ENDORSEMENT: Change of heart on DePriest

As a concerned citizen of Hayden, I encourage my fellow residents to join me in reelecting Ed DePriest to the Hayden City Council. My perspective on Ed DePriest has evolved over time. Initially, I did not vote for him, as I supported Dick Panabaker and had concerns about Ed’s affiliations with the KCRCC. However, Ed’s actions have demonstrated a genuine commitment to our community. He approaches his role with humility, listens to residents, verifies facts and continues to learn, making him an invaluable councilman — qualities that set him apart from others on the council.

Ed’s ideas aimed at reducing housing density, ensuring that new development proposals take the character of surrounding neighborhoods into account. Ed led the effort to conduct a community survey, which revealed that growth, density and traffic are the primary concerns for Hayden residents.

Ed regularly attends meetings at North Idaho College, the public library and other forums of public interest. He is known for his forthright communication style, expressing his views both in person and through published opinion pieces. Ed’s direct approach in addressing misinformation from the opposition, and his willingness to stand up to public figures such as David Reilly, reflects his dedication to truth and transparency.

Ed serves on regional organizations, Kootenai Metropolitan Planning Organization, the Panhandle Area Council and the Hayden Area Regional Sewer Board. He is a strong advocate for residents, upholds the interests of small businesses and is committed to ensuring Hayden remains a place where families can thrive.

STEPHANIE SATERFIEL

Hayden