Taking federal funds is nothing but a trap

An open letter to the county commissioners, city councils and mayors regarding ARPA funding:

Taking federal funds is a trap. Please don't fall for the bait. It is our freedom which is at stake and it's not for sale. By taking the money you are agreeing to federal dictates over our lives and property. This is something that you promised not to do when you took your oath of office to defend and uphold the Constitution of the United States. The 10th Amendment is very clear on this.

By taking ARPA money, you are agreeing to rule by federal decree, which is exactly the reason for the Revolutionary War and the subsequent writing of the Constitution. The very first article of the Constitution vests all lawmaking authority in the Congress of the United States. It couldn't be any more plain that none of it is in the executive branch. Read it for yourself. You only have to read the very first article to decide what to do with your "free" money that requires you to follow executive orders and all other Federal rules and regulations.

You should be able to figure this out all by yourselves without even consulting an attorney. If you've already taken the money, it's your duty and obligation to send it back and say, "thanks but no thanks."

ROBERT VICKARYOUS

Bonners Ferry