Ferguson’s spending prosecuting Tacoma police officers was excessive and unjustified | Opinion

Appreciate Talbot’s reporting

I just finished reading the article written by Peter Talbot regarding the expenses incurred while the Attorney General Bob Ferguson attempted to prosecute three Tacoma Police officers. I am just appalled at how this entire thing went down. Bob Ferguson used his position to push charges and a trial, I am assuming as part of his plan to garner votes when he declared his intent to run for governor. How has this even been allowed? Who is policing the Attorney General in his decisions? This is a blatant abuse of power, and a total misuse of taxpayers’ funds. This needs to be investigated. Thanks goes out to Peter Talbot for bring this all to light.

Mary Ann Clabaugh, Tacoma

Clean up weeds in dog park

On Sept. 18, I took my dogs to the Fort Steilacoom. Two weedy areas were taped off by the dog agility area. The tape twisted on the ground. There wasn’t any signage. The plants inside the areas looked like poison hemlock. According to the Washington Noxious Weed Board, “The entire plant is toxic to animals and humans.” Yet signs were missing. Remember Socrates died from drinking poison hemlock tea. I spoke with several dog owners. Nobody knew anything about the plants. I also called the Lakewood Parks Department twice, submitted and email and spoke to a park employee when leaving.

We pay for these parks. We have the right to know if we’re exposing ourselves, our children and our pets to a highly toxic plant. Don’t make the decision for us. Lakewood Parks Dept needs to close down this area until all the poison hemlock, including the taproots, are removed.

Diane Burke, Tacoma

NGOs unfairly criticized

NGOs often face unfair criticism based on myths. One common myth is that NGOs are ineffective or lack accountability. In reality, most NGOs, like the Borgen Project, undergo rigorous financial audits and impact assessments. The Borgen Project, for example, advocates for U.S. policies that address global poverty, engaging with Congress to ensure transparency and measurable results.

Another misconception is that NGOs are simply “do-gooders” without tangible impact. However, NGOs fill critical gaps left by governments and the private sector. The Borgen Project has helped pass crucial legislation, ensuring millions have access to food, education, and healthcare.

Finally, it’s assumed that NGOs rely solely on donations. While fundraising is important, many NGOs form strategic partnerships and engage in advocacy, making them more self-sustaining and impactful.

Instead of dismissing NGOs based on myths, let’s acknowledge their vital role in building a more equitable world.

Dani Masri, Tacoma