GROWTH: Not in north county

The article titled “Growth Battle Brewing” in Tuesday’s Press calls for a response. Comments made by Cliff Mort are misleading and do not pass the giggle test for those of us who have researched thoroughly his and Dennis Swartout’s plans for a decade now.

Mort claims their reason for applying for this Conditional Use Permit was to serve the best interest for the environment and north Kootenai County long term. Neither is an environmentalist, nor do they live in the north county area. Their true motive is for personal financial gain at the expense of the north county area residents and beyond.

Other than the applicants, who would greatly profit from an approval? There are very few others who support this unneeded and harmful project. According to the Hearing Examiner’s minutes from public testimony, 87 percent oppose establishing this toxin producing, wildlife harming facility being built along a wildlife migratory path atop the aquifer’s recharge area which IS part of the aquifer.

Mort further claims hookups would not be required, which is another disingenuous statement. Why else establish a public utility if it would not be used? Federal regulations WOULD require hookups.

The out-of-state landowner, Dennis Swartout, stated in a letter to the County Planning Commission his true intentions for the 1,500 acres he owns in the north county — a vision that contradicts the Comprehensive Plan’s vision. He insists, “Commercial zoning for this parcel is most appropriate…we request it be zoned such.” This area is currently zoned rural, one residence per five acres. He further said that a regional sewer and disposal system along with a significant expansion of the existing public drinking water system is necessary for this area. Who will pay for this expansion? You and me!

Nothing about Mort’s and Swartout’s plans emit an interest for anything other than personal gain at the broad expense of Kootenai County residents.

Come voice your opposition and hear the truth on Sept. 24 at 6 p.m. in the North Idaho College’s performing art’s center auditorium.

DEBORAH ROSE

Athol