County, residents must find common ground

I have been a resident of Bonner County for nearly 25 years and I have been a Realtor in this community for the past 11 years. I currently serve on the MLS Board of Directors and on the governmental affairs committee for the Selkirk Association of Realtors. I believe it is our right and responsibility as Americans to be informed and to participate in the decisions that are made within our county and our country.

We have heard that the county has been working on a new comprehensive plan for the past 20 years. However, until a couple of weeks ago, we as a community have not known what the new proposal actually was.

When the maps first came out, the SAR governmental affairs committee requested a meeting with the planning department to try to understand their proposal, so as Realtors we could be informed and could make the proper representations to clients in regards to the proposed changes to the current land use laws.

We believe that property owners have the right to be notified and to understand how these proposed changes will affect each of our properties. We also need to have more time to discuss the pros and cons of these changes in an open forum.

I am aware that this issue has prompted a lot of emotional reactions in this community. I have been told by a colleague, that someone has identified me as the person responsible for personal attacks and/or threats to some of our public officials.

I must publicly deny these accusations and state clearly that I am not affiliated nor do I support any of these emotional tactics and beseech those who are responsible to refrain from further attacks or emotional outbursts against people who are trying hard to do a difficult job.

As a community, I pray that we can come together for the common good in a rational and respectful debate. I pray that we concentrate on the issues at hand in a peaceful manner and resolve this situation with respect for one another. I request that our public servants allow the people the opportunity to understand the implications of this plan and allow them the opportunity for public and open discussion and perhaps even the right to vote on a plan that so drastically changes current law.

CHRISTINE BAILEY

Sandpoint