Where is the Sandpoint we have known, loved?

Many of us have taken our children — and our grandchildren — to the play area at Travers Park. We watched them play in the shade of the beautiful trees that flourish there. I can’t believe that the City of Sandpoint is about to take that away! They will cut down the trees to put up a building for pickleball and tennis courts. It will accommodate about 16 people. None of them children.

This is happening despite the protests of hundreds of citizens prior to last week’s City Council meeting, where no discussion was allowed. The mayor stated that the decision had already been made and the public had an opportunity for input. When? 

Ever since discussion was cut off at the meeting, a number of concerned citizens have chained themselves to trees in the park, asking only to be allowed to discuss alternatives to the plan the city states is already finalized.  There has been no response. Instead, orange stripes have been painted where work will take place.

This is an opportunity for someone in the city government to step forward and become a hero! Take coffee down to the dedicated citizens who have been chained to the trees since last week. Invite them and some of the 1600 others who have signed a petition against this plan to discuss options. Stand out—stand up for the rights of people to have a say!

Where is the Sandpoint we have known and loved? The little city with the big heart?

BRENDA HAMMOND

Sagle