3 Good Men Run For Post Falls Seats

In the past 15 years, Post Falls has transformed itself from a bedroom community for Coeur d’Alene and Spokane into one of Idaho’s most dynamic towns.

That didn’t happen by accident.

A succession of progressive leaders, led by former mayors Frank Henderson and Kent Helmer, persuaded the community that it needed a sewer system and other infrastructure improvements. Then they extended sewer and water lines west and east, prompting development of Riverbend Commerce Park, Harpers furniture manufacturing plant, Highlands Golf and Country Club - and much in between.

As a result, commercial and industrial property has increased from 11 percent to 33 percent of the city’s tax base, and the city tax rate is going down. Mayor Jim Hammond, the third in a series of strong Post Falls mayors, deserves credit, for the last four years, for guiding rapid growth and attracting jobs while protecting the town’s quality of life.

The Spokesman-Review enthusiastically endorses Hammond’s re-election bid as well as two City Council candidates who share his vision: incumbent Scott Grant and former school trustee Clay Larkin.

All three men understand local government and have proven their commitment to the community by serving on a variety of boards and commissions.

The trio is devoted to education and considers construction of schools as a top priority - along with a new library. They believe, correctly, that the city’s industrial, commercial and higher-end residential base needs to be expanded further to lower residential taxes and make schools more affordable.

Hammond’s opponent, Don Kline, and council candidate Joe Bodman want to control growth, limit taxes and attract high-paying jobs, too. But they don’t say how they propose to do so. And neither seems to understand the nuances of city government.

A fourth City Council candidate, Bob Hunt, shouldn’t be viewed as a serious contender because he refuses to submit to public scrutiny. Hunt won’t talk to the press, and he failed to appear for a candidates forum Monday.

Post Falls voters have three clear choices next week.

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