NIC: Nonresident’s votes void

Allow me to explain a couple of things first: I live in Coeur d’Alene, pay property taxes, registered as an independent voter — no “D” or “R” behind my name.

The situation that has been occurring at NIC is disheartening to me. NIC has served North Idaho effectively for a good many years. The possibility that it may lose accreditation or be placed on some type of probationary status, it’s unacceptable.

I make no accusations of wrongdoing. Current and former Board of Trustee members may well have misunderstood laws governing board membership.

Mr. Barnes has resigned his position on the Board of Trustees. The question remains, did he establish residence in South Dakota prior to his resignation? Allegations have been voiced concerning this matter. If Mr. Barnes obtained a South Dakota driver’s license in compliance with South Dakota laws, he affirmatively established his residency in South Dakota. Surely South Dakota maintains official records regarding the issuing of driver’s licenses.

Idaho law clearly states that NIC Board of Trustees members must reside in Kootenai and the district they represent. If Mr. Barnes established South Dakota as his place of residence, then any votes he may have cast are in fact void.

JOHN MOORE

Coeur d’Alene