Letters to the editor Aug. 31

Where’s the beef (coming from?)

President Trump announced recently that up to 300,000 metric tons of beef used for ground beef will enter the U.S. without triggering higher, out-of-quota tariffs over the next 90 days. Trump stated the imported meat would be sold 25% below market price. He has not said which country is supplying it, thus flooding the market with mystery meat. He claims this will lower consumer prices while giving American ranchers time to rebuild their herds.

Importing tons of foreign hamburger to lower grocery prices may sound good in the short term, but it does nothing to strengthen America’s cattle industry.

Ranchers can’t simply produce more cattle in 90 days. Rebuilding herds takes years. A friend and local cattleman jokingly said, “I guess my herd will be producing litters now since I’m expected to increase my herd in just three months.”

If we want to have lower prices at the grocery store and simultaneously increase American grown beef, we should give American ranchers incentives to raise more cattle — not undermine the market with increased imports.

Lower prices today shouldn’t come at the expense of a weaker American cattle industry tomorrow.

Find a local rancher and buy Montana beef!

— Marsha Zell Anson, Polson

Koch for HD 4

I spent 29 years as a teacher in Columbia Falls. During that time I saw firsthand the challenges Montana educators face, especially when it comes to earning a salary that allows them to build a life in the communities where they teach.

I watched high-quality teachers leave our schools because they knew they would never be able to afford a home on a teacher’s salary. These were dedicated professionals who loved their students and their communities, but loving your job doesn’t pay the mortgage.

Paula Koch understands this challenge. As a lifelong Montanan, she believes in the importance of public education and recognizes that we need to find a more sustainable way to fund our schools. We cannot continue to rely so heavily on property taxes to meet the needs of our communities.

I understand the dilemma. Property values have skyrocketed, and asking homeowners to shoulder an ever-increasing property tax burden can feel like too much. At the same time, our school districts shouldn’t have to beg for adequate funding, and our teachers shouldn’t have to choose between staying in a profession they love and being able to afford a home.

How do we adequately fund our schools and provide livable salaries for teachers without placing an unreasonable burden on taxpayers?

That’s the kind of problem-solving Paula will bring to Helena. She is committed to understanding all sides of an issue, listening to the people she represents, and finding solutions that strengthen our communities and work for all Montanans.

After 29 years in Montana classrooms, I know the importance of having someone in Helena who understands both the value of public education and the realities facing Montana families.

Paula Koch is that person. Vote for Paula Koch for House District 4.

— Sherri Nissen, Whitefish

In defense of the DMV

I’ve read a couple of recent letters complaining about the Department of Motorized Vehicles in Kalispell and want to defend them. 

The people with whom I have interacted are polite and knowledgeable. The appointment system works well and avoids wasted time. The website clearly spells out all the requirements. 

If you move here from out of state, have your act together; don’t blame the people behind the counter because you don’t have all the proper documents.

­— Steve Regis, Lakeside