***Monday, May 20, 2019, 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.

Blue Sky Broadcasting News Reporter Mike Brown and County Resident Marty Martinez were in attendance of the meetings off and on throughout the day.

9:00 a.m., Road and Bridge Department Assistant Superintendent Renee Nelson and Foreman Randy Morris joined the meeting to give the department report. A written report was submitted.

Ms. Nelson reported that a lot of routine maintenance tasks were done last week. More grindings were put on Mirror Lake Road. A meeting was held on the Riverside Road Improvement project and brushing was done on the south section of District 5 Road. Work is starting on Plato Drive ahead of brushing and culvert installation. Chairman Dinning commented that having Road and Bridge do this work is supposed to keep costs down on the overall project. Mr. Morris informed Commissioners that he would like to get work done on Plato Drive then start working on dust abatement.

Those present discussed needing to purchase more crusher parts and Ms. Nelson commented that Road and Bridge does have budget for them, and that purchases for shop doors for the sand shed have been budgeted for as well. Ms. Nelson said there is $8,000, but quotes have come in at $10,800 and $11,100. It was said Terry Johnson at Road and Bridge stated that he knew there is a particular line item that has $12,000 so it would cover that purchase. Commissioners were fine with that. Commissioner Cossairt said it will help keep the trucks from freezing up at night.

Mr. Morris mentioned that the Durapatcher is getting repaired and he hopes to have it back on the road Wednesday to continue that work.

Chairman Dinning asked about Trout Creek Bridge and Rudy Creek Bridge #2. Ms. Nelson said Road and Bridge had budgeted the construction match for Trout Creek Bridge at $80,000. Ruby Creek Bridge #2 is supposed to be constructed in year 2020 with only match being required from the county. It was asked if the county should pay the match for Trout Creek Bridge only and just work on Ruby Creek Bridge as we can’t do both. Ms. Nelson said she has Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) dollars that should be reimbursed this week for the Kootenai Trail/Atkins Canyon project. The next project funding to be reimbursed is $400,000 for the same project. It was clarified that funds are no longer being reimbursed for the slide on Deep Creek. The county’s match of 10% totaled $92,000 for the slide. Ms. Nelson said the amount of $400,000 for Kootenai Trail/Atkins Canyon should be coming in soon as well as reimbursement for other regular engineering so that should be coming back in totality soon. Those present discussed budgeting for both Trout Creek Bridge and Ruby Creek Bridge #2 in year 2020.

Ms. Nelson said the Local Highway Technical Assistance Council (LHTAC) called this morning and they will issue a check in the amount of $660,000 to be placed in Road and Bridge’s account to pay for the Tobe Way/Plato Drive project and the county will cover costs for the overage. This is a project that will be done this year. The county will go out to bid and engineers will review the information.

Those present discussed the Local Highway Rural Improvement Program (LHRIP) for work on Meadow Creek Road. This road is to receive grindings, chipsealing and fog coating. The material will be five miles of gravel over grindings. Ms. Nelson said if Commissioners want, she can send a request totaling $100,000 for oil products up front to have ready and pay up front for oil. Commissioners agreed to that.
Those present discussed the south Trout Creek Bridge. Ms. Nelson said this is a wood bridge and she will get measurements on the new one, but she found that everything was sent electronically so she is looking for the plans.

Ms. Nelson said they had visited with HMH Engineering and were provided with an overview of where projects are at. From there she and Mr. Morris have added the tasks they were aware of pertaining to an overview of bridges and projects. A future project will be similar to Ruby Creek Bridge No. 1.

Those present discussed total rehabilitation of McArthur Lake Road. Mr. Morris said he took measurements for this road for asphalt and he mentioned patching this road with two or three inches of asphalt, otherwise it will have to be patched again. Mr. Morris explained that this road sees a lot of logging truck traffic.

Commissioners, Mr. Nelson and Mr. Morris discussed receiving piggyback bid information from Bonner County pertaining to liquid asphalt. It was stated that County Civil Attorney Tevis Hull has approved the language in the piggyback bid. Commissioners reviewed bid details. Ms. Nelson said she had budgeted $150,000 in the chipseal line item and there is $100,000 from the Local Highway Rural Improvement Project (LHRIP) line item so she multiplied those figures out and came to $232,000 so they may not have to use all of that.

