Letters for Oct. 13, 2023

Cop vs. innocent man

We’ve seen it before. A cop with power doing harm to an innocent person. Did we learn nothing from the incident when a man defending his own business in the Valley was shot dead?

Now we have a cop beating a man for sleeping in his car when overcome by fatigue … in his own car. I know the homeless situation has everyone on edge, but this was egregious violence for no reason followed up by the closing of the ranks in support of the cop and refusal to fully discipline him. I’m torn between not wanting to fund the outcome of the lawsuit that will follow and approving of the lawsuit because it seems the only way to get justice for the badly beaten innocent man. (And, no, he should not have to prove his innocence. He should not have to prove the cop acted maliciously either, but at least now we have medical records to show the violence used.)

That the police department once again has tried to sweep it all under the rug leaves me in despair that anyone at any time is open to being beaten half to death for, “not listening.” Not listening to the cop evidently meant being in the wrong place at the wrong time in the wrong city in the wrong state. Sigh.

Thea Price

Spokane Valley

Moratorium in Latah Valley

I am writing today to voice my support for a continuation of a moratorium on development in the Latah Valley area of Spokane. I feel this should be continued until adequate infrastructure improvements are completed.

As a resident of the area, I have seen firsthand the problems of issuing building permits before infrastructure has even been considered.

In Latah Valley, It is obvious to residents and even WSDOT that Highway 195 and side streets cannot come close to supporting building on the scale proposed (15-17 developments). This rush to build is compromising safety even now. All one has to do is try to enter 195 southbound from Hatch or other side streets and it is obvious the roadway is not designed for even current traffic flow, which is creating near misses every day. Of course, the merge from 195 to eastbound Interstate 90 has always been dangerous. The recent Gray and Thorpe fires also highlighted severe shortcomings as far as access/egress for fire resources which are far from adequate in the area even before any new building.

I understand there is valid concern about a “housing crisis.” As a reminder, city and county governments are not responsible for providing housing. They are responsible for providing safe and workable infrastructure along with public safety so more housing can be built by the private sector in that order. Spokane seems to be working in reverse order by neglecting needed infrastructure putting us all at risk.

John Newland

Spokane

Vote Brown for mayor

I feel truly fortunate to be able to recommend every single Spokane voter to vote for Lisa Brown for mayor.

Lisa Brown’s credentials are outstanding and her dedication to service are acclaimed here as well as abroad. Her ability to find meaningful avenues of cooperation, negotiation, integrity and resolution through highly complex financial, cultural and economic roadways is amazing!

As our city’s budget woes were front and center in today’s paper, I only wished that Lisa was currently at the helm. With her doctorate in economics, her understanding of budgets both large and small, her teaching of economics at home and abroad, which only adds to compliment her organizational leaderships skills our city will be held in good hands.

Her repertoire of knowledge, wisdom, negotiation, problem solving, and a good brave heart benefited not only our city but the greater good. As the chancellor of Washington State University Spokane, she was at the helm and with the students who came forth our communities and our world were strengthened. What a great mentor for leadership and success. Lisa Brown is a stellar perfect fit for the complexities of our city. There really is no other more perfect choice.

Vote Lisa Brown for mayor.

Elizabeth Cobbs

Spokane

Article quote offends seniors

I enjoyed the article about Dolly’s Cafe (“Beloved staple reopens with a fresh spirit and 60 years of hash browns, hospitality,” Oct. 1) until I came to the comment by Adrian Amays. He said, “Some old ladies that used to come here.” Ouch, how unkind and patronizing to speak of senior people in that way. I don’t think I will be coming there remembering that statement.

Ann Carlin

Spokane

CVSD school board election

I am writing to express support for Central Valley School Board candidates Anniece Barker and Stephanie Jerdon. I am a physician and my wife and I have six children, all of whom attend or will likely attend CVSD schools. I have known both candidates and their families for the past six years, and I believe these women will be outstanding school board members and bring positive change to our schools. Stephanie brings experience as a teacher, and both of these women are smart, articulate, and well-educated. Both of them have children who are current CVSD students, so they know the current issues affecting our kids. They care passionately about the students and will work hard to ensure their needs are met.

From my personal observation I have seen that they thoroughly research issues and are careful in implementing changes, using practicality and considering unintended consequences. They hold strongly to their principles and those of the local community but are willing to listen to and consider differing viewpoints with respect. I particularly appreciate that they are not political extremists, unlike many politicians today, but rather have more moderate stances.

I love the Central Valley School District and believe we have great schools, but we need a school board that seeks more input from the community and upholds our local values. Having fresh minds is helpful when those people are capable. That is why I am voting for Anniece Barker and Stephanie Jerdon for CVSD School Board.

Michael Dobson

Greenacres