City OKs Person Deal, Edinger: ‘No’
On Tuesday, the Coeur d'Alene City Council gave final approval to the purchase of Person Field and Bryan Field from the Coeur d'Alene School District. But two council members weren't happy about it. In her draft minutes, City Clerk Renata McLeod reports comments made by Councilmen Ron Edinger and Deanna Goodlander during the discussion:
Councilman Edinger stated that he would be voting against the agreement because he does not believe in buying something that is already owned by the City. Councilman McEvers wondered if the City voted against it, what would the neighbors say, and what is the alternative? Councilman Edinger stated that the School District would have a problem because they have already moved into their new building, and maybe they would be willing to negotiate. Councilman McEvers expressed concern that the parkland could become homes. Councilman Edinger does not believe the land would be developed as homes and that the 1995 agreement was legal. Councilman Goodlander stated that she believes the City is paying a ridiculous price for something they already own and it is hard to vote yes.
Question: Did the Coeur d'Alene School District get the better end of this deal, as Councilmen Ron Edinger and Deanna Goodlander seem to believe?
