Port Orchard Restaurant owner Amy Igloi-Matsuno was appointed this week to serve on the Tacoma Narrows Bridge Citizens Advisory Committee, which recommends toll rates to the Washington State Transportation Commission.

Igloi-Matsuno, a Port Orchard resident who owns Amy’s On The Bay, will be the sole South Kitsap resident on the nine-member board. Five members reside in Gig Harbor, with one each from University Place, Tacoma and Tracyton.

Igloi-Matsuno said she was encouraged to apply for the position by 26th District Sen. Derek Kilmer (D-Gig Harbor).

“They were looking for someone from South Kitsap,” she said. Committee members should be permanent residents of communities near the TNB.

Igloi-Matsuno said she drives over the bridge frequently, more than the average non-commuter might, but she is also concerned about how the tolls affect area businesses.

“Tolls are a very big deal,” she said.“They impact the decisions people make about where they want to live, work, and play.”

She said the price of tools has a “ripple affect” on the surrounding economy, and “I think as a business owner, I can bring a different perspective to the council.”

Last year, the CAC advised keeping the toll rate for Good To Go! users at $2.75, but raising the cash/credit card price to $5.

However, in January, the WSTC recommended raising the transponder price to $3.25, and the cash price to $5. After reconvening last month to consider that recommendation, the CAC stayed with its original recommendation of $2.75/$5.

The WSTC’s next meeting is March 16-17 in Olympia.