Stuckart backpedals

I was pleasantly surprised to see that city leaders were finally doing something to help small-business owners in the downtown core combat the effects of the transient population. I applauded the initiative to put down basalt rock under I-90 to make it uncomfortable for the transients to set up camp. The same initiative that was expedited through the council by Ben Stuckart.

That pleasant surprise quickly dissipated when I read that Stuckart received backlash from potential campaign contributors. Stuckart offered a public apology stating that he made a mistake in choosing a “strong-armed solution” and that the “homeless citizens deserved an outstretched hand from their elected officials.”

Mr. Stuckart, don’t the small-business owners who are affected by the stench of urine, feces and garbage forced upon them by the transient population deserve an outstretched hand? When the silent majority and potential campaign contributors that agree with the basalt rock project complain to you, are you going to back pedal again to get votes?

A tent city is not the solution as is cited by an expert that Seattle hired to provide insight on their transient population. Ben, get a clue and quit being a politician!

Shawn Poole

Spokane