GOOKIN: Letter was 'appalling'

On 1-5-16 Councilman Dan Gookin attended a special meeting of the Kootenai County Republican Central Committee. He was so appalled at what he witnessed, he was compelled to write about it. His letter to the editor said a man was standing outside the door passing out fliers to people entering the building. Mr. Gookin alleges some people ignored the man and at least one person was rude and berated the man. There were about 50 committeepersons in the meeting along with 20 or more spectators. I wonder if the offensive person Mr. Gookin saw and heard was a member or a spectator?

What I find appalling about Mr. Gookin’s letter is the fact he wrote such a snarky letter about the entire Republican Committee because of a comment he claims to have overheard outside. More than anything else, Councilman Gookin’s article was an opportunity for him to expound on his personal belief that Medicaid benefits should be expanded. A topic more appropriate for the State Legislature than the Central Committee.

Thinking back on Councilman Gookin’s career, I wonder if there are CDA citizens who have testified in front of the good councilman who feel they received no sympathy, were ignored, or disrespected. My guess is, you could fill a library room full of them.

JOHN CROSS

Post Falls