In response to recent articles and letters in the Journal from several outspoken dissidents criticizing the move of the US Customs and Border Protection office to Spring Street, we’d like to challenge the assertions from those writers who attest that they speak for most of the island population on this issue.

How did these writers claim to speak for the majority of the island when one writer has not spoken for the majority since her defeat in several county council elections in recent years?Whom did they poll for their numbers?

As past leaders of the largest island boating organizations, one of which whose mission is boating education and safety, we have seen firsthand the important nature of the US CBP Office to our island community. The more visibility, the better!

The Spring Street location gives them the space needed and the convenient access for local and visiting boaters having business with the office. Gee, those needing help will have to walk past restaurants and shops. Maybe they’ll even stop somewhere else as well.

From being involved in other island civic activities, we have seen the valuable community support provided by several of the employees of the US CBP in their personal lives. Just look at their volunteer support to the community theater and the schools, for example.

We want these fine folks to be seen in our daily lives and on our streets, serving as role models for others to see and emulate. We need them to be visible and not hidden away.

The Spring Street location is just the right place!

Fred and Carolyn Bowen/Friday Harbor