Dear Editor,
What happened to that message in regard to Ravalli County Commissioners? It seems that this is to be completely ignored. They were elected to serve, not rule. Suzy Foss, Matt Kannenwisher, Ron Stoltz, these three, newly elected, have by their actions negated “For The People, By The People.”
The latest trayesty is in regard to the enlargement of the airport. The commissioners no longer think that the public in this valley have either the intelligence or choice in what affects our lives.
The incredulous statement of Ron Stoltz of the commissioners, “It’s our responsibility to run the county.” By the People???
Suzy Foss, quote: “The airport is the key to the economic growth of the Bitterroot.” Is that truly for the valley? Is she then saying that the people of Ravalli County really aren’t smart enough, or really don’t know what is good for us? So, “Don’t let them vote”?
The people of the Valley will be affected not only by noise, but planes both large and small flying at low altitudes over homes, some of which were built not too long ago, for the “economic growth” of the Valley.
Then, there is the President of the Aviation Safety Foundation. Quote, speaking to the commissioners: “To go to a public vote is shirking your responsibility … and it is delaying once again a decision.”
It seems as if little regard has been given for the people of this Valley, those who have entrusted us with Real Estate purchases.
By the People. For the People.
It was truly amazing that the notably best County Treasurer in state voted by The County Treasurers of Montana as their President because of her outstanding abilities, that the very best for the people of Ravalli County wouldn’t do for these newly elected commissioners.
It would do though, for the Commissioners to hire a man who knew nothing of planning, to the planning board. Although he took Lavey’s place, who was the Planning Director, this man is not the Planning Director, but Planning Administrator/Office Manager. Is there is no longer a need for a Plannmg Director? For the People?
Subdivisions approved, even when there truly was wildlife habitat on the land. Previously, of course, there was no approval for the same real estate. But, now we have new commissioners.
Remember how we all came to the Bitterroot! It was free from smog, unlike California, New York, Illinois, etc. with their multitudes. How delighted we were to have the elk, moose and deer nonchalantly cross our property! Even an occasional bear brought excitement and delight. Animals don’t live in houses nor can they live with their food source removed.
Let us not forget Chilcott! His vote can go either way, but he seems always to capitulate to Suzy Foss, Matt Kannenwisher, Ron Stoltz. For the People?
Obviously, I have no problem with the Republican Party, or the Tea Party. I have a great problem with those who won’t abide with our Founding Fathers’ plan for Honesty, for Justice, and most of all for the Christian Values.
Summary: Subdivisions previously not passed as there were problems to deal with on the property? Immediately passed. Decided by the newly elected Commissioners.
Ravalli County people cannot have the best Treasurer with the best record, and experience. This decided by three Commissioners.
The arrival of the one to take the Planning Director (change of name and duties? To fit inexperience in planning?) Planning Board Administrator/Office Manager. Personally chosen by the new Commissioners.
No public input or vote on expanding the Airport as originally agreed! Personally decided by Commissioners.
What next?
If it’s true that they have the ability to do all of these things without regard to the Ravalli County People, we had better change the rules or law or Commissioners.
Earla Johnson
Hamilton