Opinion - Journal of the San Juans

County Council should revote on Brickworks | Editorial

The San Juan County Council should vote again on the acquisition of conservation and historical preservation easements at 150 Nichols St., the proposed Brickworks site. And the council should approve it. Opponents want to see the farmers market located at the San Juan County Fairgrounds. But 150 Nichols St. is more than a “farmers market” project. It’s proposed as an events center on a revitalized site in the downtown historic district. The farmers market is only one element. As proposed, it would provide a public green space, entertainment area, and venue for varied economic activities.

Would you pay a $3 fee to dispose of recycling if

Stay on topic, and keep it clean | Editorial

One of the best statements we’ve heard going into the general election season came from the most unlikely of places. Scott Bell, announcer at the annual Zucchini 500 at the San Juan County Fair, opened the event Saturday with this observation: Strip away the politics, and we’ve got a pretty cool community made up of pretty cool people. Take that thought with you as we go into the general election campaign.

Move rabbits, but do it humanely | Editorial

Each prairie is its own special system. When we have so little left, we have to conserve what remains. Let’s preserve the American Camp prairie. Let’s move the rabbits off the prairie — humanely. We hope the proponents of humane treatment of the rabbits can help.

For Congress, state House ... The Journal endorses | Editorial

America and Americans are struggling financially. We’re divided on whether the Stimulus Act was a bailout or an investment in the economy. The jobless rate in Washington state is at 8.9 percent. But the solutions are more complex than simply “cut taxes” and “lower government spending,” which is what many candidates are spouting. Lowering taxes is one thing. Bringing in enough revenue to cover the cost of providing public services is another. No, today’s candidate has to be creative and innovative, as well as knowledgeable. We need ideas, not slogans.