To the editor:

I am writing in support of the Whidbey General Hospital bond for finance of a new and modern inpatient wing.

Our current Whidbey General Hospital is an award-winning hospital and provides top-notch, excellent patient care. Our current Whidbey General Hospital is also outdated and crowded, and staff is challenged to keeping patients comforted, safe and cared-for in the current two-patient room accommodations.

With the hospital as it is now, more and more patients are choosing to go off-island for what they perceive to be “better care.” This tendency may very well put our own local hospital system at risk. Whidbey General and its clinics and services are currently the second largest employer on Whidbey Island. If people continue to choose to go elsewhere because of a perception that the hospital does not have the latest in privacy and technology, the island may not only lose a top-notch local general hospital, we may lose many jobs, and secondary jobs that are supported by the hospital system.

If on the other hand we choose to invest in Whidbey Island’s future and the bond passes, not only will it be a vote of confidence in our award-winning local hospital, but much of the $50 million will be a solid investment in our local community and economy. New jobs will be created and long-term security will be ensured for a future job market.

For an average of $50 a year, we can make a great local investment and provide a shot in the arm for our local economy.

Frankly, it just makes good cents.

Your ballot will be coming soon. Please vote yes in support of our local economy and in support of our local award-winning hospital.

Tessa Gavin

Coupeville