Commissioners’ – Week of September 6, 2021
Meeting Date: September 6, 2021 9:00 am
Meeting Minutes
***Monday, September 6, 2021, Commissioners did not meet due to the Labor Day Holiday.
***Tuesday, September 7, 2021, at 9:00 a.m., Commissioners met in regular session with Chairman Dan Dinning, Commissioner Wally Cossairt, Commissioner Tim Bertling, Clerk Glenda Poston, and Deputy Clerk Michelle Rohrwasser.
Commissioners gave the opening invocation and said the Pledge of Allegiance.
9:00 a.m., Commissioners held a public hearing to consider the proposed fiscal year 2021-2022 county budget. Present were: Chairman Dan Dinning, Commissioner Wally Cossairt, Commissioner Tim Bertling, Clerk Glenda Poston, Deputy Clerk Michelle Rohrwasser, Assessor Dave Ryals, Deputy Assessor Olivia Drake, Treasurer Sue Larson, and Noxious Weeds Department Superintendent Dave Wenk. The hearing was recorded.
Commissioners opened the hearing and Chairman Dinning reviewed budget information. The county’s total budget expenses, including grants is $21,581,309.00. Boundary County has the ability to levy $5,610,266.00, which is the allowable 3% increase, plus receipt of 90% of new construction values. This proposed budget had been published in the Bonners Ferry Herald on August 5, 2021 and August 12, 2021. The increase of the property tax portion of the budget is 4.13%. The county is not using any available forgone, which totals $643,196.00. New construction at 90% totals $14,618,898.00, which is an increase of $62,165.00. Commissioners feel everything has been funded properly and Chairman Dinning added that county employees will receive a $1.00 per hour increase in wages to keep up with the market.
Clerk Poston added that salaried employees will receive a 5% increase in wages. Clerk Poston stated that she received values over the weekend as far as operating property and it increased by $10,000,000.00. Operating property includes railroads and utilities, etc., and this is information provided by the state. The county hasn’t yet received the official market value from the state that is usually prepared. The amount of $417.00 per $100,000.00 assessed value is to be levied. Last year, without the Governor’s Public Safety Initiative, the amount would’ve been $424.00 per $100,000.00 assessed value, so there had been a decrease. Chairman Dinning said what is being made up is the Governor’s program.
Commissioners opened the hearing to public comments.
Mr. Wenk asked if the 5% wage increase is also for elected officials. Clerk Poston said yes, and salaried employees. Chairman Dinning and Clerk Poston added that Commissioners will also adopt a resolution to increase starting wages effective October 1, 2021.
There being no further comments, Commissioners closed the hearing to further public testimony.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to adopt the proposed Boundary County budget for fiscal year 2021-2022. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to adopt Resolution 2021-27. A resolution to adopt the fiscal year 2021-2022 county budget. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously. Resolution 2021-27 reads as follows:
RESOLUTION 2021-27
A RESOLUTION TO ADOPT
THE FISCAL YEAR 2021-2022 COUNTY BUDGET
WHEREAS, on the 7th day of September, 2021 at the Boundary County Courthouse in Commissioners’ Chambers in Bonners Ferry, Idaho, the Board of County Commissioners held the fiscal year 2021-2022 budget hearing for Boundary County, and
WHEREAS, the budget hearing was held in accordance with Idaho Code 31-1604 and Idaho Code 31-1605, and
WHEREAS, the proposed budget was duly printed in the Bonners Ferry Herald on August 5, 2021 and August 12, 2021,
WHEREAS, there was citizen input on the budget as proposed, and
WHEREAS, having considered the budget needs and available revenue,
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Boundary County Commissioners hereby unanimously adopt the fiscal year 2021-2022 budget as attached for Boundary County.
DATED AND DONE this 7th day of September, 2021.
COUNTY OF BOUNDARY
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
s/_______________________________
Dan R. Dinning, Chairman
s/_______________________________
Wally Cossairt, Commissioner
s/_______________________________
Tim Bertling, Commissioner
ATTEST:
s/____________________________________________________
GLENDA POSTON, Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners
Recorded as instrument #288417
Clerk Poston said from what she has learned regarding forgone, a resolution wasn’t necessary, but one has been drafted anyhow.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to adopt Resolution 2021-28. A resolution of the Board of Boundary County Commissioners of the County of Boundary, Idaho, reserving the forgone amount for fiscal year 2021-2022 for potential use in subsequent years as described in Idaho Code §63-802, et al. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously. Resolution 2021-28 reads as follows:
RESOLUTION 2021-28
A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF THE COUNTY OF BOUNDARY, IDAHO, RESERVING THE FORGONE AMOUNT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2021-2022 FOR POTENTIAL USE IN SUBSEQUENT YEARS AS DESCRIBED IN IDAHO CODE §63-802, et al.
