Mayor catering to special interests

Several weeks ago, Sandpoint Mayor Shelby Rognstad, vetoed a zone change ordinance for our property located on Boyer and Schweitzer Cutoff Road.

Steve and I have spent six months and thousands of dollars applying for and precisely following the city’s own code to obtain this zone change. On March 20, the City Council unanimously approved our request.

After the change was approved, a group of rich, aircraft owners at Sandpoint Airport decided they didn’t like the decision. So they contacted the mayor and complained, even though we had done exactly as required, which resulted in the mayor’s veto.

There is an affordable housing crisis in Sandpoint. With this zone change, a developer could possibly help alleviate this problem. Without the zone change, there will be no opportunity for affordable housing.

So, Sandpoint, are we going to stand for this? Are we going to let a special interest group make our rules and run our city? Are we going to allow the city to strong-arm a 77-year old, lifelong local resident, to devalue his property because wealthy, airplane folks don’t want us treading on “their” territory? Steve has owned this property for 40-plus years, even accommodating airport expansion needs as requested.

Sandpoint citizens have a right to expect their elected officials be trustworthy, transparent, have integrity and look out for the best interests of its citizens. Please contact the mayor and let your views be heard.

MAUREEN TILLBERG

Sandpoint