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Dan McDonald’s remarks at a public meeting, which were released last week, should be concerning to Bonner County residents. Several people were voicing concerns about silica emissions from proposed Hi-Test smelter blowing toward their homes. McDonald’s exact words were: “if you don’t like this in your backyard, I get that,” but “right now real estate is jacked,” “you could make a ton of money and move someplace else.” Seriously? This is callous and dismissive coming from a public figure. No surprise, the immediate response from a man present was, “I don’t want to run away. I love it here!”

Essentially, McDonald’s reaction to those worried about the prospects of toxic particles drifting into our community was “move.” My husband and I came here 43 years ago and together built a home in the Selle Valley to raise our three sons and establish small businesses. Our roots run deep and no pot of money will ever be as valuable to us as our personal home, family and friends here. Throughout this election cycle, McDonald has played non-committal, but indications appear he’ll throw-in with developers for a few jobs and ignore the environmental damage for the many living here.

In contrast, Steve Lockwood has expressed concerns about this proposed smelter. I’ve heard him respectfully listen to citizens sharing their thoughts and questions regarding the protection of their health and property values. Please vote Steve Lockwood for County Commissioner to keep Bonner County the place we’ll want to continue calling our home!

REBECCA HOLLAND

Sandpoint