Here we go again Spirit Lake

The most recent recall attempt in our infamous little town is under way; AGAIN!

Here are the ambiguous and unfounded reasons stated "word for word" on the 20 signature council recall petition submitted March 1, 2010:

1. Not representing the whole community, only special interest groups

2. Making contradictory statements at meetings

3. Attempting to represent the city council at private meetings without their knowledge or permission

4. Conduct unbecoming a councilperson

5. Offering favors for votes

I for one, along with a great many others, feel it appropriate to have the petitioners substantiate their slanderous claims against seven-year councilperson, Shelley Tschida. Their personal biases and special interests should be separated from this obvious coup attempt.

In order to assure the true credibility of the above stated accusations, a thorough interview should be conducted by reporters from the Rathdrum Star, Coeur d'Alene Press and the North Idaho Spokesman Review and the results published for all to see. If there has been any substantive illegal or unethical conduct by a mayor, councilperson or city employee then let it be known and proceed accordingly.

It is my honest opinion that this bogus recall is a loosely cloaked attempt to censor the efforts of a councilperson who has openly pledged to her constituents over and over, to bring transparency to City Hall and give taxpayers straight answers as to what is really going on behind the doors of city hall.

It is common knowledge that Spirit Lake is and has been presided over during the past eight years by unqualified back-room decision making persons, who cover their tracks and mistakes with intimidation and outright lies. Councilwoman Tschida was not one of them and has many times been excluded from the back room agenda because of her open City Hall stance. It appears she has finally been deemed too dangerous to the Regime and must be eliminated to give the mayor the majority vote needed on the council. The mayor will appoint her replacement if this recall is successful. How convenient!

Isn't it time to hire a qualified city manager to effectively run our city's business and represent Spirit Lake in a manner becoming to this great little community?

The old way of "iron-fisted politics" here must come to an end! So citizens, let it be known that Spirit Lake needs more Shelley Tschidas and a mayor who will tear down the walls of the old regime and let our community prosper and become whole once again.

Ask questions before being swayed by these unfounded accusations and insist that our city fathers tell it like it really is.

Terry Schlabs is a Spirit Lake resident.