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LABOR: An insider's view

| September 26, 2018 1:00 AM

After reading the many woes regarding our traffic situation, I thought I should give my perspective.

I began working on a couple interstate projects this summer. The first was finishing the concrete paving of Lookout Pass.

Fortunately, the work was done in the cool of the night. The wages were also prevailing. This not only meant extra money, but extra talent and effort since the most experience earned the right to choose those jobs.

The second project, re-fitting the Blue Creek Bridge, was not so lucrative; thanks to Idaho’s “right to work” policy. I could make more an hour flipping burgers in Seattle. Twelve-hour shifts, seven nights a week trying to meet the impending deadline while avoiding danger. The type of work which attracts only the least experienced and prepared.

Then the job falls behind, mistakes are made, more injuries happen…

Many might say this type of nightmare occurs because of the poor choices folks in the lower class make. Maybe they’re right. Might be best if I walk away from my job keeping thousands of gallons of wastewater from contaminating the lake. Let the supply and demand of labor sort it all out…

STEVEN REYNALDS

Coeur d’Alene