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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Well-Informed Voters Can Keep County Afloat

Welcome to the USS Spokane County Commission, a leaky vessel running low on funds. The crew is on the verge of mutiny. Yet Captain Steve Hasson and his first mate, Phil Harris, recently set their sights on a sleek, well-run vessel named the USS Spokane County Health District.

As their own ship was capsizing, they climbed aboard the other ship and threatened a takeover. Public outcry, and concern by a state health official, stopped them short - temporarily. For at least a year this won’t become a reality. But stay tuned.

Things are so chaotic in county government right now you have to come up with a parody or two. But then seriousness sets in, because the county’s almost broke and leadership is lacking. Hasson and Harris say there is method behind the seeming madness of their firings and restructurings, but so far have given the public neither a plan nor reassurance that a plan exists. George Marlton, appointed to the commission and facing an election campaign, has not yet shown leadership to balance the dynamic duo’s shenanigans.

Here at the newspaper, county employees call reporters from home late at night to tell of bizarre county happenings. They write us letters. One wrote: “Since the rude firing of three planners, many employees feel they cannot be expected to be treated professionally, fairly or even decently. Much worse, the citizens of Spokane County, and their future, are being treated with arrogance and treachery.”

You need to care about the state of Spokane County if you live in it and worry about the water you drink, the roads you drive on, your garbage and sewage disposal, your police protection and how many more houses can be crammed in next to you.

County government directly affects your quality of life, and there are many ways you can influence it. The fall will be a crucial time. On Sept. 19, a primary election will be held for the third county commission seat. Get to know the six candidates. Ask them how they plan to lift the county out of chaos. You could also attend commission meetings any Tuesday night and see firsthand what’s going on. Or call Harris and Hasson and ask them if they have a plan. Both are good at returning calls.

Most importantly, check out the proposed unified city-county charter. The proposal combines city and county government and places it under the leadership of 13 citizens elected by district. On Nov. 7, you’ll be able to vote on the charter. Speakers will explain the proposal to your service, church, community or neighborhood group. Call 924-2310.

The problems in Spokane County won’t go away by ignoring them. The ship is sinking. Help keep it afloat by getting involved now.

, DataTimes The following fields overflowed: CREDIT = Rebecca Nappi/For the editorial board