The Port of Port Townsend has announced that it plans to restrict general public access to the Boat Haven’s restrooms and, most importantly, to the showers intended for port patrons and tenants, with a possible consideration of a guest-card system to permit local residents access.

Unlike local public restroom facilities which are provided by several jurisdictions, the port alone bears the cost of providing publicly available showers.

I am sympathetic with the port’s decision that, in the face of increasing vandalism and associated maintenance costs, they cannot continue to offer unlimited access by themselves.

However, basic hygiene requires that showers are available somewhere for people who don’t have other options. This is a community need that requires a community-wide solution.

I encourage everyone to raise this issue with elected officials from relevant jurisdictions.

A solution for this is achievable and would not be financially onerous if the costs were shared equitably by the city, county, port and Jefferson Transit Authority.

RICHARD JAHNKE

Port Townsend