WHEREAS, Idaho Code §31-811 empowers the board of county commissioners of each county to levy property taxes; and,
WHEREAS, Idaho Code §31-1605 requires the board of county commissioners of each county in the State of Idaho to pass an annual budget; and,
WHEREAS, Idaho Code §63-802 sets limitations on county budget requests on the amount of property tax revenues that can be used to fund programs and services; and,
WHEREAS, Idaho Code §63-802(1)(a) allows each county to increase property tax budget amounts by a maximum of 3%, plus an amount calculated based on the value of both new construction and annexation added during the previous calendar year, plus an amount for forgone taxes; and,
WHEREAS, Idaho Code §63-802(1)(f) requires that the County adopt a resolution to reserve forgone amounts in order to utilize that amount in subsequent years; and,
WHEREAS, Boundary County intends to reserve $643,196.00 of its allowable forgone amount.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF THE COUNTY OF BOUNDARY, IDAHO, that $643,196.00 of the allowable forgone amount is reserved and included in the County’s total forgone balance for potential use in subsequent years.
PASSED by the BOUNDARY COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS on the 7st day of September, 2021.
COUNTY OF BOUNDARY
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
s/____________________________
Dan R. Dinning, Chairman
s/____________________________
Wally Cossairt, Commissioner
s/____________________________
Tim Bertling, Commissioner
ATTEST:
s/_________________________________________________
GLENDA POSTON, Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners
Recorded as instrument #288418
Commissioner Cossairt moved to sign the L2 budget form associated with the Boundary County fiscal year 2021-2022 budget, when the document is prepared. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to state that the Boundary County fiscal year 2021-2022 budget will include the expenditure of funds for all county leases, to include Columbia Bank leases #2049363, #1822897 and #1713908. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to sign the Notices of Intent to Renew for Columbia Bank leases #2049363, #1822897 and #1713908. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously.
County resident Linda Fioravanti joined the hearing at 9:14 a.m.
Chairman Dinning opened the hearing back up to public comment to allow Ms. Fioravanti to provide testimony.
Ms. Fioravanti questioned why there was such an increase in the budget for labor. Chairman Dinning explained that all employees are to receive a pay increase. Clerk Poston added that the Sheriff’s Office has budgeted for an additional new employee as did the Assessor’s Office for the Department of Motor Vehicles. It was said that the new position budgeted for the Assessor’s Office Department of Motor Vehicles was offset by the increase in administrative fees for that office so it’s not a property tax increase.
Chairman Dinning commented on the total budget and he said $5,610,266.00 is the county levy portion; the rest is sales taxes moneys, highway user fees, grants, etc., so that might also be what Ms. Fioravanti is seeing.
Clerk Poston commented that there had been the Governor’s proclamation and Boundary County had received $1,000,000.00 for property tax relief, which lowered the tax rate last year per $100,000.00 of assessed value. This year it is now approximately $417.00 per $100,000.00 of assessed value. Clerk Poston added that this is an increase over last year’s figure, but it’s actually a decrease had we not used the Governor’s Public Safety Initiative proclamation. Clerk Poston explained taking the assessed value, figuring in the homeowner’s exemption value, etc. Mr. Wenk mentioned the homeowner’s exemption benefit increased to $125,000.00
There being no further comment, Commissioners closed the budget hearing to further public testimony.
The budget hearing ended at 9:19 a.m.
Ms. Fioravanti commented to Commissioners that a lot of doctors are stating that getting the COVID-19 vaccine could be starting to hurt people really bad, even as far as death, and as a protector for the county, Commissioners should approach the utility companies to suggest they cross train their employees so if one of their employees dies from the vaccine, another employee knows how to run the technical infrastructure.
Ms. Fioravanti left the meeting at 9:23 a.m.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to adopt Resolution 2021-29. A resolution amending the schedule of starting wages. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously. Resolution 2021-29 reads as follows:
RESOLUTION 2021-29
AMENDED SCHEDULE OF STARTING WAGES
WHEREAS, Boundary County has reviewed its employee policy pursuant to the authority conferred by Article XII, Section 2, of the Constitution of the State of Idaho and Title 31, Chapter 8, Idaho Code, and
WHEREAS, Boundary County is a political subdivision of the State of Idaho, operating under the provision and the laws of the State of Idaho, and as such is authorized and empowered to make decisions regarding its employees’ benefits; and
WHEREAS, the Boundary County Commissioners find it necessary to revise the Schedule of Starting Wages, and
WHEREAS, Rule 4B of the Boundary County Personnel Policy that was adopted as Resolution Number 2019-19 on August 26, 2019 allows the Board of County Commissioners to review and make adjustments to the Schedule of Starting Wages by resolution as required,
NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved by the Board of Boundary County Commissioners that it is in the best interest of the County to amend the Schedule of Starting Wages as follows:
| Law Enforcement
& Firefighters Only |
||
| Grade | 10/1/2021 | 10/1/2021 |
| 1 | 9.88 | 10.06 |
| 2 | 10.40 | 10.60 |
| 3 | 10.97 | 11.17 |
| 4 | 11.54 | 11.75 |
| 5 | 12.18 | 12.41 |
| 6 | 12.82 | 13.07 |
| 7 | 13.53 | 13.79 |
| 8 | 14.28 | 14.55 |
| 9 | 15.05 | 15.33 |
| 10 | 15.89 | 16.20 |
| 11 | 16.79 | 17.11 |
| 12 | 17.73 | 18.06 |
| 13 | 18.73 | 19.08 |
| 14 | 19.77 | 20.16 |
| 15 | 20.89 | 21.28 |
| 16 | 22.08 | 22.50 |
| 17 | 23.33 | 23.78 |
| 18 | 24.67 | 25.13 |
| Effective 10-1-13 $.30 per hour shift differential for 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. shift work, unless assigned that shift in job description. Holiday, sick, vacation, comp time, jury duty, and bereavement leave do not qualify for shift differential pay | ||||||
*Law enforcement is defined as patrol deputies, detention deputies and courthouse security only.
