***Monday, June 15, 2020, at 9:00 a.m., Commissioners met in regular session with Chairman Dan Dinning, Commissioner Wally Cossairt, Commissioner Walt Kirby, Clerk Glenda Poston, and Deputy Clerk Michelle Rohrwasser.
Commissioners gave the opening invocation and said the Pledge of Allegiance.
Road and Bridge Department Co-Superintendents Renee Nelson and Randy Morris joined the meeting.
9:00 a.m., Commissioners held an elected officials/department heads meeting via conference call. Participating in the call were: Chairman Dan Dinning, Commissioner Wally Cossairt, Commissioner Walt Kirby, Clerk Glenda Poston, Assessor Dave Ryals, Prosecutor Jack Douglas, Treasurer Sue Larson, University of Idaho Extension Educator Amy Robertson, Courthouse Maintenance John Buckley, Road and Bridge Department Co-Superintendents Renee Nelson and Randy Morris, Noxious Weeds Department Superintendent Dave Wenk, Deputy Clerk Pam Barton, Northern Air Office Manager Katherine Boger on behalf of Airport Manager Dave Parker, Assistant Restorium Administrator Diana Lane, Sheriff Dave Kramer, Chief Probation Officer Stacy Brown, Solid Waste Department Superintendent Claine Skeen, and Boundary County Emergency Manager Andrew O’Neel.
Chairman Dinning said at this point in Commissioners’ discussion he doesn’t foresee a need for more elected officials/department heads conference calls unless there is something special that arises. Commissioner Cossairt and Commissioner Kirby agreed.
Assessor Ryals, Prosecutor Douglas, Sheriff Kramer, Ms. Robertson, Ms. Brown, and Mr. Skeen had nothing new to report.
Clerk Poston said her office is being assisted in capturing COVID-19 related costs in order to submit that information to the state. Clerk Poston said if any department has anything specifically related to COVID-19, to let her office know so they capture those costs. Chairman Dinning asked those on the call to continue tracking COVID-19 related costs until the end of the year.
Treasurer Larson said next Monday, June 22, 2020, is the last day to pay property taxes without penalty.
Mr. Buckley said he has been asked to install permanent splatter guards so that would probably go toward COVID-19 costs.
Mr. Morris said it’s business as usual for Road and Bridge in patching and grading roads and crews working on road signs. Chairman Dinning asked if Road and Bridge employees are still riding separately in vehicles. Ms. Nelson and Mr. Morris said they are and Chairman Dinning suggested they contact Panhandle Health District in order to get an opinion on that.
Mr. Wenk said he’s been spraying weeds when the weather cooperates. Mr. Wenk asked about the schedule of monitored dumpster sites being open so he can better plan when to spray in those areas.
Ms. Barton gave a reminder that time sheets for June are due the 23rd this month.
Ms. Boger said it’s business as usual at the airport.
Mr. O’Neel provided an update on COVID-19 and said this virus is not going away. Idaho is still seeing approximately 40 to 50 cases per day. Since the elected officials/department heads meeting held last Thursday, Kootenai County has had eight new cases. Mr. O’Neel urged people to keep up on social distancing and taking precautions. Bonner County had two new cases of COVID-19 confirmed last week. Stage 4 started last Saturday and goes through June 26th. Jails and other places can allow visitors provided they have approved plans. Sheriff Kramer said visitors are allowed in the jail, but they are still taking temperatures and wearing masks. It was said the Restorium can allow visitors provided there is a plan in place. Mr. O’Neel said night clubs can open now with diminished occupancy as well as movie theaters and some sporting venues. Mr. O’Neel said he had a meeting with Idaho Office of Emergency Management Local Area Field Officer Jay Baker and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region 10 representatives about scoping costs and reimbursement from FEMA. FEMA is a last resort for reimbursements so he will check with Clerk Poston about that as well as the state regarding cost reimbursement.
Mr. O’Neel said the Kootenai River is in the action stage, but the level is decreasing.
Ms. Lane said Commissioners pretty much covered matters for the Restorium.
Chairman Dinning said with stage 4 in effect the only place requiring masks is within the Courthouse itself, but Commissioners will ask that employees wear masks in all interaction with the public, especially when they can’t social distance.
Chairman Dinning said Commissioners can only allow up to five members of the public in their office and they’re pushing that at six so that is what they will maintain. Commissioners will also look into whether or not they need to maintain their conference call line.
The elected officials/department heads conference call ended at 9:15 a.m.
Chairman Dinning said due to time sensitivity, at 11:00 a.m., today Commissioners will discuss the motocross event at the fairgrounds and he had sent event holder John Becker a text about when the meeting is.
9:23 a.m., Commissioner Cossairt moved to go into executive session pursuant to Idaho Code 74-206(1)b, to consider the evaluation, dismissal or disciplining of, or to hear complaints or charges brought against, a public officer, employee, staff member or individual agent. Commissioner Kirby second. Commissioners voted as follows: Chairman Dinning “aye”, Commissioner Cossairt “aye” and Commissioner Kirby “aye”. Motion passed unanimously. The executive session ended at 9:30 a.m. No action was taken.
Ms. Nelson and Mr. Morris presented the written department report. Ms. Nelson asked about the matter involving road names and Chairman Dinning said he is going to talk to County Civil Attorney Tevis Hull about that.
Ms. Nelson said Road and Bridge had a conference call last week regarding the Riverside Road Improvement project to discuss the final 100% right-of-way plans and she added that they’re still waiting for verification from Fish and Wildlife Service as it pertains to their part, but the rest of the project looks good. This pertains to Riverside Road and the claim to 50 feet.
Ms. Nelson said she’s working on getting the updated project information to Commissioners and she’s still receiving current information from the Local Highway Technical Assistance Council for year 2021 as they are moving projects back due to funding.
Commissioners updated Commissioner Kirby on the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding in relation to property tax relief.
Ms. Nelson informed Commissioners that Union Pacific Railroad asked for a final acceptance letter for Queen View Road.
Ms. Nelson brought a matter to Commissioners’ attention involving cars parking in the bicycle lane and cross walk areas on Tobe Way/Plato Drive. Signs are up, but there are no “no parking signs”. Chairman Dinning suggested having “no parking signs” put up.
Deputy Clerk Nancy Ryals joined the meeting at 9:47 a.m.
Mr. Morris said Road and Bridge is using the grout materials that were given to them and it looks good.
The meeting with Mr. Morris and Ms. Nelson ended at 9:48 a.m.
