Concerned citizen recommends you stay informed

On August 15, I wrote a letter to the Hot Springs County Commissioners requesting them to do what I believe is right and moral concerning Michael and Michele Stevens’ Tipi Retreat on the Stevens’ property. The courts had remanded the case back to the County Commissioners. I feel this essentially gave the County Board of Commissioners another chance to do what I believe is the right thing. The August 15 meeting agenda included an item called “Approval of Specific Findings by Board Upon Remand by District Court”. The day before the meeting, I called each commissioner, starting with Paul Galovich, to clarify the item.

 Galovich intended to submit his own response to the Finding of Facts and did so at the meeting. I realize Tom Ryan and Phil Scheel are following the advice of legal counsel. I also think that at this point legal counsel could care less who wins or loses as long as it’s drawn out and expensive.

 After talking to each commissioner I still hoped I could show Ryan and Scheel that I think it’s time to put away the axe, extend an olive branch and start rebuilding bridges. I wrote a letter to try to appeal to their emotions, and also to let them know how I feel about them wasting my money on legal counsel when there are so many other worthwhile projects out there to spend it on (think: water supply or business development).

Both of our letters were presented to Ryan and Scheel during the board meeting. They glanced at them, tucked them away and promptly approved what I believe is an erroneous response to the courts.

 If you haven’t been keeping up on this important issue, inform yourself and form own conclusions. If the Stevens are shut down in this manner, any of us could be next. Let your County Commissioners know how you feel. Laws need to be applied fairly and evenly across the board. Hot Springs County must not be used as a weapon against its residents.

Lara Shook

Editors note: See related story that begins on page 1 of this edition.