THIS RESOLUTION shall be effective on October 1, 2021. PASSED AND APPROVED by the Board of County Commissioners of Boundary County, Idaho, on the 7th day of September, 2021.
COUNTY OF BOUNDARY
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
s/_____________________________
Dan R. Dinning, Chairman
s/______________________________
Wally Cossairt, Commissioner
s/______________________________
Tim Bertling, Commissioner
ATTEST:
s/______________________________________________
Glenda Poston, Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners
Recorded as instrument #288421
Commissioner Cossairt moved to approve the meeting minutes for the weeks of August 16, 2021 and August 23, 2021. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously.
9:30 a.m., Commissioner Cossairt moved to recess as the Boundary County Board of Commissioners and convene as the Boundary County Ambulance Service District Governing Board. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously.
Commissioners held a public hearing to consider the proposed fiscal year 2021-2022 budget for the Boundary County Ambulance Service District. Present were: Chairman Dan Dinning, Commissioner Wally Cossairt, Commissioner Tim Bertling, Clerk Glenda Poston, Deputy Clerk Michelle Rohrwasser, and Treasurer Sue Larson. The hearing was recorded.
The Ambulance Service District has the ability to levy $428,655.00, which is the allowable 3% increase, plus 90% of new construction. This levy does include $4,299.00 of allowable forgone. The forgone balance for future use is $25,646.00. All funds are collected for the Boundary County Ambulance Service District.
The total levy amount is $428,655.00, plus $4,299.00 of allowable forgone.
Commissioners opened the hearing to public testimony.
Treasurer Larson asked if Boundary Ambulance receives grants, etc., or is the entire budget going into property taxes. Chairman Dinning said Boundary Ambulance receives compensation from their services and they do get funding through grants that they apply and qualify for.
There being no further public comments, Commissioners closed the hearing to further public testimony.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to adopt the proposed Boundary County Ambulance Service District budget for fiscal year 2021-2022. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to adopt Resolution 2021-1/A. A resolution adopting the Boundary County Ambulance Service District proposed fiscal year 2021-2022 budget. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously. Resolution 2021-1/A reads as follows:
RESOLUTION 2021-1/A
A RESOLUTION TO ADOPT THE FISCAL YEAR 2021-2022
BOUNDARY COUNTY AMBULANCE SERVICE DISTRICT BUDGET
WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners, County of Boundary, State of Idaho, did adopt Resolution 2012-16 on March 26, 2012 creating a county-wide ambulance service district, pursuant to Idaho Code §31-3908, to be known as the Boundary County Ambulance Service District to be recognized as a legal taxing district and giving the Board the authority to levy a special tax for the operation of the District, pursuant to Idaho Code §31-3908(4), and
WHEREAS, on the 7th day of September, 2021, at the Boundary County Courthouse in Commissioners’ Chambers in Bonners Ferry, Idaho, the Board of County Commissioners held the fiscal year 2021-2022 budget hearing for the Boundary County Ambulance Service District, and
WHEREAS, the budget hearing was held in accordance with Idaho Code 31-1604 and Idaho Code 31-1605, and
WHEREAS, the proposed budget was duly printed in the Bonners Ferry Herald on August 5, 2021 and August 12, 2021, and
WHEREAS, there was citizen input on the budget as proposed, and
WHEREAS, having considered the budget needs and available revenue,
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Boundary County Commissioners hereby unanimously adopt the fiscal year 2021-2022 budget as attached for the Boundary County Ambulance Service District.
DATED AND DONE this 7th day of September, 2021.
