All Point Bulletin April 2016

April 2016

IN THIS

ISSUE

www.AllPointBulletin.com

Local clinic meets healthy goals, page 7

New restaurants in the works, page 8

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Tower fundraiser pays off last legal bills, page 9

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Parks board First day of spring... mulls library alternatives B y P a t G r u bb

(See Library, page 6)

s On the first day of spring 2016, Darlene Gibbs of Ladybug Nursery on Windsor Drive is ready for the onslaught of local gardeners looking to beautify their little part of Point paradise. Fresh-cut flowers are now available.

Photo by Louise Mugar

County promises Lighthouse Park dock for 2016

By Meg Olson All the parties involved will share the blame and the cost of fixing the failed dock at Lighthouse Marine Park.

“The project team has been moving forward in a cooperative way to get it resolved rather than looking for who to blame so everyone has contributed something towards resolving the issue,” said Rod Lamb, design and development supervisor with Whatcom County Parks and Recreation.

“There’s some blame to be shared.”

The failure of the dock last summer after only a month in service and under moderate sea conditions could be in part traced to the design engineer retained by the county.

“The conditions exceeded the conditions in the design specifications,” Lamb said, which led to the crumpling of the frames that held the wave attenuation chambers. “Our redesign is to make them more robust for this very active tidal zone.” The design engineer will re-engineer the project at no cost.

Fire commissioner Jeff Wilmot steps down B y P a t G r u bb Fire district commissioner Jeff Wilmot has resigned his position as of Wednesday, March 9. In a letter to fellow commissioners, Wilmot wrote, “Declining health no longer permits my contribution at the level necessary to perform my duties.” Wilmot suffers from Parkinson’s Disease.

In his letter, Wilmot continued on, saying, “I would like to express my gratitude to the people of Point Roberts for the op-

portunity. During my tenure I was privileged to participate in a renaissance of the fire department. Strong leadership, an exceptional level of professionalism and the dedication of the members, staff and commissioners to the safety and well-being of this community will insure district 5 will continue to distinguish itself.”

Remaining commissioners Bill Meursing and Stan Riffle were generous in their praise of Wilmot. Meursing told the audience he “would like to take this opportu-

nity to thank Jeff Wilmot for his services and even though I have had my differences with him, I learned to respect the man. He was a good man.”

Riffle echoed Meursing’s comments, adding, “He always showed up for meetings despite his illness.” Fire chief Christopher Carleton told commissioners that the news “saddens me greatly. He was a great leader who helped this organization (See Wilmot, page 2)

Lamb said the manufacturer shared some responsibility for the fix, as “even if the design specification was never exceeded, the wave attenuation chambers would not have held because of the way the dock grounded.” The manufacturer will re-manufacture the base of the dock segments at cost.

The county will come up with the $27,000 for materials. “The county was (See Dock, page 6)

INSIDE

The design and financing of the proposed Point Roberts Library might have been crystal clear at the end of a special parks district meeting but by the time the board members reconvened the following week to plot a course of action, the future looked distinctly muddy.

Seeking public input on how the parks district should bridge the funding gap between the money already raised for a new library and what will actually be needed to build it, park commissioners held a special meeting March 9. More than 40 people were in attendance at the meeting.

Opening the meeting, parks chair Linda Hughes said she wanted to make it clear that putting a bond up for a public vote was just one option, foreshadowing later comments expressing her opposition to such a move. In turn, commissioners reviewed the project and financing and construction options.

“I want to start by emphasizing that a new library is going to be built; the discussion today is about the gap between the funding and the revised cost estimates” due to design changes, said Mary Edgeley.

The latest cost estimate, which includes construction, design, permitting, taxes and a contingency in the event that the septic system needs replacement, is $689,000.

New board member Bennett Blaustein said, “I think the board should support the library and should support the levy. He added that he did not believe the building should be begun until full funding is available which was a reference to calls to begin the construction immediately and proceed to the lock-up stage.

Fellow commissioner Stephen Falk outlined a variety of funding options available to the district, such as a state loan, a bond or even a short-term increase in the park’s M&O levy. “I don’t think there is any doubt that the Memorandum of Understanding (which lays out the obligation

Church . . . . . . . . 15 Classifieds . . . . . 17

Coming Up . . . . . 14 Crossings . . . . . . 13 Opinion . . . . . . . . 4 Library . . . . . . . . 13 Tides . . . . . . . . . . 13

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All Point Bulletin • April 2016

Wilmot ...

From page 1

become what it is today.”

The two remaining commissioners now have 90 days to appoint a successor to Wilmot’s position. Should they fail to do so, Whatcom County Council would step in and make the appointment. Meursing said anyone could apply to the position by delivering a cover letter and resume to the fire chief and the board of commissioners.

“What the new person should bring to the organization is a positive attitude, be respectable, know how to read a budget, understand that the chief runs the district’s business and be a steward of other people’s money,” said Meursing.

Whoever is appointed will need to run for election in the November 2017 general election. Meursing’s position is also up for a vote at that time.

April 2016 • allpointbulletin.com

s Members of the taxpayers association’s board discussing the Lily Point Marine Park trailhead on Cedar Point.

Photo by Pat Grubb

Taxpayers to birddog trailhead The Point Roberts Taxpayers Association intends to take an active role in ensuring the Whatcom County parks department doesn’t walk away from its obligation to restore the Cedar Point trail access to Lily Point Marine Park. The trail was closed after two separate slides on the gulley near the entrance recently encroached on the path.

“We tend to lose things like a separate entrance to the park. One way or another, the county should find a way to maintain that entrance. Once they get the dock completed, they should work on restoring the trail,” said association president Mark Robbins.

Referring to the storm water that is causing erosion to the gully, committee member Pat Harper said it was the county’s responsibility to control drainage. The committee agreed to follow up with county personnel and keep the issue on the front burner.

The committee also agreed to keep hounding the county to make code enforcement a priority in Point Roberts.

“I believe this organization should take a position on code enforcement. I think it is screamingly clear that county planning and development services (PDS) won’t do anything without being pushed,” said Arthur Reber.

Fellow committee member Jennifer Urquhart reminded the group that they had agreed at a previous meeting of the need for the taxpayers organization “to keep the fire lit under PDS. It’s in the community’s interest.”

The group cited various examples on Tyee Drive where the county had failed to show progress on violations involving unpermitted signs, non-allowed land uses and extensive commercial remodeling done without permits being applied for or obtained.

