The Little Washington Sailing School’s request to use all of Dock J on Washington’s downtown waterfront indicates the sailing school is increasing in popularity and needs to expand its facilities and programs to meet demands.

Currently, the sailing school uses 40 feet of Dock J — which is 80 feet long — to help supports its summer sailing classes for beginning and advanced sailors. The sailing club attaches a floating dock to Dock J to house the six 14-foot-long Vanguard sailboats used by students as they learn to sail. During its meeting Monday, the City Council will consider allowing the sailing school to use all of Dock J.

This should be an easy decision for the council to make — grant the request.

Doing so will help the sailing school expand its programs, including offering sailing classes to children 8 to 10 years old. Currently, the sailing school’s classes are offered to children who are 11 to 18 years old, weigh at least 70 pounds and can swim proficiently.

Anne Kumins, president of the Little Washington Sailing School, believes the request to use all of Dock J should be granted to allow the sailing school to grow and serve more students. An expanded, enhanced sailing school would add to the city’s economy. The sailing school attracts many students from outside the immediate Washington area, meaning they, their parents, their grandparents and others visit Washington and spend money at local businesses while in the city and surrounding environs.

The sailing school uses local businesses for the services it needs. That means local business owners benefit from the sailing school. The sailing school serves as a good ambassador for the city and county.

By approving the sailing school’s request, the City Council will be enhancing Washington.