This was originally posted to: Guemes Island Ferry Committee

GIFC Minutes 2019-10-15

Call to order

A meeting of Guemes Island Ferry Committee (GIFC) was held at Guemes Library on Tuesday, October 15, 2019 starting at 7:02 pm. Attendees included: David Prewitt, John Hopkins, and Bud Ullman. Members not in attendance included: Sandy McKean and Allen Bush. Guests in attendance included: Barb Ohms.

Approval of minutes

It was noted that all minutes to date have been approved.


Guest Input (limited to 5 minutes per person) Barb: Barb suggested that the new sandwich board specify Ferry COMMITTEE meeting, to distinguish our meetings from those convened by the County

Unfinished business

Timing of Meetings

The responses regarding having the Quarterly Meeting on a weeknight were generally negative according to those present.  This will stir into decisions about future meetings.

O&M vs. Capital Accounting

The discussion of meeting with Rachel and Public Works to discuss the capital/O&M issue continued.  Dave will work with Rachel to find a two-hour time slot for such a meeting.  The proposed agenda is: 1. PW overview of accounting mechanisms (1/2 hour) 2. O&M explained by PW (1/2 hour) 3. Questions and for-instances (1 hour)

Needs-Based Fares

It was agreed that Bud should contact Commissioner Wesen to discuss next steps for bringing this proposal to the attention of the full Commission as a recommendation from the GIFC.

New Business

GIFC Organization and Organizational Documents

In connection with Dave and Sandy’s work on the organization and organizational documents for the GIFC, Dave raised the questions of who the GIFC’s “constituents” are and how the GIFC should position itself.  A thoughtful discussion ensued.  There was no attempt to reach conclusions, but the topics were deemed appropriate for further consideration.  Bud and John expressed appreciation and encouragement of Dave and Sandy’s undertaking.

Skagit Transit’s Offer Regarding Skagit Transit’s offer to provide a 15-passenger van and training for island drivers, the GIFC reaffirmed its consensus that it not be the lead organizing entity.  John will draft a paragraph for publication letting the public know about this offer, and seeking people to champion the idea. 

Cutting in Line

The GIFC has received reports of two drivers cutting in the ferry waiting line on the Guemes side.  Several self-help ideas for those who witness this were discussed.  It was decided that the problem was not frequent enough to warrant formal decisions or recommendations by the GIFC.

Coming Dates

• Meeting with BERK and others – Thursday, November 7 at the Community Hall at 6:00pm

• GIFC monthly meeting, Tuesday, November 19, 7:00pm at the Library.

Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 9:05pm
[Notes taken by Bud Ullman]

Tags: GIFC 2019 meeting minutes