URAs: Kill them all

The My Turn article of March 2 is right on the money. Urban renewal agencies are, at best, a poor use of TAXPAYER monies. Yes, some projects work, but Coeur d’Alene’s Midtown project is an example of failure that resulted in causing my American Legion Post 14 becoming homeless. And Hayden’s URA gives a lot of money to the Arts Commission to basically spend as they wish for “the good of the community.” What a cruel joke on taxpayers!

How many of you appreciate the “art” called Epiphany, or as I call it, the colorful “Skittles Head,” in front of the library? Or those beautiful giant bugs perched “elegantly” at the entrance to the city’s newer parking lot? I can think of many better things to spend that $100k+ on, and I tried, addressing both the City Council and Arts Commission to no avail.

Our cities’ leaders should be the ones spending our hard-earned taxes, not people who may not even live in Hayden, but serve on our Arts Commission. Geez, how about some common sense!? EVEN THE WONDERFUL, RIDICULOUSLY STUPID STATE OF CALIFORNIA, WHICH I ESCAPED FROM 10 YEARS AGO, OUTLAWED URBAN RENEWAL AGENCIES in 2011! I guess even a blind squirrel finds a nut once in a while.

It’s past time to abolish urban renewal agencies! Please urge your city officials and state legislators to act. It’s YOUR money…

DAVE SHELDON

Hayden