COUNTY OF BOUNDARY
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
s/___________________________
Dan R. Dinning, Chairman
s/___________________________
Wally Cossairt, Commissioner
s/___________________________
Tim Bertling, Commissioner
ATTEST:
s/_________________________________________________
GLENDA POSTON, Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners
Recorded as instrument #288453
Commissioner Cossairt moved to retain the forgone amount of $25,646.00. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to adopt Resolution 2021-2/A. A resolution of the Board of County Commissioners of the County of Boundary, Idaho, reserving the forgone amount for fiscal year 2021-2022 for potential use in subsequent years as described in Idaho Code §63-802, et al. For the Boundary County Ambulance Service District. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously. Resolution 2021-2/A reads as follows:
RESOLUTION 2021- 2/A
A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF THE COUNTY OF BOUNDARY, IDAHO, RESERVING THE FORGONE AMOUNT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2021-2022 FOR POTENTIAL USE IN SUBSEQUENT YEARS AS DESCRIBED IN IDAHO CODE §63-802, et al. FOR THE BOUNDARY COUNTY AMBULANCE SERVICE DISTRICT.
WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners, County of Boundary, State of Idaho, did adopt Resolution 2012-16 on March 26, 2012 creating a county-wide ambulance service district, pursuant to Idaho Code §31-3908, to be known as the Boundary County Ambulance Service District to be recognized as a legal taxing district and giving the Board the authority to levy a special tax for the operation of the District, pursuant to Idaho Code §31-3908(4), and
WHEREAS, Idaho Code §31-811 empowers the board of county commissioners of each county to levy property taxes; and,
WHEREAS, Idaho Code §31-1605 requires the board of county commissioners of each county in the State of Idaho to pass an annual budget; and,
WHEREAS, Idaho Code §63-802 sets limitations on county budget requests on the amount of property tax revenues that can be used to fund programs and services; and,
WHEREAS, Idaho Code §63-802(1)(a) allows each county to increase property tax budget amounts by a maximum of 3%, plus an amount calculated based on the value of both new construction and annexation added during the previous calendar year, plus an amount for forgone taxes; and,
WHEREAS, Idaho Code §63-802(1)(f) requires that the County adopt an annual resolution to reserve additional forgone amount in order to utilize that amount in subsequent years; and,
WHEREAS, Boundary County intends to reserve $25,646.00 of its allowable forgone amount for the Boundary County Ambulance Service District. The amount of $4,299.00 will be recovered in existing forgone as so noted on Line 20 of the L-2 Worksheet.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF THE COUNTY OF BOUNDARY, IDAHO, that $25,646.00 of the allowable forgone amount for the Boundary County Ambulance Service District is reserved and included in the District’s total forgone balance for potential use in subsequent years.
PASSED by the BOUNDARY COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS on the 7th day of September, 2021.
COUNTY OF BOUNDARY
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
s/__________________________
Dan R. Dinning, Chairman
s/___________________________
Wally Cossairt, Commissioner
s/___________________________
Tim Bertling, Commissioner
ATTEST:
s/_________________________________________________
GLENDA POSTON, Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners
Recorded as instrument #288454
Commissioner Cossairt moved to sign the L2 budget forms for the Boundary County Ambulance Service District. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously.
The budget hearing ended at 9:40 a.m.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to adjourn as the Boundary County Ambulance Service District Governing Board and to reconvene as the Boundary County Board of Commissioners. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to adopt Resolution 2021-30. A resolution to increase the airport budget due to receipt of unanticipated funds to establish infrastructure at the Boundary County Airport. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously. Resolution 2021-30 reads as follows:
RESOLUTION 2021-30
INCREASE AIRPORT BUDGET DUE TO RECEIPT OF UNANTICIPATED FUNDS TO ESTABLISH INFRASTRUCTURE AT THE BOUNDARY COUNTY AIRPORT
WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners, County of Boundary, State of Idaho, did establish an operating budget for the Airport Fund for fiscal year 2020-2021, and
WHEREAS, unanticipated funds have been received from various sources for the purpose of establishing infrastructure at the Boundary County Airport, and
WHEREAS, those funds were deposited into the Auditor’s Trust account, and
WHEREAS, an invoice from the City of Bonners Ferry for electrical services in the amount of $5,556.00 and an invoice from Stippich Logging & Trucking for road work for new hangars in the amount of $7,855.00 for a total of $13,411.00 were paid out of the Airport Budget in fiscal year 2020-2021, and
WHEREAS, The Boundary County Airport Fund is in need of additional revenue, and
WHEREAS, the addition of this revenue does not affect the tax levy for Boundary County, and
WHEREAS, the Boundary County Commissioners deem it in the best interest of the general public of Boundary County to increase the Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Airport Budget for that purpose, and
WHEREAS, it is appropriate to transfer cash from the Auditor’s Trust Fund Number 9101-00-099-00 in the amount of $13,411.00, and increase the Boundary County Airport Fund Revenue Account Number 03-00-391-000 and the Airport Fund Expense Account Number 03-00-0807-0000, Capital-Construction, in the amount of $13,411.00.
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 9101-00-099-00 in the amount of $13,411.00, and the increase to the Boundary County Airport Fund Revenue Account Number 03-00-391-000 and the Airport Fund Expense Account Number 03-00-0807-0000, Capital-Construction, in the amount of $13,411.00 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.