Trinity Concert Series Supporting the Trinity Music Programs

SATURDAY APRIL 2, 5 P.M. • Chamber West Woodwind Quintet in Concert "Classical to Klezmer!" • Join the Chamber West Woodwind Quintet for an afternoon of engaging music for all ages. Their 'Fun Times, Music Times' program will showcase works that span genres from classical to Klezmer. A musical treat for the whole family!

SUNDAY APRIL 24, 5 P.M. • Bergamasca Recorders in Concert

"In These Delightful Pleasant Groves" • The Bergamasca recorder consort will lead you on a delightful journey through the most pleasant groves of music, where you will want to dance madrigals, pavanes, galliards, and tangos. And you might meet the Goddesses Flora and Daphne, Porgy and Bess or even King Henry himself. You will hear sweet strains of recorders (small and large), sundry melodious drummings, and strange reedy instruments that liken to large insects buzzing softly through the trees.

Admission by Donation • Come join us! Everyone welcome!

Upcoming concerts: www.PointRobertsChurch.com Trinity Community Lutheran Church • 1880 A.P.A. Rd. • Point Roberts

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All Point Bulletin • April 2016

opinion

All Point Bulletin The All Point Bulletin is published each month by Point Roberts Press Inc. Total circulation is 9,000 copies including home delivery in Point Roberts and Tsawwassen, subscriptions and distribution to retail establishments on the Point.

The opinion expressed by contributors is their own and is offered for the general interest of our readers.

Mail and classified ads should be addressed to:

All Point Bulletin P.O. Box 1451 Point Roberts WA USA 98281

Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick J. Grubb Associate Publisher & Advertising Manager Louise H. Mugar News & Features Editor Meg Olson Copy Editor Kara Furr Creative Services Ruth Lauman, Doug De Visser Advertising Sales Catherine Darkenwald, Molly Ernst Janet McCall Contributors In This Issue Rhiannon Allen, Kris Lomedico Judy Ross, Barbara Wayland Administrative Services Amy Weaver Founding Editor Glennys Christie Business & Editorial Office Phone: 360/945-0413 Fax: 360/945-1613 Email: sales@allpointbulletin.com

Visit us online at:

www.allpointbulletin.com Printed in Canada • Vol. XXX, No. 12

Letters Policy The All Point Bulletin welcomes letters to the editor; however, the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor.

Letters must include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification.

Letters must not exceed 450 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality and good taste.

A fresh viewpoint on matters of general interest to local readers will increase the likelihood of publication. Writers should avoid personal invective. Unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Requests for withholding names will be considered on an individual basis.

Thank you letters should be limited to ten names.

Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published.

Please email your letter to: letters@allpointbulletin.com P.O. Box 1451, Point Roberts, WA 98281 Fax: 360/945-1613

Next issue: May 2016 Ads due: April 22

s The last rays of winter sunshine fall on the beach at Monument Park.

Letters To The Editor The Editor: What is going on in our community?

Last month, a number of daffodil plantings were dug up from public roadsides. Those daffodils were not the work of industrious, artistic squirrels, but one of the gifts of the Point Roberts Garden Club to the community of Point Roberts.

For almost a decade, the club has used volunteer energy and the proceeds of the Point Roberts Garden Tour to purchase and plant spring bulbs to enhance our roadsides. We began with plantings along Tyee Drive.

Then, three years ago, at the suggestion of Jody Hackleman, we began planting non-invasive varieties of daffodils, iris and crocus at other roadsides to surprise and delight residents and visitors.

The flowers are there for all to enjoy – in their place at the roadside, and not in a private garden. Please leave them in place.

Removing them sends a negative message to the club and dishonors those people who have designed and implemented these roadside beautification projects.

It was even more disturbing to read a day later that a metal garden sculpture was unscrewed and removed from someone’s deck. Is someone here trying to develop his or her garden with purloined goods? It surely must be a resident here, and not a visitor because live plants and bulbs are not permitted to cross the border into Canada.

As disturbed as garden club members are at the disappearance of plants, it must be nothing compared to the sense of violation a person must feel at having their garden trespassed and violated. People used to steal plants from my garden in New York, but this is not what I expect in Point Roberts.

Rhiannon Allen Point Roberts The Editor: I am puzzled by the position taken by Point Roberts parks commissioner Linda Hughes on the library project. At the meeting on March 9 there was a strong, indeed overwhelming, consensus in favor of a tax levy to complete the funding and also

strong support for tearing down the existing building and, after raising the foundation, following David King’s design.

Although silent at this meeting, commissioner Hughes let it be known on March 14 that she is adamantly opposed to any tax levy to complete the funding.

Local builder Tom Bradbury also apparently shifted gears from support for King’s (amended) plans to a completely different, two-story building instigating an extended discussion of how to build a cheaper library.

Our first concern is, why were these issues not raised on March 9? Why wait until the meeting when the board was supposed to make a decision about how to proceed? If Ms. Hughes was so opposed to any tax levy or bond issue to complete the funding, why not state her position earlier? Others did.

If Mr. Bradbury was so opposed to King’s design, why wait? He made a most persuasive argument in favor of a teardown and rebuild on a raised foundation. Where was the “cheaper, two-story” design then?

But what’s most disturbing is the negative stance with regard to a levy. If there is no levy, how will the project be funded? If it will take another $300,000, how is it to be raised?

Are we going to ask the folks at Friends of the Point Roberts Library to raise it? Do we really want to try to build a new library using available funds and end up with a substandard facility?

Ms. Hughes’ other suggestion that an Internet survey be taken to determine how the community feels is misguided. Such surveys are notoriously unreliable. In fact, the easiest way to ascertain the community sentiment is to put the tax levy on the ballot and then count the votes.

There seems to be a lack of long-range

Photo by Pat Grubb

planning here and we find it rather distressing. A levy for the amount needed will increase the average tax burden by some $8/month for a single year – about what a glass of decent wine costs. To derail this project at this point for such a trivial amount is so odd it’s hard to get one’s head around it.

Arthur Reber Point Roberts The Editor: After attending the recent Friends of the Point Roberts Library meeting and the last parks board meeting, there seems to be consensus that the best plan moving forward with the new library is to completely demolish the old fire hall and start with a new building on the existing site at a slightly higher elevation than the current building.

Although the architect’s initial proposal was to use the existing foundation and parts of the existing building it was suggested that it would be wiser and more cost effective to completely demolish the old building and start from scratch. Most people in attendance agreed that the old building had too many shortcomings, making it difficult to bring it up to current standards.

Since we are spending a great deal on our new library, it makes total sense to have a proper foundation and raise the floor level, which will result in proper drainage and a structurally superior building. I think the design that has been developed over the last few years will be a great addition to our community. The Friends of the Point Roberts Library now support these improvements to the current plan documents.

