Supporters say Kitsap Transit’s proposed passenger-only ferry service between the peninsula and Seattle will make life easier for commuters to and from Kitsap, and would boost the economy here. Homes are more affordable on this side of the water, and a fast ferry would encourage more people to move here.

Opponents say the success of passenger-only ferry service between the peninsula and Seattle has failed in the past (the Port of Kingston’s SoundRunner passenger-only ferry service failed twice because ridership wasn’t high enough to make the venture break even). And, opponents say, passenger-only ferry service will attract new residents interested in buying homes that are more affordable than in Seattle, driving up home prices here.

On Nov. 8, Kitsap residents will vote on a sales tax measure to fund passenger-only ferry service. If the ballot measure is approved, Kitsap Transit anticipates the cross-sound ferry service between Bremerton and Seattle will launch in July 2017,  Kingston-Seattle in July 2018, and Southworth-Seattle in July 2019.

You can learn more about the proposal at www.kitsaptransit.com/passenger-only-ferry-business-plan. We encourage residents to attend one of three public meetings June 25. Kitsap Transit Executive Director John Clauson, who is also a Port Orchard City Council member, will share details about the Cross-Sound Fast Ferry Service plan, and you’ll have an opportunity to ask questions.

Here’s the schedule:

— 9:30 a.m.: Poulsbo City Hall, Council Chambers, 200 NE Moe St.

— 11:30 a.m.: Silverdale Beach Hotel, Anchor Room, 3073 NW Bucklin Hill Road.

— 2:30 p.m.: Port Orchard City Hall, Council Chambers, 216 Prospect St.

If you need assistance with transportation to a meeting or want to request American Sign Language services, call 800-501-7433.