Editor, Atchison County Mail

Amendment 4 destroys 118 years of Missouri tradition

This August, politicians in Jefferson City want to take away your voting power.

A promise was written into the Missouri Constitution 118 years ago: “The people reserve power to propose and enact or reject laws and amendments to the constitution by the initiative, independent of the general assembly.”

The initiative process is our ultimate check and balance. When politicians refuse to listen, it gives voters the power to step in and fix things. Signatures from hundreds of thousands of Missourians throughout the state are collected to place an amendment or proposition on the ballot for the people’s vote. Citizen-led initiatives brought changes such as term limits, legalized marijuana, crack down on lobbyist gifts to politicians, limits on taxation without voter approval, minimum wage increase, and expansion of Medicaid.

Amendment 4 ruins that balance. It changes the rules to make it nearly impossible for citizen initiatives to pass. By forcing a vote to win a majority in all eight congressional districts, a tiny minority of Missouri voters in just one area could cancel out a landslide statewide win.

Former Governor John Ashcroft warned against this back in 1992, vetoing a similar attack: “It is through the initiative process that those who have no influence with elective representatives may take their cause directly to the people.”

Politicians are trying to kill this check on their power. Learn more about Amendment 4 at RespectMOVoters.org/a4, and on August 4 vote NO on Amendment 4.

Thank you.

Nancy Zeliff, Atchison County Resident

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I have lived and worked in the Tarkio area for many years, one of the things I value most about our town is how neighbors look out for one another.

Recently there has been an increase in dogs running loose in our area. While many of these dogs may be friendly, the situation has become a concern for residents of all ages. We have seniors, young children and families who should feel safe walking, playing and enjoying our community.

Many of our residents enjoy taking daily walks for exercise, visiting with neighbors, and spending time outdoors. No one should feel afraid to walk around town or worry about encountering loose dogs while doing so.

Sadly, this concern became a reality when one of our residents was knocked down by a loose dog, suffering a broken arm while her beloved dog lost its life during the incident. It was a heartbreaking reminder that even a moment of carelessness can have devastating consequences for both people and pets.

This letter is not intended to point fingers or create division. Instead I hope it serves as a gentle reminder that being a responsible pet owner benefits everyone. Keeping dogs leashed or securely restrained helps prevent accidents, protects our neighbors, and keeps our pets safe from harm.

I appreciate the efforts of our Tarkio Council and local officials who have been willing to help address this issue. If residents observe a loose dog or have concerns about potentially unsafe situation, they may contact:

• Animal Control (Chris Niles), 660-623-0562

• Police (Non-Emergency), 660-736-5522

• Street Department (Jamie Quimby), 660-623-0563

• Tarkio City Hall, 660-736-4821

My hope is that by working together as a community, we can ensure that Tarkio remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone, both residents and their pets.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and for helping spread the awareness.

Sally Wehmann, Executive Director Tarkio Housing Authority