DEBATE: 'Handler' says no thanks

Our organization has often arranged a public forum/debate during local elections. It’s a good way for obtaining/comparing views on pertinent issues.

This year we asked the four men running for County Commissioner to attend a debate, guaranteeing they would be treated equally. We found no other venues that have or are offering debates with the current BOCC candidates. This is unusual.

Our group heard back immediately from Shriner and Noble, agreeing to come and make themselves available to voters. Nothing was heard from Eberlein or Stewart until their shared handler called back and stated “her candidates” were too busy to attend. When asked where the public could hear these two men speak, she really couldn’t say. We never heard back with an answer. This makes it very difficult to learn candidates’ knowledge and issue positions. Deliberate?

What is this “shared handler” with two candidates that appear as a unit and not as individuals? Also worrisome, there are several persons stating both Eberlein and Stewart have approached county employees introducing themselves as “their new Commissioners.” I checked and found this really happened; it’s nothing less than arrogant and totally inappropriate.

The Northwest Property Owners Alliance group is fully supporting and promoting both of these candidates. This is a radical group that has spewed and continues to spread mis-statements and innuendos regarding Kootenai County government.

Nothing is more destructive to the democratic process than to allow special interest groups to become involved in deciding our elections at any level. Is that what we will tolerate and support? And no one should slide into office because they have a certain letter behind their name.

VOTE - vote with researched facts. Never vote just because of the party; you might get empty shells. This year I will vote based on ethics and facts shown.

BEV TWILLMANN

Citizens Protecting their Rural Community/

Neighbors for Responsible Growth