Election 2008

VOTE!

Whether voting by absentee or at the ballot box, do not miss this enormous opportunity to support our oceans, waves and beaches among numerous other critical issues at stake in this election. Surfrider Foundation does not endorse candidates, but we do strongly encourage you to vote.

Also, I am happy to share my thoughts on a couple of Washington’s ballot initiatives. This year, there are two initiatives addressing transportation choices. First I-985, this initiative deceptively appears to reduce traffic, but in fact would do the opposite. As The Seattle Times writes, “The result [of I-985] will be more cars on the roads and more congestion by mid-December. Happy Holidays to you.” The second is Prop 1. This proposition offers more transit solutions, including express buses and light rail. The cost of this measure will be about $69 per person per year, which is just a little more than one tank of gas. As The Tacoma News Tribune wrote, “We think that’s a reasonable price for fast and reliable mass transit.” Transportation is an issue for our ocean and coasts. Increasing traffic and road construction leads to more air pollution and more stormwater runoff, which means decreasing water quality.

Very importantly, please make sure to vote in every race on the ballot. Your state and local elected officials will have an impact on the future health of Washington’s ocean and coasts.

Jody