Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Page One News at a Glance
A primary election for county commissioner will be held Tuesday, April 3 for Districts 1, 4 and 5. Howard Lyons is running opposed in District 5 in the primary. There will be no primary elections for Districts 2 and 3 following a District Court injunction. Below, you will find information on primary candidates in the running for seats Districts 1 and 4. All voters, regardless of what district they reside in, may cast a vote for each district seat.
District 1
Steve Hall, Republican
Profile: Steve Hall, age 54, Republican candidate for District 1
Profession: Teamster Operator for Missoula County Road Department. I have many years of construction experience a decade in the petroleum business and I was a wild lands firefighter.
Years in County: Ravalli County 9 years, 30 years in the local area, and I am a 3rd generation Montanan.
Civic experience: Co-founder of The Florence Coalition Against Aspen Springs, member of the Masonic Lodge #28 in Stevensville, Missoula County High School Rodeo Club administrator for 3 years.
Education: K-12 in Helena, College at the University of Montana.
Family: Wife Deb, RN at St Patrick Hospital, son Ty, student at Florence Carlton Middle School, daughter Katie Petersen and her husband Jeremiah, and daughter Lara Grover and her husband Garrick. One granddaughter, Mikayla, and one on the way.
Q: What are your thoughts on the current efforts to implement comprehensive zoning and planning?
A: From what I have seen at the zoning meetings I attended, I feel confident that we are on the right road for establishing zoning criteria. It needs to be noted however, that public involvement is crucial to the success of these efforts. Tools are being reviewed and should soon start to be put in place; committees will bring these tools to the public so everyone concerned should stay tuned and be prepared to move foreword. Compromise will be imperative to show results and keep forging ahead so citizens should be polite, professional and patient.
The Board of County Commissioners must support the effort by extending interim zoning and approving the funding and human resources necessary to complete zoning by November 8, 2008. The people of Ravalli County want this work completed and we should not let them down.
Q: Streamside setbacks -- what are your thoughts?
A: Montana law provides regulation of streambeds and lakeshores but has left regulation of streamside areas to local government. I welcome all input into this discussion, however scientific and historic data needs to be closely reviewed. Buffers need to be considered for protection of wildlife and water habitat. Establishing streamside setbacks will be a significant challenge for Ravalli County as this is not a "one size fits all" proposition. We must carefully consider this issue.
Q: How will you address the county's budget problems?
A: The budget review is a collaborative effort between Commissioners and other department officials. State laws dictate part of the county budget; however experienced county personnel and historical budgets will significantly aid the Commissioners in their decisions. Budgets must balance throughout the county.
More importantly, each Department must be solvent and collect fees in line with the services they provide to prevent taxpayers from footing the bill.
Q: Are impact fees a solution? Why or why not?
A: Our roads, schools, and emergency services are all impacted by development and Ravalli County residents should not suffer a decrease in service as a result. Impact fees have the potential to significantly affect the funding problems of many county departments. They are not a panacea, or a "cure all" for our past problems of funding, but will stabilize the downward spiral we have witnessed in the past due to growth.
Q: Any other issues?
A: Ravalli County needs to provide landowners with a clear vision of future development. Regulations need to be clear and concise for developers to be able to predict proposals that will receive approval. A clear plan will also provide landowners with certainty about future development in their neighborhoods. The greatest challenge facing Ravalli County is creating that certainty for both. The best opportunity we have before us at this time is to complete and implement county wide zoning.
Q: Anything else you wish to say?
A: Funding as well as growth is crucial to the future of Ravalli County. We must be creative in our thinking and understand we cannot put all of our efforts into a very few ideas. Proactive energy will be able to send us to the future with a stable economy and using all of our resources, we have the ability to make county government solvent while still maintaining our quality of life.
I have represented many of you these past two years and want to continue this representation for the betterment of our beautiful valley. Future generations are dependent on each of us for the decisions we make now. Please vote.
Dave Hurtt, Republican
Profile: Dave Hurtt, Republican candidate for District 1
Background: Missoula native, graduate of Montana State University in Bozeman to include a commission in US Army. Leadership military training in Airborne and Ranger schools and assigned as an Armored Infantry Platoon Leader in Germany for three years 1954-1957.
