COEUR d'ALENE - Watchdog, political activist, author and all around commentator Dan Gookin is running for Seat 3 on the Coeur d'Alene City Council.

It's the third run by the 50-year-old Coeur d'Alene resident for council, but unlike previous years, he might have a big, controversial plank firmly in his platform.

"I think this is the public vote on McEuen Field," Gookin said. "People have wanted a public vote; on Nov. 8, you get your public vote. You can vote for McEuen - you can vote against McEuen - based on who you vote for on city council."

Gookin, who opposed the planning process on the downtown park overhaul and favors putting the conceptual plan up to a public advisory vote, said the controversial, multi-million dollar project has put the city under too much scrutiny not to sway the ballot box one way or another.

"I do think that will be the big issue," he said. "But how that plays out, who knows?"

Putting the issue to a public advisory vote and slowing the progress until costs and financing are nailed down aren't the only things on Gookin's ticket. His platform includes themes from his 2007 and 2009 campaigns, including stronger oversight of the city's urban renewal board, Lake City Development Corp.

"When (LCDC Director) Tony Berns gave the council his annual presentation, not one member asked a single question," he said. "I'd ask some questions."

Gookin said he wouldn't be abrasive or argumentative; he would merely be bringing balance and discussion to the council. Questioning government - both at council meetings and online as a commentator - is what Gookin is perhaps best known for in the community.

"There should always be that watchdog-ism," he said. "Yeah, you're going to do a lot of misses, but people should always be on the lookout."

He doesn't subscribe to the conspiracy that City Hall is corrupt, but said he would like to see more transparency and disclosure on "perceived" conflicts of interest, using the city officials who have property ties near McEuen Field as an example.

Gookin is also known for scrutinizing the city's finances. He said he would keep an eye on all revenues and spending, because if you keep spending in line, taxes take care of themselves.

"The problem with government is everything can be argued to be a good cause," Gookin said about spending. "At some point in time you have to sit down and say, 'Well, wait a second, what's necessary and what's good?'"

He does not support giving city employees raises, regardless if the union contracts call for it, considering the current economic condition.

One other issue that might come front and center this election is the ghost of the 2009 election. That close race went to court, which focused on practically every detail of elections. The court case upheld the incumbent's narrow victory, and Gookin said there's no conspiracy there, either, although it does leave some unanswered questions on the entire process.

"It's time to move on," he said.

Seat 3 is currently held by former mayor Al Hassell, who announced Friday he will not seek re-election.