This column reflects the opinion of the writer. Learn about the differences between a news story and an opinion column.

Let stud users fund repairs

Wed., Oct. 13, 2010

I found it interesting how Chic Burge (Letters, Sept. 29) found it reasonable for Washington taxpayers to spend $15 million to repair road damage caused by studded tires, especially when he lives in Idaho. He drives to Silver Mountain 40-plus times a year, so we can assume he is not poor (maybe even rich?).

Rather than spend taxes paid by those of us who somehow safely navigate in winter without studs, the users should be charged a $100 user fee for the privilege of tearing up the roads. Chic Burge might even be inclined to broaden his narrow view by reading the studies comparing the effectiveness and safety of studded tires versus siping, which is also cheaper than buying studs. Safer and cheaper – a win-win!

Robert Juhre

Spokane

Letters Policy

The Spokesman-Review invites original letters on local topics of public interest. Your letter must adhere to the following rules:

No more than 250 words
We reserve the right to reject letters that are not factually correct, racist or are written with malice.
We cannot accept more than one letter a month from the same writer.
With each letter, include your daytime phone number and street address.
The Spokesman-Review retains the nonexclusive right to archive and re-publish any material submitted for publication.

Unfortunately, we don’t have space to publish all letters received, nor are we able to acknowledge their receipt. (Learn more.)

Submit letters using any of the following:

Our online form: Submit your letter here
Mail: Letters to the Editor
The Spokesman-Review
999 W. Riverside Ave.
Spokane, WA 99201
Email: letters@spokesman.com
Fax: (509) 459-5098
Phone: (509) 459-5403