We Do Make A Difference - Melinda Holman

In these challenging times, it is good to bear in mind that together we can make a difference, and that Olympia Indivisible's band of  angelic troublemakers is doing just that. Here's a case in point, from OI member Melinda Holman who, along with a number of OI members, has been persistently, actively involved in championing the cause of the once-beleaguered Thurston Conservation District since 2018. She just attended the first meeting of the Board of Supervisors with its full quorum of dedicated veteran members and newly elected and/or appointed members this past Wednesday and has the following news to share with us. Read on!

Thank you, Melinda and thanks to OI members who have given so generously of their time and effort to make this day happen.

All the best,
Olympia Indivisible Steering Committee

​What a difference a year makes. I’ve gone from jaw dropping shock at misbehavior to incredible hope for this vital organization, the Thurston Conservation District which works to support best practices for farms and our environment.

One year ago, I wrote about attending TCD Supervisors Board Meetings.  I was appalled at the conduct of two certain people. They have been removed for neglect of duty and malfeasance by the Washington State Conservation Commission.  Another person quit. Three new people have taken on the work of the TCD Board in addition to the two remaining people who have struggled valiantly to “right the ship.”

At the May 30, 2019  TCD Board meeting, I witnessed Supervisors working together even when they saw things differently. They listened with respect, voiced their opinions civilly and most hopeful of all, laughed together. In a remarkably short time, they have taken steps to get finances straightened out, streamline policy and begun to repair relationships with staff.

This movement forward took a concerted effort by many people;

• including folks who cared enough to vote last year for a new supervisor,
• people who alerted others to the situation,
• people who attended the Supervisors’ meetings,
• those who spoke up during the public comment time and wrote letters,
• Supervisors who tenaciously held onto hope,
• people who searched for new supervisors to reflect the diversity of our farming communities,
• the staff who remained committed to the work during very stressful times and
• everyone who took part in imagining that a new beginning could happen.

​I am grateful to have witnessed thoughtful, caring people making a difference in our corner of the world.

​Melinda Holman
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“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.”   Margaret Mead 
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