Around the Point: Taxpayers association works with DelBene office; fire chief contract extended

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The local taxpayers’ association is working with the office of congresswoman Suzan DelBene to have an outdoor town hall meeting “if and when Whatcom County goes into phase 3,” said association president Mark Robbins.

When the association board held a virtual meeting July 8, Robbins said the main agenda items were how to continue DelBene’s annual visits to the Point, and how to hold their annual general meeting with Covid-19 restrictions in place.

“There was consensus that a town hall meeting with our member of Congress was more important to the community,” Robbins said.

Under phase 3 restrictions, gatherings of up to 50 people are permissible and Robbins said they could accommodate more through a hybrid meeting with some watching from a live video feed at the community center.

“Alternatively, we can approach congresswoman DelBene’s office about a virtual community meeting if the congresswoman cannot come to Point Roberts.”

Association members also expressed concern about the border closure and the inability of Canadian property owners to access their property, and the inability of Point Roberts residents to travel to the mainland.

“In both cases, some relaxation inevitably equates to increased risk,” Robbins said. “Point Roberts has been very fortunate to, apparently, remain Covid-free; and the border closure may be responsible. On the other hand, there is always a balance between risks and benefits to be made. The consensus of our group was that some relaxation on both counts would be acceptable and desirable.”

Point Roberts fire district commissioners have voted unanimously to extend chief Christopher Carleton’s contract for an additional five years, to end in 2035.

Following a 15-minute executive session at their June 10 meeting, commissioners voted unanimously for the contact extension.

“I appreciate you having that confidence in me,” Carleton said. “If I ever become mentally or physically unable to do my job, I will resign my position.”

Carleton said he had sought the extension after discussions with his wife, and that he intended to retire following his service to the Point Roberts fire department. “I also wanted to be able to make sure I have a viable succession plan in place.”

The fire department’s new website is now live, Carleton said, with a fresh look and more user-friendly interface, at wcfd5.com. The website, which has information on department services, burn permits, commissioner meetings and volunteer opportunities, gets over 150 visits a month.

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