The board of the Montana Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA Montana) is compelled to add some clarity to Mr. Sinrud's statements published in the IR article Dec. 4, 2007. AIA Montana is completely independent from the State Board of Architects and Landscape Architects (Board of Architects) and has no political affiliation.

The Board of Architects is in place to regulate the practice of architecture in the State of Montana. Montana recognizes that the practice of architecture requires advanced knowledge in the design of buildings including five years of education through an accredited university, followed by three years of internship and then completion of a nine-part intense licensing exam to qualify for licensure. In the interest of maintaining the Health, Safety and Welfare of the public, Montana (and every other state) recognizes that the professional practice of architecture is essential.

The Board of Architects can only regulate and administer its rules upon licensed architects and has very little power to "police" the illegal practice of architecture, as in the case of Mr. Sinrud. It is only after a complaint has been filed with the board (usually by a licensed architect who becomes aware of unlicensed practice), that the board becomes aware of a potential issue that they can investigate.

Members of the AIA Montana Board happened to be present on other business, at the (open to the public) Board of Architects meeting when the deputy chief legal counsel Art Gorov presented the findings of proof that Mr. Sinrud was illegally practicing architecture. Mr. Gorov indicated that the investigation was very in-depth, with no knowledge by the governor's office, specifically to eliminate any allegation of political influence. The Board of Architects reviewed all of the information and determined that Mr. Sinrud and his firm, JJKG & Associates, was practicing architecture. The business phone was answered as such, his Web site represented this, building plans were reviewed, even the published 2007-2008 Montana Legislative Guide lists John Sinrud (R) HD 67, Occupation: Architecture. The cease and desist order was the result of this action.

Mr. Sinrud argues that "plenty of other people in Gallatin County" are doing design and drafting work. This does not excuse him from blatantly violating the laws of this state and, if he is knowledgeable of such activities, he is ethically obligated to report these to the Board of Architects. The Board of Architects was just in requiring that Mr. Sinrud stop practicing architecture in the interest of protecting the public's health, safety and welfare. The system actually worked.

Connie Dempster is executive director of AIA Montana, 1629 Avenue D, Billings.