Dear Commissioners,

Thank you, Commissioners Fillios and Duncan, for your time at the public meeting concerning the future of the Romer Building.

Commissioner Brooks, I had hoped you would attend, as it would have been not only a professional courtesy, but an indication of your commitment to the concerns of the citizens of the county you serve. The “decision” you speak of concerning the historic Romer Building has “been made” on partial information on many fronts and very little, if any, public input and/or comprehensive impact study. That, it stands to reason, is a poorly made “decision.”

The testimony and presentations at the meeting were compelling and well thought through. The alternatives offered were logical and encompassed the needs of all concerned. The citizens of Coeur d’Alene deserve to have a voice with what happens with their tax dollars and the landscape of their historic town. I would submit that you take the testimonies of the citizens, the 350+ signatures on the petitions, and come to the table willing to regroup with a task force. Will you be willing to admit that you did not realize the full extent of the issues surrounding your original plan to build on the Romer site?

It was stated by Commissioner Duncan that “money solves everything.” I believe that humility and integrity, in and out of office, goes a much longer way, and leaves a much greater legacy, than money ever did.

Zoe Ann Thruman, for the neighbors of the Government Way District.

ZOE ANN THRUMAN

Coeur d’Alene