OLYMPIA--Washington State Grange leaders expressed disappointment that Referendum 51, the transportation package sent to voters yesterday, failed at the polls, but vowed to continue working toward a solution for the state's traffic and transportation problems.
"We respect the people's choice in this vote," State Grange president Terry Hunt said. "The Grange will work with legislators to look for the best options possible to address Washington's transportation issues."
Washington State Grange delegates voted to endorse Referendum 51 at their annual state convention in June, following presentations on the package.
"I will ask the members of the Grange for input on how to fix our roads, rail and other transportation systems," said Hunt, "and we will take those ideas to the Legislature to find a package that will benefit our rural counties as well as our metropolitan areas."
The Washington State Grange joined other organizations such as the AAA, Washington State Patrol Troopers Association, the Washington State Council of Fire Fighters, Washington Council of Police & Sheriffs, Association of Washington Cities and the Washington State Labor Council in endorsing R-51 as a compromise solution for getting products moving, while providing periodic audits on the progress of transportation projects.
"We liked the idea of accountability in road and rail projects," said Hunt, "and I would like to see that piece expanded and included in other transportation bills in the Legislature."
Hunt pointed out the need for a well-maintained statewide transportation system to get agricultural goods to customers. "We need the roads and rail lines in good shape, with less congestion, if we want to keep our agricultural products competitive," said Hunt.
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