Lived in Florence area, involved in ranching 50 years since 1957. Purchased our own ranch in 1964 and developed a purebred cattle operation. Active past years as Florence Carlton church treasurer and Sunday school teacher. Served as Florence Carlton school board member, and was president of the Florence Carlton PTA. 4H leader 16 years. President of Montana (Simmental) cattle organization. President of Concerned About Grizzlies. Active in Ravalli county Republican organizations.
Family: Wife, Dolores, of 24 years. Three children of my own, all educated at the Florence school and now working out of state. Three step children and their spouses, all educated, living and working in Ravalli county. Wife is an entrepreneur in her own right having built and developed the retail Dollhouse on the ranch property.
Education: see above
Q: What are you thoughts on the current efforts to implement comprehensive zoning and planning?
A: Growth needs planning and the County has already implemented the Growth Policy. Zoning should be done in local communities, because "one size fits all" is not a logical solution. Zoning must be done in a manner the protects individual property rights.
Q: Streamside setbacks -- what are your thoughts?
A: Again, "one size fits all" is not realistic, and each waterway needs to be reviewed on an individual basis, since size and flow differ greatly.
Q: How will you address the county's budget problems?
A: County budget has been balanced during the past several years, and must continue that way. Unfortunately, to maintain a balanced budget, there may have to be some reduction in services and staff if there is a loss of federal funds, or other revenue.
Q: Are impact fees a solution? Why or why not?
A: Some limited impact fees may be necessary. However, many of the impacts of a large subdivision are internal, within that development, such as roads and septic, and do not impact county services. There may be some impact on the schools, but ANB money is provided by state law. School districts should not look upon a development as a "Golden Goose" and expect new developments to cure their financial ills.
Q: Any other issues?
A: Health and safety of county residents is of prime importance. An upcoming issue will be development of some type of community college, whether locally controlled, or as a branch of the U of M in Missoula.
Q: Anything else you wish to say?
A: This upcoming election is of utmost importance in determining the direction Ravalli county will take in the immediate as well as distant future.
Rich Marcus, Democrat
Profile: Rich Marcus, age 55, Democratic candidate for District 1
Profession: 7 years as a Landscaper & Lawn Care Contractor.35 years as a successful self-employed businessman.
Civic experience: Stevensville Main Street Assoc. as an active member on several committees. Stevensville Community Foundation as a volunteer. Ravalli County Democratic Central Committee as an active member.
Education: College graduate.
Family: Married 22 years, father of four, and custodial parent of our four year old grandson.
Q: What are your thoughts on the current efforts to implement comprehensive zoning and planning?
A: It's about time! My first experience with the Bitterroot was 37 years ago and we needed it then. Over the years there have been several attempts to institute a planning/growth plan but the Commissioners never seemed to want it enforced. Now, I think the whole community is so angry, divided and threatened, that the Commissioners will finally support, and let the process proceed. My thanks to the devoted volunteers on the various committees that are rallying the people for their input.
I often use a quote from a Hollywood movie "Operation Petticoat." "There is profit in chaos." Think about it!
Q: Streamside Setbacks?
A: Minimum 150' streamside setbacks for all new structures. If you would like a variance, than at your expense provide the scientific survey (prepared by a certified expert) to the Planning Board explaining your request. In addition, provide an insurance bond of sufficient value to protect the downstream public if you are wrong.
Q: How will you address the county's budget problem?
A: Squeeze the nickel first. Combine departments, cancel underused programs, centralize purchasing, and create a motor pool. Have annual employee performance reviews. Hire a County Administrator and begin to delegate authority.
Q: Are impact fees a solution? Why or why not?
A: Impact fees help, but they are not the solution. For all practical purposes an 'impact fee' is a one time tax on a builder/developer to cover the effect of additional population on a community. However, they do not solve the budget problems or cover the costs of ongoing community services and government. Most responsible builder/developers don't mind paying these fees provided they can actually see that the community has benefited. In other words, "If you took money from me to fix the road... then fix the road!"
Q: Any other issues?
A: (1) Concerning the growth issue; we need to pay more attention to controlling the water, especially who own (or are buying) the surface water rights.
(2) As a candidate, I have repeatedly said that there is a lot more to our county government besides the issue of the zoning policy, like: Roads, Budget, the Sheriff's Dept., the Court System, Water, etc. I bring 35 years of business experience, a strong work ethic, and problem solving skills to the table. As your Commissioner my agenda is to work for all the people of Ravalli County.
