LAKES: Beware of this candidate

I have been observing the Lakes Highway District operations since the 2011 election. With an upcoming election on May 19, I feel the need to inform taxpayers of some things that have transpired since then. Dan Malcolm was appointed in June 2012, three short months later he voted himself an increase in pay from $75 per meeting to a $700 per month salary. In November 2012, Dan went south for more than four months and continues to be gone three to four months each year.

While it may be allowable for one to call into meetings and be counted as being present (Idaho Code 67-2342 (5)), I feel that we, as the taxpayer, should be represented by someone who lives here year-round and is actually here to see the winter conditions and drive the roads that we drive on. Not to mention, being able to meet with us locally when an issue arises.

I do not think that the constituents are aware of all this and I cannot understand why Mr. Malcolm would even run for a paid position with benefits and then spend his winters down south. How is he representing us while residing in another state? The taxpayers deserve to be represented by a Commissioner with higher standards than that.

I will be supporting his opponent, Diane Fountain, and put a stop to this abuse of taxpayer monies. We need someone who will represent the taxpayer by bringing transparency and accountability to the highway district operations.

TOM ROBINSON

Spirit Lake