Talbott Takes Case To The White House

Spokane Mayor John Talbott is hoping attorneys for President Clinton take a closer look at the River Park Square redevelopment project.

In a March 20 letter to Dinah Bear, an environmental attorney for the president, Talbott raises questions about the project’s environmental review process.

The issues raised are similar to those in a lawsuit filed Friday by attorney Steve Eugster. The suit alleges the city denied the environmental significance of the project and didn’t address air quality concerns.

Attorneys for River Park Square have denied the lawsuit’s claims.

Talbott said Monday he sent the letter because he needs advice. “Had I had my own legal counsel, I wouldn’t have to do that,” he said.

The mayor added he expects a response soon. He said there was no connection between his letter and Eugster’s lawsuit.

This is the third letter Talbott has sent to federal officials raising questions about the project. He sent two letters to HUD officials - one in December and one last week.

Councilwoman Roberta Greene chastised him during Monday’s briefing session for sending the letter to the president’s attorney without telling his colleagues.

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