James Rokosch, Democrat
Profile: James E. Rokosch, age 52, Democratic candidate for District 1.
Profession: Biologist
Years in County: 24
Civic Experience: (Montana) Three Mile Fire Department & Quick Response Unit; Lone Rock School Board; Three Mile-Lone Rock Community Foundation (Founding Board of Directors); Friends of the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge (Founding Board of Directors); Lone Rock Citizens for Responsible Growth (Founding Steering Group); Trout Unlimited; American Fisheries Society; Montana Wildlife Federation; Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation; Clark Fork Coalition; Bitter Root Water Forum
Education: University of Illinois: Bachelor of Science Degree (Major-Biology, Minor-Chemistry), University of Montana: Graduate work in environmental science and natural resource management
Family: Married 23 years: Wife's name - Lori; Children - Joshua (19), Joseph (14), Jennifer (8)
Q: What are your thoughts on the current efforts to implement comprehensive zoning and planning?
A: I agree with the Planning Department's workplan to implement comprehensive countywide zoning and planning that will implement our growth policy. I participated in development of the workplan through my involvement in the Planning Board's Land Use subcommittee and Public Involvement subcommittee. I applaud the board members, the department staff, and the participating citizens for the hard work that has made this comprehensive countywide zoning effort a reality. Zoning basically boils down to: How much of what kind of development should occur where, at what rate, and for how long?
The commissioners should have led this effort years ago immediately following the adoption of the growth policy, as most of us expected. Now, they should embrace the citizen-initiated and citizen-driven countywide planning and zoning effort underway, facilitate it, expedite it, and get it done. I believe we all want to move beyond the temporary 1 per 2 regulation to a comprehensive land use plan that balances growth with sustaining our quality of life.
Q: Streamside setbacks - what are your thoughts?
A: The Planning Department and Planning Board have recommended to the Commission the formation of an advisory committee that would equally represent private development and public resource conservation interests. This committee would develop recommendations for streamside buffers and setbacks, and I believe the committee should function as part of the comprehensive countywide zoning effort now underway. Representatives from the Ravalli County Fish and Wildlife Association and Bitterroot Trout Unlimited should be included as named organizations to represent public resource conservation interests and balance participation by the Bitterroot Building Association and the Ravalli County Board of Realtors. Both of these conservation organizations have been working on streamside setbacks for nearly 3 years and need to be included, not excluded.
The specific distance(s) for setbacks should be based on sound science, and should be practical to enforce. The distances should integrate considerations of hydrology, geomorphology, and biology. The distances should be sufficient to protect channel and stream-bank integrity, water quality, fisheries, and wildlife habitat. The specific distances should be sufficient to protect a landowner's safety and property without increasing the costs of insurance or necessitating expensive measures to try and control the natural functioning of the stream channel.
Q: How will you address the county's budget problems?
A: Unplanned and poorly managed residential development is straining every component of the county budget. A comprehensive countywide zoning plan that is long-term and adaptive is the best solution to increase efficiency and effectiveness of county government. I am committed to implementing our growth policy through the citizen-driven planning effort now underway.
The county should be pursuing ways to leverage existing funding to generate additional matching dollars from other sources. There are multiple federal sources of funds, along with private foundations, that could benefit the county by developing partnerships with other entities that have mutual interests.
The county needs to reexamine its entire fee structure. The Planning Department is a good example. Presently, subdivision fees are not even covering half the cost of processing the applications.
The establishment of the Economic Development Authority is a significant step forward, and should be further encouraged. An economic development plan that focuses on commercial and business development versus residential development will generate a better ratio of tax revenue produced per cost of services and infrastructure required. We need to promote economic development, including post-secondary education, that attracts clean, sustainable, and diverse components of a stable economy.
Q: Are impact fees a solution? Why or why not?
A: Fair impact fees must be developed and implemented. The costs of growth should be chiefly paid by those profiting from that growth. The costs of growth should not be borne on the backs of existing residents and taxpayers. The costs for both additional infrastructure (eg. water supply and treatment, schools) and services (eg. police and fire protection) need to be apportioned more fairly to those receiving the most benefit. A fee structure that incorporates incentives to developers can be established to help direct growth to occur where it will have fewer negative impacts on those of us already living here.
Q: Any other issues?
A: I believe last November voters made it clear they wanted more accountable government and more responsible growth.