I hope that the parks board can move as quickly as possible to place a tax levy on the November ballot so we can begin the construction on our new library that the community has so graciously supported.

Tom Bradbury Point Roberts (See Letters, page 5) Please send letters to editor@allpointbulletin.com

April 2016 • allpointbulletin.com

Letters ...

From previous page

The Editor: The caucus is coming. On March 26 everyone who declares support for the values of the Democratic Party can participate in the Democratic precinct caucuses. All you need to do is sign the registration form stating you consider yourself a Democrat, and show up at your caucus site to record your preference for a candidate.

Precinct 101 meets at the Point Roberts Community Center; precincts 102 to 108 meet at the Bay Horizon Park Activity Center (please wear gym shoes or similar soft soles); precincts 119 and 120 meet at the Lions Camp Horizon conference building; and precincts 110 to 115 at the Blaine Middle School cafeteria.

Doors open at 9:30 a.m., the caucus officially begins at 10 a.m. and will last about two hours. Besides voting for your candidate, delegates and alternates will be

selected to represent those candidates in next levels up to the National Convention in Philadelphia. You can also bring platform recommendations to be passed on to the county convention on May 1.

See whatcomdemocrats.com to identify your precinct and caucus site and fill out your preregistration form to take with you to the caucus. Contact 647-7661.

Ruth Higgins Blaine The Editor: I would like to express my thanks to Point Roberts fire department personnel for their quick response on March 7 when I nearly collapsed and needed help.

They stabilized me and took me to St. Joseph’s hospital in Bellingham. I would also like to express my thanks to my family, the community and Trinity Lutheran Church for their support and prayers. A blessed Easter to all.

Ernie Loreen Point Roberts

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2016 Point Roberts Homegrown Coop CSA shares now offered Spring is here and it’s time to sign up for a CSA at the Point Roberts Homegrown Co-op.

The co-op has CSA shares available to members for spring, summer and fall. This year participants can get more out of their CSA with add-ons such as weekly herb and flower shares.

A Salad Lovers’ CSA will begin in May,

for anyone who would like an early start.

Also new this year is an additional pickup day on Wednesday, for those who can’t wait until Friday to enjoy their homegrown vegetables.

To sign up for a CSA share or find out about becoming a co-op member, visit prhomegrowncoop.com for more information.

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All Point Bulletin • April 2016

Library ...

From page 1

of the parks district to meet outstanding costs) is a binding document,” he said.

The public comment section began with remarks from local resident and builder Tom Bradbury who said, “I’m not in favor of remodeling the current building. It’s got too many deficiencies and I think it’s too low. It should be built up so it could drain away from the building. I think you should visualize starting from scratch. I’m in favor of a levy but get enough money to build it right.” Current plans call for remodeling the old Julius firehall next door to the community center. “If old Carl Julius was here tonight, he’d be the first to tell you to tear the old place down,” Bradbury concluded.

Bradbury’s recommended course of action struck a receptive chord in the audience with speaker after speaker agreeing to his suggestion to raise the foundation and to build from new. Heidi Baxter said, “I think we should do a new foundation. I remember seeing a beaver building a dam across the road – I’ll vote yes for a levy for more money than this.”

Barbara Bradstock told the board members, “I strongly urge you to listen to what Tom Bradbury said; I remember driving on Bayview Drive during one of the rain events and the only house that was dry was the one that Tom built.”

Addressing financing, Arthur Reber

s It was a full house of book and library lovers at the Point Roberts parks board special meeting held March 9 at the Gulf Road community center.

Photo by Ed Park said going for a $350,000 levy would cost the average homeowner very little in annual taxes.

“You can’t even buy a bottle of water for $1,” he said and was immediately echoed

by Pat Harper who related the cost of a beer at the recent anti-tower benefit.

Whatcom County Library System executive director Christine Perkins said, “We are very mindful that it is your community and your decision. However, we do have recent experience with using an existing building and I can tell you it hasn’t been a pretty picture.”

“I’m extremely encouraged with the comments made by Tom Bradbury. I’m

really happy that the board is considering starting fresh and I thank Mr. Bradbury for bringing this up,” said Jollena Tylor.

Additional speakers also spoke in favor of taking a fresh approach to construction.

Meeting the following week, Falk related his meeting with county treasurer to discuss financing possibilities, saying that “pretty much all options were available to the district.”

In response, Hughes said she felt the district needed to reach out to the community saying only 15 or so people made comments at the public meeting. “I personally do not support putting any tax levy on the ballot,” she said, and proposed that the

district send out a survey to gauge public support. Falk pointed out that a ballot measure would also serve the purpose of determining the public’s wishes.

Speaking against the idea, Judy Ross said, “In my experience, surveys in Point Roberts typically don’t work very well.

You’d have to decide right now; what constitutes a valid response. If you only get 20 answers, will you consider that sufficient or will you need another survey?”

Bradbury also attended the meeting to comment further on his recommendations to build anew, suggesting that the board should consider redesigning the library using a rectangular footprint leading to a less costly structure.

The parks district will be holding a working session at 5:30 p.m., ahead of the regular meeting on Monday, April 11 to consider the next steps to be taken toward the construction of the library.

April 2016 • allpointbulletin.com

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Sign up at www.allpointbulletin.com

s Unity Care NW chief operating officer Shanon Hardie addressing the Point Roberts Hospital District board on March 10. Board chair Dick Williams is seated on her right.

Photo by Pat Grubb

Health clinic quality notches up B y P a t G r u bb Things are trending in the right direction at the Point Roberts hospital district, going by the results of a survey presented to district commissioners on March 10

by Unity Care NW chief operating officer Shanon Hardie.

“I think the results are pretty darned good,” Hardie said, referring to a 2015 fourth quarter quality improvement report and survey. “The takeaway from this – all the measures are green. Point Roberts tied with one other care team for having the most improvement on their quality improvement measures,” she said.

Unity Care NW, formerly known as Interfaith Coalition, manages the Point Roberts clinic under the overview of the Point Roberts Hospital District. It operates medical and dental clinics in Bellingham and Ferndale as well on the Point.

The Point Roberts clinic sees an average of about 550 patients each quarter and monitors their health using a number of different measures.

For example, 60 percent of patients in the fourth quarter of 2014 kept their blood pressure under 140 over 90; in 2015 that figure increased to 74 percent. Diabetic patients are monitored under four separate measures (eye exams, blood sugar levels over time, nerve damage screening and poor blood level control) and in all four areas, the clinic exceeded the goals set for the quarter.

