Our Viewpoint: A good example

A couple weeks ago, I wrote on the lost art of communication. It seems more arguing gets done during some public meetings than actual work.

Last week as citizens and commissioners debated the issue of whether or not to have local candidates list political party affiliation on ballots, there was productive discourse and it gave me hope.

Jim Elliott of Trout Creek and Greg Hinkle of Thompson Falls, who historically identify with opposite political parties, weren’t so divided in that meeting. A long-time Republican and a long-time Democrat had a discussion that was based on respect. They set a good example for the dozen or so community members in the commissioners’ conference room.

Something I often express to people is that not every decision should be unanimous all the time. Sanders County may not be so racially diverse, but we are diverse in our political thinking, in our economic status, and in our core values. That means not everyone will get along and agree 100% of the time. But that doesn’t mean that people can’t compromise, come to agreements and leave discussions or meetings while still having respect for each other.

People need to be informed and ask questions. But stirring the pot and raising voices to the point that meetings abruptly end are not ways to move forward.

Thanks to Jim and Greg for being good role models in public meetings, for presenting thoughtful comments and caring about the people of Sanders County. I don’t care whether you’re a Republican or a Democrat or a farmer or a salesperson. Just be respectful.

— Annie Wooden