I believe the foundation of accountable government is citizen involvement and public participation. And it takes work, hard work, by elected representatives to achieve that participation. Elected officials need to look, listen, learn, and lead - and I will. I will look for your input. I will listen to your needs and concerns. I will learn from your ideas and experience. And I will lead with your support. That's my pledge to you - I will look, listen, learn, and lead.
I believe growth can be responsible. It can be balanced, healthy, smart, and fair. However, I cannot characterize the growth we have been experiencing, and that is being thrust upon us, as balanced, healthy, smart, and least of all - fair. I am your best choice to bring balance to the challenges of growth. We can balance growth with sustainable quality of life. We can balance prosperous private enterprise with the protection of public resources. We can balance economic diversity with environmental and social diversity. We can balance fair profits and tax relief. We can balance private rights with public responsibility.
That balance can only be achieved with active citizen involvement in an effort towards consensus. That consensus can only be achieved through honest communication, a willingness to cooperate and seek the common ground, and some level of compromise. I am your best choice for balance and consensus.
Q: Anything else you wish to say?
A: God has blessed this country and this valley, and I feel blessed to live here. I believe one of God's greatest gifts to mankind is our free will - our right to choose. The founders of our nation recognized that right in our constitution. Along with that right to choose comes the responsibility to exercise it. My father fought for that freedom and suffered from that fight the rest of his life. Many of his friends died for that freedom. Many of our fellow American men and women are laying their lives on the line right now believing in that freedom. I've tried to honor their sacrifice all my life through public service - I'm trying to do it now. I'm doing it because I feel the responsibility to exercise the freedom for which so many have sacrificed so dearly.
Please, no matter what your political persuasion - Republican, Democrat, Independent or other, we are Americans, and I believe there is more that binds us together than that which acts to pull us apart. Please vote in the elections April 3rd and June 5th. Please honor the right and the responsibility we all share living in the land of the free and the home of the brave.
Vicky Varichak, Democrat
Profile: Vicky Varichak, Democratic candidate for District 1
Background: Employed by Western Montana Addiction Services (branch of Western Montana Mental Health Center) as a Licensed Addiction Counselor, I supervise the Montana A. C. T. (DUI) program in the Hamilton office. I Also provide prevention services countywide.
Family: Husband - George R. Varichak, Daughter - Thea Varichak (3 cats, two dogs and a turtle)
Education: B. A, Psychology, University of Washington 1987, Magna Cum Laude
Q: What are you thoughts on the current efforts to implement comprehensive zoning and planning?
A: I think that it's good that it is finally a priority and is getting done - I don't think it would have happened or will be completed without the interim "2 for 1" in place. I have some concerns about how zoning decisions will be made with data regarding water resources which is 50 years old!
Q: Streamside setbacks - what are your thoughts?
A: The state's suggested setbacks are 250 feet from major rivers and 150 for smaller streams, I think that these should be the standard UNTIL a more comprehensive study can be made in the county to address the individual character of our waterways.
Q: How will you address the county's budget problems?
A: We need to develop a broad-based income strategy which includes seeking grants and developing county assets which could generate some funds independently. I think that there are many creative solutions in the minds of people in this county and we need to reach out to them and LISTEN to their ideas.
Q: Are impact fees a solution? Why or why not?
A: I don't think that impact fees alone are a solution, but I do think they are part of the solution. If the standard projection that the property tax of new development alone only pays for $1.00 of every $1.45 of the cost to the existing infrastructure is accurate, we need to find a way to have new development absorb that initial cost and not pass it along to the current established taxpayers.
Q: Any other issues?
A: I have deep concerns for the youth of our county, we NEED the opportunities a Community College will offer and more than that we need to develop other opportunities for young adults to have alternative recreation to using alcohol and drugs.
Q: Anything else you wish to say?
A: I think that my real contribution as a County Commissioner will be to bring the skills I have in my profession to that office and facilitate better communication between the County Commissioners and the Citizens of Ravalli County and nurture the collaboration of people who seem to be constantly in conflict, to develop mutual goals and projects. All people have one major desire; get their Needs met. We have to focus on how those needs can be best met without destroying what we love about the Bitterroot Valley.
District 4
Kathleen Driscoll, Democrat
Profile: Kathleen Driscoll, Democratic Candidiate in District 4
Background: I grew up here with my 7 siblings; I'm a fourth generation Montanan. During my former husband's military career, I traveled extensively. This is the only place I've ever called home and I returned to it in 1990.