Commissioner Kirby moved to go into closed session pursuant to Idaho Code 31-874. Commissioner Cossairt second. Motion passed unanimously. 9:50 a.m., Commissioner Cossairt moved to go out of closed session. Commissioner Kirby second. Motion passed unanimously.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to deny indigent case 2020-10. Commissioner Kirby second. Motion passed unanimously.
Deputy Clerk Ryals left the meeting at 9:51 a.m.
Commissioner Kirby moved to approve minutes of May 18 & 19, 2020 and May 25 & 26, 2020. Commissioner Cossairt second. Motion passed unanimously.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to adopt Resolution 2020-23. A resolution increasing fiscal year 2019-2020 Justice Fund Sheriff Budget due to receipt of unanticipated revenue. Commissioner Kirby second. Motion passed unanimously. Resolution 2020-23 reads as follows:
Resolution 2020-23
Increasing Fiscal Year 2019-2020 Justice Fund Sheriff Budget
Due to Receipt of Unanticipated Revenue
WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners, County of Boundary, State of Idaho, did establish an operating budget for the Justice Fund Sheriff Budget for fiscal year 2019-2020, and
WHEREAS, $10,000.00 has been received from the Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) Railroad Foundation as a grant for the purpose of establishing a drug K9 for the Boundary County Sheriff’s Office, and
WHEREAS, those funds were deposited into the Auditor’s Trust account, and
WHEREAS, this revenue was unanticipated and the Boundary County Commissioners deem it in the best interest of the general public of Boundary County to increase the Fiscal Year 2019-2020 Justice Fund Sheriff Budget for that purpose, and
WHEREAS, the addition of this revenue does not affect the tax levy for Boundary County, and
WHEREAS, it is appropriate to transfer cash from the Auditor’s Trust Fund Number 9101-00-0100-0000 in the amount of $10,000.00, and increase the Justice Fund revenue account number 0008-00-0324-0010 and the Justice Fund Sheriff Budget expense account number 0008-02-0559-0001, Animal – K9, in the amount of $10,000.00,
NOW THEREFORE, upon motion duly made, seconded and unanimously carried,
IT IS RESOLVED that the transfer of cash from the Auditor’s Trust Fund Number 9101-00-0100-0000 in the amount of $10,000.00, and the increase of the Justice Fund revenue account number 0008-00-0324-0010 and the Justice Fund Sheriff Budget expense account number 0008-02-0559-0001, Animal – K9, in the amount of $10,000.00 is hereby authorized and ordered, and
IT IS FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk is instructed to deliver certified copies of this resolution to the Boundary County Treasurer and the Boundary County Auditor.
DATED this 5th day of June 2020.
COUNTY OF BOUNDARY
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
s/________________________________
Dan R. Dinning, Chairman
s/________________________________
Wally Cossairt, Commissioner
s/________________________________
Walt Kirby, Commissioner
ATTEST:
s/_________________________________________________
Glenda Poston, Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners
Recorded as instrument #282183
Commissioner Cossairt moved to adopt Resolution 2020-24. A resolution increasing the Justice Fund Sheriff budget due to receipt of unanticipated revenue. Commissioner Kirby second. Motion passed unanimously. Resolution 2020-24 reads as follows:
RESOLUTION 2020-24
INCREASING THE JUSTICE FUND SHERIFF BUDGET
DUE TO RECEIPT OF UNANTICIPATED REVENUE
WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners, County of Boundary, State of Idaho, did establish an operating budget for the Boundary County Justice Fund Sheriff Budget for fiscal year 2019-2020, and
WHEREAS, Boundary County has received $2,554.00 from the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho as reimbursement for the Tribe’s share of Computer Arts interface license maintenance and management for the jail,
WHEREAS, the Boundary County Justice Fund Sheriff Budget is in need of additional revenue for fiscal year 2019-2020, and
WHEREAS, the addition of this revenue does not affect the tax levy for Boundary County, and
WHEREAS, it is appropriate to increase the Boundary County Justice Fund Revenue Account Number 08-00-0391-0018 and the Boundary County Justice Fund Sheriff Budget Expense Account Number 08-02-499-03, Maintenance Contracts, in the amount of $2,554.00, and
NOW THEREFORE, upon motion duly made, seconded and unanimously carried,
IT IS RESOLVED, that the increase to the Boundary County Justice Fund Revenue Account Number 08-00-0391-0018 and the Boundary County Justice Fund Sheriff Budget Expense Account Number 08-02-499-03, Maintenance Contracts, in the amount of $2,554.00, is hereby authorized and ordered, and
IT IS FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk is instructed to deliver certified copies of this resolution to the Boundary County Treasurer and the Boundary County Auditor.
DATED this 15th day of June 2020.
COUNTY OF BOUNDARY
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
s/_____________________________
Dan R. Dinning, Chairman
s/______________________________
Wally Cossairt, Commissioner
s/_______________________________
Walt Kirby, Commissioner
ATTEST:
s/__________________________________________________
Glenda Poston, Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners
Recorded as instrument #282184
County resident John Becker joined the meeting at 9:59 a.m.
10:03 a.m., Boundary Ambulance Service Board Chair Nancy Russell joined the meeting.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to recess as the Boundary County Board of Commissioners and convene as the Boundary County Ambulance Service District Governing Board. Commissioner Kirby second. Motion passed unanimously.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to approve the meeting minutes from May 18, 2020 for the Boundary County Ambulance Service District Governing Board. Commissioner Kirby second. Motion passed unanimously.
Ms. Russell said the call volume is up. The only other thing to report is that over the weekend there was a report on Facebook regarding scene clean up. Chairman Dinning discussed COVID-19 costs and tracking them for reimbursement.
10:15 a.m., Commissioner Cossairt moved to adjourn as the Boundary County Ambulance Service Governing Board and reconvene as the Boundary County Board of Commissioners. Commissioner Kirby second. Motion passed unanimously.
Ms. Russell left the meeting at 10:15 a.m.
Commissioners tended to administrative duties.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to approve the minutes from May 11, 2020. Commissioner Kirby second. Motion passed unanimously.
10:30 a.m., Kootenai Tribe of Idaho Administrative director Rhonda Vogl and Bonners Ferry District Forest Ranger Kevin Knauth contacted Commissioners via conference call to provide updates on Kootenai Valley Resource Initiative (KVRI) and Forest Service projects.
County resident Jason Steffen joined the meeting.
Ms. Vogl said the KVRI meeting will be held telephonically and the group does need to touch base. Mr. Knauth will provide Forestry Committee updates, especially regarding the Westside Restoration project. There will also be Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) updates. Ms. Vogl said there is nothing that needs signed, but approval by the KVRI Board is needed for an Idaho Department of Environmental Quality integrated report.