PASSED this 7th day of September, 2021.
COUNTY OF BOUNDARY
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
s/________________________________
Dan R. Dinning, Chairman
s/________________________________
Wally Cossairt, Commissioner
s/________________________________
Tim Bertling, Commissioner
ATTEST:
s/________________________________________________
Glenda Poston, Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners
Recorded as instrument #288424
Commissioners tended to administrative duties.
9:56 a.m., Solid Waste Department Superintendent Claine Skeen joined the meeting.
Mr. Skeen presented Commissioners with quotes received for grinding the wood pile at the landfill. Quotes were sent out to Cannon-Hills, John Jump Trucking, Diversified Wood, and Mountain Barn and Ranch Service. Mr. Skeen listed the name of the vendor that did not reply to the request for quotes. Mr. Skeen informed Commissioners that two of the quotes, one from Cannon Hills and Mountain Barn and Ranch, are for the same amount. Commissioner Bertling suggested selecting the vendor that the county is familiar with. Commissioners said they wanted to ask County Civil Attorney Tevis Hull questions about the two quotes. Mr. Skeen said he will find out how soon each of the vendors could start and let Commissioners know.
Chairman Dinning updated Mr. Skeen on the increase to employee wages effective October 1, 2021. Mr. Skeen informed Commissioners of the status of seeking applicants for landfill positions.
Mr. Skeen left the meeting at 10:15 a.m.
10:20 a.m., Commissioner Bertling left the meeting to tend to other matters until the afternoon session.
10:28 a.m., Chief Probation Officer Stacy Brown joined the meeting to give the department report.
Ms. Brown provided statistics pertaining to various forms of probation. There is one person in the Diversion Program, 17 people on juvenile probation with one case pending, 31 people on adult misdemeanor probation, 180 people on unsupervised probation, drug court has five participants, and one person in the ankle bracelet monitoring program. Ms. Brown informed Commissioners Boundary County’s Probation Department has gone several years now with having no juveniles in state custody. Ms. Brown said her office has been busy. Chairman Dinning asked how recidivism is going associated with drug court. Ms. Brown said three program participants have done amazing, but she doesn’t know about the others.
The meeting with Ms. Brown ended at 10:33 a.m.
Commissioners tended to administrative duties until their next meeting at 11:30 a.m.
11:31 a.m., Boundary Economic Development Director Dennis Weed joined the meeting.
Those present discussed matters pertaining to the City of Moyie Springs stating they don’t have funds to pay the county for their part of the regional sewer feasibility study. Mr. Weed mentioned that the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) did come through and they said they had grant funding available and the City of Moyie Springs could apply for the amount needed. Mr. Weed asked Commissioners about the ability to apply for these funds himself on behalf of the county. Clerk Poston asked what occurs if Moyie Springs applies for the funds and is awarded the grant. Mr. Weed said those funds would go the county. Those present commented on the letter received from the City of Moyie Springs. Clerk Poston asked Mr. Weed to find out from DEQ what supporting documentation they will need. Mr. Weed said the City of Moyie Springs is still at 100 hookups, and Mr. Ball and other residents also want hookups.
Mr. Weed commented that there continues to be low unemployment and he reported that there are 229 people unemployed in Boundary County. Before the pandemic, the number of people on unemployment was between 190 and 215, so it has not changed drastically.
Mr. Weed commented that he’s still working on the Boundary Economic Development Program grant.
Mr. Weed informed Commissioners that during tourist season, business increased 20% to 30% and it was not only hotels and restaurants. Mr. Weed said until we get beyond COVID-19, it’s hard to get a complete view of unemployment. Mr. Weed added that he’s also trying to get a handle on how many remote workers are in the county.
The meeting with Mr. Weed ended at 11:52 a.m.
11:52 a.m., Dick Staples with JRS Surveying briefly joined the meeting to drop off a plat to be signed later this afternoon.
Commissioners recessed for lunch at noon.
1:30 p.m., Commissioners reconvened for the afternoon session in the County Annex conference room with Chairman Dan Dinning, Commissioner Wally Cossairt, Commissioner Tim Bertling, Clerk Glenda Poston, and Deputy Clerk Michelle Rohrwasser.
1:30 p.m., Commissioners held a public hearing to consider a Planning and Zoning fee for floodplain development permits. Present were: Chairman Dan Dinning, Commissioner Wally Cossairt, Commissioner Tim Bertling, Clerk Glenda Poston, Deputy Clerk Michelle Rohrwasser, and Planning and Zoning Administrator Clare Marley. No one from the public was present. The hearing was recorded.
Chairman Dinning briefly reviewed the public hearing procedures. Chairman Dinning questioned the appropriate process to take when getting to the public comment portion of the hearing when nobody from the public is present. Ms. Marley provided guidance and verbiage for that scenario. No member of the commission cited a conflict of interest.
