I had to laugh when I read the headline in the paper, "Ketchum yearns for federal funds." The total of the proposed projects amounted to $92,500,000.
In July 2007 the population of Ketchum was stated to be 3,234. Assuming that equals approximately 1,600 families, the cost per family would be about $60,000. In my mind, the Ketchum officials are off their rockers. Of course, their response would be, "It's the federal government's money, stupid."
Now, imagine, (probably true) that all cities and states act so irresponsibly. Take for example, California. They are asking for a bailout from the federal government since they spent way beyond what they should have budgeted. Of course, the city of Ketchum has been doing that for years. In response to "It's the federal government's money, stupid," I submit that the federal government represents the people and is funded by the people. We pay. In the California example, they want the people of Idaho, along with those of many other states, to bail them out.
The city of Ketchum has given away millions and millions of dollars worth of land to the YMCA, the Simplot property, etc. Now, they are asking everyone else to bail them out. Wow!
The article also stated that 10,000 jobs would be created. That is ridiculous. The Ketchum officials are not only off their rockers, but they have their heads in the sand. I guess that the 10,000 workers will live in the hotels with all of their variances, which the officials have encouraged. What it boils down to is that five people are spending our money lavishly and wastefully, with no regard for the consequences. Add on another $100 million for the unneeded airport and our payments skyrocket.
Jake Jacoby
Sun Valley
