A former Kootenai County Republican Central Committee official is unhappy that attorney Duane Rasmussen takes photos of people in the crowd at public events. In a letter to the county commission criticizing the presentation by consultant Todd Messenger at the Unified Land Use Code workshop this week, Lorri Erickson concluded: "One more thing, could you tell me why Duane Rasmussen, an attorney, not a reporter consistently brings his long lens camera to these meetings? Is this an intimidation process? (Erickson's emphasis, not Huckleberries) Personally, I would like to know what he does with the pictures. If he is not an 'official' reporter than the intensity of him taking pictures of the audience is suspect. I recommend that they be eliminated in future meetings." Occasionally, Duane sends photos to Huckleberries for possible publication. And they're appreciated. I can't say what he does with the others. Maybe Lorri should ask him?

Question: Should the county commission be in the business of trying to prevent individuals from taking photos at public meetings?