Commissioner Cossairt moved to accept the 2019 piggyback from Idaho Asphalt for liquid asphalt and to sign the Independent Contractor Agreement. Commissioner Kirby second. Motion passed unanimously.

Those present discussed obtaining fuel tanks for the Road and Bridge Shop. It was said Dyck’s Oil and Auto would set the tanks up with a card lock system so it could still keep track of trucks and projects.

The meeting with Ms. Nelson and Mr. Morris ended at 9:32 a.m.

Chairman Dinning said as it pertains to snow removal equipment for the airport, the engineer provided a letter of concurrence that is to go to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The letter shows the bids from the two companies and that the grant will cover 90% of costs. Before Commissioners can send out award letters to the two bidders this letter of concurrence has to be received by the FAA.

Commissioner Kirby moved to sign the Letter of Concurrence for the snow removal equipment for the Boundary County Airport. Commissioner Cossairt second. Motion passed unanimously.

Commissioner Cossairt moved to approve the Certificates of Compliance for Wells Fargo Bank and Columbia Bank as presented by the Treasurer. Commissioner Kirby second. Motion passed unanimously.

Commissioner Cossairt moved to sign Certificates of Residency for Victoria Rae, Susan Edwards, Naomi Collett, and Izaak Bartlett. Commissioner Kirby second. Motion passed unanimously.

Commissioner Cossairt moved to approve the Property Tax Cancellation form for tax year 2017 and to cancel delinquent Three Mile Water District fees in the amount of $11,614.18, late fees in the amount of $232.28 for a total of $11,846.46, plus current interest for parcel #RP011200000210A as per the request from Three Mile Water District. Commissioner Kirby second. Motion passed unanimously.

Chairman Dinning said Commissioner Kirby’s term on the Panhandle Health District Board expires June 2019 so Commissioners will need to sign the nomination form if Commissioner Kirby would like to be reappointed.

Commissioner Cossairt moved to nominate Commissioner Walt Kirby to the Panhandle Health District Board with a term from July 2019 to June 2024. Chairman Dinning yielded the chair to second. Motion passed unanimously.

Commissioners tended to administrative duties.

9:54 a.m., Boundary Ambulance Service Chief Jeff Lindsey and Boundary Ambulance Service Board Chairperson Nancy Russell joined the meeting.

10:00 a.m., Commissioner Kirby moved to recess as the Board of Boundary County Commissioners and convene as the Boundary County Ambulance Service District Governing Board. Commissioner Cossairt second. Motion passed unanimously.

Commissioner Kirby moved to approve the Boundary Ambulance Service District Governing Board meeting minutes for April 15, 2019. Commissioner Cossairt second. Motion passed unanimously.

Chairman Dinning stated that utilities at the armory are marked. Chief Lindsey said he recalled the county wanted to contact the city about permits and utilities. Chairman Dinning asked Chief Lindsey if he was in favor of the proposed building design so he and the county are on the same page. Chief Lindsey informed Commissioners that one of the designs didn’t work well for him and he added that he doesn’t know the rules of the county. Chief Lindsey asked if there are certain companies the county works with. Commissioners said no. Commissioners said they would make sure to get on the same page and get back in touch with Chief Lindsey. The county will need to go out to bid for a building. Double insulation for the living quarters was mentioned. Chief Lindsey said if the design includes a meeting room and there is already a meeting room in the armory, as much as a meeting room would be used, it’s not worth using up that space. Chief Lindsey spoke of a preference to put bays on one side of the facility and the living area on the other side. Chief Lindsey asked if the project is still on track to get completed before winter and Chairman Dinning said yes.

Chief Lindsey said he put together costs to run a full-time, 24/7 ambulance service in Boundary County. To run at the advance life support level with EMTs and paramedics, Mr. Lindsey said he has to hire three EMTs and three paramedics, plus give them vacation time without having overtime so you have to have part-time staff as well. To be competitive it costs $18.50 per hour. Boundary Ambulance Service just started providing health insurance this year and the cost is $64,996.88 per paramedic, per year. Retirement, etc., is not provided. The cost is $205,070.64 for three medics, or three EMT’s at $12.50 per hour provides a total of $148,057.50. The cost to staff one full-time ambulance is $353,000.00, and that’s not counting everything else associated with it. The budget for medical supplies is $40,000.00. Chief Lindsey reviewed the cost of uniforms and supplies to run full-time for one year. The cost for a used ambulance is $70,000.00 and a cardiac monitor costs $29,000.00. That is $113,000.00 to get off the ground. Chief Lindsey said he is not highballing these figures.

