I appreciate Janice Peterson’s perspective on the upcoming election and the three “critical questions” that she has posed to the candidates regarding rumored litigation of the current hospital contract.

In response, I do not support taking any action to break the current contract between Peace Health and the Public Hospital District. This contract has already been amended twice, and I would support negotiating further amendments if such changes would improve islanders’ access to medical care.

Because Ms. Peterson also asked what outcomes the candidates are aiming for, here are my responses.

The immediate critical outcomes are passage of an EMS levy and resolution of the EMS system’s finances.

Secondly, I would like to see more detailed explanations of Peace Island Medical Center’s allocation of public funds for charitable care, and provide these details to the community.

Finally, within the limitations of the Public Hospital District board’s power, I will work to assure access to the best possible range of medical services in compliance with the law.

Thank you for bringing these concerns to the candidates’ attention. I would welcome the opportunity to expand upon these and other concerns during the upcoming campaign.

Barbara Sharp/San Juan Island

— Editor’s note: Barbara Sharp is one of three candidates vying for position No. 2 on the SJI public hospital district commission.