PRESS: Fact-check letters to the editor

Published letters to the editor should reflect the views of various segments of the community. I understand that and respect it even if I am pulling my hair out during or after reading some.

I do believe all letters should be reviewed for accuracy prior to publication. Perhaps a somewhat daunting task but essential.

A letter to the editor in Sunday’s paper caused me to write this.  

A person I do not know expressed her objection to a proposed hotel on Sherman Avenue. That is her right and demonstrated her knowledge on the proposal. However, she questioned why the city council would unanimously approve it. This is where The Press should have clarified her letter.  

This action was not by the city council but by the Design Review Commission. This commission does not review the zoning but rather the design in accordance with their code. Simply not liking the look of the building is not a valid justification and certainly could result in a lawsuit against the city.  

Further, if a building is being reviewed by the Design Review Commission then it complies with zoning and no city council review is necessary, although an appeal to the City Council can be filed by a person. At a time when much of our government is not trusted by some citizens, accuracy in publishing is essential even if it is only a clarifying note by The Press after a specific letter.

I am writing this only as a citizen of Kootenai County and my personal concern for all efforts to improve citizens’ trust in all levels of government.

PHIL WARD

Coeur d’Alene