LAUNCH: Fee change unsettling

I recently met with a representative of the Post Falls Park & Recreation Department regarding the elimination of the annual boat launch fee at Q’emilin Park (Parks & Rec is now choosing instead to charge each user the full fee each time). When I asked why it was not offered this year, it was stated that it was because they could not guarantee people a parking spot, largely due to the present Avista construction. I then countered that no one has ever had a guaranteed spot, as it has always been first come, first serve. I was then told that the city fields so many complaints from people who think they have purchased a guaranteed spot, that it seemed easier to eliminate the pass than deal with the complaints — which is what this is really about — not having to deal with the public.

So, effectively, the City Council has determined it appropriate to penalize the many local residents who understand how it works (and gouge them in launch fees in the process), as opposed to dealing with the few who don’t understand.

Again, all this because it’s just too much trouble for the city to deal with the public (which is their job!). Another example of “responsible” community government, and their “hard work” on behalf of the public — leadership at its finest!

BOB RASMUSSEN

Post Falls