Commissioner Kirby moved to authorize Chairman Dinning to vote for the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality integrated report. Commissioner Cossairt second. Motion passed unanimously.
Ms. Vogl said there will also a brief discussion on selenium.
Mr. Knauth said he doesn’t have a lot to update regarding the Westside Restoration project. Specialists are working on their reports and as they complete those, the Forest Service is utilizing that information to build the environmental analysis. Once the Forest Service has all of that information, they will go out for the comment period on the draft environmental analysis and it will likely be early August when that is done. For an update on timber sales, compliance work is being done and a bit of road work is going on. Mr. Knauth discussed campground work. The Forest Service has trails crew working at campgrounds to keep them open and they’re doing some trail work. There are camp hosts at the main campgrounds, which are Robinson, Copper and Meadow Creek campgrounds. The Forest Service Office remains closed to the general public as far as walking through the front door. The Forest Service will go through three phases before opening their office doors. Currently they are in phase 1, but are preparing to move into phase 2, depending on cases. Fire wood permits are still free, but so that people understand, there are some do’s and don’ts listed on the permits and people will have to have the permits available when they’re cutting. Mr. Knauth said crews have been helping out on a fire in New Mexico so the local office will reassess where we are with our fire season. The fire season for the southwest is starting to light up. The Forest Service has specialists working on the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) at home and it may be another month before they come back to the office.
Mr. Knauth discussed working on the sales package for the Stimbuck Stew timber sale, which is approximately 20 to 25 million board feet. Mr. Knauth explained that there really isn’t much of a difference between phase 1 and 2 of the sale.
Chairman Dinning questioned if there is anything that needs to be put in place ahead of fire season, such as contracts.
Ms. Vogl informed Commissioners that she sent out an email about the meeting for the Community Forest Landscape Restoration project and she commented that it is a public meeting. Individual collaboratives are not expected to do anything on the call, but she does want to call in and listen to the discussion.
Chairman Dinning said if cleared by Idaho’s reopening rules for the July meeting, can Mr. Knauth still participate while in stage 2 or does Idaho need to be in stage 3 to be able to participate in person. Mr. Knauth said the Forest Service could hold an in person meeting during stage 2 if they feel safe to do so.
The meeting with Ms. Vogl and Mr. Knauth ended at 10:55 a.m.
Commissioners tended to administrative duties.
11:00 a.m., Chairman Dinning discussed the topic of the 9B Arenacross event and he said sometime last week he was made aware that the Fair Board had signed an agreement for this event, but Commissioners didn’t know what stage of reopening Idaho would be going into at that point. Chairman Dinning added that he wanted to see what was in place so he called the Fair Board chairman, but they didn’t talk until last Friday and he voiced concern about county liability. The Fair Board chairman said the agreement for the 9B Arenacross event was signed, but that was about it. Concerns regarding COVID-19 were voiced and Chairman Dinning had suggested the Fair Board chairman contact the county civil attorney. Chairman Dinning said last Saturday he got a text from Fair Board member Ben Robinson and he talked to Mr. Robertson on Sunday. The Fair Board did sign an agreement, but they’re just leasing the space; not supporting or funding the event. A certificate of liability insurance is needed from event holder John Becker. Mr. Becker said Fair Board Secretary Paula Burt had contacted Panhandle Health District for him and gave them the information. Panhandle Health District had approved the plan that was in place. It was clarified that Panhandle Health District never approves or disapproves an event, they just approve the plan. Mr. Becker called Chairman Dinning who had contacted him on Sunday. Chairman Dinning said he later called County insurance agent Darrell Kerby to update him on the situation and Mr. Kerby didn’t see any issues as long as liability insurance was provided. Just so everyone understands, Chairman Dinning stated that there was never any mention of Commissioners replacing the Fair Board so he doesn’t know where that information came from and it just is not true. Ultimately, the county is the risk manager and Commissioners should be able to find out about events to see if everything is in a proper position. This matter was blown out of proportion. The 9B Arenacross is an event that John Becker had put money into and Chairman Dinning said he just wishes Commissioners would have known a lot sooner that this is coming down the pike so they could’ve had these questions addressed. With that said Commissioners don’t have any concerns. This was not about shutting the event down. Mr. Becker apologized and he said that is not how the matter was presented to him. Mr. Becker thanked Commissioners for calling him back and he apologized for being heated when he returned Chairman Dinning’s call. Chairman Dinning said Commissioners don’t have any concerns and they just needed time. Commissioner Cossairt wasn’t even aware of this issue as Commissioners cannot talk about these matters outside of their office setting, according to Chairman Dinning. Clerk Poston said she talked to Mr. Becker just about what stage Idaho is in and she added that she would prefer Mr. Becker forward his certificate of liability insurance to Commissioners’ Office.
The meeting with Mr. Becker ended at 11:08 a.m.
Those present discussed use of Memorial Hall by various groups and the need to certify that guidelines are met. Commissioners don’t have a concern with this.
Chairman Dinning explained that the reason for a meeting he has on Thursday afternoon is to discuss the ability to share Planning and Zoning documents with others on the cloud.
11:31 a.m., Assistant Restorium Administrator Diana Lane joined the meeting.
Ms. Lane commented that as of right now an amendment was made to the Restorium’s policy regarding residents’ supplies and furnishings being inspected for bed bugs prior to admission. Commissioners were in favor of the change. Ms. Lane said they also created a screening questionnaire for COVID-19. Chairman Dinning said the screening questionnaire is more extensive than what the state guidelines are. Commissioners reviewed the questionnaire. Ms. Lane informed Commissioners that the Restorium currently has 34 residents and they’ve had at least eight inquires per week for the last four to six weeks. Last week Ms. Magee and Ms. Lane attended a Center for Disease Control (CDC) course on donning and docking personal protective equipment. Ms. Magee did speak with Boundary Community Hospital about sharing a nurse and was told that the hospital cannot do that, according to Ms. Lane. The Hospital representative had stated they would advertise that the Restorium is looking for a nurse, but that they will not share the hospital’s nurse. Chairman Dinning said Kootenai County is expecting their COVID-19 cases to peak mid-July. Commissioner Kirby said the Restorium has done such a good job that he would hate to see them get a case of the virus.
The meeting with Ms. Lane ended at 11:45 a.m.
Commissioners recessed for lunch at noon.
1:30 p.m., Commissioners reconvened for the afternoon session with Chairman Dan Dinning, Commissioner Wally Cossairt, Commissioner Walt Kirby, and Deputy Clerk Michelle Rohrwasser.
