Dept. of Ecology: ‘monster’ within our midst | Letters
Published 11:30 am Thursday, July 17, 2014
What kind of a monster is the Department of Ecology (DOE) becoming?
I fear it is following the historical path of the Friends: to sue those who want to do something on their property, and do harm to those who are not contributors to their organization.
Historically, the Friends’ choices have supported prohibition for those who are not ideologically and monetary contributors to them. See Gary Tripp’s document, “Conservation vs Prohibition” https://caprsanjuan.wordpress.com/
Why isn’t the DOE supporting education and considering intent? Why is DOE choosing to use abusive police/political tactics?
If DOE focuses on making an example of the Honeywells by making them into villains and excessively fining them, DOE will soon be emboldened to reach further down the food chain for anyone else who might gain them a buck or two, whether they are guilty or not, and regardless of intent.
Legally, fines do not relate to one’s ability to pay.
I support Conservation over Prohibition. I support education over an abusive police state. I support vetted, peer-reviewed science, over the use of theories and scare tactics.
This means I will support the Honeywells over the Friends and the DOE’s political decision to make an example of the Honeywells.
As San Juan residents, the Honeywells have given generously to our community. For example, contributing to projects at the San Juan Historical Museum and local Food Bank.
From my experiences with Community Treasures, DOE and the Friends want to beat citizens into submission. I more fully understand the carrot-and-hammer approach pushed on the county by the Friends through the San Juan Initiative.
I would rather see DOE, the Friends, the County, and the citizens, being good neighbors, and resolving issues without bullying.
Thanks for reading and for considering the negative and unintended implications of the Friends’, DOE’s and San Juan County’s emerging policies and practices.
Frank Penwell/San Juan Island
