Reject unions’ candidate

While I can’t vote in the upcoming race for mayor of Spokane, I and thousands of other residents of this area definitely have a dog in the fight. From roads and public services to jobs and property values, a successful Spokane leads this region.

The current mayor, Ms. Verner, has no vision, no management ability and no leadership skills. Eighty percent of the city budget is devoted to salaries and benefits for its employees. There are over 100 employees of the city making more than $100,000 per year. This top-heavy spending leads to a constant search for new revenue, such as increased water fees, higher parking tickets or more taxes on hotel rooms.

Verner’s primary loyalty is to the city’s public employee unions and not the residents and taxpayers of the city. The unions provide election support, and Verner provides generous employment.

As mayor, Condon will clean up the mess at City Hall and create a business-friendly environment that encourages businesses to come, stay and grow in Spokane. Decent streets and a pro-business attitude to contracting services, and handling permits and licenses would give Spokane the leadership that brought us Expo ’74.

Bert Lomax

Spokane