Implementing elegant solutions to thorny problems is a Vashon talent. Little wonder, then, that a dedicated group of Islanders is taking steps to slow teen alcohol and drug use by doing something simple — changing the physical environment that enables the activity.
The Vashon Alliance to Reduce Substance Abuse (VARSA) has spent the last year identifying problem spots where drug paraphernalia and heaps of alcohol containers collect regularly. Plans are now afoot to widen paths, light problem spots and clear brush from parking lots.
A recent Beachcomber issue described the problems people face when their properties become hangouts for drug dealing and teen drinking. This can change, and property owners who want to increase safety and reduce trash are working with VARSA and a specially trained local architect to make that change.
Frankly, when I first heard about this effort, I had visions of surveillance cameras following sweeping searchlights. No one wants to see Vashon cleared and halogen-lit from dusk to dawn, resulting in a dreary sci-fi landscape devoid of pedestrians. But when fights, loud music and drug transactions are the nighttime norm at the Village Green, people living in the neighborhood are understandably upset. When drug paraphernalia appears on the ground behind a preschool, we are all upset.
I feel it is very important that VARSA team up with all the involved property owners, making no unilateral changes and seeking solutions that meet the VARSA goals and work for property owners too. So far this has been true.
I know VARSA reached out to the Village Green neighbors who might be affected by lights in the park, and they are working together. I talked with another property owner at KVI Beach. She had contacted VARSA to ask that no blackberries be cut on her bank, and suggested appropriate areas on which to focus.
This spirit of collaboration is reassuring, and I think the results will be worth the effort. I encourage VARSA to continue to work carefully with those Islanders whose properties might be affected by its efforts.
The project comes at an important time in our community’s life. Recent statistics show that our teen substance abuse rates are above the state average, a trend I find troubling. Drinking can devastate young people and lead to crippling depression. With our teen use rates well above average, we need to take steps to protect our young people and support them to make good decisions.
I applaud the VARSA efforts. They are working smart, partnering with affected property owners, and making subtle but effective improvements to discourage the abuse of both our human resources and our commons.
As Ed Swan, who has worked with VARSA on the project, pointed out in The Beachcomber, sometimes the solution is as simple as replacing a broken light bulb.
— Jean Bosch is real estate agent active in civic affairs on Vashon.
