Shannon letter: Democracy

The heavy hand of state legislators landed on small Idaho towns on Feb. 19, 2016. The same body which vigorously opposes the federal government interfering in what it considers “state affairs” is not opposed to passing on its brand of “do as I say, not what I do” justice to communities on issues important to their viability. I find it incredulous that little brother (the state), doesn’t want big brother (the feds) meddling, but determines it is OK to beat up baby brother (local communities).

Alas, the bully pulpit is alive and well in Boise. There was, “no harm, no foul” in McCall debating and voting on a minimum wage issue, although it did not pass. We debated, voted and moved forward. There is no greater form of democracy than local citizens petitioning and voting on matters of concern to them.

Unintended consequences will arise from the unapologetic short-sightedness of the Legislature as it intensifies its choke-hold on local self-determination. I believe the legislators prefer to kowtow to powerful lobby groups and special-interest-driven legislation rather than deal with real problem solving. This is a classic absurdity, “The Legislature is imposing their point — but it is our village.”

This story was originally published March 8, 2016 at 6:09 PM with the headline "Shannon letter: Democracy."