COVID-19 State of emergency Public Comment from Layla LaineFrom:Layla Laine
To:Kalispell Meetings Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL] NO TO STATE OF EMERGENCY AND SEWER/WATER INCREASES!!!
Date:Monday, April 6, 2020 4:35:19 PM
I am writing to voice my concerns about a portion of tonight's meeting, specifically the vote on whether or not to
enact Local Disaster Emergency protocols.
I am gravely concerned about this vote, the limitations on personal freedoms, and the magnitude of
powers which will be granted to a sole City Manager. In specific I am concerned about blanket powers
without much if any oversight by the public or even that of the city counsel.
Mr Russell's intent is not in question, however, intent and ability are different and must remain in check,
The sanctity of our individual freedoms need not be compromised so that our small city can receive
necessary funding.
I request that the vote be put off until such time that disaster relief funding, and militant style lock down
and enforcement actions are not without oversight, expiration, and further public explanation and
comment.
This is a very important issue, and such a meeting behind closed doors with no live public comment is
deeply concerning.
Individual rights are some oft he most important things in the United States, and Montana. I am not a
legal expert, but I would like comment and direction as to how removing ANY of these rights for any
purpose emergent or not is acceptable and legal.
Also, I am deeply, deeply alarmed by your intent to raise water and sewer rates while halving the impact
fees for new builds. This is an outrageous and regressive tax on your most vulnerable constituents. It's
another tax cut for the wealthy who want to move here and or build new homes, a tax cut for builders and
construction companies, and a tax increase for everyone else.
I can't tell you how outraged I am by this. My landlord has already informed me that my rent will be going
up because of this, and the rent situation is already out of control.
I am writing to urge you, as strongly as possible, NOT to enact these rate changes. If the city needs to
increase revenue, you should consider increasing the impact fee, not reducing it. Increase the hotel tax,
but leave your hard working constituents alone!