Submitted by Lopez Island Rec.
On Lopez, we pride ourselves on being resourceful. We show up when help is needed, build things from scratch and take care of our own. But there’s a difference between pulling together in a pinch and building a system that supports us year-round.
For years, recreation on the island has relied on passionate volunteers and patchwork funding. As beautiful as that is, it’s also fragile. Big hearts and short-term grants can only go so far before burnout, inequity and uncertainty set in. And right now, the need is urgent.
The Lopez Island School is facing tough decisions — including potentially cutting youth sports just to stay operational. If the 21st Century Learning grant awarded to the Lopez Island Family Resource Center to fund after-school programs and summer camps isn’t renewed — and if the proposed Parks & Rec district doesn’t pass — families stand to lose programs they rely on.
That’s why we’re rallying. Because this time, we have a sustainable plan: to create a Parks and Recreation District that ensures youth programs, community fitness and recreation for all ages are not just available, but supported and built to last.
“Recreation isn’t extra — it’s essential,” says one Lopez parent. “After-school care, summer programs, school sports — those are lifelines for working families like mine.”
We have the gyms. We have the fields.
What we don’t have is a reliable way to fund the people and programs that bring those spaces to life.
Built for Lopez, by Lopez
Because Lopez Rec won’t be part of a city or county government, it must manage its own operations — accounting, legal support, insurance and staffing. That may sound like a lot, but it gives us something powerful: local control. It means Lopez tax dollars stay on Lopez and programs reflect the values of this community.
The proposal includes a full-time director and part-time assistant, both paid a living wage. These are not overhead costs — they’re the people who will coordinate programs, partner with local organizations, pursue grants and make this district function.
We didn’t build this plan in a vacuum. We’ve learned from other island rec districts, shaped a realistic budget and created something that protects what we’ve built — while expanding what’s possible.
The average household cost? About $10-$20 per month — less than a streaming subscription.
But the return?
• After-school care for working families.
• Structured youth sports that build resilience.
• Mental health support through movement and connection.
• Local jobs and contracts with Lopez nonprofits.
• A stronger, more connected community.
“Our kids need structure, movement, and mentorship,” says Samantha Olson, founder of The Pack. “Right now, we’re holding things together with duct tape and volunteer hours. It’s just not sustainable.”
We’re rallying for the Rec because we believe in Lopez. We believe in each other. And we believe we can build something lasting, local and deeply rooted in the island we call home.
Vote YES this November to create the Lopez Parks and Recreation District.
Let’s do this — together.
