Forum goes on without Bingham

Although he is unopposed on Tuesday’s election ballot, Chris Fillios gave a lengthy introduction to a room of 20 people Thursday at Java on Sherman.

Fillios — a Republican and the only candidate seeking election to the District 2 Kootenai County commissioner position — articulated his background and platform during a candidate forum hosted by the Kootenai County Environmental Alliance,

When Fillios gave the floor to District 3 commissioner candidate Russ McLain, McLain was true to form.

“I don’t think I’ve said that many words in my entire life,” deadpanned McLain, an Independent who fancies himself a cut and dried speaker. “I ask questions and I listen. That’s what I do.”

As the forum progressed, however, neither Fillios nor McLain — who fielded a cache of questions by moderator Lisa Manning — were short on remarks.

Fillios, who beat current commissioner David Stewart in May’s Republican primary, had the most to say on land use.

McLain, running as an Independent against Republican Bob Bingham, and Fillios delved into other county issues toward the end of the 90-minute forum/ Ryan Collingwood , Coeur d’Alene Press. More here.