There is staff for one ambulance, but if push comes to shove, a driver can be brought in. Boundary Ambulance Service at times will experience a period where no calls come in and nothing happens, but then there are times where everything happens at once. Chief Lindsey reviewed statistics on call runs and the number of calls where Boundary Ambulance Service cannot bill and or get compensated for. There is a total of $924,000.00 billed out and Medicare has denied $436,000.00 of those overall charges.

There are 335 calls for year 2019 and there are almost 100 calls that are unbilled. The total of billed calls is 240. So far Boundary Ambulance has brought in $105,000.00 in payments, which is lower than normal, adding that April has been the slowest month. Boundary Ambulance receives $350,000.00 from Boundary County, which doesn’t staff an ambulance so funds are supplemented by billings. In year 2011, when Boundary Ambulance was a volunteer-only department, the average response time for that year was 13 minutes and 90% of the time it took 24 minutes to get in route. In year 2018, with a combination of paid staff and volunteers, the average response time was two minutes. February of this year the volunteers were moved to an hourly rate and ambulance response times have decreased to one minute, twenty-two seconds. Due to this financial position, Boundary Ambulance Service has to approach the county as they’re running approximately $75,000.00 short right now until the next tax payment from the county is received. Chairman Dinning said he spoke with Clerk Poston and those funds are available, but that amount will have to be deducted from the next tax payment. Chief Lindsey questioned if that amount has to come out all at once. Chief Lindsey said he has cut himself back to part-time, and he and Ms. Russell have looked at what can be cut. Ms. Russell clarified that is a request from Boundary Ambulance Service Board as the last thing she wants Chief Lindsey to do is to cut salaries and health care. We need to keep paramedics in Boundary County and keep response time down as well as see how Boundary Ambulance Service can bring in more income. It wouldn’t be an issue if the call volume was higher, according to Chief Lindsey. Chief Lindsey explained to Commissioners how Boundary Ambulance generates additional income by deploying staff to work on fire lines for compensation from the state. The mention of looking into options for additional revenue sources was reiterated.

Boundary County has to look at what it costs to do business and if calls are not high enough to run two ambulances, Boundary Ambulance Service will have to look at costs for crews 24/7. Chairman Dinning spoke of looking at repayment of the $75,000.00 one budget year to the next and what the Commissioners can do legally.

Commissioners said they would continue their discussion regarding approval of the advance payment and subsequent reimbursement to 11:30 a.m., this morning, but that Chief Lindsey did not need to come back for that meeting.

Commissioner Cossairt moved to approve the advance of $75,000.00 to Boundary Ambulance Service to be reimbursed at a time to be determined by Clerk Poston and County Civil Attorney Tevis Hull. Commissioner Kirby second. Motion passed unanimously.

It was stated that Medicaid can be billed for however much, but they will only pay a certain amount.

10:29 a.m., Commissioner Cossairt moved to continue the meeting as the Boundary Ambulance Service District Governing Board to today at 11:30 a.m., and to recess as the Boundary Ambulance Service District Governing Board and to reconvene as the Boundary County Board of Commissioners. Commissioner Kirby second. Motion passed unanimously.

10:30 a.m., Kootenai Tribe of Idaho Administrative Director Rhonda Vogl joined the meeting to provide Commissioners with an update on Kootenai Valley Resource Initiative (KVRI) projects.

Chairman Dinning briefly mentioned a matter regarding the extension of the Community Forest Landscape Restoration Plan. Ms. Vogl said she didn’t show there was a lot to discuss at the KVRI meeting and she won’t be requesting Chairman Dinning to sign any documents. Greg Hoffman will provide an update on matters pertaining to Libby Dam. Ms. Vogl commented that Mr. Hoffman had given a background on a study that was done and a program on the flow planning implementation process to do management for sturgeon recovery. Mr. Hoffman worked closely with the Kootenai Tribe, Fish and Wildlife Service and Idaho Department of Fish and Game on implementing a program for the flow.

