Dear Neighbors,

After much thought and conversation with a myriad of islanders, I have decided to vote against the hospital district. As a strong supporter of Medicare for All, this seems contradictory; it is not. Until we see change at the federal level, local solutions are needed, but I believe the hospital district proposal is not yet ready for approval.

Outreach has been too late, leaving most voters unsure of what they’re voting on; advertising is inaccurate, suggesting an unconfirmed “imminent” loss of Neighborcare; promises are both vague and too grand to be certain. We should celebrate those who have come together and the insights/ideas they have gained from other communities. However, this option is not yet clearly in Vashon’s best interest, and I have heard other ideas expressed which might serve our community (medical practitioners and patients) better.

I propose we delay a “yes” vote. I encourage those in favor to devote themselves to improved outreach and I encourage those with other ideas to come forward.

— March Twisdale