Struggling state ferry system finds its way in Washington governor's race

[RainCaster]

2. You're close

But the WSF people problem is not about how many boats we don't have. The WSF problem is about the people. for decades these fine people from the Inland Boatman's Union had carved out a great place to work, and to insure that the pay remained high, they allowed few into their union. It was a great gig.
Then Covid came along, and the union was told "get your jab" and they went nuts. Many retired, more quit. Suddenly there were not enough deck hands, machinists and captains/mates to run the full compliment of vessels anymore. Many runs would be halted on a random basis as people would walk off the job. And never come back. I have a friend who retired a tug skipper ten+ years ago, and the ferry system wanted him to come out of retirement. However, they wouldn't pay him a dime more than he was getting in retirement. He is still happily retired.
Me? I'm damn glad I only have to commute a few days a month. For me it's not a big deal to schedule an extra half day for ferry screw-ups.