It is interesting to observe different philosophies used by a couple of our public entities during these times of economic challenges.

During the past few weeks, we’ve seen the San Juan Island School Board struggle to make cuts to their budget while trying to preserve services to their students and families. The School Board has proposed making cuts involving ALL levels of their organization, from principals down to regular employees.

Contrast this approach to the one taken by the County Council. The result of the budget cuts done last year is to cut only the employees that work daily with members of the community, such as public health workers, the WSU Extension Office and senior service employees. No managers were cut.

Does this remind you of the preservation of top jobs in banking, the car industry and insurance companies on a national level?

Remember this approach when you go to the ballot box.

Cathy Eggenberger
Friday Harbor