Bonners Ferry District Forest Service Ranger Kevin Knauth joined the meeting at 10:33 a.m.

Ms. Vogl said there is a KVRI Forestry Subcommittee meeting scheduled for May 23, 2019. The US Fish and Wildlife Service is having a large conference in June and they have asked KVRI to do a presentation.

Mr. Knauth said he won’t make tonight’s KVRI meeting so Doug Nishek will fill in for him. Timber sales this year during the summer will include the Black Boulder Good Neighbor Authority (GNA) as well as the Camp Dawson Stewardship. First quarter in this fall will consist of the Robin Hood timber sale coming out of the Camp Robin project. The Boulder Dash sale may take place in the first quarter in fiscal year 2020, but possibly the second quarter. The North Star Stewardship coming out of the Boulder Creek project will also take place in fiscal year 2020 approximately one year from this summer. Mr. Knauth said in fiscal year 2020, the Forest Service is estimating 33 million board feet. This year, with the remaining sales for this fiscal year, it’s approximately 17 million board feet. Mr. Knauth said the Forest Service had approximately 26 million board feet in year 2018. For the Robin Hood project, it was pushed into the first quarter and it will still be advertised in September and awarded in October, according to Mr. Knauth.

Mr. Knauth spoke of the Grouse Bear Management Unit (BMU) and he said the environmental assessment (EA) is shared with Bonner County and Sandpoint has 27 miles of road storage. This project is to bring the BMU into compliance and into the Access Amendment. The Forest Service went out for the draft EA for comment last June and expects to have a decision by the end of this summer. The draft decision is ready and the Forest Service will go out for the objection period by the end of the month. We’re just trying to shore up a few things, according to Mr. Knauth. Other than road storage, there is Long Grouse Creek Road that regularly washes out and the Forest Service is now analyzing to decommission this road and reroute it so it doesn’t get washed out.

Mr. Knauth said for the Bog Creek Road, a draft Record of Decision was released on February 15, 2019, which started the objection period. The Forest Service has received 107 comments and 10 objections. Letters have gone out to the entities and individuals who have objected and June 4th is the date for our area so it will be full day of working through those.

The Winter Travel Plan is ongoing and the next step is to schedule meetings with the hope for a decision in approximately one year from this summer. Chairman Dinning asked if the county can have an opportunity to get notified before scoping or going too far. Mr. Knauth said internally, the Forest Plan has certain standards that have to be met. There are certain sideboards in place and a map for them. Chairman Dinning asked about having a government to government meeting before the Forest Plan goes out. Mr. Knauth said he will pass the request along. There will be a quick briefing with the Forest Supervisor’s Office. Winter travel planning will identify routes for snowmobiling and it will be a parallel plan for National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) projects. If the Winter Travel Plan appears to identify a route, maybe the Forest Service NEPA can plan for a parking lot area. Mr. Knauth informed Commissioners that the Westside Restoration project is the new name for the Caribou Snow project.
Those present discussed Fire Safe Program work in relation to Forest Service projects.

The Boundary Creek Road goes to the border and it’s on the Forest Service’s repair list. Chairman Dinning spoke of the condition of Deer Creek Road. Chairman Dinning asked if there is there anything for funding that can go to the county without waiting two years for an analysis. Mr. Knauth said Commissioners know it is difficult for the Forest Service to move funds to states or counties. Mr. Knauth commented that Former Road and Bridge Department Superintendent Clint Kimball had asked the Forest Service if they had a temporary bridge that could be used in the interim, but that can be an issue as it’s not a Forest Service bridge so there will have to be a hard look. It’s not known if the bridge is an issue yet, but the Forest Service will have talk to determine if it is.

Chairman Dinning spoke of the Westside Restoration project and asked if the road goes up Ruby Creek or Caribou Creek. The project is just one mile south of the four corners. Chairman Dinning asked if there is anything in the project plan where the Forest Service could assist in rebuilding. Mr. Knauth said nothing right now, but it’s really early. Chairman Dinning asked Mr. Knauth if he could do some research to see if it qualifies. Mr. Knauth said the county can also put in for Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) proposals. The deadline is the first week in June so that is one mechanism for the county. Chairman Dinning asked about being able to participate in the review of RAC projects.

