COMMISSIONERS: Reinstate Pledge of Allegiance

I have attended many public hearings in Kootenai County over the last 15 years or so, as my wife and I stay involved in land use issues pertinent to the health and future of our beautiful community. Always, without hesitation, the Pledge of Allegiance has been said by those in attendance as they faced the flag to begin each meeting. It’s always been a huge sense of pride for myself (a veteran) and others to say the Pledge, and especially with a group of citizens honoring our flag.

Last Thursday night I was at a hearing with the Board of County Commissioners regarding an issue in our neighborhood, and for the first time ever in all my years of attending such hearings, the Pledge was not said. Those around me (many neighbors I know well) looked confused but the meeting progressed. No comment from the three board members running the meeting.

Afterward, I approached a County Representative and asked why the Pledge was not said before this meeting. David Callahan, director of the Community Development Department overheard my question and stated it was up to the discretion of the commissioners whether the Pledge was said or not. Commissioner Duncan is the new Chairman of the Board, with one newly elected member this year. Surely all three board members know how important it is to honor our flag. We need more patriotism in our county at this time, not less. Please reinstate the Pledge at all public meetings and hearings.

NORB TWILLMANN

Harrison