The all-consuming council (August 6, 2016)

With the Apple Valley Town Council figuratively licking their chops in anticipation of seizing Liberty Utilities to obtain much-needed cash flow (Missoula’s win, Apple Valley’s gain? Daily Press, August 5, 2016), it may be a good time to reflect on the message this sends.

When the Apple Valley Country Club was failing, the Town paid top dollar to acquire it. Since then, the Town has spent $7 million more than it has received to keep the golf course afloat. But, if you have a failing business in Apple Valley, maybe the Town will bail you out.

But what if you are the oldest — and one of the best-run — companies in town? Well, then, the Town Council may want to spend hundreds of millions in a hostile takeover, despite the fact that it can’t even maintain the facilities it already controls.

So, whether you’re an abject failure or model for success in Apple Valley, you could be a target for acquisition.

But what if you are just minding your own business?

Sorry, but as 360 Apple West LLC (formerly the owner of Newt Bass’ Hilltop House) or local property owner Gary Ledford have found out, if the Town wants your property, it will do whatever it takes to obtain your property … the Town attorney will see to that.

Gideon J. Tucker is credited with the saying, No man’s life, liberty, or property are safe while the Legislature is in session. It’s an approach the Apple Valley Town Council seems to have taken to heart.

Greg Raven is Co-Chair of Apple Valley Citizens for Government Accountability, and is concerned about quality of life issues.