Relevant Experience: Eight years experience in investment and financial banking; coordinated the local base facilities for military families; self employed business woman for 25 years; managed national network of independent business women for twenty years; several years of training in leadership, management, and team building; established a local nursing partnership.
Civic Experience: State Level Board Appointments by three Montana governors, both Democratic and Republican; State Board of Sanitarians; Vice Chair of Mental Disabilities of Board of Visitors; Vice Chair of National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI) Montana; NAMI Provider Education Course Instructor Family to Family education course instructor Anti Stigma Coordinator for State of Montana (past); NAMI Communications Chair-- State of Montana; Montana Advocacy Program (MAP) Survey committee for Montana County Jail systems; 2007 Leadership Bitterroot Co-Chair of Bitterroot Valley Local Advisory Council for Mental Health Services; Proud of Planning for the Bitterroot member (developed growth policy); Education chair for Ravalli County Growth Policy; Drug Endangered Kids of Ravalli County member 2004-2005; Ravalli County League Of Women Voters’ Board member; Western Area Service Authority Board member; American Legion Aux.; Corvallis 91 Land Use Subcommittee participant (Ravalli County Zoning and Planning); Bitterroot Valley River Setback committee; Lifelong member St .Francis Catholic Church
Family: My immediate family includes three grown sons Kelly, Brian and Timothy. Brian, who was severely disabled in a bicycle accident in his teens, two dogs, Reilly and Shamus and 2 cats, Ms. Tori and Ms. Callie share my home.
Education: Graduated Hamilton High School 1972, attended Colorado Community College with course emphasis in accounting, extensive training in management and leadership, Broker's license since 1991, Ethics training, problem solving and mediation, Family to Family education series, Provider education series
Q: What are you thoughts on the current efforts to implement comprehensive zoning and planning?
A: I believe that the primary function of zoning is to provide predictability as the valley grows. Predictability protects our biggest personal investments: our homes and businesses from ugly surprises being built next door. I support a process that includes extensive, thoughtful input from our citizens.
A year ago several members of the planning board initiated the formation of the Land Use Subcommittee. I've attended the subcommittee meetings regularly as they've pulled together knowledge and expertise to produce a document that will provide a solid starting point for zoning in the county. Citizens from each school district will be asked for their input in implementing zoning that they consider appropriate for their area. These ideas will be consolidated and brought to the county citizens as whole before countywide zoning is adopted.
Again, zoning brings predictability. Predictability protects property values and brings peace of mind.
Q: Streamside setbacks - what are your thoughts?
A: I want simple, clean setbacks. It's possible to make things so complicated, that no one without a team of lawyers will be able to figure out where they can build. That's why I went to Helena to testify in favor of Senate Bill 345, the Montana Stream Legacy Act. I support the setbacks outlined in the bill: 250 feet for the Bitterroot River and 150 feet for its major tributary streams. It's simple, clean, doesn't impact agriculture, safeguards fishing and hunting, protects property rights, shields naive new-comers from building in locations vulnerable to flooding and ensures that our waterways our truly ours to enjoy. SB 345 also includes the freedom to develop local regulations to personalize and augment the state regulations. The Bitterroot River and the streams that feed it belong to all of us. They are vital to our lives and our economy. Protecting community property rights through streamside setbacks are appropriate and fair.
Q: How will you address the county's budget problems?
A: I am the only candidate who has regularly attended county budget meetings over the past four years. Saving money begins at the top, and by example. I know the budget and am eager to advocate for change. I will listen closely to suggestions by department heads’ on how to streamline their budgets. I will also be receptive to hearing from the "boots on the ground." No county employee need fear retribution for honestly expressing ideas and concerns.
I will actively lobby to pass workable impact fee legislation at the state level so counties can more easily access funds to cover new development. Current impact regulations are nearly impossible to implement. It takes enthusiasm, leadership and commitment to tackle budget issues. I'm eager to begin.
Q: Are impact fees a solution? Why or why not?
A: This is a question of fairness. It is unfair to ask established residents to subsidize new development. At the same time, new development impact fees must be used for the projects they are charged for, not just lumped into the General Fund, as is currently the practice with road pro-rata fees.
In addition to roads and schools, impact fees for public safety should be a priority. Our departments’ budgets must keep pace with the demands created by new growth. Ensuring that new development pays its way, as well as making sure these fees are spent appropriately, is a priority of mine.