Chairman Dinning opened the hearing and stated the applicant in this case is the county. The reason for the new fee is to allow the county to collect a fee for services not otherwise funded by property tax revenue, for review of permits required for development within the floodplain. The proposed fee is $100.00, plus actual costs of engineering and other professional services once the initial fee is exceeded. If approved, the new fee will become effective immediately.
Chairman Dinning stated that this hearing was noticed in the Bonners Ferry Herald on August 26, 2021, and September 2, 2021.
Commissioners asked Ms. Marley for a staff report. Ms. Marley provided a staff report and explained the mention of costs exceeding $100.00 when needing to call in an engineer or other professional services pertaining to certain applications.
Commissioners bypassed the public comment portion of the hearing as nobody from the public was present.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to approve the fee for floodplain development permits. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to adopt Resolution 2021-31. A resolution of Boundary County, Idaho, amending and updating the official fee schedule related to land use and development applications and associated administrative fees and rescinding fee schedule resolutions in conflict. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously. Resolution 2021-31 reads as follows:
Boundary County, Idaho Resolution 2021-31
A RESOLUTION OF BOUNDARY COUNTY, IDAHO,
AMENDING AND UPDATING THE OFFICIAL FEE SCHEDULE
RELATED TO LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS AND ASSOCIATED ADMINISTRATIVE FEES AND RESCINDING FEE SCHEDULE RESOLUTIONS IN CONFLICT
WHEREAS, Boundary County is required to exercise land use planning powers as granted at Idaho Code §67-6503 by developing ordinances establishing zones and regulating land uses, and;
WHEREAS, Idaho Code §67-6519 provides authority for the County to charge a reasonable fee for land use applications; and
WHEREAS, the County has authority pursuant to Idaho Code §63-1311 to collect fees for services provided by the County that would otherwise be funded by property tax revenue, and that such fees are reasonably related to, but do not exceed, the actual costs of services; and
WHEREAS, Section 3.9 of Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance 9B18LOV2, adopted by the Board of County Commissioners April 8, 2019, allowed the adoption of fees associated with land use application processes; and
WHEREAS, the current official fee schedule does not include a fee for floodplain development permits, for which the Board of Commissioners desires to establish a fee; and
WHEREAS, on Tuesday, September 7, 2021, the Board of County Commissioners conducted a duly noticed public hearing in accord with Idaho Code §63-1311A, to consider creating the new floodplain development fee.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the members of the Board of Commissioners of the County of Boundary, Idaho, that the following schedule of fees is hereby adopted to cover the costs of administering the provisions of the Boundary County Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance, rescinding any resolutions in conflict, including 2020-25 and 2020-25A, and establishing the fee schedule as effective upon passage of this resolution:
OFFICIAL FEE SCHEDULE, BOUNDARY COUNTY, IDAHO
LAND USE & DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS
| APPLICATION TYPE | FEE AMOUNT |
| Certificate of Compliance | No fee |
| Request to Examine or Copy Records. First 100 pages are free of charge. | Per Idaho Code |
| Residential Placement Permit | $100.00 |
| Commercial/Industrial Placement Permit | $150.00 |
| Conditional Use Permit | $250.00 |
| Special Event Permit | $100.00 |
| Temporary Use Permit | $250.00 |
| Variance | $150.00 |
| Parcel Split, Simple | $100.00 |
| Parcel Split, Primitive | $100.00 |
| Parcel Line Adjustment | $100.00 |
| Lot Line Adjustment, Subdivision | $100.00 |
| Subdivision, Short Plat | $200.00 |
| Subdivision, Long Plat | $400.00 |
| Quasi-judicial Zone Map Amendment | $250.00 |
| *Comprehensive Plan Amendment | $250.00 |
| *Ordinance Amendment | $250.00 |
| Appeal | $250.00 |
| Floodplain development permit | $100.00, plus actual cost of engineering and other professional services once initial fee is exceeded. |
* Fee not to be imposed if amendment application is initiated by the Planning and Zoning Commission or the Board of County Commissioners.
In addition to the above fees, applicants shall also reimburse Boundary County for first class mailings and legal advertisements required for public notification.
Done this 7th day of September, 2021.
BOUNDARY COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
S/______________________
Dan Dinning, Chairman
S/______________________
Wally Cossairt, Commissioner
S/_______________________
Tim Bertling, Commissioner
ATTEST:
S/_______________________
Glenda Poston
Boundary County Clerk/Auditor/Recorder
Recorded as instrument #288425
The hearing to consider establishing a Planning and Zoning fee for floodplain development permits ended.
2:00 p.m., Commissioners held a public hearing in the County Annex conference room to consider Planning and Zoning Applications #20-172 and #21-033 filed by Applicant LMJPNP, LLC. Present were: Chairman Dan Dinning, Commissioner Wally Cossairt, Commissioner Tim Bertling, Clerk Glenda Poston, Deputy Clerk Michelle Rohrwasser, Planning and Zoning Administrator Clare Marley, Applicant Bill Michalk, Chuck Roady, Patrick Murphy, Greg Johnson, and Ron Sukenik. The hearing was recorded.
