Letter to the Editor: Concerns with use of courthouse grounds for Bible-reading marathon

To the Editor:

It has come to my attention that the Allamakee County Board of Supervisors considered and approved a request, spear-headed by one of the State Representative candidates, allowing the use of the Allamakee County Courthouse campus for a four-day Bible marathon. This comes after Governor Branstad’s proclamation suggesting all counties have the Bible-reading event June 30-July 3.

Was there any consideration on how the decision to support such an event reflects on our County and City administration?

First, there was the decision to approve this event.  We need to understand how the event can be interpreted as the Allamakee Board of Supervisors supporting only one religion, when we have several in our county, and clouds the division between church and state.

Secondly, I am concerned for the inconvenience to local citizens, along with County and City employees. Not to mention the extra costs to taxpayers (i.e.; possibly extra law enforcement, custodial and maintenance, etc.).

Lastly, there is also the possibility any candidate may use the Allamakee County Courthouse and public grounds as a stage or back-drop for their campaigns. If so, shouldn’t the candidates be held responsible for any costs to the County and City?

Governor Branstad was not elected to be bringing in the sheep. There are probably dogs and gods that would be much better at that than he is.

Thank you for your time and consideration,

Ann Gallagher
“Catfish Annie”
Lansing