Fear of change will isolate Wahkiakum

To The Eagle:

On June 17, an editorial in the Daily Astorian stated, "Looking at the comparative economic success and diversification of Clatsop County and the Long Beach Peninsula and comparing that to the sad struggles of the hotbeds of National Heritage Area opposition, it is clear that our openness and other values are their own reward. Ultimately, we'll recover from the current downturn and do fine - NHA or no NHA. The same cannot be said of north Pacific County and Wahkiakum County where fear will continue to always interfere with opportunity."

On June 23, the same editorial ran in the Chinook Observer.

As a consultant working in Pacific, Clatsop and Grays Harbor Counties, I am so sad to see the reputation of Wahkiakum County become one of fear and isolation. It's hard to watch possible projects, like the business park developed by LCEDC, be thrown aside as the NHA idea was. When this county becomes known for its lack of vision and openness to new ideas, it will hurt us for a long time to come. Funding will be hard to find when that's how we are seen in the development world.

Those who want to see it continue to lose business and see folks drive on by as they head for the beach will be happy. Those who wish for more jobs for young families, higher school enrollment, and services for aging adults so they can stay here in their later years, like myself, may feel sadness for the lost chances. They don't land here every day. I know it's hard to see change happening. But change has two directions, forward and back. We used to be three steps forward and two steps back, but now it seems like we're just three steps back. The blame game goes on and on, wasting time. It takes energy we need to use to develop good community planning and make sure there are jobs for young families.

I think that a healthy community is measured by how people care for the poor, the young and the old. I sense there is lack of cohesive community spirit these days. Let's celebrate Wahkiakum County and our people, not set us up to be left behind.

Karen Bertroch

Grays River