Al French is too powerful

The expansion of the Spokane County board of commissioners to five commissioners elected by their districts gives an opportunity for a fair and more diverse representation. Al French tries everything in his power to fight it. His district alone would not elect him. WSAC will file a lawsuit challenging the validity of the new legislation. Al French sits on the Washington State Association of Counties board. He serves on numerous boards and commissions, which gives him the power to oppose any changes that could cut this power.

Al French claims to be a successful businessman, real estate broker, investment consultant and developer. The consequences of his background can be seen in the northern part of the city where multi-family developments get approved without listening to concerns of residents living in the area. The most current example – the zoning change in Fairwood which will allow the development of 300 units in a neighborhood that consists overwhelmingly of single-family houses. The vote on the zoning got postponed because Al French “could not participate.” Is it chance that voting took place shortly after the election? This is what happens when we put the future of our homes in the hands of someone so power-hungry.

Magdalena Momot

Spokane