As most of you may know, the nursery was annexed into the City of Renton several years ago. For nearly 80 years Earlington Greenhouse has also been a part of West Hill, and is today still very involved in the community. We have been blessed that many of our best customers and supporters live in the 98178 area. We have watched, like many others, the changes on the hill and have listened to the negative perceptions our customers have about the area.

Our belief, like that of most local politicians and business associations, is that the best option for West Hill is annexation to Renton. The City of Renton has great neighborhood associations, social, elderly and children’s programs, business development programs, a great recreation and parks department and a host of other safety net, disaster relief and communications programs that keep residents informed of current events.

Our experience as a business within Renton has been very positive.  We have the ability to “knock on the mayor’s door”, as well as have an input into the way the city goes about its day to day business.  We can go to the weekly City Council meetings and be heard. Our voice with the city is much louder than it was with the county.

If annexation succeeds it is entirely possible that the next mayor, or a city council representative, could be from the West Hill community. That really is local governance. West Hill needs positive change and change only begins by being involved and heard.  Annexation brings that opportunity to the residents of West Hill. This may very well be the last best chance for many years to make such a profound positive difference for our community.  I urge you to vote yes for annexation.

Ron Minter, owner, Minter Earlington Nursery

Renton