LIBRARY BOARD: Religious justifications ‘appalling’

According to the news article in Wednesday’s Press, Library Trustee and Board Chair Rachelle Ottosen quoted Exodus from the Bible about honoring the Sabbath and to “not dishonor God” to justify closing on Sundays the Post Falls and Hayden libraries. Many people want the library to be open weekends because work or other obligations often keep them from making it to the library during the week. It’s appalling that elected officials would use religious justifications to close a public facility.

Of course, Rachelle Ottosen’s election and that of Tom Hanley and Tim Plass was supported by the Kootenai County Republican Central Committee.

It’s important to remember the words of some reputable Republicans:

“Mark my word, if and when these preachers get control of the [Republican] party, and they’re sure trying to do so, it’s going to be a terrible damn problem. Frankly, these people frighten me. Politics and governing demand compromise. But these Christians believe they are acting in the name of God, so they can’t and won’t compromise. I know, I’ve tried to deal with them.” — Sen. Barry Goldwater

“We establish no religion in this country. We command no worship. We mandate no belief, nor will we ever. Church and state are and must remain separate.” — President Ronald Reagan

I’m a Christian and have been on many local and statewide elected and appointed boards and committees, and I have never heard a board member quoting scripture to justify a decision affecting public policy. I think it is inappropriate.

Kootenai County residents need to think carefully about who they elect to partisan and nonpartisan positions. They need to elect people who are truly dedicated to serving the public interest ahead of their religious or partisan political beliefs.

TOM HEARN

Kootenai County