Several months ago, the city of Coeur d’Alene could find no way to preserve a business that had existed at the edge of the park for well over 10 years. The opinion was there could be no commercial enterprise on City property. Of course, I’m sure there will be such activity in the same park when the city wants there to be: Art in the Park for instance.

Almost before the dust settled from the demolition of the business’ building, the City contrived to lease City property to a private enterprise. Who, what and why?

To the Chamber of Commerce, representing CdA merchants and businesses; the City’s parking lots; so the merchants could charge twice the usual parking fee for the July 4th fireworks. Class and good judgment abound.

Rather than scale back the show to meet reduced contributions, like any business would, the CoC is wringing double the normal parking fees out of their customers and clients.

Kootenai County now has exacerbated this folly by granting the CoC exclusive rights to the free County Building parking lot so the merchants can charge for parking there also.

Come the Tree Lighting Festivities in November, I anticipate the CoC setting up toll booths and turnstiles to be sure every cent is wrung out of those who are sought after as customers the other 363 days/year.

JOHN McTEAR

Coeur d’Alene