Candidates square off in debate
SANDPOINT — The Panida hosted a different kind of show Tuesday evening as local candidates gathered to discuss the issues.
After a brief statement from the unopposed Rep. George Eskridge, R, unopposed state senator candidate Shawn Keough, R, and representatives of U.S. Congress candidates Walt Minnick, D, and Raul Labrador, R, the contested candidates took the floor to battle out their various platforms by answering the public’s questions.
County commission candidates covered a multitude of categories from the public’s questions, including management of fresh water resources, allocation of public health care funds, the intricacies of zoning and the disposal of solid waste.
Throughout the evening, District 3 candidate Mel Davis, D, emphasized her ability to learn quickly and absorb information. As a longtime resident of Bonner County, she said that she could serve as a bridge between the old timber-based economy and the economy of the future.
“There’s no substitute for energy, enthusiasm and a mother’s desire to create a better world for her children,” she said.
Mike Nielson, R, a District 2 candidate, promised to stop wasteful spending and promoted the use of zero-based budgeting. He said he would promote property owner’s rights and not raise taxes without the public’s consent.
“I’m not a fan of the (Emergency Medical Services) tax that was imposed by my opponent with no word to the public,” he said.
His opponent Brian Orr, D, who served two terms as county commissioner prior to 2008, responded by saying they were “under the gun” with the EMS tax, and given the time constraints, thought that accomplished good work for an important service. He cited his experience on the county commission and mayor of Oldtown as important qualifications.
“I know this job and I know Bonner County,” he said.
Distrct 3 incumbent Lewie Rich, R, emphasized the construction of a new juvenile detention facility as a primary concern he wanted to address with a new term. He also highlighted his ability to squeeze pennies while budgeting, even in rough economic times.
“I’d love for you to check out my past record,” he said. “My passion and commitment to this job is evident.”
In the race for county clerk, incumbent Marie Scott, D, made sure the public knew her name, repeating it each time she took the floor. She pointed out her 20 years of experience on the job as well as her opponent’s lack of technical know-how.
“In Priest River, he said that he doesn’t do computers,” she said. “This is a job that relies on several pieces of software.”
Bud Mueller admitted he wasn’t a computer person but had the administrative clout to manage the office. “That’s my professional background,” he said. “I’ve managed multi-million dollar jobs. I’ve managed itty-bitty jobs.”
He said his primary goal was to make information available to the public, making sure that all resources are accessible on the Internet.