Q: Any other issues?
A: Ineffective, dysfunctional leadership in the county commissioner's office is our largest problem. I will work to bring people together: citizens, businesses, workers, the forest service, the state, and our beautiful hometowns. It is imperative that disparate groups develop a commitment to community. As much as I love this valley, we have major differences. It will take dedicated leaders to begin mending our fractured community. Our current leadership leaves people feeling insecure and vulnerable. Weaknesses rather than strengths are emphasized in this climate. Once we recognize that poor leadership in the commissioner's office is our root problem and vote to remedy it, it will be possible to work constructively on other issues such as growth management, road maintenance, financial stability and community cohesiveness.
Q: Anything else you wish to say?
A: The County Commissioner leadership has led to a dysfunctional county. Despite this, we still have talented, committed county employees that work diligently to provide our most essential services. Beginning with this solid base and along with open, honest leaders and our knowledgeable citizenry with their deep love for this valley, we can create a vibrant, livable community that our grandchildren will be proud to call home.
DeAnne Harbaugh, Democrat
Profile: DeAnne Harbaugh, Democratic candidate for District 4
Background: President, Hamilton City Council - Manager & Director for Red Cross Program - PR work for International Environ. Health Conference - English & Art Teacher - Director of a program with 8 employees & 156 clients - Worked for: Resource Community & Dev. / Human Resource Council / County Court House / Bitterroot Forest Service / Soil Conservation Service
Education: B.S. Degree in English/Art/Education - with a year at Master's level
Q: What are your thoughts on the current efforts to implement comprehensive zoning and planning?
A: The current efforts to involve the citizens in having a say in zoning & planning for their future and their quality of life here in the Bitterroot Valley is exactly what needs to happen. Yet citizens have spent time out of their lives to do this before. I and many citizens spent over a year in the 70's helping work on a growth plan for the county only to have it methodically dismantled by commissioners and developers after it was passed by an overwhelming majority of people. This process occurred again with the most recent growth policy.
So the key issue here is to elect commissioners who are going to respect and implement what the citizens say they desire and need. That these commissioners will guarantee that they will represent the people and not special interest groups. That these commissioners will not direct or alter the input but insure the input that will protect the health and welfare of the citizens.
Q: Streamside Setbacks - what are your thoughts?
A: Stream setbacks probably need to be a minimum of 300 feet. This takes into consideration the riparian area, the wildlife corridor, and the no-build zone.
Q: How will you address the county's budget problems?
A: Having spent the past year dealing with the financial budget for the city, I would take a detailed look at the budget for all departments. This would need to be done with the commission's involvement and an independent auditor. Elected officials are the watchdogs for the citizens, not staff. We would look for possible mismanagement, mistakes or unwise use of funds. Then we make corrections, curb spending, cut excess, become more efficient and make wiser decisions. There have been decisions in the past which have cost all the citizens but only benefited a few.
Impact fees, processing fees, community developement permits need to be put into place to help offset costs of dealing with growth. Available State and Federal funds/grants need to be monitored. All the pieces go together for the big picture. And all the pieces need to be looked at and tended to.
Q: Are impact fees a solution? Why or why not?
A: They are one element in relation to helping to offset the costs of growth to citizens. The national average for the cost of growth to citizens is that for every $1.00 that comes in (impact fees, permits, etc.) it costs the citizens $1.50. Impact fees go directly to the dept. fund they are collected for and they can only be used for capital improvement for that dept. And if they are not used within a certain time period they must be refunded to the developer.
Though they are of help they are not the final answer in dealing with the costs of growth. It is important that all aspects dealing with growth are monitored and regulated. Such as when Zoning ordinances are adopted, there also needs to be provisions for financial support through permits, processing fees, and such to help with processing time and a county inspector to provide for implementation and regulation.
Q: Any other issues?
A: There are other issues of great importance for the citizens and the future of this valley. The protection of the air we breathe, the water we drink and the natural rural environment of the valley. These must all be addressed and protected if we are going to continue to have the quality of life we so love and desire. Once these are destroyed there will be no going back. There will be no quality of life. This is a vital time in the History of the Bitterroot Valley. The people who are elected in this election are the people who will lay out the process as to whether this valley is protected or if she is ravaged and destroyed.
Q: Anything else you wish to say?