1:30 p.m., Commissioners held a continuation of their public hearing in the University of Idaho Ag Extension Office meeting room to consider Planning and Zoning Application #19-177, regarding proposed changes to the Boundary County Land Use Ordinance. Present were: Chairman Dan Dinning, Commissioner Wally Cossairt, Commissioner Walt Kirby, Deputy Clerk Michelle Rohrwasser, Planning and Zoning Administrator John Moss, County Civil Attorney Tevis Hull, Carol Clausen, David Nicholas, Beth Nicholas, James Embree, Tony Jacobs, and County Mapper Olivia Drake who joined via conference call. The hearing was recorded.
Chairman Dinning opened the hearing and explained the steps taken during the prior hearings regarding this application. Commissioners have closed the hearing to public testimony and are now holding discussion amongst themselves.
Commissioners reviewed Section 15.17. pertaining to excess storage. Mr. Moss reviewed the new proposed changes for storage excess. Also referenced was Section 15.2.11. for outdoor storage of materials and property, including containers but not to include refuse, out of direct public view in an area less than half an acres in size. Chairman Dinning mentioned a reference to building a fence. Mr. Moss reviewed materials to be out of public view on certain size properties and he said it becomes very subjective and there isn’t a clear definition of what is considered excess. Chairman Dinning said he had questioned in a prior hearing if a little row boat and a BBQ would be considered unsightly and someone had replied, yes. It’s pretty subjective because what a neighbor might feel is unsightly may not be unsightly to someone else. Mr. Moss listed what Section 15.2.11. says in the current ordinance, outdoor storage of materials and property, not to include refuse, out of direct public view and less than half an acre in size. For light uses, Section 15.3.4. also refers to outdoor storage of materials and property, not to include refuse, out of direct public view and less than one acre in size. Mr. Moss commented that the Planning and Zoning Commission feels it’s difficult to quantify size of uses, such as restrictive, light or moderate, and to remove the size of property. Chairman Dinning said his question is how do we define excess?
Attorney Hull said if Commissioners approve Section 15.17. and there is a violation, the ordinance talks about injunctive action, but it’s from a criminal aspect. Search warrants would have to be issued to determine acreage size. Mr. Moss said there is not a clear definition of what Chairman Dinning is asking. Excess storage is a personal opinion, per Commissioner Cossairt. Chairman Dinning agreed and he added that he refers to the Comprehensive Plan in that one person’s view shouldn’t be imposed on someone else.
Mr. Moss said referring to Section 15.17. there is no place in the ordinance that provides for restricted activity. Section 15.17. was an attempt to look at the other side. What if the property is larger than one-half acre? Attorney Hull asked about Section 4 regarding enforcement and he said there is the injunctive relief in this section. Attorney Hull added that the county doesn’t look for violations. Someone will bring a complaint forward so the injunctive action is there. Attorney Hull said this section doesn’t provide for criminal action, so injunctive relief is included in Section 4.2. Attorney Hull said if the county already has the injunction action as a remedy, the current ordinance covers that. Mr. Moss would send a letter of violation and will see if there is a violation. If Commissioners approve excess storage under Section 15.17., someone could argue ex post facto in that they’ve already had something in place. Mr. Moss commented that there is no grandfathering. Attorney Hull said the Planning and Zoning Office can send out letters of violation. Mr. Moss agreed. Attorney Hull commented that it doesn’t add anything more to Section 15.2.11. other than the proposal to include containers as material.
Chairman Dinning provided a recap in that if the parcel is less than one-half acre in size, the outdoor storage and materials need to be out of public view, but not if the lot is more than half an acre. Chairman Dinning questioned if the parcel is over one-half acre and Mr. Moss said there is no provision for that. Chairman Dinning mentioned the definition of excess storage and the comment of not having it in public view on parcels less than one-half acre. Mr. Moss mentioned having a review of property and Chairman Dinning asked what the criteria is. Chairman Dinning commented that he sees this is more of a hassle than what it’s worth. Chairman Dinning said one person versus another will have different ideas of refuse. Commissioner Cossairt added that one Planning and Zoning Administrator could say someone is compliant, but a new administrator could come into office later and say that same person is not compliant. Mr. Moss agreed and said it’s not clear. Chairman Dinning discussed writing the ordinance so the county can correct the enforcement mechanism. Mr. Moss said the intent was to have a mechanism of enforcement. Attorney Hull mentioned properties being larger than one-half acre and Commissioners are saying there isn’t enforcement and Section 15.17. falls short of what Planning and Zoning is trying to do. Commissioner Kirby stated a pile of junk is a pile of junk on a small lot or a 50 acre lot. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Junk is junk. How do you define a container for this purpose, is it a bucket or a large container? Mr. Moss read the definition of container. Commissioner Kirby said it doesn’t matter what’s in the container.
Attorney Hull commented that one person voiced concern about possible contaminates from the container and the state pretty much washed their hands of the matter. Commissioner Kirby questioned if it’s about sight versus content and he questioned if it should be about sight. Chairman Dinning said he didn’t know if Idaho Code allows counties to go down that path. Attorney Hull discussed regulations and commented on governmental entities trying to work with the public.
Chairman Dinning said Commissioners are at a point with Chapter 15.17. to make a choice to approve it. Attorney Hull asked Commissioners if they want the Planning and Zoning Commission to revisit this.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to deny Chapter 15.17. and to have the Planning and Zoning Commission revisit this chapter for definitions. Commissioner Kirby second, but Chairman Dinning voiced concerns with all of the acreages and everything to do with light and moderate use. Attorney Hull suggested the inclusion of any references made to Section 15.17.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to amend his prior motion and to remove Chapters 15.17 and all references to this section, remove Section 15.3.4. and Section 15.4.6. currently in the ordinance and proposed sections 2.1.5. and 15.2.11. Commissioner Kirby second. Motion passed unanimously.
Commissioner Kirby moved to continue the hearing to consider Planning and Zoning Application #19-177 to a future date. Commissioner Cossairt second. Motion passed unanimously.
The hearing ended at 2:30 p.m.
County Civil Attorney Tevis Hull joined Commissioners in their office.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to go into executive session pursuant to Idaho Code 74-206(1)b, to communicate with legal counsel for the public agency to discuss the legal ramifications of and legal options for pending litigation, or controversies not yet being litigated, but imminently likely to be litigated. Commissioner Kirby second. Commissioners voted as follows: Chairman Dinning “aye”, Commissioner Cossairt “aye” and Commissioner Kirby “aye”. Motion passed unanimously. The executive session ended at 3:20 p.m. No action was taken.