Chairman Dinning reviewed the public hearing procedures. No member of the Commission cited a conflict of interest.
Chairman Dinning explained that during the last meeting staff was asked to obtain more information from the Federal Aviation Administration and State Division of Aeronautics and Commissioners feel they now have that information.
Ms. Marley provided a recap of information that had been discussed this far so those who are present at the hearing are brought up to speed and Ms. Marley also provided a brief summary of where the topic was left as it has been awhile. The application involves a request for a zone change from rural residential to suburban and this allows one unit per five acre minimum to one unit per one acre, depending on water and sewer utilities. The site is north of the City of Bonners Ferry, but not within their areas of impact. Boundary County’s Planning and Zoning Commission recommended denial. Ms. Marley mentioned there being business development on the other side of the highway from this property. The subject property totals 55 acres and three parcels. Ms. Marley pointed out the zoning of nearby properties. Ms. Marley explained the reason for the hearing’s continuance pertaining to obtaining information from the Federal Aviation Administration and the State Division of Aeronautics as to affects to this property in relation to the airport. The State Division of Aeronautics commented that they did not have specific requirements for zoning or land use in this area according to their land use guidelines. This area is also outside of the critical zone. The State pointed out that the county’s Comprehensive Plan does follow the Idaho Transportation Departments minimum standards for this area and this is not affected by those minimums. The Federal Aviation Administration responded that they didn’t have specific requirements for zoning and land use in the area described and Ms. Marley relayed further comments provided by the FAA. Ms. Marley pointed out information for review that had been provided during the prior public hearing. Ms. Marley referenced Comprehensive Plan Section 14.4.5.2. as the section the Planning and Zoning Commission used as basis for denial. Ms. Marley mentioned the suggestion that notice should be provided to buyers about the nearby airport and related noise. This particular application would not be a conditional zone where conditions are set for that particular zone, according to Ms. Marley.
Chairman Dinning clarified that these properties are outside of the airport overlay and airport protection zone. Chairman Dinning asked about the Planning and Zoning Commission’s basis for denial. Ms. Marley said it was largely based on the airport and she referenced the Comprehensive Plan Section 14.4.5.2. The Planning and Zoning Commission had also received testimony pertaining to the landfill and effects to services.
Chairman Dinning said the record is still open so Commissioners will receive testimony on the information that is new, but won’t review what information had already been reviewed in the prior hearing. Commissioners asked Mr. Michalk if he would like to provide a statement. Mr. Michalk provided comment on the future impact area of the airport as well as traffic patterns, providing awareness to future owners of airport noise, etc. Commissioner Bertling commented that he thinks it would be important to have it written in an agreement with a future owner of a property that they would not sue the county due to the airport and would hold the county harmless, as a lot of the property owners could attempt to shut the airport down.
Commissioners asked for comments from those in favor of the application. Speaking in favor was Greg Johnson and Ron Sukenik. Comments provided included the subject area being a location that makes sense when building more homes, what little infrastructure the county does have is in this area, other than sewer; and the discussion of safety in relation to airplane traffic flow.
No one spoke uncommitted to the application.
Speaking in opposition was Charles Roady and Patrick Murphy. Comments voiced in opposition to the application were that it’s not the right place or time for this development, if there is a hold harmless statement, the landfill should be included. New property owners will have complaints about the landfill as it’s a major problem, even though the county tries really hard to keep trash from blowing around, the smell in the summer, etc. Comments also included taking exception to the traffic pattern as planes do fly over the area, and disagreeing with a prior comment about the significance of the infrastructure being minor as water, sewer and highway approach are significant.
Mr. Michalk provided a closing statement and commented on the highway access.
Commissioners closed the hearing to further public testimony. Chairman Dinning asked Ms. Marley if Commissioners can take whether or not there is water into consideration as it pertains to an application for a rezone, unless it was a site-specific subdivision. Ms. Marley said that was correct. Ms. Marley added that the application is for a rezone from rural residential to suburban, which means there can be one-acre minimum lot sizes if there is either water or sewer, or two and one-half acres if there is neither water or sewer. As far as taking that into consideration when making a decision, Ms. Marley said the Comprehensive Plan says Commissioners still have to look at the abilities for infrastructure in general. Ms. Marley listed the process to follow if Commissioners remanded the application to the applicant. The application could be remanded for specifics without having to be denied. Commissioner Bertling said he agrees that if we’re going to have growth, this is where it should happen. He doesn’t want to see growth out in the middle of nowhere. Commissioner Bertling added that he also feels the county needs to protect the landfill and that is where he has a problem with a rezone of the entire 55 acres.
Commissioner Cossairt said he’s looking at the two most western parcels and not rezoning them and then rezone the parcel to the east. That provides for a bit of a buffer to the landfill and those parcels would still be five acres. There could be four, five-acre parcels as it pertains to the two western lots, according to Commissioner Cossairt.
