Local citizens express support for former P&Z administrator

Dear Editor:

 As citizens of Washington County, we are disappointed in the decision to rescind the moratorium that was briefly put into place by our county commissioners.

 We truly believe that both sides of this issue are somewhat confused about what the intent of the building permits and land splits are, so why not take some time to figure out the problem.

 Instead, we received mixed information and unrest, with people taking sides without stopping to understand the issues at play.

 Due to the turmoil, we lost our P&Z administrator Bonnie Brent-Dowell. Bonnie grew up in Weiser and has been employed by Washington County for 7½ years. Bonnie possesses all the qualities of an excellent employee: professional, knowledgeable, hard-working, and friendly. She learned from the ground up, and our P&Z was in good hands with her as our administrator.

 When the issue of land splits began to develop, Bonnie pushed back and questioned the process of providing building permits that did not correspond with our State and County codes.

 She could not get a straight answer from either the county commissioners or the prosecuting attorney, but was told to issue and sign her name to building permits that she questioned.

 Yes, you can say she resigned, but let there be no mistake that she was basically forced out of her job. No support, lawsuit threats, and lack of direction. What would you do?

 Who will be the next county employee to exit under these conditions, and then to be replaced by someone with little or no experience.

Ray Laan

Harry Soulen,

Weiser, Idaho