Attorney Hull left the meeting.
4:15 p.m., There being no further business, the meeting recessed until tomorrow at 9:00 a.m.
***Tuesday, June 16, 2020, at 9:00 a.m., Commissioners met in regular session with Chairman Dan Dinning, Commissioner Wally Cossairt, Commissioner Walt Kirby, and Deputy Clerk Michelle Rohrwasser.
9:00 a.m., Airport Manager Dave Parker and Airport Board Chairman Jay Wages joined the meeting to discuss airport grant funding. Chairman Dinning said the county was looking at paying Pape Machinery for the airport snow removal equipment, but funds are not there so perhaps tomorrow Mr. Parker should sit down and figure out how to pay this. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funds were discussed and it was said the county wouldn’t get reimbursed until all of the projects are completed. Mr. Parker said that is not correct. It’s the snow removal equipment and the building projects that are not completed, but the engineered drawings are done. Funding was held up due to a partial environmental analysis (EA). Mr. Parker spoke of reimbursement practices and Chairman Dinning suggested Mr. Parker take some time to figure this out. Chairman Dinning clarified that Commissioners are going over all of the department budgets and he informed Mr. Parker that the county’s homeowners are going to see higher taxes so going forward for the upcoming year we need to take a good look at budget as far as what needs to be done and what doesn’t. It was said that cash, not the budget, is the real issue because the county hasn’t received the reimbursement. Mr. Parker said the CARES Act funds should be available in a couple of days. Mr. Parker added that he’s always been able to plan with room to spare and as far as next year, the grants are also 100% reimbursement grants. Chairman Dinning said Commissioners have run into this with other programs where the county pays the costs up front and then has to wait 45 days for reimbursement.
Mr. Wages asked why budgets would be reduced if property assessments increase for the taxes paid. Chairman Dinning explained that there has been a shift and he explained how taxes for the residential category is where that tax shift went to. The commercial category stayed the same, the timber category increased and the agriculture category decreased and it created more value, but the increase is higher for the residential homeowner. Even if the exact same amount of dollars is generated, it will increase the residential home owner’s responsibility for that by $250.00 to $300.00 for the county taxes and $500.00 per year for the city. The homeowner’s exemption needs to be fixed, according to Chairman Dinning.
Mr. Parker said he will meet with Deputy Clerk Nancy Ryals and Clerk Glenda Poston regarding the budget. Mr. Parker added that he thinks his budget will be $40,000.00 to $50,000.00 to the plus once the dust settles and he has asked if the airport can carry that forward? Funds should come in the next couple months, according to Mr. Parker.
The meeting with Mr. Parker and Mr. Wages ended at 9:15 a.m.
A county resident from Eastport stopped by Commissioners’ Office regarding a veterans benefit. The resident mentioned having received a letter from the Assessor on tax increases and never paid it much attention. This person said he has 100% disability through the Veterans Administration. Information for this benefit program was received on Friday and he saw that the last day to apply for this benefit was yesterday. The staff in the Assessor’s Office asked him if he had certain documentation with him, but it was documents he normally doesn’t carry. COVID-19 can close the county as it did with the Forest Service, but all of the things he does, he has to be right on time. The Veterans Administration’s system is down, but he was told that when the state gives him the needed information, he should be willing to go through the hoops to apply for the benefit. The resident said the State of Idaho and Boundary County don’t give him anything. Don’t say we are giving you something. Chairman Dinning said in that office are county employees and we are public servants, but their direct supervisor is the Assessor so he will relay that statement to him. Chairman Dinning apologized to the resident and explained that due to abuses, the State of Idaho now has members of the public record death certificates. The resident said maybe it was just the choice of words, but the Veterans Administration doesn’t “give” him anything.
The gentleman left the office at 9:24 a.m.
Commissioners tended to administrative duties.
10:00 a.m., Commissioners held a public hearing in the University of Idaho Ag Extension Office to consider Planning and Zoning Application #20-080 for a short plat/lot line adjustment requested by applicant Harley Mastre. Present were: Chairman Dan Dinning, Commissioner Wally Cossairt, Commissioner Walt Kirby, Deputy Clerk Michelle Rohrwasser, Planning and Zoning John Moss, Road and Bridge Co-Superintendent Renee Nelson, and Steve Moyer with Northstar Surveying. The hearing was recorded.
Chairman Dinning read aloud the hearing procedures. The application is for a short plat lot line adjustment to amend the plat for Northland Woods Subdivision and the plat for Northland Woods 1st Addition. Chairman Dinning reviewed applicable considerations and possible terms and conditions. Commissioners cited no conflict of interest.
Mr. Moyer represented applicant Harley Mastre and he said the applicant wishes to adjust the line between the two lot 1’s on the map to the west approximately 85 feet. This will facilitate truck traffic for Yoder’s Market. Mr. Moyer further described Mr. Mastre’s request for the proposed adjustment.
Mr. Moss provided a staff report and he said the analysis includes a reference to the type of subdivision it is, which is rural and the parcels are in the commercial/industrial zone. Both subdivisions are owned by Mr. Mastre. Mr. Moss said the surrounding uses are commercial, residential and the airport. No other departments were needed for comments or approval.
Ms. Nelson said the new approach to Tobe Way would meet the county’s standards. Mr. Mastre would like a new shared approach with Yoder’s and it would be 85 feet over from Yoder’s. Road and Bridge’s comment is that the two new approaches would be fine. Ms. Nelson said if Commissioners approve the second approach, she would request that the first five feet deep and 40 feet wide portion of the county approach be paved.
Chairman Dinning stated that no members of the public were present to provide comment in favor, uncommitted or in opposition to the application.
There would be two approaches on Plato Drive and one on Tobe Way, according to Ms. Nelson. Chairman Dinning asked if there was any expectation of the new access road to be paved and Mr. Moyer said no, not that he had heard from Mr. Mastre.
Commissioners closed the hearing to public comment. Commissioner Cossairt asked about approaches and Ms. Nelson said there is one approach on Plato Drive and there would be another approach 85 feet to the west and there is also an approach on the first lot. Chairman Dinning said this road has a lower speed and is also a low density area. Commissioners discussed approving the application with the additional approach on Tobe Way and Plato Drive as described and to keep the current access on Lot 1 of Block 4 of the Northland Subdivision replat. Commissioners want the new approaches paved five feet back and have Road and Bridge look into installing no parking signs.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to approve Planning and Zoning Application #20-080 for a short plat lot line adjustment with the stipulation the two accesses would be paved to five feet back and the existing access would be left in place, signage will be obtained for no parking on roads, and as per the following criteria of Section 11.6.1.4. and Section 11.6.1.5. Commissioner Kirby second. Motion passed unanimously.
