Letters

‘Figures lie and liars figure’

Reading Mr. Gothman’s article on two-way traffic on Sprague/Appleway (Valley Voice, April 19) and attendance at a retail store conference concerning “Big Box Stores” not being placed on one-way streets as justification for stepping backward and returning Sprague and Appleway to two-way streets, leaves me puzzled.

I would like to ask what big box stores have committed to placing their business on Sprague/Appleway? Perhaps Macy’s, Sears, Penney’s … maybe Joe’s, Sportsman’s Warehouse, Home Depot, Wal-Mart, Lowe’s or Kroger? Are they closing their new stores at the Valley Mall, or located elsewhere, in favor of relocating on Sprague/Appleway between University and I-90 and we’re unaware of it?

I feel this is a pipe dream and just more smoke and mirrors that justify hiring nationally renowned consultants to tell elected officials what they want to hear to justify the expense of building a legacy to themselves.

I recall what my first boss said, “You can make figures say whatever you want; just remember figures lie and liars figure.” Good advice for the Spokane Valley City Council and the taxpayers who will foot the bill.

Gary Wheeldon

Spokane Valley