The meeting with Ms. Vogl and Mr. Knauth ended at 11:03 a.m.

11:03 a.m., Restorium Administrator Karlene Magee and Assistant Administrator Diana Lane joined the meeting to give the department report. The Restorium resident count is at 36. Ms. Magee reviewed the numbers for hours worked, full time staff average, billed amount for rooms, Medicaid resident percentage, etc. There are currently 11 residents on Medicaid. Ms. Magee resumed reviewing her report and informed Commissioners of the average Medicaid rent amount received, room/board amount received, accounts receivable over 30 days, revenue including lunches and memorial, expenses including payroll and excluding payroll, and food costs per resident per day.

Those present discussed costs for the washer and dryer as well as Bonners Ferry Builders costs. It was said the Restorium could’ve been in the black. Chairman Dinning said if that is the case, it’s the best month he can recall, even if $25,000 was pulled out of budget for those costs. Ms. Magee informed Commissioners that she did lose information due to a computer glitch in the Quick Books program. Those present discussed backing up this computer program twice per month. Ms. Magee explained to Commissioners why rent paid by Medicaid has decreased. Medicaid now wants extensive mandatory training for the entire staff before the Restorium can bill Blue Cross, according to Ms. Magee.

Ms. Magee explained that she is working on her budget and she said if she continues following a trend, her budget may be $81,000 short of what she anticipates. Chairman Dinning asked what created that shortage. Ms. Magee said she had estimated having 41 rooms rented. Chairman Dinning said the Restorium is averaging approximately 35 or 36 residents so would that number work for Commissioners to estimate. Commissioner Kirby said yes. Ms. Magee said with that number of residents, she may not be able to afford another full-time employee.

A member of the Friends of the Restorium joined the meeting.

Chairman Dinning said at 35 residents, take total expenses and divide by 35 and that is the cost so Ms. Magee can see where she’s at. Chairman Dinning said the last time we talked, the discussion included an approximate time frame in which every resident would fall under the new room rate.

Ms. Magee informed Commissioners that a new call system will cost approximately $21,000 and in addition, the boiler had an inspection done and she has now been forewarned about its condition. The boiler is 24 years old, according to Ms. Magee. Restorium Maintenance Squire Fields had informed Ms. Magee that a new boiler would cost approximately $15,000 to $20,000. Chairman Dinning suggested getting a written estimate for costs. Ms. Magee said the existing boiler needs an immediate repair having to do with the pressure regulator as it’s completely full of water. Chairman Dinning suggested Ms. Magee obtain a cost estimate of what is needed to fix the boiler.

11:30 a.m., Deputy Clerk Nancy Ryals joined the meeting.

Chairman Dinning mentioned to Ms. Magee that Commissioners want to limit purchasing and reimbursements and that if funds are needed for a purchase, she could come to the Clerk’s Office to get a check, adding that it’s just cleaner bookkeeping for the county’s auditor. The auditor is not in favor of many credit cards, according to Chairman Dinning.

Commissioners and Ms. Magee discussed delinquent resident accounts. Chairman Dinning said the county’s auditor will want those accounts off the books after a certain point, six months or so, if there is no chance of collecting.

The meeting with Ms. Magee and Ms. Lane ended at 11:33 a.m.

Deputy Clerk Ryals reviewed indigent matters.

Commissioner Cossairt moved to sign the Certificate of Approval for indigent case 2019-17. Commissioner Kirby second. Motion passed unanimously.

Commissioner Cossairt moved to deny indigent cases 2019-23 and 2019-24. Commissioner Kirby second. Motion passed unanimously.

Deputy Clerk Ryals left the meeting at 11:42 a.m.

11:44 a.m., Commissioners held a hearing to consider the county alcoholic beverage license application for Good Grief, LLC doing business as Good Grief. Present were: Chairman Dan Dinning, Commissioner Wally Cossairt, Commissioner Walt Kirby, and Deputy Clerk Michelle Rohrwasser. The proceedings were recorded.