In term of client satisfaction, 91 percent said they were very satisfied with the quality of care that they had received with similar results for telephone service, wait times in the clinic and ability to get appointments.

The number of patients that have no insurance has declined dramatically since the implementation of the Affordable Care Act from 13 percent in 2013 to 6 percent in 2015. This, coupled with a 4 percent increase in patient visits, in-house pharma-

Dock ...

From page 1 involved in these decisions so we hold some responsibility,” Lamb said. “Hindsight is 20/20. If you look at the design now you can see it wasn’t adequate for the site.”

The contractor will also reinstall the re-manufactured and reconfigured wave attenuation chambers at no cost.

Lamb said the target date for getting the dock back in service is this June.

He added they had also been working with operations staff to ensure equipment is on site to keep the ramp clear during the boating season.

cy savings and reduced overhead resulted in a surplus of $38,500 for 2015. “One of the things I’d like staff to consider is, what should be done with that surplus,” said Hardie, prompting a caution from the district’s financial auditor SuzAnne Kinsey.

“I have to be cautious,” Kinsey said, “just because we had a surplus last year doesn’t mean that we’ll have a surplus this year.” Hardie agreed and added that the regular reviews performed would allow tracking financial trends.

Nurse practitioner Natalié Davidson suggested the community could benefit from increased mental health services.

“There’s a core group of individuals who teeter on the edge quite a lot and it’s not something I want to make a mistake at,” she said, adding that while she felt comfortable dealing with less acute conditions such as depression or anxiety, it would be desirable to have support service for patients suffering from more serious afflictions, such as schizophrenia.

Hospital district superintendent Elaine Komusi said the district had explored the possibility of providing counseling services in the past but had been brought up short due to the clinic’s lack of soundproofing given that counseling would take place during regular clinic hours. Nevertheless, the district has been in communication with possible mental health counselors and would report on progress.

Reached following the meeting, Hardie explained that most of the measures being tracked are determined by priorities set at the state and national level. Chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension and screening for cervical and colorectal cancers are commonly state and national priorities as they are important indicators of quality and patient outcomes.

She added that Point Roberts is unique in Unity’s system in that it not only serves as the primary care provider for some of the community but also as an urgent care center for patients who seek their primary care elsewhere.

“Some folks who live on the Point go to our clinic when they have an urgent need come up and it is more convenient than traveling to their primary care provider outside Point Roberts. We also get a lot of visitors in the summer who only make Point Roberts their home seasonally and therefore get their primary care elsewhere. As a result, the clinic does not have the opportunity to impact or improve many of these measures for those who are only seeking urgent care from us,” she explained.

In other business, the board agreed to participate in the health fair to be held in August in conjunction with the fire district and other health service providers.

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All Point Bulletin • April 2016

In The Garden

By Rhiannon Allen Recently I picked up a magazine with a lovely photograph of a planting in front of a house much like mine.

How much better that planting would look than the mad scramble of Japanese Anemone and Linaria purpurea that choke my front garden!

The photograph revealed an orderly arrangement of grasses and autumn-flowering Rudbeckia. This led me to think about redesigning existing garden spaces, and the thought that must go into a redesign.

I looked long and hard at the photograph, mentally superimposing the photograph on my existing garden space. Would the photographed design really work visually in the space? I decided that it would.

Would the colors work? Well, that was an enthusiastic “Yes!” The green and gold colors featured in the photograph would work much better with our brown, green, and cream house than the purple flowers that currently occupy the space.

The second question I asked myself concerned what I would need to remove or save from the existing garden. Gardeners working with an undeveloped space may have brambles or grass in the area they have to develop.

In my existing garden, I wanted to save all my herbs because I need them for cooking, and my spring bulbs because they shouldn’t be moved at this time of year. That meant making decisions about whether to relocate plants or consign them to the bin.

A third question was whether I should use the exact plants depicted in the photograph, or make alternative selections.

The design I wanted used Rudbeckias for autumn color. Those would work fine, and should be readily available. They tolerate the full sun and summer drought conditions of the bed I am redesigning.

The grasses shown in the photograph were another matter altogether. One of the two different ornamental “grasses” might be variegated sweet flag (Acorus gramineus “Ogon”). I already grow this short, bright, charming grass-like plant.

Unfortunately, in a dry spot, these plants sulked for years until I relocated them to a place that catches irrigation water. However, online, I also read that this plant is tolerant of summer drought once it is very well established. I wondered if I might be in luck.

A trip to Phoenix Perennials in Richmond solved my dilemma. There they were: beautiful healthy sweet flag plants in large, one-gallon pots, boldly marked as “drought tolerant.” They were already larger than the tiny sweet flags that I had

bought and planted years ago. A phyto-sanitary inspection later, and I was good to go.

Their cheerful golden-green arching leaves will really bring some “pop” to the planting bed. I’ll water them well the first summer, just in case, but after that they should be fine with minimal watering.

The larger ornamental grass featured in my desired garden plan was a different problem. The plant looked like it might be a young Pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana) or one of its lookalikes. These plants were recently placed on Whatcom County’s noxious weed list because they escape cultivation and invade coastal habitats.

These popular and striking ornamental grasses are certainly drought-tolerant but their inclusion on the weed list makes them a no-no for me even if I could obtain a division. In all fairness, they’d probably grow too large for my space anyway, and I didn’t want the nicely sized plants in the photographs to grow into tenacious, sharp-bladed monsters.

So what would work? This was going to take more research. Finding a drought-tolerant, medium height, preferably clumping, non-invasive ornamental grass with color planted firmly in the non-blue end of the spectrum was my goal.

Fortunately, years ago, I had attended a talk on ornamental grasses by Ewan MacKenzie, and had kept my handouts.

This was a great place to start because one handout was “grasses for specific conditions,” which yielded a generous list of drought-tolerant grasses.

Checking his list against websites and a copy of Timber Press’s Pocket Guide to Ornamental Grasses borrowed from the library yielded a number of candidates. One is the Calamagrostis x acutiflora “Karl Foerster” that MacKenzie raved over.

This meter-high grass and its smaller cousin “Overdam” need watering only every two weeks once mature, which is a task I can handle. So I think I’m set.

Will the design work spatially? Will the colors work? What will work for my growing conditions? Will those plants cause problems? If so, what can I use? I think this thought and research will pay off.

I’m ready to go once I remove the old plants from my garden and refresh the bed with a load of that garden soil Nielson’s Building Supply trucks in about now.

Make sure to attend the Point Roberts Garden Tour No. 14 on Sunday, June 26 to see how nine local gardeners have worked to realize their visions of everything from curb appeal to secret walled gardens.

