VOTE YES ON PROPOSITION 1
This November, San Juan County voters will have the opportunity to renew the 1% real estate excise tax for our Conservation Land Bank to continue protecting our water, forests and farmland, and our Home Fund for affordable housing.
The one-time tax is paid by property buyers and for 34 years it’s helped make life better in the San Juans for all of us.
Did you know? The Con statement in the San Juan County voter’s pamphlet is NOT fact-checked. Read our press release.
Why Renew Our Land Bank?
Preserving land protects water resources and reduces pollution. Learn More
Protecting our forests strengthens our islands' climate resilience. Learn More
Renewing our Land Bank preserves the Home Fund for affordable housing. Learn More
Preserving farmland ensures fresh local food, soil care, education, and future farmers. Learn More
Protecting and restoring habitat helps wildlife thrive and supports threatened species. Learn More
Managing forests protects communities and wildlife. Learn More
Conserving land along shorelines supports the entire marine web. Learn More
Enhancing life with natural areas connects us with nature and each other. Learn More
Land Bank Stats
Supporters of Our Land Bank
“ The renewal of the Land Bank REET is needed to continue the work of improving the health of the islands’ ecosystem, to increase resiliency in the face of Climate Change and to help provide access to clean water. In addition, the REET for affordable housing will only continue if the REET for land conservation is renewed, and our human community needs more affordable housing for the community to function.”
— Lisa Byers
Executive Director, OPAL Community Land Trust
Citizen Founded
The Citizens Conservation Land Bank in San Juan County was founded by islanders in 1990 to preserve cherished local sites through a voter-approved real estate excise tax paid by buyers. This county program continues to thrive with significant volunteer support.
Read the origin story
“Citizens of San Juan County voted for the Land Bank in 1990, 1999 and 2011 to create the future for our islands that we want to live in – where development is balanced by conservation. The problem foreseen in the 1980's of all lots potentially developed at buildout directly funds the solution of saving open space for public enjoyment and environmental protection.”
— Peter Fisher, Orcas Island