Good Grief LLC is applying for a license to sell bottled and canned beer and retail wine to be consumed off premises.

The completed application, fee, and 2019 State of Idaho Retail Alcohol Beverage License have been received. A Panhandle Health District Permit is not required as the establishment is selling only packaged food.

Commissioner Kirby moved to approve the 2019 County Alcoholic Beverage License for Good Grief LLC dba Good Grief to sell canned and bottled beer and retail wine to be consumed off premises. Commissioner Cossairt second. Motion passed unanimously.

The proceedings ended at 11:45 a.m.

Commissioner Kirby moved to approve the minutes of May 13 & 14, 2019. Commissioner Cossairt second. Motion passed unanimously.

Commissioners recessed for lunch at 12:00 p.m.

1:30 p.m., Commissioners reconvened for the afternoon session with Chairman Dan Dinning, Commissioner Wally Cossairt, Commissioner Walt Kirby, Clerk Glenda Poston, and Deputy Clerk Michelle Rohrwasser.

1:30 p.m., Commissioners met with Clerk Glenda Poston, Prosecutor Jack Douglas, Sheriff Dave Kramer, Treasurer Sue Larson, Assessor Dave Ryals, and Chief Deputy Clerk Tracie Isaac to voice comments and concerns regarding the draft updated Personnel Policy.

Chairman Dinning said he received Prosecutor Douglas’s concerns about the provision for employees being “at will” so he wants to contact Jim McNall with Idaho Counties Risk Management Program (ICRMP) about that as far as a newly elected official coming in and letting the existing staff go. Prosecutor Douglas added that it’s also that an employee could be let go at any time. Those present continued their discussion on at will employees. Chairman Dinning said if what we had for that provision in the Personnel Policy wasn’t necessarily broken, why change it so he wants to look into it.

Prosecutor Douglas brought up the amendment to bereavement leave as far as reducing the number of days to three from five. If you have family who lives out of state, three days doesn’t leave much time. Sheriff Kramer said he agrees with Prosecutor Douglas on that. Commissioner Cossairt explained one situation in which someone had bereavement leave and never attended the funeral or visited with family so it was more so a five day vacation.

Those present discussed insurance costs and the verbiage that employees “shall be eligible for coverage”. Verbiage has changed from “shall be covered” and it now says “shall be provided.” Chief Deputy Clerk Isaac said at some point in the future employees may need to pay for a portion of their insurance. Assessor Ryals suggested changing verbiage at the time that occurs. Prosecutor Douglas said the verbiage can always be amended later.

Prosecutor Douglas said county employees have family in other states, so having the day after Thanksgiving off was nice. Chairman Dinning said having the day after Thanksgiving off was given at a certain time because the county was unable to provide a cost of living increase.

Treasurer Larson questioned #9 on Page 8 of the document and it says the Board of County Commissioners has authority regarding hiring on budgetary matters. Chairman Dinning said that’s for budgetary reasons. On page 11 at the top is employee classification, compensation and benefits, etc. and it says generally it’s the responsibility of the employee to make sure they’re properly categorized. Chairman Dinning said that means it’s up to employees to talk with their elected official about matters pertaining to their job and to recognize what benefits, etc., are associated with their job.
Treasurer Larson spoke of compensatory time and said the amended draft policy says you cannot accumulate more than 24 hours of compensatory time whereas it used to be 48 hours. Sheriff Kramer said he is okay with that. Sheriff Kramer referred to what classifies as a work week.

The Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) was brought up and the amended draft says if a married couple both work for the county, they can receive 12 weeks of FMLA as opposed to 24 weeks. The spouses can take 12 weeks combined if the leave is for reasons other than the employee’s own personal illness.

Sheriff Kramer referred to employee job descriptions and reclassification. Chief Deputy Clerk Isaac said if it’s due to longevity, the employee will make the difference between the two rates. Sheriff Kramer also mentioned that it says if an employee is suspended, there will be no benefits earned or used.

Clerk Poston clarified that ICRMP has gone through this draft several times.

Sheriff Kramer said as it pertains to employees who are required to take a drug test, he wants all of his employees to fall under that category. Chairman Dinning said drug testing has come up off and on for the non-sensitive positions, but the county has been told by ICRMP and some civil attorneys that we cannot do that. Clerk Poston added that the State Industrial Commission says if you do implement a drug testing policy for non-sensitive positions as well, the county would receive a discount in its rates.

