Dear Editor,
Stop the Expansion of County Government
I recently read with great interest that John Staley, a candidate for Yellowstone County Commission, supports a five-member board of county commissioners, up from the current three members. How wrongheaded.
Back in the 1980s, it was decided by the Board that over a six-year period, which is also the length of a commissioner term, each would serve two years as the chair of the commission, regardless of party. This working arrangement has served well for almost 40 years. Imagine with a bloated five-member commission all of the horse trading of support and backroom deals as they all fight for position and chair responsibilities.
This would not increase representation. Quite the opposite. Right now, removing one member through the ballot box can bring about real change. Not so with five members. Increasing the board will just lead to more read more
