ELECTION: Vote for Knutson

After attending Coeur d’Alene City Council meetings this year, it’s clear we need a new voice for Seat 5, currently held by Dan English. We advocated for a thoughtful approach to responsible development in Coeur d’Alene and were disappointed to witness the 4 to 2 council vote resulting in the annexation and zoning for the ultra-dense 440-acre Coeur Terre project.

Council member Gookin, who opposed the density, informed the audience at a recent candidate forum, that the state is now concerned for our aquifer and commissioned a comprehensive study regarding the impact of the proposed population increase. This kind of study has not been done for a long time, putting estimates of the aquifer’s current capacity into question.

Some area wells have run dry. City of Coeur d’Alene (parks and schools) utilizes over 60% of our water. Water is not the only concern. Effects of unchecked construction on the city budget and infrastructure needs are other concerns. The bright side is that we now know Rob Knutson, candidate for Coeur d’Alene Council.

To our knowledge, Mr. Knutson attended nearly all council meetings over 12 months and knows the issues the city faces. He’s invested, thoughtful, articulate and considerate. Mr. Knutson, a biologist with decades of experience in resource management, wastewater treatment and water quality, is unaffiliated and not beholding to a political party or interest group, with campaign funding from private citizens only. Knutson will make the best decisions for the city and it’s citizens.

It’s clear Rob Knutson’s fresh perspective is needed on the Coeur d’Alene city council. Vote Knutson on Nov. 7.

BRETT HANEY and RON McGHIE

Kootenai County