Another look at North Fork politics

At least two readers thought I was unfair to the North Fork Preservation Association in my column last week. I disagree and stand by my comments.

I said that the NFPA is, in my opinion, a moderate environmentalist organization. I think most NFPA members would agree with that statement. I consider myself a conservative conservationist and do not think anyone should be surprised that I oppose expanding Waterton Lakes National Park or establishing a new wilderness area along the Whitefish Range.

Residents and others should gather information from both sides of the issues and make up their own minds.

I also said that I thought NFPA members were sincere in their efforts to protect the North Fork. So am I. Landowners who agree with the NFPA position should join both the NFPA and the North Fork Landowners Association.

Everyone should join the NFLA to add their views to the community debate. Hopefully, resource issues will be resolved by education, debate and respect for those who have a different opinion from our own.

The NFPA is an important part of the North Fork, as are the North Fork Compact and the pro-paving Coalition for Health and Safety. I have friends in each of the organizations. Members of all three are also members of the NFLA. This is as it should be — the NFLA includes all landowners. The other three are special interest groups. Each has a purpose in a strong community.

My only concern about the NFPA is a worry concerning their leadership. President John Frederick has been a community leader for 30 years. Likewise, long-time vice-president Frank Vitale. Vitale recently placed his North Fork property on the market, and he and his wife are spending more and more time elsewhere.

What will happen when John is no longer willing or able to continue as the driving force of the NFPA? Will the group fade away like the Coalition seems to be doing and even the Compact? I hope not.

In the meantime, social activities continue even as many summer residents prepare to return to their winter dens.

In addition, there are an increasing number of “so long” dinner parties. I’ve heard that the Northern Lights Saloon will close for the winter at the end of August. If so, Friday night pizza parties will end soon. I’ll let you know next week.

As summer residents prepare to leave, I hope everyone remembers to bring canned goods and other non-perishable food items to NFLA’s September and October meetings. This project was started several years ago by Bob and Jean Grimaldi and has become an annual project in their honor.

Folks who will not be here for either meeting should find a neighbor who will. Donations of cash are also welcome, with all donations delivered to the Columbia Falls Food Pantry.