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First I would like to thank the voters of Bonner County for trouncing the major school tax levy in August that would have snatched $55 million from our pockets and might have put some of you into serious financial straits. But 65 percent of you stood up and said no.

But Kate McAlister, who is now running against Rep. Heather Scott in Legislative District 1A, publicly supported the levy. She voiced no concerns about its pricetag, odd justification, strange and complicated financing scheme and how it would affect the average citizen’s financial situation. In her position at the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce, she should know that 15.6 percent of Bonner County residents live in poverty, that we have one of the highest unemployment rates in the state, and that 53 percent of Lake Pend Oreille School District’s students qualify for the reduced or free lunch program. But she was OK with raising taxes on those families.

Heather Scott has demonstrated her concern and willingness to work for all the citizens of District 1, whether in rural areas or in the city. She listens to everyone’s concerns about the cost of government and how it will impact their families. I hope that you will give your vote on No. 8 to Heather Scott, who truly represents us.

JANET CONLIN

Cocolalla