Condon working hard

David Condon, candidate for Spokane mayor, has set an ambitious fund-raising goal for his campaign. It seems hypocritical that our current mayor has criticized (LWV Forum, June 30) and “mocked Condon’s fund-raising goals,” (Spokesman, May 25) when she contributed $400 to Chris Marr’s 2010 record-breaking fund-raising efforts, which topped $535,000. Since incumbents usually have more name recognition, Condon is only trying to even the playing field.

Spokane’s mayor has a half-hour TV program that is broadcast several times each week. As mayor, she is invited to many functions and is often quoted in the media. And, don’t forget the $40,000 of taxpayer/ratepayer money the Water Department spent on the 70,000, full-color, glossy calendars (July 2010 - June 2011) with her beaming photo next to an American flag.

Quoting Doug Clark, “At first I thought it was a mailing from the re-elect Mayor Mary Verner campaign.” (Spokesman, June 6)

Moreover, funds that candidates raise are private donations, not taxpayer money. When spent locally on goods and services for their campaigns, candidates help Spokane’s economy.

David Condon is working hard to communicate with citizens in every way possible, including plans to doorbell 15,000 homes, and he will continue to work hard as our next mayor.

James A. McDevitt

Spokane