Letters To The Editor

Sat., Sept. 23, 2000

`Too many people in too little space’

Re: “Decision on Hayden subdivision expected.” I think they should put a moritorium on building in Hayden. The streets are way too busy, people drive way too fast and there are a lot of homes for sale in the area already. Why do they need to build more subdivisions? It really isn’t necessary. The develpers are turning North Idaho into bedroom communities like in California and other heavily populated areas. At some point it needs to stop. Every inch of acreage is being turned into subdivisions, and it is crazy. Too many people in too little space. Citizens of Hayden, we have got to stop the building in our town. The developers are raping the land. Patricia L. Franceschine Hayden

Rathdrum ready for McD’s; not subdivision

McDonald’s has talked about coming to Rathdrum for a long time. I truly don’t see why so many people are upset. I strongly believe that the traffic that we have in Rathdrum will not increase as much as others think it will. The traffic through that area is back anyway at school times, but I don’t believe there will be an increase. Some may take a detour to McDonald’s but they would be coming that way anyway. As far as pedestrian traffic is concerned, there already is a Taco Bell and TCBY next to the McDonald’s location. Students go over there already if that is what they want for lunch. We all need to remember that only the high school is an open campus, so they are the only ones that will be using the crosswalks at noon.

As far as the proposed 419-lot subdivision is concerned, I don’t think that this area is ready for that large of a housing unit. First, it is not in the city, so it would have to have its own sewer and water system. Second, are the developers planning on working with the Lakeland School District to plan additions to some of the schools, or even the idea of building a new elementary school in that direction? I hope the county looks at this one real hard and long. Beverly Young Rathdrum

Police officers deserve wage they are paid

Excuse me? The mayor said what? Our police officers should be thankful for living and working in Coeur d’Alene? That they could move to Washington to make more money, but they would have a greater chance of getting shot? What a great encouragement for our employees! Too bad we can’t ask Linda Huff, killed in Coeur d’Alene with 13 bullets. Her crime? Smiling and saying “Hi” in a police uniform.

When the city’s pay study came in on wage comparison of our police with surrounding agencies, it was so low the mayor made the statement that he wanted to vomit. He then said he wants wages high enough to attract people for these jobs.

It’s not only about attracting new officers, its also about keeping the dedicated ones with years of experience, that make a good department. To keep morale up, not constantly knocking them down. This is generally good “business” practice.

For many, the wages these officers receive are well deserved for serving the public. It’s not like sitting at a desk and whining about someone not saying “Hi” or yet another truthful article in the paper about you.

Mr. Mayor, you enjoy throwing exaggerated figures of our employee wages out there. If you are so jealous about their wages and permanent jobs, you are more than welcome to apply for an officer position, but personally, I don’t think you have the guts for the job.

Steve Judy for dog catcher? Doubtful. Misty Koskimaki Coeur d’Alene

Support from public, newspaper appreciated

I wish to extend my gratitude for all of the support given to the Worley Fire District and myself during the past few months. The phone calls, letters and support from the public, volunteers and other fire departments has been very much appreciated. I also would like to thank your staff writer, Julie Titone, for her professionalism and thoroughness. Daniel E. Sneve Assistant Fire Chief, Worley Fire District

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