Efficiency lifts spirits

I have heard it reported in this newspaper, the Spokane County assessor’s race has come down to a choice between two Republicans: One values efficiency (Ralph Baker), the other staff morale (Vicki Horton).

Many career politicians think if you have a budget shortfall, you just raise taxes or deficit-spend. Our current assessor didn’t create the current economics we now face, but has had to deal with the consequences of them nonetheless. His decision to cut staff and improve efficiencies is the supposed cause of low employee morale.

The question: Should these cuts not take place for the sake of employee morale? Should the assessor not take action that will make his office more efficient?

I believe we elected an assessor to represent all of the taxpayers of Spokane and that has meant making the tough decisions to trim staff and make the assessor’s office more efficient.

As a businessman, I know making these kinds of decisions can keep you awake at night, but it doesn’t absolve our obligation to do so. Tough times require tough decisions.

Thank you, Ralph, for making those tough decisions. The taxpayers of Spokane thank you also.

Jim Cote

Spokane