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Land use planning and zoning are the orderly glue that keeps our county growing in a thoughtful way and protects the interests of everyone — private property owners, taxpayers, neighbors and the larger public. Good land use planning and zoning protects our county’s rural character, our county’s budget and natural resources, such as water quality.

Two years ago, our county commissioners changed the zoning codes to allow people to get building location permits without first consulting with the Panhandle Health District or their sewer districts to make sure that they could have a working septic system or could hook up to sewer. They did this despite overwhelming opposition and valid concerns raised by the health and sewer districts.

Dan McDonald did nothing to reverse this wrong-headed new policy after taking office as commissioner.

I’m voting for Steve Lockwood because he’ll try to restore this vital common-sense safeguard and will listen to the experts and concerned citizens when it comes to issues such as septic systems and protecting our quality of life. Bonner County is growing fast and we need someone in office who understands the importance of good land use planning. Vote Lockwood for commissioner.

SUSAN DRUMHELLER

Sagle