Her Taxing Work Pays Off

Now, Pat Raffee knows how lonely life can be for tax activists. The executive for Concerned Businesses of North Idaho has done a remarkable job bird-dogging the budget hearings for Kootenai County’s four dozen taxing districts this summer. Often, she’s been one of only a handful to testify that budgets should be held in check. The decisions by the Kootenai County commissioners and Coeur d’Alene City Council to accept less tax dollars this year than last provides proof that her vigilance is working. Sometimes, Pat has faced ridicule - particularly from fire district commissioners who don’t think an “outsider” should testify against their proposed increases. One fire commissioner rebuked her because he didn’t think property valuations affected taxes. (And these guys set budgets?) I haven’t agreed with every budget cut recommended by Pat. But I’m glad she’s out there fighting for taxpayers - as Ron Rankin has done these many years. Attagirl.

What a difference a year makes

Kootenai County commissioners could have handled their salary negotiations with sheriff’s deputies better. In fact, their harsh treatment of association representatives last week irritated deputies more than their somewhat short salary offer. First, commissioners wouldn’t meet with the deputies picketing outside their window. Then, when they did, both sides ended up shouting at each other. One deputy complained privately that his side was treated with contempt. Funny what a little power does to a politician. Last year, Chairman Dick Compton and Commissioner Dick Panabaker were pounding on the deputies’ door for an endorsement. That doesn’t mean they have to give the deputies every nickel and dime they want. But you’d expect it to mean that commissioners should treat deputies with respect now.

Athletes should get back in closet

As a free-speech advocate, I’m glad the NCAA backed off its plan to ban end zone prayers. As a person who considers prayer a private matter, in most instances, I wonder why athletes would want to pray after scoring a touchdown. I’m sure some players truly want to give thanks to God for their success. Liberty University quarterback Antwan Chiles, for example, says, “I want the kids across America to look at me and know that I have a higher power, and that’s God.” But others are just showboating. Scripture says we’re supposed to give thanks in all things. But when’s the last time you saw a defensive safety kneel in prayer after he’s been burned for a touchdown? Scripture also instructs believers to enter their closet and pray to God - privately.

, DataTimes MEMO: Hot Potatoes is a feature of the Tuesday and Thursday Opinion pages.