The hearing ended at 10:20 a.m.
Commissioners tended to administrative duties.
Commissioners and Clerk Poston toured the armory to check on the remodel progress.
Commissioners recessed for lunch.
1:30 p.m., Commissioners reconvened for the afternoon session with Chairman Dan Dinning, Commissioner Wally Cossairt, Commissioner Walt Kirby, and Deputy Clerk Michelle Rohrwasser.
1:30 p.m., Commissioners held a public hearing in the University of Idaho Ag Extension Office to consider an application regarding proposed Planning and Zoning administrative fee increases. Present were: Chairman Dan Dinning, Commissioner Wally Cossairt, Commissioner Walt Kirby, Deputy Clerk Michelle Rohrwasser, Adrienne Norris, Earl Borer, Jeannie Borer, Lynda Fioravanti, Kathy Wenzel, Maria Martinez, James Sporl, Jeanine Betsher, Andria Hedrick, Kim Fields, Julie Kropushek, Marchita Johnson, Naomi Dittmann, John Miller, and Tawnya Sheikh. The hearing was recorded.
Chairman Dinning reviewed the hearing procedures, including this hearing was quasi-judicial and he explained that term meant this matter was a legislative matter as opposed to a Planning and Zoning type matter. Ms. Fioravanti asked if it’s like when properties are annexed into the city. Chairman Dinning said that this is Boundary County and the county doesn’t annex.
Chairman Dinning informed those present that Boundary County is the applicant. Planning and Zoning application fees have not increased since approximately year 1996. Commissioners had asked the Planning and Zoning Administrator, Road and Bridge Department and County Mapper to compile data from 2019 as to how many hours it took or is spent on each type of application. Information gathered was from year 2018 through October 2019 and it showed the amount of hours each individual spent on each application. This is not something new and Commissioners have been looking into this for a long time. The information was reviewed and Commissioners asked for clarity. Fees have been relatively low and the county needed to look at recapturing some of these costs. As it sits right now, a person who is developing a large piece of property is being subsidized by the taxpayers of the county. Chairman Dinning explained that this hearing was originally scheduled to be heard earlier, but COVID-19 got in the way and Commissioners estimated that Idaho would be in stage 4 about this time. Chairman Dinning explained that in some of the application categories there may have been only one or two applications processed during the time frame selected and it threw the cost through the roof greatly. Chairman Dinning explained that the proposed fee increases are not set in stone and this is just a starting point as it’s been 24 or so years since this matter has been addressed.
Chairman Dinning opened the hearing to public testimony and asked for comments from those in favor of the application. Jeannie Borer asked if the proposed increased fees will represent a break-even point. Commissioner Cossairt explained that the public will still be subsidizing the costs as the proposed increase is not the full amount. Commissioners had rounded down all of the categories.
John Miller asked for examples of subdivisions that cost the taxpayer more than the fee. Chairman Dinning gave an example and said there was one short plat subdivision application during a specific time and that took 18 hours. The current fee for that application is $90.00. Mr. Miller clarified that it was $90.00 for the 18 hours the county gave. The actual cost involved was $523.91, according to Commissioner Cossairt. Mr. Miller questioned if this sort of thing happens a lot. Commissioner Cossairt mentioned this happens 50 to 60 times per year with a residential placement permit to a subdivision in some form. Commissioner Cossairt said there are permits that only cost $35.00, but it actually costs the county over $200.00 in man hours. Mr. Miller questioned what this would’ve cost in 1996. Commissioner Cossairt said he doesn’t know, but this should’ve been addressed every few years. Mr. Miller commented that it’s scary to look at a 400% increase at one time right now. What about two years down the line, are we going to do this again? Mr. Miller questioned what if you have a young person who is only making $10.00 per hour? It would be difficult for people who are from here or who are working here to afford this as opposed to someone from other states. Chairman Dinning said he totally understands that 100%, but those moving to this area are being subsidized also. Mr. Miller said it doesn’t seem right. Chairman Dinning said this is a starting point and it’s not cast in stone. Mr. Miller commented on taking that application fee of $523.91 and dividing it between all the taxpayers to see what the cost is. An unidentified speaker said her family has 20 acres and if her kids wanted to stay on it and she needed to subdivide it, it would also be a subdivision. Mr. Miller said he appreciates that and he was aware of that and he added that was one of his concerns.
Kathy Wenzel questioned why not put the cost of the permit onto the person initiating this work. Chairman Dinning replied that’s what Commissioners are trying to do as right now the taxpayer is subsidizing it. An application for a short plat subdivision is $90.00 so the taxpayers are subsidizing approximately $300.00 to $400.00. Ms. Wenzel asked about lot line adjustments. Chairman Dinning said the fee for a lot line adjustment is currently $90.00, but the proposed increase would raise it to $200.00. Commissioners held a hearing for a lot line adjustment earlier today and these applications involve advertising in the newspaper and it involves work by the Road and Bridge Department and the county mapper and we’re trying to capture those hours spent. The person asking for this to occur should pay this fee, not the taxpayers of the county.
Naomi Dittmann commented that if this fee increase passes, it’s being put back on the person who’s doing the project. Right now her property taxes as well as everybody else’s taxes in the county just went up so will this cost come off the taxes or are they still going to go up and up even though the costs will now be covered by the property owner. Chairman Dinning said contemplating a fee increase started well before the tax assessment. What this does is allows the opportunity to not raise your taxes as much as this tax shift is going to create. The county is trying to not collect as much tax. Ms. Dittmann asked if the county is in arrears. Are the taxes not equaling the output that we’re putting out in the county? Is the county in debt? Chairman Dinning said no. Ms. Dittmann said she understands the county is wanting to raise the fees, but what she doesn’t understand is that taxes are going up even though we’ve been able to cover the things. It doesn’t add up. Where is this extra money going? Chairman Dinning said Ms. Dittmann is asking if she’ see a benefit on her taxes and he would like to say, hopefully. Commissioners never know what additional things the state legislature is going to ask the counties to do and he listed matters pertaining to public defense as an example. As far as local operations, Boundary County is not in debt. The current dollar amount the county is levying is covering the services that are mandated.