A: I believe in a government of the people, by the people, for the people. It is the grandest gift the citizens of this country ever received. There are people who die every day trying to obtain this form of government for their country. But this form of government, even here, has to be fought for and guarded everytime officials abuse their power.
I have spent my term as a representative arguing for, fighting for, and voting for what is best for all the people. If you elect me, you will get a representative who will work to uphold those rights of all citizens to be represented and to participate in the decisions of the government as stated in our constitution. Guaranteed.
Rick O'Brien, Republican
Profile: Richard (Rick) O'Brien, age 60, Republican Candidate for District 4
Profession: Business Consultant
Years in county: My wife and I purchased our property in Ravalli County in 1987. In 1999 we moved to Hamilton, built our home and have resided here ever since.
Civic Experience: Supporter of the "SAFE" program, advocate for BRV Community College, advocate for RCEDA, member of BPOE Hamilton Elks Lodge #1651
Education: Community college and vocational/business training courses
Family: Wife, two grown children and first grandbaby soon!
Q: What are your thoughts on the current efforts to implement comprehensive zoning and planning?
A: I generally agree with the efforts of the planning department to implement county wide zoning. A recently proposed mega commercial facility has demonstrated how vulnerably unprotected we are without enforceable zoning standards and regulations in place. I also fully support community input and participation in the review stage and believe public involvement should extend throughout this process. However, I also feel that we should strongly consider "outsourcing" of professional firms who specialize in such matters. This would accelerate the process and tend to assuage any legal challenges in the future, i.e., we should practice due diligence.
Q: Streamside setbacks - what are your thoughts?
A: Streamside setbacks from waterways need to be developed using good environmental practices. There is no single answer as to how far the setbacks should be. In most locations, the setback needs to be developed looking at the lay of the land as it relates to the waterway in order to insure that development will not have a negative effect and will maintain the "Quality of Life" for Ravalli County. In some areas, the setbacks will need to be much greater and others less; dependent upon the particular circumstances at each location along the waterway. The county should use its "GIS" skills to develop environmentally sound setbacks for all areas next to waterways and establish these in the same manner as zoning is being proposed for the county. I am of the opinion that this issue should employ the scientific skills of both a hydrologist and a biologist, working in concert, in order to provide their collaborative recommendation(s).
Q: How will you address the county's budget problems?
A: Should we lose federal funding of the Secure Rural Schools Act and the PILT program, we will, in fact, face some dire budgetary consequences. It is common knowledge that some of these federal monies have a sunset clause and/or can be reduced by congress every year. Ravalli County¹s budget is very lean and the county departments have attempted to maintain their services while, at the same time, reduce their operating costs. The commissioners have and must continue to lobby the state, as well as, the federal government for funding to offset the mandated actives of the county by said agencies. Ravalli County has a great amount of governmental lands within the county upon which no taxes are paid - but services are still needed.
In order to fund current levels of services, the Board of County Commissioners should develop a listing of those services which have the highest needs for the residents of the county and then indicate to the residents of the county, which service can be funded and which services are subject to budget cuts and/or elimination. Those actives/functions which the residents believe are of the greatest need will continue to be funded; however, a mil levy increase may be necessitated.
Q: Are impact fees a solution? Why or why not?
A: Developmental impact fee assessment is a "tool" to help offset the increased infrastructure cost(s) as created by the development. It is important to note that impact fees are "one time" payments used to fund capital improvements due to new growth and cannot pertain to operating expenses, per se. As such, I believe that all developments proposed for Ravalli County must be looked at in depth and integrated within a formalized, ever-evolving capital improvement plan (CIP).
Q: Any other issues?
A: Growth Economics - One major area that has not been considered in-depth is cost vs. revenue of projects. Ravalli County must know what the economic impact of projects proposed will have upon the county services and the county's ability to provide such services. We must insure that our county infrastructure is capable of providing increased demand for services as would be generated by the proposed development. A case in point - fees charged by our planning department for large subdivision review(s) and processing should be increased. This department's resources are strained and it is entitled to a reasonable return for the time and energy expended in behalf of the developer. Growth for growth only purposes may not be in the best interests for Ravalli County. If the new growth is to meet a need of Ravalli County and does not cause a negative impact upon county revenues or our overall "Quality of Life" - then those projects should move forward.
Carolyn Weisbecker, Republican
Profile: Carolyn Weisbecker, age 58, Republican Candidate for District 4
Background: Retired Speech Therapist, Active Public Volunteer, Concerned Citizen.
