Letters

Thu., Sept. 27, 2012

Councilman offers apology

My apologies to any Valley citizens offended by my offhand remarks on vacant lots published in the Sept. 20 Valley Voice.

They were born out of frustration at the end of an endless discussion on imposing unbelievable, micromanaging regulations upon our community. These are not the necessary codes concerning health and safety. I’m talking about “grass police” calculating your grass height or measuring acceptable lengths of your firewood among other things. Most of us have had experience with a messy neighbor or vacant lot trash.

But, I’m puzzled by the missing remainder of my sentence (boring? space limitations?) urging us to first try to talk to each other like “Valleyites” used to do. Perhaps the offending owner is an elderly person or maybe someone financially unable to care for their premises. However, when health and safety violations occur, and there are many effective, reasonable codes already on the books, the city should be notified. If needed, formal complaints should follow. If still no satisfactory solution, contact the council directly, phone or email.

Lastly, I urge citizens to watch council meetings for a complete picture. On the city website, just click on SVTV anytime, or watch Monday nights through Comcast Channel 14.

Dean Grafos

Spokane Valley City Council

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