Chairman Dinning explained to those present what the county is facing as it pertains to valuations for the residential category. The Assessor has never failed a test of his data from the Idaho State Tax Commission. Chairman Dinning stated that the Tax Commission comes every year and checks the categories and the Assessor has to have values for categories within a certain percentage range and this year the State Tax Commission came in and stated that the values for the residential category are way too low. The State Tax Commission mandates the values that these categories need to fall within so that mandate has increased these residential values. The state’s representatives met with Commissioners last week about this. Chairman Dinning clarified that it isn’t the county that is doing that. The tax shift has gone to the residential homeowner. Chairman Dinning stated that Commissioners are conservative with the budget and don’t ask for more than what is needed.
Adrienne Norris said she’s dealt a lot of what is happening in Bonner County and unfortunately, Commissioners are correct in that Boise is controlling the state and they have an agenda. Ms. Norris said she appreciates the way Commissioners explained the issue and she added that she has not lived in Boundary County long enough to know the politics and finances so she will remain in the in difference stage. The applications with the fees to be raised seemed to be focused on the developers and not private property owner and she thinks that is a good route. It was asked if this is a gateway for raising more fees over the next few years. Chairman Dinning said the fees being discussed are all there is for fees.
Andria Hedrick asked what the date is that these proposed fees would take effect. Chairman Dinning said Commissioners had not discussed that yet.
Lynda Fioravanti said she understands the position to increase fees, but a 500% increase is egregious. The state is making the county increase property taxes so the county is going to get more money. The county doesn’t need to be egregious with these increases because the county will get more money from the property taxes. These fees can increase 40% and not 500%. Ms. Fioravanti said she is a real estate agent, people come to this area and dream to give land to their kids and doing lot line adjustments for that purpose. It’s totally different when doing an entire subdivision split as opposed to a landowner with 40 acres wanting to split their land to give to their children. Ms. Fioravanti questioned if the county is going to hire additional employees if these fees are increased. Is that why Commissioners want this increase, to hire more employees to do all of the work that is coming in? If not, and the county is able to make its budget with the employees it has, then there is no extra cost to the county. Chairman Dinning said currently there is one employee, Commissioners have asked another department to share some help with filing, and the county has contracted with a firm to provide assistance. That is the additional budget that was needed. There is help being provided, but COVID-19 shut down that assistance. Chairman Dinning spoke of a past ordinance the county had in which a property owner could gift some of their property to a family member. In this the intent was good, but it became a mechanism for people to create their own subdivisions.
Julie Kropushek asked about putting discussion on the agenda regarding trying to protect the division of property in order for a property owner to give land to their kids and to make sure that is actually happening, but to allow that. Ms. Kropushek also asked about public access to the county budget. Chairman Dinning said yes, almost everything is public that we do. Aside from legal or personnel records, everything is available. The Clerk has the financials and the budget. We are starting into the new budget process and he relayed approximately when the budget hearing would take place. A person could fill out a public records request for that information.
Ms. Kropushek asked about the family split of land and Chairman Dinning said that Commissioners have tried everything they could do to make that work.
Jeannie Borer asked if the Tax Commission representatives in Boise are elected or appointed. Chairman Dinning said they are employees of the State of Idaho and they are not elected.
John Miller asked why the cost of residential placement permits is increasing if the residents are the people paying for them. Mr. Miller said it’s not a developer type of permit, but more like a couple trying to build a house. Mr. Miller asked if it would be more practical to amend the permits to include verbiage charging for overage rather than charging everyone across the board including residents. Mr. Miller added that Commissioners stated they’re not asking for more than is needed. A conditional use permit is listed at $500.00. Commissioner Cossairt said the actual man hours was approximately $744.52 for the conditional use permit during that one year period. Chairman Dinning clarified that that amount was lowered to $500.00. Mr. Miller said the residents are clearly paying for this. Couldn’t the permit include verbiage that if the permit exceeds a certain amount of hours, this is how much the county is going to charge.
Commissioner Kirby spoke of lot line adjustments and discussed the time involved by Road and Bridge personnel during the process and he said he knows the amount of work spent on applications by the Planning and Zoning Administrator. Commissioner Kirby stated that if a person doesn’t want to build anything, they’re not going to get charged for anything. Nobody is earning extra money; we’re just trying not to lose as much, according to Commissioner Kirby.
Kim Fields explained that she literally just tried to go through the lot line adjustment process and it cost her $6,000.00. Ms. Fields discussed her experience in detail and she said the process is messed up. Ms. Fields commented that she doesn’t know what is going on in the Planning and Zoning Office. She was not upset with the fees back in 1996 so it initially was not a big deal, but it’s becoming a big deal and she cautioned Commissioners in raising fees too high as the local people won’t come in. Chairman Dinning said Commissioners don’t know what they don’t know and they appreciate hearing this.
Adrianne Norris said as someone from Bonner County, be careful of change as it causes frustration within the community and she asked if the statistics include neighboring counties to decide on fees? Chairman Dinning said no.
John Miller commented about county employees’ hours in relation to the proposed fees and he questioned why not charge the developer for the additional hours. Commissioner Kirby said Commissioners are not charging him for what someone else does.
Chairman Dinning said Commissioners and Planning and Zoning Administrator John Moss considered charging a larger fee up front, then providing reimbursement based on the hours it took to process the application, but that would be an additional expense for accounting. The Planning and Zoning Office is a one man office and Mr. Moss is already taxed now so that would make it much worse.
Lynda Fioravanti said if you have three or 100 people requesting applications, it doesn’t cost salaried employees. Ms. Fioravanti asked what a special event is and what a temporary use permit means. Chairman Dinning explained that the mud bog is a short term event where it’s not a regular use for that zone. Chairman Dinning said costs have increase for Planning and Zoning since 1996. Chairman Dinning added that he doesn’t know if Boundary County even had computers in 1996. Wages were extremely low and everything that was required by court decisions across the state have caused the need for an increase.
Andria Hedrick asked if special event permits include events held at the fairgrounds. Chairman Dinning said to his knowledge the county hasn’t asked for a special event for the fairgrounds. The Fair Board charges fees for rentals and the Parks and Recreation Department may also charge a fee for their side of things, according to Chairman Dinning.
Tawnya Sheikh said it’s an ongoing thing with raising fees to keep up with costs. Ms. Sheikh questioned, if there is a raise in fees, when would the next increase happen?
It was asked if someone has three different permits, is Boundary County still just charging for the more expensive permit and waive the other fees. Chairman Dinning said he’s not familiar with that, but his understanding is if someone has three different permits, they’re going to pay different fees.
Tawnya Sheikh said there is an ongoing theme in this county in that we’re going to raise the fees as we haven’t raised them efficiently enough for the cost of living so we have to come in and all of a sudden increase these fees substantially. If these fees are passed, when do Commissioners project another fee increase or are Commissioners going to wait to see what the growth of Idaho is all the way around and what Boise does before addressing another fee increase.