New food spots set to open

By Meg Olson The Point lost two of its restaurants in recent months, but three new eateries are poised to fill the void.

Caffe Capanna closed its doors at the beginning of March after property owners announced they wanted to take the property in a new direction.

That direction will be the Saltwater Café, according to a liquor license application with the state. The applicant is Tamra Hansen, the co-owner of the Pier Restaurant, which closed its doors in the fall after its lease with the Point Roberts Marina was not renewed.

The marina will be opening a new restaurant for the summer, according to marina manager Jacquelyne Everett, called the Compass Rose Bar and Grill. Everett said the restaurant will have a nautical theme and feature “all your local favorites and comfort food.”

A coffee shop called Wake My Day is also planned for the barge at the marina, serving espresso and other drinks, along with breakfast items and snacks.

Improvements are also being made to the rooms on the upper level of the barge with an eye to having them available for group rentals, such as conferences or family reunions.

April 2016 • allpointbulletin.com

s Treasurer and fundraiser extraordinaire Jennifer Urquhart received flowery recognition at the “No Towers” celebration.

Photo by Louise Mugar

A cross-border crowd turns out to celebrate and raise money B y P a t G r u bb Offer enough good food, drinks, music and communal good will, and people will open up their wallets and give to a good cause. According to Jennifer Urquhart, treasurer of the Cross-Border Coalition to Stop the Towers, that’s exactly what people did on March 5 at a fundraiser held at Kiniski’s Reef Tavern on Gulf Road.

Over 200 people showed up to celebrate the defeat of the radio tower farm proposed for Point Roberts. As tavern own Nick Kiniski remarked, “It feels like old times at the Reef again.” The event featured music

by The Neon Stars, a six-piece Vancouver band that served up vintage honky-tonk and swinging country music, and had the dance floor hopping all night. The evening began with singer/songwriter KK and comedy by Lucy Williams.

Speaking a few days later at a Point Roberts Taxpayers Association meeting, Urquhart said the event was a success.

“We’re confident that we’ll be able to pay our bills. We will be disbanding the coalition but we’ll be able to get back together for another cause.” Reporting later, Urquhart said the event raised $13,000 which, combined with additional donations that had come in, was sufficient to pay the remaining legal bills as well as other final expenses.

The coalition was formed in 2013 to stop plans to build an array of five 150foot AM radio transmission towers at the corner of Tyee Drive and McKenzie Way. Opposing the conditional use permit at the county level and subsequent appeals, the coalition racked up almost $250,000 in (See Towers, page 10)

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10 All Point Bulletin

• April 2016

s Anti-tower campaigners Armene Belless and Jim Ronback had plenty to celebrate and dance to at the party.

Photo by Louise Mugar

Towers ...

From page 9

legal bills. Donations and a series of fundraisers paid most of the bills, but the coalition still needed “about $14,000 to pay our final obligations,” Urquhart said.

Most of the outstanding debt was owed to lawyers but the coalition will also need an accountant to prepare reports for the Internal Revenue Service due to the high level of donations received in later tax periods. A coalition board meeting held Friday, March 11 confirmed that the event raised enough money to retire the legal debt.

The tower project had been spearheaded

by BBC Broadcasting Inc., a Canadian company that currently broadcasts out of facil-

ities in Ferndale. The towers were broadcasting content provided by Sher-E-Punjab and aimed at the large Asian radio market in the lower mainland of B.C. Sher-E-Punjab and two other companies had been ordered in October 2015 to cease broadcasting by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission for violating the Canadian Broadcasting Act. The company is currently pursuing a license for a 690 AM radio frequency.

The evening’s fundraising was accomplished through donations at the door, raffle tickets and a silent auction of donated goods. The highlight of the prizes was a 55-inch widescreen TV which Carl Cahchia from Vancouver won. Julie Berks of Tsawwassen won the Jelly Bean Guess, while Kevin Guichon won the 50/50 draw.

April 2016 • allpointbulletin.com

s Never at a loss for words, anti-tower fighter Arthur Reber addressed the full house at The Reef Tavern while Jeff Ferguson smiles appreciatively.

s The Neon Stars, a popular group from Vancouver, provided the music for the event.

Photos by Louise Mugar

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11

12 All Point Bulletin

• April 2016

April 2016 • allpointbulletin.com

April Tides Tides at Point Roberts DST Not For Navigation 49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W

Date

s The Miniature Art Show, held March 19 at Auntie Pam’s Country Store, raised over $1,000.

Photo by Louise Mugar

Library Picks K RIS L O M E D I C O Bestsellers: Foreign Agent . . . . . . . .Brad Thor Vinegar Girl . . . . . . . . Anne Tyler Barkskins . . . . . . . . Annie Proulx Here’s to Us . . . . . Erin Hilderbrand Movies: A Birder’s Guide to Everything . . . . . . . . (Comedy, 2014, PG-13) Gone Girl . . . . . . (Drama, 2014, R) Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day . . . . . . . . . . .(Family, 2015, PG) Orphan Black . . . . (TV series, 2014) Music: AKA Space Oddity . . . . David Bowie Astoria . . . . . . . . Marianas Trench Cinema . . . . . . . . . Andrea Bocelli Silver Lining: Songs of Jerome Kern . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tony Bennett Teen: Michael Vey 5: Storm of Lightning . . . . . . . . . . Richard Paul Evans Caravaggio: Signed in Blood . . . . . . . . . . . Mark David Smith Six Impossible Things . . Fiona Wood Kids: Vanilla Ice Cream . . . . Bob Graham Cricket Song . . . . . . Anne Hunter Dark Tide . . . . . .Jennifer Donnelly Hours: Tuesday 1–7 p.m., Wednesday and Saturday 10 a.m.–5 p.m. wcls.org

Senior’s Point Events

for

April

Point Roberts Senior Center events were not received by press time.

Crossings >>>

Traffic into Point Roberts for February 2016, with 2015 figures following: Vehicles – 62,248 (77,116); Pedestrians – 1,520 (1,415); Commercial – 1,113 (1,452); NEXUS – 26,488 (31,242).

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14 All Point Bulletin

• April 2016

Church News B y B a r b a r a W ay l a n d The 2016 Trinity Chamber Series kicks off with two concerts this month.

On Saturday, April 2 at 5 p.m. we have a very special event presented by the Chamber West Woodland Quintet.

Entitled Classical to Klezmer, this concert is a family event featuring music both adults and children will love. This is our first concert organized specifically for the children and we hope to make a children’s concert an annual event.

