Outside the Lines: Ferry Tales XVI

Strictly Business

GIFC Annual Meeting
January 16, 2005

The GIFC annual meeting was very informative in spite of the fact that it was one of the shortest meetings ever held. It lasted only about an hour. Too bad there were only about 30 people in attendance.

The new Anacortes parking lot opening scheduled for January 17. Although when I went by I did not see any cars parked there. The entrance and exit from H Street does make for a long walk in the rain. The Favolito property purchase has been completed. The well will be capped and, in order for the lot to perk, asphalt will be poured. Who knew that asphalt perks and gravel does not?

The new schedule takes effect on March 1 with a return to the 3-person crew. I’m confused. Weren’t we told the new schedule {20 minute runs} was possible only because we had a 4th person? So which schedule starts March 1 with a 3-person crew?

Off site ticket sales needs to be bargained with the union. The union has been operating without a contract for over a year. I don’t believe that discussion of off site ticket sales is a priority for either PW or IBU.

Carl Cady has been trying to set up a meeting with Gary Rowe {county administrator} and PW in regards to cost of operation increases. To no avail thus far. Carl has sent financial info that has never been received. Let’s hope that the second sending is not still floating out in cyberspace.

During the ferry outages in 2005, engines will be replaced, hinge pins on the Anacortes side will be replaced, and pedestrian approach on Guemes will be moved to the west. Glen suggested a system of barges and floats to avoid beach landing and accommodate the tides. Nothing definitive yet, but let’s hope we don’t repeat the last beach landing fiasco.

The GIFC recommends the haul out take place after Labor Day. Parents of school age kids are asked for input about the impact the haul out will have on school schedule. Steve Flude offered to meet and discuss options.

Glen Veal thanked GIPOA for their generous donation to help defer election costs.
Dixon Elder announced that GIFC is still about $80.00 short of their goal for the March election.

Ballots will be mailed on February 15, counting will be March 15. Dixon emphasized the importance of placing the ballot in the GIFC return envelope, whether it is dropped off at Anderson’s Store or mailed.

Dixon praised the GIFC for all their hard work and efforts, and said he would be available for special projects.

Glen and Dixon had a mutual admiration exchange; Dixon praised Glen’s diplomacy with the county. Glen commended Dixon’s determination and service to Guemes Islanders and GIFC.

Victor Garcia, in his candidate’s statement said, ”that the people who are most effected should have the most input regarding ferry issues.” When asked about his ability to attend meetings during the work week he informed us that Anacortes School District has in place in their teacher’s contract a clause guaranteeing “civic duty leave”
Jim O’Neil in his candidate’s statement stated simply that he would serve island people better.

The winner of the upcoming election for GIFC member will have his work cut out for him. There are so many unanswered questions and more to come up. Hopefully the candidate that emerges as the Victor will have the interest of the island and it’s ridership at heart.

- MJ Andrak