Kim Fields requested Commissioners not put the new fees into effect right away, but in year 2021. A question was asked if pending permits would be grandfathered. Mr. Miller said he thinks it’s just too much of an increase for everyone.
Ms. Sheikh said there is a short fall right now as these are clearly below budget and Commissioners will still have to dip into the taxpayer’s money. Ms. Sheikh said if she’s not doing anything to need one of these permits, she will still have to burden these costs. Ms. Sheikh asked about the percentages to determine how much the taxpayers are putting into this short fall. How much money is truly going to be saved with this increase as far as percentages? Chairman Dinning said he does not know that figure. What this was based on were employee hours; not computers or everything to do with the office, such as phones and paper, etc. The things Mr. Moss has to prepare for the Planning and Zoning Commission and County Commissioners. This is just the per hour wage. Had we wanted to include everything else, it was going to look a lot uglier and that’s not fair. Commissioners don’t have the percentage. Ms. Sheikh asked how it’s decided as far as what percentage is coming out of their taxes as Commissioners said the shortfall is being paid for by the taxpayer. Is it a matter of, we have a shortfall of a certain amount so we’re going to tax a certain amount? Ms. Sheikh said how is this being taxed, through property taxes? Chairman Dinning said yes. Ms. Sheikh said there is going to have to be a projected savings somewhere along the line if the fees are going to be increased because the county is getting compensation so how do you figure out what the county is saving? Ms. Sheikh said if she’s had a house for 20 years and she doesn’t need any of these permits, she’s still paying for it and Commissioners are saying they want to make it fair for everyone. She understands that and she understands the need to increase fees, but this is a lot. Ms. Sheikh said she’s pretty sure Commissioners are not going to increase her property taxes 400% or even 40%. With the fees going up 400%, where is the adjustability in this? Chairman Dinning said adjustability will be at the time the county sets its budget and Commissioners will estimate how much revenue this will generate. At that point, the part that becomes tax dollars that are attributed to Planning and Zoning will be reduced by what Commissioners estimate this will generate. That is just for Planning and Zoning, but there is also the rest of the county budget. Chairman Dinning said Commissioners don’t know how much this increase will generate until there has been time to see what it actually does generate. It should reduce the amount needed from the general taxpayer. Ms. Sheikh said the citizens need to follow what the county budget is, where the money gone, what’s been collected, what’s been allocated, etc.
Adrienne Norris questioned if Commissioners can propose having a five year review of fees instead of a 20 year review.
Chairman Dinning asked if there were more comments in favor, uncommitted or opposed to the proposal.
Marchita Johnson questioned why these fees even come out of taxes and are not paid by the person who uses the permit. Commissioners are causing a confusing array of actions that don’t seem necessary. Take the list of Planning and Zoning application fees and have them for the people who need them and leave our taxes alone. Commissioner Kirby said these fees are for the person who is trying to do this kind of work. Ms. Johnson replied that that was after the county takes it out of the taxes. Commissioner Kirby said no, and when the budget comes around the Planning and Zoning Office won’t need as much due to the fees that come in. Commissioner Kirby added that if the amount of the fees covered everthing, at the end of the year when it’s time for the budget, the Planning and Zoning Administrator won’t need as much of a budget. Ms. Johnson said but the county is taking these funds from us to pay for that.
Adrienne Norris said she agrees with what Commissioners are trying to do now.
Chairman Dinning said Commissioners are trying to get to a level where everybody who requests the services of Planning and Zoning pays so that we don’t have to ask the taxpayers for funds to support this. Tawnya Sheikh said to then ask for the full amount. If the proposed amount is $500.00 for a certain permit, but the actual cost is $723.00, then the applicant needs to be charged $723.00 so the taxpayers don’t have to cover the $223.00 remaining balance. Ms. Fiorvanti said you’re still going to have to pay for their salary unless someone becomes a consultant and they only get paid when a permit is paid. You as a taxpayer, are still paying that person’s salary to be in Planning and Zoning.
An unidentified speaker said if what Commissioners are saying is true, someone has to pay the employee’s salary and we understand this, so come forth and say this is being taken out of your taxes to pay their salary and then is reimbursed. Commissioners could’ve said it that way and said they were considering this, but the way Commissioners went about it was very confusing. Commissioners apologized for the confusion.
Kathy Wenzel commented that she appreciates Commissioners explanation in that the Commissioners are only asking for these fees from the people requesting the permits. Her only question is if an itemized description of all the things associated with this can be made available because if she’s doing a simple lot line adjustment and adding two acres that are next to her property, and someone is mentioning it’s $6,000.00, they just have no idea what’s involved. Having an idea of what costs could be incurred with this, the public needs to know ahead of time before putting in for a permit and finding out it’s going to cost $6,000.00.
Chairman Dinning explained the remaining process of the hearing. Chairman Dinning said these fees have not increased since 1996 and our costs have increased and our requirements have changed due to Idaho Supreme Court cases regarding Planning and Zoning matters. Commissioners tried the best they could to come up with what the costs were and we didn’t include all of it, to be honest. These are just the people hours so even if we instituted everything at the extreme high side, we’re still not going to cover everything. As was stated, we shouldn’t have waited 25 years. Commissioners are looking at the efficiencies of the Planning and Zoning Office and Chairman Dinning said he has a meeting to go over this with some individuals and maybe making some changes in how the operation works, such as online communication, so that we can reduce the amount of hours needed per applicant at this point. The county is looking at a computer system for efficiency and streamlining and has also hired a firm to assist. Chairman Dinning said his thinking is that Commissioners should look at not charging the full proposed increase at this point and he would like Commissioners to look into cutting the proposed fees in half and then review them in one year. If we gain efficiency in time, people should benefit from that. If the market declines, there isn’t going to be this need. If the market continue as it is currently, there is going to be huge need, but he doesn’t like locking things in forever without looking at them. The plan is to reduce the proposed fees by 50% and put it into effect on October 1, 2020, and to allow a full year from October 2020 to October 2021 and to track hours of those involved. Commissioners had to start somewhere and create the discussion.
Commissioner Kirby moved to reduce the proposed Planning and Zoning administrative fees by 50%, to put this increase into effect October 1, 2020 through October 1, 2021 and to reassess the fees at that time. Commissioner Cossairt second. Motion passed unanimously.
The hearing ended at 3:00 p.m.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 3:00 p.m.
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DAN R. DINNING, Chairman
ATTEST:
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GLENDA POSTON, Clerk
By: Michelle Rohrwasser, Deputy Clerk