COUNTY: Vote yes to Streamline

Streamline. Yes, yes, yes. So here we are again, having the identical conversation in Kootenai County we’ve had for nearly 20 years. How do we run county government in a more efficient, responsive and taxpayer friendly manner? Well, it’s finally our turn, as the people footing the bill, to weigh in.

Kootenai County’s proposed 2013 budget is nearly $80 million dollars. I would suggest that to be significant in anyone’s book. In reality what qualifications do we as taxpayers demand of the men and women we choose to manage that budget? Looked at from another perspective, what qualifications or expertise do we demand of a person to supervise our 400-plus group of county employees? In addition, what do we require in either education or experience in hiring our county clerk or treasurer? Is it necessary for our coroner to be able to perform an autopsy or our assessor have any prior experience in real estate?

Well, the answer to those questions if you were not aware is NONE, NOTHING! The truth is anyone looking for a job can run for these offices. In 1997, 2005 and again this year, a group of concerned citizens, local businesspeople, current and past officeholders have recommended that we make a change! I’m writing to suggest you join with me in supporting that recommendation. I believe now is the time to have Kootenai County run more professionally, more efficiently and yes, more responsibly. Please vote yes on Streamlining Kootenai County.

JEFFREY SMITH

Coeur d’Alene