Then on Sunday, April 24 at 5 p.m. the Bergamasca Recorders return with a new concert, In These Delightful Pleasant Groves. Come tap your feet as you feel the urge to dance to madrigals, pavanes, galliards and tangos.

Rumor has it that Porgy and Bess, goddesses Flora and Daphne and perhaps King Henry himself may be there. Come enjoy the sweet strains of recorders small and large, sundry melodious drumming and strange reedy instruments that liken to insects buzzing softly through the trees.

Earth Day is Friday, April 22, and Bev Mar and Pastor Jean are busy planning the annual event. Weather permitting, the celebration will take place at Lighthouse Park at 4 p.m. If Lighthouse Park is too wet or windy, the event will take place at the community center.

Signs will be posted on the community notice board at Tyee and Gulf as well as at Lighthouse Park. You are encouraged to bring your favorite musical instruments, join in the dancing or offer a prayer.

Bring a snack to share, or just drop by.

This is a family event and there will be craft activities for the children. A variety of activities are in the planning stages and there will be information about things you can do to help the planet. Please plan to attend.

We continue to have the Youth Philosopher’s Cafe; in April it will meet the second Saturday, March 9 at 6:30 p.m. The discussions have been fascinating and live music and refreshments have added to the enjoyment.

Youth between the ages of 15 and 20 are welcome and encouraged to come give it a try. Those attending agree upon discussion topics and new ideas are always welcome.

The Power of Music: A Saturday Night Event is on the third Saturday of the month. In honor of Earth Day we invite you to join us in the Sanctuary on Saturday, April 16, for a showing of John Denver’s Wildlife Concert.

John performs a wide variety of hits from throughout his career in this special video concert, which was released shortly before his untimely death. The music will be followed by a gathering in the social hall for food, drink and lively conversation. We look forward to seeing you there!

Finally, since this month the paper comes out on Good Friday, I still have time to remind you that the Good Friday service, led by Pastor Jean, will take place at 11 a.m. The Easter service is at the usual 11 a.m. hour with Father Chuck officiating.

Happy Easter, everyone!

s Water board commissioners Scott Hackleman, l., Arthur Reber and district manager Dan Bourks discussing disconnection policy.

Photo by Pat Grubb

It’s a chicken coop policy approach...

Point Roberts Water District commissioners are getting close to finalizing a policy that would spell out the conditions under which a property owner could terminate water service. A policy is required in order to address outstanding accounts where the property isn’t being used, has been abandoned or repossessed or the owner simply fails to pay for water service.

Under the district’s current policy, which was suspended in 2014, users wanting to disconnect from the system were required to pay for water until the end of the calendar year. The meter would remain in place for five years, allowing the possibility of reconnection in the interim.

In order to get water service, a property owner must first pay a general facilities fee (GFF), which is essentially the property’s “buy-in” share of existing infrastructure.

Payment of the GFF guarantees them water from the system and is required before the county will issue an occupancy permit.

Once a user connects, they are required to pay a base water usage fee, even if they aren’t using it, so that the system as a whole continues to be funded.

Under the draft proposal, the customer would not be entitled to a credit or a

refund for water connection charges that had been paid previously and would be required to pay all outstanding bills. Should they want to hook up again in the future, the customer would need to pay all connection charges and fees in effect at the time of the re-connection.

“It seems to me that if a person decides to not be part of the system, that’s it,” said commissioner Scott Hackleman. “Right now, they can’t terminate because there’s no policy. They can only walk away and a lien will be put on the property.” District manager Dan Bourks replied, “People want the security of knowing [the water service] is there but they don’t want to pay for it. They can’t have it both ways.”

The ability to disconnect from the system will only apply to properties without structures on them. “If there’s a structure on the property other than a chicken coop with a dirt floor,” said Hackleman, “it doesn’t make sense to allow them to disconnect. If there’s a structure and they’re using it, they have to have water.”

Following text changes suggested by Hackleman and fellow commissioner Arthur Reber, the policy will undergo legal review before final approval by the board.

April 2016 • allpointbulletin.com

Coming up ...

Events Washington State Parks Free Day: Saturday, March 26, Washington State Parks. No Discover Pass needed. Info: parks.wa.gov.

Democratic Caucus: Saturday, March 26, 9:30 a.m., community center.

Annual Easter Egg Hunt: Saturday, March 26, 1 p.m., Point Roberts Primary School, 2050 Benson Road. Open to all residents and visitors of Point Roberts. Free. Kids under 10 are invited to participate in the hunt. Donations accepted. Info: 945-2223.

Easter Service: Sunday, March 27, 11 a.m., Trinity Community Lutheran Church, 1880 APA Road. Info: 945-7105.

Spring Craft Faire, Bake Sale and Book Sale: Saturday, April 2, 10 a.m.–3 p.m., community center. Crafting and collection vendors, demonstrations, bake sale and book sale. Table fee $10. Fees and bake sale proceeds benefit Circle of Care. Info: Jessica McVey, 945-0409 or jessica@pointbob.net.

Chamber West Woodwind Quintet Children’s Concert: Saturday, April 2, 5 p.m., Trinity Community Lutheran Church, 1880 APA Road. Engaging music for all ages. Works that span genres from classical to Klezmer. A musical treat for the whole family.

Friends of the Point Roberts Library Annual General Meeting: Sunday, April 3, 2–4 p.m., community center.

PR Registered Voters Association Annual General Meeting: Thursday, April 7, 7 p.m., community center. Info: prrva.org.

Whatcom Marine Mammal Stranding Network Volunteer Training: Saturday, April 9, 10 a.m.–1 p.m., BP Heron Center, Birch Bay State Park. Train to become a volunteer marine mammal stranding responder. Registration required. Cost: $25. Info: wmmsn.org or 3897011.

Whatcom Marine Mammal Stranding Network Volunteer Training: Tuesday, April 12, 6–9 p.m., Beach Store Cafe on Lummi Island. Train to become a volunteer marine mammal stranding responder. Registration required. Cost: $25. Info: wmmsn.org or 389-7011.

The Power of Music: A Saturday Night Event: Saturday, April 16, Trinity Community Lutheran Church, 1880 APA Road. A showing of John Denver’s Wildlife Concert followed by food, drink and conversation.

Hello Spring Fashion Show: Wednesday, April 20, 7 p.m., 121 1315 56th Street, Tsawwassen Town Centre Mall. An evening of fashion, wine, light snacks, gift bags and door prizes.

Tickets $25. Info: 604/943-8088.

Bergamasca Recorders in Concert: Sunday, April 24, 5 p.m., Trinity Community Lutheran Church, 1880 APA Road. Sweet strains of recorders (small and large), melodious drumming and reedy instruments.

