BLUAC's future

This letter is in response to the article in the Jan. 19 issue of the Bigfork Eagle titled "Commissioners dismiss Hollinger, Calaway from BLUAC." Mr. Calaway was quoted as saying, "It's people from out of state and retirees trying to get control of the BLUAC to stop growth in Bigfork. They are trying to railroad locals out of the committee." First, I would like to say that yes, I am retired. Yes, I am from out of state, but no, I am not against growth. I am, however, in favor of planned growth. I am not trying to control BLUAC or attempting to "railroad" locals out of the committee. I find it absolutely astounding that Mr. Calaway made these statements in view of the fact that he plans to reapply and run for an elected position on BLUAC. Mr. Calaway, have you looked at the demographics of Bigfork lately?

Second, I would like to comment on Mr. Calaway's statement regarding his planning and zoning experience. I have not heard anyone dispute Mr. Calaway's qualifications. The reason Mr. Calaway was dismissed from the BLUAC board was based on the fact that Mr. Calaway failed to attend five meetings during a calendar year in violation of BLUAC's, Policy and Procedures Manual. The fact that Mr. Calaway has planning and zoning experience does nothing to enhance the effectiveness of the board if he doesn't attend the meetings. In accordance with the by-laws, BLUAC meets once a month and the typical meeting lasts approximately one to two hours. The adage, "something is better than nothing" does not apply in this case. Positions are now elected, not appointed, so the "good ole boy" monopoly has lost its control, and any qualified Bigfork resident has an opportunity to participate in the planning process. The fact that Mr. Calaway, the owner of his own construction company, volunteered to be on the BLUAC board and failed to attend five out of 12 meetings in one calendar year is inexcusable. In the event that Mr. Calaway does reapply and/or runs for an elected position on the BLUAC board in the future, will he be able to set aside one to two hours a month in his schedule to attend meetings?

In conclusion, I submit that I moved to Bigfork for many of the same reasons most residents have. We enjoy the majestic views, the endless recreational opportunities, the pristine lakes and water ways, the small-town, rural atmosphere and most important the friendly and thoughtful people of the community. To ensure that these unique aspects of Bigfork remain for future generations, it is imperative that BLUAC positions be filled by members who are willing to attend meetings in order to weigh issues and make informed recommendations to the county.

Gary Ridderhoff Bigfork