ESHD: Don't buckle to fear

Many residents in the East Side Highway District (ESHD) are rightfully upset and concerned about the recent LIDs.

Admittedly, the use of LIDs in this economic climate was a poor choice. However, there are some inaccuracies that need citing to keep facts front and center.

Brent Regan's letter (May 11) stated that the ESHD "twisted" the LIDs so they could use them for road maintenance purposes. There was no "twisting" by these ESHD Commissioners per State Statute, Title 50, Chapter 17. In fact, all three roads involved in the LIDs were already project -"shovel-ready"- identified, and therefore eligible for receipt of state (federally originated) highway funds.

Mr. Regan also claims that if these LIDs are approved, another 24 will follow. This is sheer misrepresentation and clearly untrue. The so-called 24 future projects Mr. Regan referred to, is a rolling five-year list, where some projects appear and others drop off, as part of the five-year planning process that Districts employ.

So based on Mr. Regan's misunderstanding or mere failure to conduct his own due diligence, I have to wonder whether he, or his candidate of choice as stated in his letter, are given to fear mongering to garner votes. And yes, my husband is an ESHD Commissioner candidate: that has motivated both of us to research the facts in an effort to better serve the residents of ESHD.

Don't vote fear; vote truth and vote smart on May 17!

LINDA FILLIOS

Coeur d'Alene