I attended the Coeur d’Alene City Council candidate forum Oct. 3. Elaine Price and Christie Wood running for Ron Edinger’s Seat 1 spoke first.

Elaine stated her qualifications to be “an average citizen” followed by her beliefs in “less government.” (Seems noteworthy she wants to become part of something she wants less of.) I listened carefully but found no experience or leadership qualities she would bring to this position. I felt there must be more to her story.

After Ms. Price spoke, her opponent, Christie Wood, stated her qualifications, her desire to serve this city with honor and experience. She spoke of serving our country in the Air Force, years of service as a Coeur d’Alene Police Officer, her volunteer leadership positions with the Human Rights Institute, as well as North Idaho College.

Ms. Price and her supporters are now trying to describe Ms. Wood as a “political insider.” Does service to our country and risking your life in the line of police duty fit that description? I think not. At the conclusion of their presentation, Elaine Price walked directly in the audience to the immediate congratulatory, backslapping praise of Mr. Brent Regan. My question may have been answered. We are judged by the company we keep.

Is Elaine running to be independent thinker and serve all the citizens of Coeur d’Alene or someone placed there to follow an agenda and ideology not representative of all Coeur d’Alene citizens? Qualifications matter. Vote Christie Wood.

PAMELA BOUILLON

Coeur d’Alene