No headline

I worry about the 911 system in our county. I don’t know if people are aware that there have been times recently when the system has been down for as long as five hours. That could mean life or death for someone.

It is a comfort to know that in an emergency you can always call 911. But what if there’s no answer?

Our current county commissioners have been looking for ways to save money on 911 services, and making plans to share the cost with other local entities. How will rural areas with volunteer fire departments be treated? They have no tax base — yet might have the greatest need.

The idea of regionalizing 911 is the ultimate solution; it would result in saving money and provide service across all boundaries. Our county commissioners have shown no interest in this solution. They declined to be briefed on this AND, they let a $127,000 grant that could have been used to improve 911 go back to the state.

We need someone who understands this issue and will make it a priority. This is one of the reasons I am voting for Steve Lockwood for county commissioner. Steve started out as a lineman climbing poles — and was the operations manager for AT&T for the state of Oregon before moving here. He has the expertise.

Steve also has the skills to build the partnerships that will be required to protect the safety of Bonner County residents. Join me in voting for Steve Lockwood.

BRENDA HAMMOND

Sagle