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OpinionWhy are they so wonderful?To the editor: I have read in the paper that high praise should be given to Laura Walker, Rick Olseen and Ben Montzka for the wonderful work they are doing as Chisago County commissioners. My response would be why? I donít see them following their campaign platforms for which they were elected. I do however, see them listening to and responding to select special interest groups. I also find their behavior as commissioners somewhat questionable with allegations in the community of abuse of their powers. One example that I have most recently heard of in the community is the District 2 and at-large seat openings on the planning commission. Only one person applied for that seat. As the rumor in the community goes, this person was denied the position not because of her qualifications, but because she did not share the same viewpoints of Mr. Olseen. Mr. Montzka and Olseen and Ms. Walker stated in their campaign that they wanted input on issues from all facets of the county population. Mr. Montzkaís behavior at the last board meeting, Jan. 21, for example, was no different than past commissioners. This is exactly the behavior that Mr. Montzka campaigned against stating it was totally unacceptable. Secondly, the above named commissioners, while running for election, stated a primary focus was to be curbing spending and decreasing our debt. How can you then justify spending approximately $6 million to build new libraries in North Branch, Wyoming and Lindstrom and suggesting purchasing the library in Rush City? It is my understanding that the county population is not opposed to libraries, but donít these towns already have libraries? Why not enhance what we already have? The money allocated is for the structures only not the content, land or staffing. I am appalled that you feel that one centrally located library is not enough. You canít say that you are serving the county when only the southern half is receiving the attention of the commissioners. The folks in the northern sections are entitled to the same attention. That is $6 millions for three new county libraries. I find it interesting that a person owning land within one mile of the St. Croix River was given the go ahead to develop his land and then a matter of a few hours later a moratorium was put in place to stop all development within a mile of the St. Croix and Sunrise rivers for at least one year. Isnít that curious? Please, where is the truth? Randi Greene ©ECM Post Review |