to the Commissioners, Public Works Director, Ferry Manager and the Ferry Committee, all at the same time!