I was amused at the Coeur d'Alene council debates last Wednesday when incumbent and challenger alike all agreed that City Council members should be open and accountable to the public. It all sounds good for sound bites during a campaign debate on Woody TV. When push comes to shove, however, politicians tend to avoid annoying media reps who are asking tough questions at embarrassing times. I can't remember challenger Jim Brannon's answer to the question re: openness and accountability posed by moderator Dave Walker. But he didn't act open and accountable when I contacted him last week re: his departure from Habitat for Humanity. Now, I know that it was a emotional, tough time for him. It's not easy to be shown the door. I've been there. However, someone who wants to represent the residents of Coeur d'Alene -- and me -- on the City Council should be able to answer a simple question with something other than "no comment."

Question: Do you think most local politicians are truly open and accountable?