Attention ferry riders (and that is every single one of us). Even if it is a last ride in a hearse.

Our 19 person ferry crew is sailing without a compass. No direction! No leadership! Bad management! No contract!  So, distrust and frustration prevail.

All Skagit County employees have received raises. The ferry manager received a significant increase. All except our crew. The next negotiation session is July 17. It may become necessary for the crew to strike again. Conceivably for more than a single day.

Ferry fares are also due to increase. That means more money in the coffers yet less money for the crew? Hmmm?  Crew wages come directly from fares, not the county road fund, so why is the county so parsimonious?

Why have contract negotiations stalled? Why years without a contract?

Money? Hours? Scheduling? After hours runs? Med runs? Ferry Management?

So many questions and so few answers!

Ask your favorite ferry worker (we all have one) about their jobs, salaries, or hostile workplace. If they are candid, you will get an earful.

Let’s support the crew’s effort to be valued and compensated accordingly. We can’t do it without them.

- MJ Andrak