Are you as tired as I am of the theatrics and shenanigans of Steve Bradshaw and Dan MacDonald as I am? If so, there is a good and viable alternative. Steve Johnson is the right man to bridge the disunity prevalent Bonner County politics. He is a fiscal conservative. He is honest and, very importantly, he has a reputation for being a good listener. He has lived and worked in Bonner County for more than 60 years, which gives him insight into the needs of the people in our county.

He uses common sense in his approach to solutions for what he sees as the major problems we face, which are: expanding and improving educational opportunities aimed at attracting business that will provide good jobs; improving recycling programs; revisiting planning and zoning, especially where growth is concerned, and finally, doing something positive about affordable housing. Of special concern to him are specific issues.

The first is addressing the waste of taxpayer money and conflict created by Steve Bradshaw and Dan MacDonald evidenced by the frivolous lawsuit against the city and the Festival at Sandpoint, a suit driven by their overly large sense of grievance and desire to create division. The cost of that suit could have been spent improving infrastructure or offsetting the financial damage wrought by COVID-19.

The second is the need to bring unity to our community. The job of a county commissioner is to manage the county infrastructure, not squander time and money on unnecessary ideological battles, especially when they are provoked by said commissioner.

Next, and of special concern to Steve, is to respect all citizens, including their input, while acknowledging the institutions which have worked so hard and acted only in good faith to protect us from COVID-19. These include the Panhandle Health District, which is an apolitical organization, our medical community and law enforcement. Steve also wishes to acknowledge the efforts of Governor Little who has led the state in its battle against the viral scourge and protected many lives by doing so.

He deeply believes in transparency. His other item of special concern is stopping the proposed land zone change for asphalt plants, mining and other industrial activities until there is a thorough review with much public input.

If you want a common sense, respectful conservative who will bring integrity and decorum back to the office of County Commissioner, then do as I am going to do and vote for Steve Bradshaw.  

ILENE BELL

Sandpoint