APC could save many lives in an emergency

Recently, the Bee reported that the sheriff plans to procure a $220,000 armored personnel carrier through a lease/purchase agreement or a four-year loan. Article 8, Section 3 of the Idaho Constitution requires a vote on loans, and may require a vote on lease purchases, unless the expense is “ordinary and necessary.” Courts have defined “ordinary and necessary” as something which is urgently needed to ensure public safety or compliance with the law.

Initially, I questioned whether the purchase of an APC was “ordinary and necessary” and I opposed the apparent militarization of Bonner County. Since then I spoke with Sheriff Daryl Wheeler and he convincingly argued that such a vehicle can save lives in an emergency like a school shooting.

After talking with Wheeler I feel much better about the purchase and, although I’m still not convinced that we really need an APC, I think a court may find that the expense is “ordinary and necessary.” For that reason and the fact that it may make our schools safer, I don’t plan to contest the purchase.

If you have concerns, as I did, I urge you to talk with Wheeler. I think you will find that he has public safety and the well-being of his officers at heart. Hopefully, he will ensure that the APC keeps a low profile as the present armored vehicle has. Teddy Roosevelt once said “speak softly and carry a big stick.” My advice to Wheeler is speak softly and keep the APC garaged.

LOU GOODNESS

Sagle