South Delta Garden Club Annual Plant Sale: Saturday, May 7, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., Delta Hospital Extended Care Unit, 5800 Mountain View Boulevard, Ladner. Excellent selection of perennials, tomatoes, veggies, containers and expert advice. Info: southdeltagardenclub.ca.

Scheduled Meetings/Ongoing Events PR Beekeepers Association: Monday, March 28, 7 p.m., community center.

PREP (PR Emergency Preparedness): Tuesday, April 5, 7 p.m., community center. Info: Henry Rosenthal, 945-1711, Virginia or Ed Lester, 945-2827.

PR Garden Club: Wednesday, April 6, 6:45 p.m. Members spring garden visits. Info: 9455075 or info@pointrobertsgardenclub.org.

PR Hospital District: Wednesday, April 6, 7 p.m., community center.

Youth Philosopher’s Café: Saturday, April 9, 6:30 p.m., Trinity Community Lutheran Church, 1880 APA Road. Ages 15–20 welcome.

PR Park and Recreation District: Monday, April 11, 7 p.m., community center.

Friends of the Point Roberts Library (FOPRL): Tuesday, April 12, noon–1 p.m., Point Roberts Library, 1437 Gulf Road. Info: 945-6545.

PRCAC (PR Community Advisory Committee): Tuesday, April 12, 7 p.m., community center. Info: 945-5075.

PR Water District Special Public Meeting: Tuesday, April 12, 5 p.m., Point Roberts Water District Office, 79 Tyee Drive.

PR Fire District 5: Wednesday, April 13, 4 p.m., 2030 Benson Road. Info: 945-3473.

PR Historical Society: Wednesday, April 20, 7 p.m., community center. Info: historicalsociety@pointroberts.net.

Cemetery District: Tuesday, April 26, 5 p.m., 260 Tyee Drive.

PR Chamber of Commerce: Tuesday, April 26, 7 p.m., community center.

PR Beekeepers Association: Monday, April 25, 7 p.m., community center.

PR Taxpayer’s Association: Monday, May 2, 7 p.m., community center.

Point Roberts Clinic Hours: Mondays 11 a.m.–6 p.m.; Tuesdays 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m.–5 p.m., 2030 Benson Road. Closed for lunch noon–1 p.m. To make an appointment, call 945-2580.

Free Taxi to Bellingham: Every Tuesday. Call 676-7433. Pick-up at Cordata. Info: 945-1640.

Point Roberts Library Hours: Tuesdays, 1–7 p.m., Wednesdays and Saturdays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Info: 945-6545.

Knits and Crafts at Point Roberts Library: Tuesdays, 5–7 p.m. Knitting, crocheting or other yarn crafts. Practice, advice, chat and hot drinks. For adults and grades 8–12. Info: 945-6545.

Wackie Walkers: Tuesdays and Thursdays. Tuesdays, 8 a.m., Lighthouse Park. Call for Thursday location. Info: 945-1934.

Preschool Storytime: Saturdays, 10:30–11 a.m., Point Roberts Library, 1437 Gulf Road.

Stories, songs and more for ages 3–6. Families encouraged to attend. Info: 945-6545.

15

16 All Point Bulletin

• April 2016

Beware the tides of March

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s High wind, high tide and low atmospheric pressures combined late on March 9 and early March 10 to bring seawater and debris splashing over the seawall at Maple Beach.

Photo by Steve Fowler

s Boats didn’t have far to go to put out to sea. Any old backyard would do.

Photo by Pat Grubb

Getting to Yes: County parks proposes way to build the lighthouse

By Meg Olson Whatcom County staff have estimated the cost to build a lighthouse at Lighthouse Marine Park as proposed by the local lighthouse society would be $1.2 million. With the project budget currently limited to a $500,000 pledge from Point Roberts residents Darrell and Dorothy Sutton, county parks director Michael McFarlane said they would be meeting with the society to develop options to scale the project back.

Addressing the county council’s public works committee at their March 22 meeting, county executive Jack Louws came out immediately to quash the possibility of the county contributing dollars to the project.

“In light of all the capital needs we have in the county the contribution we could make through the parks department is to facilitate the project through staff time.”

McFarlane said his department was “trying to figure out a way to get to yes,” and had consulted with designers and engineers to get an idea of what components would raise the project cost outside of the $500,000 budget. “What we’re recommending is scaling the project down to fit the budget,” he said.

McFarlane said he understood the top priorities for the facility were that it be an operating light and it have an observation platform and indoor space. Keeping the indoor space unplumbed and unheated, perhaps as a new home for the Orca center, would keep costs down.

The next step will be to meet with the lighthouse society to develop a “white paper” that would “get everyone on the same page” prior to drafting a memorandum of agreement. Council member Barbara Brenner said she wanted to retain the possibility of council committing additional funds to the project. “That would be entirely up to council,” McFarlane said. “This is a way of getting something for that $500,000.”

Council member Ken Mann asked that the white paper present a number of options in the event county council chose to contribute match funds raised in the community. Satpal Sidhu also asked that county staff look at possibilities of donated services or materials being included to bring costs down.

McFarlane said the time frame they were considering would have permitting and design begin at the end of 2017 with construction in 2019.

April 2016 • allpointbulletin.com

Next Issue: May 2016

Ads Due: Mar. 25

To place your ad call:

360-945-0413 info@allpointbulletin.com

Announcements

17

Classifieds Home-grown newspaper with home delivery to Point Roberts, Tsawwassen and Retail Outlets. It’s the perfect match!

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HANDYMAN, HOME maintenance, pressure washing, carpentry, painting, repairs, outdoor projects, decks, fencing and landscaping. Large truck for hauling, reasonable rates, reliable service. 360-945-4157 or 310-383-4644.

Help Wanted MAIL CLERK position needed in parcel receiving center in Point Roberts. Computer experience and daily lifting of 30 pounds required; Friendly, fast-paced environment; full-time and part-time hours available. Paid holidays and health benefits after 90 days & paid vacation after one year employment. Call Daryl or Teresa at 360-9450740.

POINT ROBERTS MARINA is looking for energetic and friendly people to join our team.

Positions available include fuel dock attendants, baristas, servers, hostesses and cooks for our new coffee shop and restaurant. Must be available to work weekends and evenings. Email resume to: tcoe@pointrobertsmarina.com. No phone calls please.

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REEF TAVERN currently hiring for all positions: Kitchen, bar and waitstaff. Wages based on experience. Performance bonuses! Apply in person or by contacting Alli at 360-907-5982.

Storage

EXECUTIVE 3-BR 2-BA house, quiet Point street, a steal at $298K. 1-604-916-4611.

