Winds of change
I’ve read many letters about windmills recently, but I’ve missed hearing the views of some of the key players. I’d like to hear more from the farmers considering installing windmills.
We need to hear more from farmers because they play a vital role in the Palouse economy but face escalating challenges. The unpredictable weather exacerbated by climate change means farmers must explore all options to sustain themselves financially. Wind-power income would help.
My nightmare scenario is not windmills but bankrupt farmers, no food and a depressed local economy. I’m not concerned about windmills because other countries operate them successfully. And I think locals will do it as well, if not better, with the accumulated experience of different installations.
However, if the windmill opposition is correct and the absence of windmills is truly valuable, it seems reasonable that the opposition compensates farmers appropriately for blocking this potential income.
Simon Smith
Pullman
New jail is needed
Those who turn up their noses at jails need to remember that without them, where are we?
In our particular situation, without adequate jail space, it’s catch and release. Criminals get a fine that they have no intention of paying or a blemish on a criminal record that they don’t care about at all.
For many of these people, their only concern is that jail time separates them from their drug suppliers. Clarkston city attorney Todd Richardson was right. We have laws and the rule of law must prevail. As “law-abiding” citizens, that is a basic tenant and we must enforce all laws — good or bad — and change the laws that make our situation worse. Jails are not a final solution, but are part of a process of deterrence.
Our community is generous and offers many support opportunities. Yes, we need compassion, but nothing should ever be free or forever. People have to have personal responsibility and make an effort to improve their lot in life. There are jobs, financial assistance and helpful organizations offering all kinds of assistance. And yes, we need affordable housing.
Once the new jail is online and hopefully a deterrent to crime, and we have created temporary shelter options, hope remains that our current situation will change dramatically. In conjunction with the new jail, law enforcement is already working on rehabilitation and educational opportunities.
Compassion, personal responsibility and the rule of law are a package deal, right?
Jack Worle
Clarkston
