Control should remain local; vote no on 18-80   

Klamath Falls Herald and News

Letter to the Editor

October 27, 2010

   The anti-KBRA group, which is the same as the yes on Measure 18-80 group, has admitted that a yes vote cannot save the dams as stated on their yard signs, but that it was a way to convince the people of the Basin to vote the way they wanted them to.

   How dishonest, desperate and deceiving.

   However, their candidate, Dennis Linthicum, has gone against their desires and stated in public on several occasions that it would not matter how the people voted, Klamath County must be at the table. He also stated that, if he becomes the next county commissioner, he would “demand that the county be at the table.” That sure sounds like a no vote on Measure 18-80 to me.  

   Dennis stated that he teaches the Constitution at patriot meetings. Perhaps he really does understand that, by voting yes on Measure 18-80, you are actually voting against the right to be represented.

   It appears to me that his group wanted either a yes or no on the dam removal. The reality is that none of us has any voice on that issue. But we do have a voice on whether we want our commissioners to represent us in the decision-making process. This presence gives us a voice that will keep 4,500 agricultural jobs and $600 million for local businesses operating and their employees working, which add to our economy.

   If ranchers and farmers don’t have water to grow crops and raise food, just how can we sustain our way of life in our Basin? With the stability of water, other businesses will be   more likely to come here, bringing additional needed jobs. Why would we vote on something we had no power to change? Vote no on Measure 18-80 and keep local representation at the table.

   John Mumford

   Keno