Family: Two grandchildren, two grown children and husband Fred Weisbecker.
Education: B.S. Education, Master of Public Administration
Q: What are your thoughts on the current efforts to implement comprehensive zoning and planning?
A: We must have a long range plan. Part of my Master of Public Administration degree was devoted to developing adequate long range plans for County Services. In office I will try to provide other Commissioners with information about how plans have been developed in other communities, offer a time line based plan for us to follow and make sure this critical piece of our plan moves forward.
The plan currently includes building heights, setbacks, subdivision regulations and general land use plans. This includes where commercial districts are located, density and specific protections for natural resources, rivers and streams.
I support intelligent managed growth as a means of protecting our quality of life. As the planning process moves forward in Ravalli County I will work to make certain the concerns of all citizens are heard.
Q: Streamside Setbacks - what are your thoughts?
A: For protection of newly constructed houses and protecting the natural functionality of the river residential setbacks on the Bitterroot River and its tributaries should include considerations for the floodplain, river bank instability, riparian protection and sanitation and include an adequate setback from the edge of the buffer zone.
Ravalli County should establish their own stream setbacks because if state mandated setbacks go into effect landowners lose their rights of due process. During a local zoning process, a landowner has the right to protest. We must accept the responsibility for a workable plan for our community: a plan that uses the best science, a reasonable method of applying that science and a method that will protect the rights of private property owners as well as the wildlife we share our valley with.
Q: How will you address the county's budget problems?
A: I am the only candidate that has formal education in the management of County Government. I completed a Master of Public Administration degree at Idaho State University in 2005 and used the budgeting text book written by the International City/County Management Association. We studied taxation, bonding, planning, budgeting for capital improvements and use of accounting principles. For a through understanding of the budget of county government I will draw on this training and other courses from my degree.
I also served on the Board of Directors for a manufacturing firm and from that position did strategic planning for over twenty years on an annual budget that exceeded $12 million.
This county is experiencing some very complex issues and my educational experience along with my work experience will enable me to work with everyone involved and lead change in the management of Ravalli County's budget.
Q: Are impact fees a solution? Why or why not?
A: Impact fees are part of the solution. The current impact fee law in the Montana Code allows collection of fees only on capital improvements with a useful life of ten or more years. Buildings and increasing the service capacity of sewer systems and roads are included but cars and employees are not. Neither is the cost of developing the required study to impose impact fees.
While funding employee salaries is clearly not included and cars for law enforcement that will last ten years are as rare as fresh dinosaur eggs the current law could be used for future planning of city and county municipal capacities like water and sewer systems that would be adequate to meet the needs of our growing population and the much needed 9-1-1 center.
As we move forward in applying this new law (MCA 2005 7-6-1601, -1602 and -1603) we should document problems that can not be solved with impact fees as well as difficulties working with the law as it is written. With that information we can look to the legislature for support of some changes in 2009.
Q: Any other issues?
A: Firewise building codes must be implemented for the urban interface.
For three years I served on the Ravalli County Resource Advisory Committee for the Bitterroot National Forest. We administered PILT funds in the form of Grants for activities that impacted the Valley and Forest lands. Several proposals during those years addressed concerns of the potential for fire in the urban interface and in every case they were funded by unanimous vote.
These are threats to citizens and property that can be lessened by good planning. These will help protect homeowners, land developers and fire fighters in preventative measures against fire.
Q: Anything else you wish to say?
A: Ravalli County needs leadership. We need five strong principled leaders, capable of making long range plans and sound decisions that meet the goals of our community: Commissioners who will listen to and work with the public, negotiate agreement and convince people that the time to solve problems is now.
As your elected County Commissioner I pledge to: read and analyze the law and history related to issues, to listen to your concerns as you share unique historical perspectives, to gather support from Stakeholders on both sides and then provide real leadership for Ravalli County and the Commission as decisions are made.
Gary Zebrowski, Republican
Gary Zebrowski has withdrawn from the commissioner's race due to personal issues.
"I wish to thank all of you for your support and kind and encouraging words. I apologize for having to leave this race as I know some have already voted for me as part of the absentee ballot, and others believed I was a strong candidate and would have made a good commissioner. I do not remove myself from this race lightly, but it was necessary," said Zebrowski.
Back to top
|
