I was disappointed to hear of Mary Shackelford’s resignation from the Vashon-Maury Island Community Council (VMICC). As noted by VMICC chair J. Jacobovitch, “She’s a long-time, upstanding member of the community with a lot of good ideas.” Many would agree. I understand and share her concerns regarding the hostile dynamics and excessive procedural focus of some on the council.

Thus, I was doubly upset to read of Hilary Emmer’s resignation for essentially the same reasons. Emmer has been outstanding in her leadership, patience, perseverance and competence in carrying, essentially single-handedly, the council after it imploded. To have her obviously transparent motives impugned by council member B. (I don’t need facts to attack) Rowling is outrageous, unfair and brings into question his gravitas and demeanor to serve. Having observed Emmer in her efforts over the last six months has left me in awe of what she has done for this community. All should applaud her efforts.

Coupling the two resignations with the reality that the council is chaired by J. (“I’m a procedures guy”) Jacobovitch, who during a previous November interim council meeting walked out in a huff after he didn’t get his way, gives me pause.

And then we have T. (“I’ll sue you if I don’t get my way”) Bangasser, who in addition to his previous litigation most recently challenged the validity of the fall elections. He impugns the council’s historically accepted election procedures and the credibility of the volunteers who were allegedly characterized as compromising the final tallies (disclosure: I was a volunteer). Integrity would dictate that he not be installed on what he perceives to be an invalidly elected council.

At this point, I do not question the motives or competence of those unmentioned council members. Needing the patience of Job and the wisdom and Buddha, I wish them well. However, it seems the bullies have taken over the sandbox, and I am disappointed and not optimistic. Others who care about the Vashon-Maury community should be as well.

— Jim Otis