Letters to the editor -- July 25

• Published July 25, 2008

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Taylors committed to protection of Sound

I write in response to the July 13 article about Taylor Shellfish. Our opponents claim we knowingly developed our North Totten farm on state lands and that we disregard Puget Sound's welfare. Both statements are far from the truth.

My father-in-law, Justin Taylor, began our family's efforts for the protection of Puget Sound in the 1940s, when he went to battle against the pollution brought on by the pulp mills of the area. The Taylors have been leaders in protecting our marine environment before it was the popular thing to do, so it is very offensive to have people slander my family by claiming our goal is to destroy Puget Sound for profit.

Justin and Carol Taylor raised their children to be quiet, hard-working people with integrity.

These children turned a small oyster farm into a business that provides over 500 needed jobs to our community, all the while receiving accolades from environmentalist organizations and governmental agencies for the company's record of environmental stewardship

Regarding the North Totten tidelands, in 1972 Justin Taylor bought the tidelands in question.

We continued using these lands and abided by the property lines as they were used by our predecessors. We will continue to cooperate with the state to fully understand and resolve the boundary issues on the North Totten farm. We will also continue to work with others to protect Puget Sound; our experience tells us that the only hope for saving Puget Sound lies in partnership, not vilification.

Gail Taylor, Olympia

Romero has proven her ability to negotiate

Having worked as Sandra Romero's legislative aide for the 12 years she was a state representative, I have first-hand knowledge of her intelligence, dedication and strong work ethic.

It is a rare issue that comes before the Legislature that is completely without opposition. On many occasions, involving many issues, Romero brought opposing sides together and was able to negotiate workable solutions.