Rentals - Apartment

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MARINA MIST 2-bedroom condo. Like new, available now. Beach access. $1000/month. doricet@gmail.com or 604-644-0410.

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High school math, physics and science. Your home. $50 for 70 minutes. 360-945-3035 or 604230-3991.

GENERAL CONTRACTOR Excavator, Ditching, Tractor, Clearing, Dozer, Demolition, Rototiller, Stoneworks, Brushcutter, Driveways. Brian Calder 360-945-2353, Lic #CALDEBK001PJ

Cleaning

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SUNSHINE CARPET and upholstery steam cleaning, reasonable rates. 360-945-0411 or lawson_brad@yahoo.com.

SUNNY COTTAGE - 2-BD Fireplace, large yard, private deck, W/D, near Lily Point. $575/month.

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French doors that open to patio and face an acre of park-like garden. See deer, birds and more from patio. Windows view to 50 acres of wild area. Area rugs, fresh paint, a separate bedroom, kitchen and full bath, satiny drapes, new light fixtures and mirrors. Great getaway place for weekends in a 4-plex on an acre of land - no other houses in view. 1/2 mile to the beach. Call 360-945-5076 or go to www.ptrobertslive.com for pix and more info. $575/month U.S. Long term.

WATERFRONT APARTMENTS - Oceanfront apartment suites available for short-term or longterm rent. Majestic southern view near Lighthouse Park. Visit Oceanviewpointroberts.com

Read it first.

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18 All Point Bulletin

• April 2016

Local program to self-manage your diabetes is offered A symptom of modern lifestyles, adult onset diabetes is one of the fastest growing diseases in the world. If you are living with diabetes, you have the opportunity to attend a free self-management workshop in Point Roberts, beginning in April.

The University of Victoria Centre on Aging offers self-management programs throughout B.C. in conjunction with the provincial health ministry. The workshop is open to people living with diabetes and their caregivers. Trained leaders will deliver this workshop to a group of up to 14 people once a week for six weeks. The workshops are held every Thursday from 10:30 a.m.–1 p.m. on April 21 and 28, and May 5, 12, 19 and 26 at the community center at 1487 Gulf Road.

The workshop helps people with diabetes and their caregivers to better manage symptoms and activities of daily life.

Participants receive the “Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions” companion book.

Program highlights include: • Understand and manage your health • Make healthier eating choices • Become more active • Communicate effectively with health care providers • Manage difficult emotions • Set realistic goals and problem solve Interested individuals can sign up online at: bit.ly/22w80vp. For additional information, call 604/940-1273 or email selfmgmt@uvic.ca.

Sheriff’s Report February 19, 12:39 p.m.: Traffic stop on Tyee Drive.

Coquitlam, B.C., man, 46, arrested and cited for driving with license suspended in third degree.

February 20, 12:06 p.m.: Vandalism cold call on APA Road.

February 20, 3:33 p.m.: Traffic stop on Tyee Drive.

Richmond, B.C. resident, 45, cited and arrested for driving with license suspended in the third degree.

February 20, 4:50 p.m.: Serve warrant on APA Road.

February 21, 8:36 a.m.: Civil problem cold call on Rex Street.

February 22, 12:51 a.m.: Welfare check on Rex Street.

February 22, 1:34 a.m.: Welfare check cold call on Rex Street.

February 22, 1:38 p.m.: Traffic stop on Tyee Drive. Delta, B.C. man, 47, arrested for driving with license suspended third degree.

February 25, 1:11 p.m.: Theft cold call on Holiday Lane.

February 25, 3:07 p.m.: Trespass on Edwards Drive.

February 26, 11:43 a.m.: Littering cold

call on Gulf Road.

February 27, 11:27 p.m.: Welfare check on Park Drive.

February 28, 2:01 p.m.: Vandalism cold call on Birch Street.

March 1, 5:18 p.m.: Theft cold call on Province Road.

March 4, 11:07 a.m.: Theft on Mallard Lane.

March 5, 6:21 a.m.: Mental on Windsor Drive.

March 5, 2:03 p.m.: Traffic stop on Tyee Drive. Delta, B.C., man, 60, arrested and cited for driving with license suspended in the third degree.

March 5, 5:14 p.m.: Theft cold call on Maple Avenue.

March 5, 5:45 p.m.: Theft cold call on Maple Avenue.

March 9, 12:35 p.m.: Theft cold call on Maple Avenue.

March 12, 2:52 p.m.: Refer to other agency on Bayview Drive.

March 18, 5:44 p.m.: Welfare check on Windsor Drive.

March 18, 6:44 p.m.: Drugs cold call on Tyee Drive.

s Seeking money from the Point Roberts gas tax fund for landscaping the new library, Judy Ross, left, met with members of the Point Roberts Community Advisory Committee on March 8.

Photo by Pat Grubb

Friends of the Library

By Judy Ross The new library was a subject of discussion at two Point Roberts park district meetings in March. Forty Point Roberts residents attended the first meeting.

There was virtually unanimous support for placing the levy on the ballot, and repeated suggestions for making the levy twice the minimum amount needed, since the actual construction will undoubtedly run into issues that will require more spending. The commissioners suggested that they would begin planning for this levy.

At the second meeting, held five days later, the commissioners allotted about 40 minutes to the new library. Instead of developing a timeline to get the levy on the ballot, new chairman Linda Hughes announced her absolute opposition to putting any levy on the ballot.

She then suggested that a cheaper library be built, using only the money that the Friends of the Point Roberts Library (FOPRL) had raised ($540,000), implying that the park district should not be involved in raising any money to turn the Julius Fire Hall into a suitable library space.

The park district had previously signed a Memorandum of Understanding legally obliging it either to provide gap funding or

to put a levy on the ballot to pay for it. Yet the remaining discussion at the meeting was about whether the building could be entirely redesigned and built more cheaply, and whether an internet survey would help to determine community support for the new library.

FOPRL expects the park district to honor its agreement to place a levy on the ballot by doing just that. FOPRL accepts the existing overall design (which has already cost over $36,000) and does not contemplate any major changes.

However, many residents have expressed concern about the adequacy of the foundation. If David King (the architect hired by the park district) judges that an entirely new, raised foundation is an acceptable plan, then FOPRL will endorse that option.

On April 3, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the community center, these and other issues (including future features from Whatcom County Library Services) will be discussed at the Annual General Meeting of the Friends of the Point Roberts Library.

We very much hope that many of you will come to that meeting to help us plan our next steps.

April 2016 • allpointbulletin.com

19

20 All Point Bulletin

• April 2016