LEGISLATORS: Focus on real priorities

Our state legislators expressed concern over the governor’s executive power. This is always a valid concern for our representatives.

After reading this article, it appears to me that their concern is not about the governor’s power but their own. As part of their knee-jerk reaction to a health problem which some of their constituents deny, these legislators are trying to shoot the messenger.

Health districts are created to insure health concerns are not overlooked in our communities. The health board members should be appointed based on their expertise.

The Panhandle Health Board serving our area has two truly qualified members both part of the medical profession. The other appointed members may have great qualifications but not in health care. The medical professionals recognized the seriousness of the coronavirus and took legal action to limit its spread. Some members who opposed such action tended to be elected individuals appointed to the health board.

When your fellow board members, who possess expertise, suggest an action to counter the pandemic, why would you not support them? Perhaps theirs is also a knee-jerk reaction. These people although appointed to the health board are elected to local offices.

Boards providing expertise need to be appointed. Their knowledge should not be a popularity contest with political labels. There are many issues that matter including better paying jobs, more funding for education, infrastructure improvements, addressing growth, to name a few. Let me suggest to our legislators stop playing politics and do your job.

PHIL WARD

Coeur d’Alene