Council turnover paying off

Voters elected individuals to the Spokane Valley City Council that they perceived would represent the best interests of the residents of the Valley. To this end, it seems logical that decisions made in prior years would be reviewed and perhaps revised as part of the new council’s commitment to “positive change.”

I’m glad, for example, that the Broadway road project is being reviewed. Councilwoman Grassel asks if the changes are needed and if the city can afford the 20 percent matching funds for the project when there is a projected budget deficit.

Councilman Dean Grafos’ review of and concern about the proposed monthlong closure of the intersection of Sprague and Sullivan should be appreciated by all of us in the Valley. This truly could be devastating for the businesses in the area. Career politicians, used to spending other people’s money, may understand the “political process” better than he does, but I’d choose Mr. Grafos to represent the taxpayers’ best interests any day.

Perhaps the Valley council should also review and consider changing some city employment contracts. I know of no business in the private sector that offers a year’s compensation in severance pay.

Julia J. O’Connell

Spokane Valley