Editorial: It’s time to weigh in

Islanders have before them ballots for one of the most significant elections Vashon has faced in a while: a school bond measure that would lead to a major overhaul of our aging high school. And as the letters and commentaries on these two pages suggest, Islanders are, of course, divided on this issue.

It’s a tough call. On the one hand, there’s no question but that Vashon High School needs a makeover. It’s in terrible shape: The classrooms are too small; the layout is inefficient, unsafe and haphazard; the technology is horribly outdated. On the other hand, $75.5 million, even in the best of times, is a hefty price tag on an Island of 10,000 or so. And this isn’t the best of times.

Some have wondered if The Beachcomber would take an editorial stance on the issue. After much thought, we’ve decided not to. Our highest and best contribution to the community on a topic of such import is to provide clear, objective and factual information. We have striven to do so.

Others, too, have made a significant contribution to the community on this important issue. From school board chair Bob Hennessey to civic activist Hilary Emmer, the Island has benefitted from a strong and informed civic debate — a public discussion that has been, almost consistently, above-board, thoughtful and transparent. Despite strong feelings and deep passions, the Island has engaged in a remarkably fair discussion on this issue.

As we head to the polls — figuratively, only, as this is a mail-in election — we do so as an informed electorate. That’s a credit to many and a gift to all of us.

Let’s now make our decision wisely.