COEUR d’ALENE — David Groth has called Coeur d’Alene home since 1982.

He loves this town.

So when he sees and hears all the debates and fights over politics, education and even art, he is disappointed, and, at times, dismayed.

“I’m concerned about our community and some of the turmoil,” said Groth, a member of the Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission. “I’m going to be disappointed in myself if I don’t do something, to say ‘Hey, we’re not just giving away our community.'”

During a recent meeting of the Arts Commission the retired teacher called on the group to take a stand.

“I think we have an opportunity through the Arts Commission to do something positive for a statement of who we are and who we want to be,” Groth said.

Mary Lee Ryba, commission chair, agreed.

“You don’t have to be on one side or the other to come together for art,” she said.

Some things may be up for debate, such as what’s happening at North Idaho College, but there are basic things beyond debate, Groth said.

“Kindness, love, valuing our children, creating an environment in which they can thrive and feel supported,” he said, adding that the recent failure of two Coeur d’Alene School District levy proposals “was a horrible thing.”

There were times, decades ago, that levies passed by wide margins, Groth said, but no more. Now, they are closely vetted and contested.

“The environment is changing, as you know,” Groth said.

“We should not just sit back and say, ‘Take our town. Do what you want,’” he said.

Groth said it’s going to be a “collection of little things that make a difference.”

“Celebratory, not accusatory,” Groth said.

He recalled that decades ago, when the Aryan Nations had a presence in the area and a compound at Hayden Lake, the community rallied together against the white supremacist group and eventually brought about its demise.

“I think we need something like that right now,” Groth said. “This force feels even bigger than that.”

Amy Evans, city council member who is a liaison for the Arts Commission, offered her support.

“I would be happy to stand alongside you and do whatever I could,” she said.

Groth cited past leaders like Scott Reed, Art Manley, Sue Thilo and Sandi Bloem as being examples of the “heart and soul” of Coeur d’Alene. He suggested creating art pieces, perhaps posters and postcards, to honor those who truly reflect the town.

He said a welcome sign stating the values of Coeur d’Alene was one way to make it clear what the city stands for.

Activities based in the values of Coeur d’Alene, such as poetry readings and art performances could be held — all with a goal of creating a “different conversation.”

“Changing the narrative,” Groth said.

The commission agreed to look into the idea.

“There’s probably a lot we could do,” Ryba said.

Evans said Coeur d’Alene has a “rich history of coming together" in tough times.

“We’ve seen it time and time again,” she said.