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| October 30, 2018 1:00 AM

I have noticed a profound double standard lately in the letters to the editor of several publications. I am writing in response to Anita Aurit, Mike Morgenstern, and Jessi Webster’s recent letters. First, let me address the concern they have about Mr. Lockwood being a “nice” guy only. Skill, knowledge, and an ability to work with others and to be a leader are not mutually exclusive traits that only nasty people possess. Nice guys are perfectly capable of getting the job done but with no need for a “MASH” unit to handle the casualties.

When it comes to qualifications I will cast my vote for Steve Lockwood based on his previous job experience and also his volunteer positions he has served so well.

While I am sure Mr. McDonald thoroughly enjoyed his time with Big Boy Ballet Company (volunteer position) I don’t really see how that experience will help him carry out his duties as commissioner. Steve Lockwood, on the other hand, has served on many boards which qualify him for commissioner hands down. Here is a small list of the boards he has served on both elected and volunteer positions:

Volunteer government experience:

- Elected chair, Sandpoint Planning and Zoning Commission 2004-2005;

- Helped to initiate new comprehensive plan for Bonner County;

- Firefighter negotiation team member and chair

- Commissioner - Sandpoint Urban Renewal 2008-2018

- Chair - Sandpoint Downtown Revitalization 2001-2002

- Chair - Oregon Noise Advisory Committee

- Chair - Columbia Region Land Use Task Force

- Chair - Portland Region Air Quality Committee

- Portland Energy Policy Task Force

- Portland Bicycle/Pedestrian Committee

- Portland Airport Noise Advisory Committee

Other Volunteer Experience:

- Idaho Conservation League Board 2004-current

- Idaho Smart Growth Board 2006-2015

I sincerely hope all of you will check out Steve Lockwood’s website. He is a pretty impressive guy. We will all benefit from his experience and leadership.

MARLENE PETERSEN

LOUIE BARIBEAU

BILL TEMPLE

FOSTER HEPPERLY

ERIK DAARSTAD

JERRY LUTHER

PHIL DEBOARD

CATHERINE FORD

Sandpoint