In a July 8 article in the Coeur d’Alene Press about vacating some land for the Hagadone Corporation to keep building more stuff, the last two sentences may tell us all we need to know about city government in Coeur d’Alene. I quote: “Ultimately, the council voted 5-1 to approve of vacating the property with Councilwoman Amy Evans casting the only vote in opposition. Evans was the only member of the council, including Mayor Steve Widmyer, that did not disclose a past or present, personal or familial business relationship with the Hagadone Corporation.” (bold emphasis added) Confirmation: It’s a monarchy/Doug Davey, of Worley, letter to Coeur d'Alene Press.

Question: In a relatively small town like this, with a giant figure like Duane Hagadone and his corporation, shouldn't it be expected that eledted officials would have some sort of ties to them?