Growth policy comments

I was pleased to see that a good number of valley residents took time to comment on the Flathead County Growth Policy draft last week. I must commend the members of the planning board and planning staff for their diligence, and for being

willing to take the time to listen to the many different points of view. Crafting a visionary document of the scope necessary to anticipate the future growth trends of an area with so much to offer will require the careful consideration of the concerns of all of the members of the community.

I think the most heartening aspect of the hearings on the growth policy for me was to listen to a number of younger people speak out with such clarity and precision about their hopes for the future of the Valley. I was very impressed by what I heard, and so pleased that there were young citizens willing to participate in the process.

Producing a document that provides for sustainable, qualitative growth is only one of the challenges we face which requires the active participation of everyone. Addressing problems that deal with property taxes, health care, energy, and the economy will also be best accomplished if citizens of all ages take pride in being a part of our government. END OF LETTER: Edd Blackler, candidate for HD9, POB 555, Bigfork MT. 59911