Idaho is without a doubt the best place to be in the world. People are moving here by the thousands because they are sick of the problems where they live and they are seeking something better for themselves and for their families. But, Idaho is not immune from government over-regulation that has affected the rest of the nation.

This past year has seen much discussion about the (Coeur d’Alene, Idaho) Lake City Development Corporation (LCDC), an Urban Renewal agency. While this organization has operated under the radar for years, people are beginning to realize that something that was intended to provide housing for the less fortunate or to clean up the slums is being used here for construction of upscale housing and businesses. What many people failed to realize is the amount of our tax money that is being used for these projects.

Last year when the school M & O mil levy, the major source of school funding, was removed from property tax rolls everyone breathed a sigh of relief. But, this did two things: First, it has further insulated local schools from the local public, and Second, it has provided more breathing room for other local agencies and municipalities to increase their budgets.

Education is the key to progress. But, just spending more money on education without the development of sound educational policies will produce very little of merit. Sound education policy provides for the child through gifted educators who use proven materials and methods to produce strong academics and build personal character.

Lack of a sound educational policy affects us as a people. It becomes a circular problem: Children who do not learn to read and become responsible citizens grow up to produce more of the same children. The well-educated child functions independently and is a credit to his community; he rarely ends up a ward of the state (welfare or jail).

Our youthful criminals have much in common: Frequent drug use, broken homes, and an inability to read adequately. There are many programs to deal with these needs, but it is private groups and faith based organizations that are having the greatest success.

Idaho has rich natural resources, yet these resources are gradually being locked away through government regulation. As a state we would never pass a law making mining, logging, ranching or recreation illegal; we just make it very difficult, especially on public lands. These regulations have become so heavy that much logging, mining and farming has moved off shore to Canada, Latin America, and elsewhere, taking many good paying jobs with them.

Families are the key to any local economy. As the family goes, so goes the state. Yet, our families are under constant pressure. Divorce rates are high, even here in Idaho and each year our tax structure and other regulations make it more difficult for families.

My opponent said after the last legislative session that the Legislature did not do anything. No, rather, it wisely did not do many of the things that he wanted done. A perfect example is the day care legislation he has proposed year after year that would severely limit your ability to choose a neighbor or friend to watch your own children. It is not about protecting children: There are plenty of licensed day care facilities in our area for those parents who want one. It is simply an attack on your right as a parent to control the care of your own children.

The Republicans in the Idaho State Legislature have consistently worked to keep our taxes low and restrict the entrance of government agencies into our lives and our families. For the most part they have been successful, and we can be thankful for that success. My opponent, however, rarely sees a new or continuing government program he does not like. My goal is to be a part of the constitutional Republican team that is protecting your right as a citizen of Idaho to run your life without serious government interference.

To have an effective government takes teamwork. We have a tendency to elect people to office and then to forget all about what they are doing. We need to hold them accountable at all levels, whether it be the books used in the schools, protection of our precious wildlife from predatory wolves, state tax policies or policies that affect our ability to use public lands. If our own government becomes the master rather than the servant of the people it will only happen because we, as American Nationals, let it happen. The pressure on our legislators to add more government is great. You and I need to do our part to let our voices be heard. You can help by sending me to join those who believe in limited government and fiscal responsibility.

I ask for your support and your vote. I cannot do this alone. If we are to be successful you will have to become a part of the team. Thanks so much.

Sincerely,
Jim Hollingsworth

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