Letters to the Editor: July

The Editor and

Washington state legislators:

It’s been almost two months since the resolutions were passed and we all met here in Point Roberts. I understand the demands placed on your time, particularly with budget planning and the many pressing issues facing the state. However, I must emphasize that the situation in Point Roberts has not improved – in fact, for many local businesses, it’s growing more dire by the week.

Even though we are now stepping into summer, the energy and optimism that usually accompany this season are noticeably absent. A bleak spring break and a disappointing May holiday weekend have underscored the ongoing struggles. For most of Washington, summer brings a surge of economic activity. Here in Point Roberts, we are bracing for the opposite. Without immediate and targeted support, the proverbial winter is coming early –and it may be that many businesses here cannot survive.

As a geographically isolated community with a unique set of challenges – from limited access to customers, to continued border complications, to high operational costs – Point Roberts requires more than generalized economic measures. We need focused assistance, whether in the form of direct financial relief, policy adjustments to ease cross-border commerce, or incentives that encourage visitation and

investment.

You and your colleagues demonstrated a strong commitment to our community when we met. Now we respectfully ask for action that matches that commitment. Time is not on our side, and without intervention, we risk losing the very businesses that sustain our economy, employ our neighbors, and define our town’s identity.

Thank you for your attention and continued support. We are hopeful that together we can chart a path forward that ensures Point Roberts not only survives but thrives.

Ali Hayton

Point Roberts