To the editor:

Reece Rose has developed an analysis of Island County’s financial risk based upon the county’s current spending and income. The 2008 budget projected a greater increase in spending along with reduced income. As it turns out, even that projected shortfall was an optimistic one.

More than 80 percent of the discretionary county budget goes out in payroll and benefits. She looked at the employee union contracts (there are six) with the pay steps, built-in pay increases, health and other benefits.

She has concluded that without a large voted tax increase or a major cut in spending our county is two or three years away from bankruptcy. Our household can not afford another propriety tax increase.

We support Reece Rose for our next county commissioner. We are entering a period of declining financial resources that demand her keen mind and sound judgment.

Dr. James and Iris Morrow

Freeland