MY TURN: Macomber’s hypocrisy over federal funds

Let's talk about what's happening at North Idaho College, especially with former attorney Art Macomber's recent public stance in opposition to federal funds and state funds. It's kind of funny when you think about it.

Macomber, who didn't blink at billing NIC $400 an hour for his lawyer services, is now turning his nose up at the very funds that help pay those hefty bills. It’s like telling someone not to eat cake while you have frosting on your face.

During his time with NIC, Macomber led the college into a bunch of legal battles that resulted in big losses for taxpayers. He billed exorbitant NIC legal bills month after month. 

Macomber used his office to pursue the very definition of a ‘witch hunt’ into Dr. Nick Swayne’s contract. Judge Cynthia Meyer called Macomber’s investigation a “sham” with a “predetermined outcome.” Attorney fees were awarded to plaintiffs Swayne and Coeur d’Alene Press that involved Macomber.

Judge Meyer was right. Basically, Macomber’s efforts were like swinging at a piñata and missing every time, except every miss cost taxpayers money.

Here’s where it gets more problematic: Macomber’s not a fan of federal and state money helping out NIC, but without that money, taxpayers would have to foot even bigger bills for his courtroom flops and sky-high fees. It's like he's saying, "Let's tighten our belt," while making sure his pockets are lined. It doesn’t add up.

Now, onto the good stuff that federal funding does — because, yes, there’s a lot of good. Take the Head Start program on this week’s agenda, for instance. It gets close to $4 million to help kids in North Idaho get a strong start in school. This money helps families stand on their own two feet and gives kids a boost in life. 

The Head Start program began in the Johnson administration and it has enjoyed bipartisan support. President Ronald Reagan tipped his hat to Head Start when he described it as “a quality program that truly provides young children with a "head start" in life."

Federal funds help a wide variety of students at NIC, including veterans who've served our country and are now turning to education to start new chapters in civilian life.

NIC also supports single parents aiming to create a better future for their children and first-generation college students who are breaking new ground for their families. Students with disabilities rely on NIC for the resources they need to succeed in their studies. Support for senior citizens is coordinated through NIC. Most families utilize federal financial aid in some way. NIC plays a vital role in training local law enforcement and our workforce. 

Macomber’s stance against this funding is offered without any backup plan. It's all "no" without a "here's what we could do instead." That’s not just unhelpful; it ignores the real benefits these funds bring to NIC and our community.

With elections looming, it's vital to engage. Whether you're casting your ballot in the May 21 partisan primary, or the nonpartisan trustee races this November, your vote holds sway over NIC's trajectory. 

The May 21 primary encompasses partisan roles like legislative races (which determine state funding for NIC) and precinct committeeman (PC) contests for both political parties. 

Todd Banducci, Greg McKenzie and Art Macomber, as well as committee chairman Brent Regan, are seeking reelection in the partisan PC races for the Kootenai County Republican Central Committee. The primary will determine the future of the “highly rated/vetted” crowd, with a choice offered to voters in almost every Republican precinct in the county.

Looking ahead, NIC's nonpartisan trustee races will commence in the fall, featuring incumbents Banducci, McKenzie and Board Chair Mike Waggoner on the November ballot. The filing deadline for NIC trustee positions is set for late August.

Requesting your absentee ballot through www.IdahoVotes.Gov is an easy, reliable process, ensuring you never miss an opportunity to have your say on matters concerning NIC.

Leaders genuinely committed to advancing NIC and recognizing the vital role federal funding plays in ensuring access to education are invaluable. 

Art Macomber's critique of federal funding is like turning off the water while expecting a garden to bloom. With crucial elections ahead, it's essential to remember that our votes will shape North Idaho College's path.

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Christa Hazel is a former student body president of the Associated Students of North Idaho College (ASNIC). She is a founding member of Save NIC.