Chairman Dinning mentioned learning that the airport doesn’t affect this parcel as Commissioners had initially thought. Chairman Dinning also commented on surrounding area lot sizes and said we have to have somewhere close in for people to live as the city is not expanding outside of their city limits and there is nowhere in the community, on small acreages, to grow. Chairman Dinning added that he also respects the interests of adjoining property owners so this is tough.
Commissioners commented on the traffic patterns and the landfill. The State and the FAA really didn’t see anything that would impede this application, other than asking the county for additional guidelines in its own plan. Chairman Dinning asked Ms. Marley if #6 of the draft findings and conclusions for discussion needed to be addressed, if Commissioners do move forward with a partial rezone. Ms. Marley stated that #6 states that the Boundary County Airport Board advised the property is under the Boundary County Airport traffic pattern and recommended the rezone be denied and that still holds true. Chairman Dinning questioned if #8 is still okay referring to water from 3 Mile Water District. Ms. Marley said #8 states that the future division of land is contemplated with water potentially available from 3 Mile Water District and septic/drain field systems for sewage disposal. Ms. Marley said Commissioners had heard statements regarding the likelihood of water from 3 Mile Water District.
Commissioner Bertling moved to approve a partial rezone of 34.62 acres to suburban for Application 20-172 & 21-033 and to deny the rezone of the western lots totaling 20 acres of a rezone for the western 20 acres in order to have a buffer to the county landfill. The motion was not completed and those present reviewed appropriate reasons for denial as determined by the Comprehensive Plan. Chairman Dinning said he does believe proximity to landfill is an issue with those parcels and he mentioned characteristics pertaining to the two western parcels.
Commissioner Bertling moved to approve a partial rezone and to rezone the 34.62-acre parcel to suburban and to deny the rezone of the two lots to the west totaling 20-acres for Applications 20-172 & 21-033, with the denial being based on the proximity of the landfill. Commissioner Cossairt second. Motion passed unanimously.
The hearing ended at 3:30 p.m.
3:30 p.m., Road and Bridge Department Co-Superintendent Renee Nelson joined the meeting to give the department report. A written report was provided. Those present discussed the matter of purchasing belly dump trailers. Commissioners questioned the possible adoption of a resolution reducing the speed limit on certain roads. Chairman Dinning voiced his concern of the resolution not being enforceable unless a speed study was conducted. Commissioners decided not to adopt the resolution.
The meeting with Ms. Nelson ended.
Commissioners contacted County Civil Attorney Tevis Hull via telephone to receive an update on various matters. Commissioners informed Attorney Hull that two of the quotes received for grinding wood at the landfill were for the same amount. Attorney Hull said it was up to Commissioners who they wished to select as far as the two quotes were concerned, and he added that Commissioners could select the quote from the vendor they’ve done business with before if they felt the working relationship was good.
Attorney Hull provided a brief update on other matters before ending his call.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to sign the Agreement Between Owner and Contractor for Construction Contract with American Road Materials for the Boundary County Airport pavement maintenance improvement project. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to sign the Notice to Proceed with American Road Maintenance for the airport pavement maintenance improvement project. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to enter into and sign the Agreement with Summit Food Service for the Boundary County Jail. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to sign Request for Reimbursement #14 for Airport Improvement Project #3-16-0004-017-2020, for the environmental study (phase II-environmental assessment). Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to sign the Independent Contractor Agreement with B.F. Builders to construct a dividing wall at the Restorium. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to sign a letter of support for Boundary Community Hospital’s proposal for a reader board. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously.
Commissioner Cossairt moved to select the quote from Cannon Hills Industries totaling $55.00 per green ton to grind the wood pile and remove it from the county landfill, based on the county’s prior work experience and if the contractor can get the project completed in a timely manner. Commissioner Bertling second. Motion passed unanimously.
4:05 p.m., There being no further business, the meeting recessed until the special meeting scheduled for Friday, September 10, 2021, at 2:30 p.m.
***Friday, September 10, 2021, at 2:30 p.m., Commissioners met in special session with Chairman Dan Dinning, Commissioner Wally Cossairt, and Deputy Clerk Michelle Rohrwasser. The purpose of the special meeting is to consider the Idaho Liquor Catering Permit requested by Mugsy’s Bar and Grill for a Mountain Mafia Event as Mugsy’s was not aware of Commissioners’ schedule and ability for holding meetings.
2:30 p.m., Commissioner Cossairt moved to sign the Idaho Liquor Catering Permit for Mugsy’s Tavern and Grill for a Mountain Mafia Event held on September 10 & 11, 2021. Chairman Dinning yielded the chair to second. Motion passed unanimously.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 2:40 p.m.
s/_______________________________________
DAN R. DINNING, Chairman
ATTEST:
s/_________________________________
GLENDA POSTON, Clerk
By: Michelle Rohrwasser, Deputy Clerk