Sheriff Kramer said he would like to look at the grade system at some point as it doesn’t make sense to him. Sometimes an employee will take on more duties and not get compensated for it. Assessor Ryals and Sheriff Kramer discussed various levels of training or certifications.

Commissioners contacted Carl Ericson with ICRMP via telephone to discuss the draft personnel policy. Chairman Dinning said if the county changes to an at will system, the perception is that a newly elected official could take office and lay the existing employee off. Mr. Ericson said yes and no, adding that it can happen with elections surrounding the Sheriff’s Office as it can get very political. A newly elected official cannot lay someone off because that employee supported an opponent, etc. Mr. Ericson said in trainings he uses the example that with a pure at will employee, an employer may wake up grumpy and want to fire the first person he or she sees. You can do that if not for discriminatory purposes. So yes, everyone in the office could be terminated, but not for certain things so typically that does not happen. Chairman Dinning said he’s been in office long enough to know there are some elected officials who go down that road and who will get rid of an employee so they can give that job to their friend. Chairman Dinning questioned if there is a hybrid program that protects the employee, but is something the county can add. Mr. Ericson said no, an elected official is the only one responsible for making those hiring and firing decisions.

The call to Mr. Ericson ended at 2:07 p.m.

Chairman Dinning said with what we had in the existing Personnel Policy, there is a one year probationary period in which the elected official could let an employee go, but we still went through the process of at cause. Clerk Poston said there’s not a lot of ability to abuse at will. Chairman Dinning said Commissioners have had personnel matters come before them when a department head has wanted to fire someone based on emotion and once that emotion had passed, that employee was still working. Chairman Dinning said what we have is cumbersome. We have the “at will provision” for one year and the employer should know if that person is going to work out by then. It also protects the county as well. Prosecutor Douglas spoke of a situation in which it looked like an employee was let go for no cause. Chief Deputy Clerk Isaac said ICRMP promotes the at will policy.

Chief Deputy Clerk Isaac said in the existing policy, there were sample forms included and those are going to be removed so it will shorten the policy.

Clerk Poston informed those present that they are considered producing the new policy in booklet form.

Assessor Ryals said on the page for vacation leave, the proposed policy lists the month as December when it used to be January 1. Clerk Poston said it was January 1, but it affects payroll. Clerk Poston added that the first year will be the only problem.

Assessor Ryals also mentioned prorating for elected officials, but it should also mention prorating out as far as pay periods. Chief Deputy Clerk Isaac and Clerk Poston said it’s the last day in office.

Treasurer Larson questioned having a written request for vacation time when her office is so small. Chairman Dinning said each elected official can handle that how they want, but this will be a system to fall back on. Clerk Poston listed examples of vacation request abuses.

Assessor Ryals brought up employee break time and commented that is used to be 15 minutes break.

The meeting ended at 2:30 p.m.

Darrell Kerby with Pace-Kerby Insurance joined the meeting briefly.

Sheriff Kramer remained to discuss remodeling the armory. It was said the county would like to look into going out for request for proposals for contractors to handle the remodel, such as a design/build. Sheriff Kramer spoke of the proposed office layouts, room for records storage, etc., and he added that this is a good opportunity to get out of paying rent for office space. Chairman Dinning asked about potential for space for a public safety and city officers. Chairman Dinning commented that it sounds like with the design layout discussed there wouldn’t be room for city personnel. The next step is to get dimensions, etc., and go out for design/build. Mr. Kerby said architects have manuals that would tell them what the office square footage should be based on usage. It was said that Panhandle Area Council (PAC) will help with the request for proposals and that Nancy Mabile with PAC should come up for a discussion about requests for proposals. Clerk Poston said Shoshone County is constructing a new jail as well so maybe Boundary County could piggyback off of that bid.

2:52 p.m., Solid Waste Department Superintendent Claine Skeen and Assistant Superintendent Eric Owen joined the meeting.

Sheriff Kramer questioned, as far as moving forward with boots on ground, do we wait to hear from PAC? Chairman Dinning said Commissioners will talk to PAC about a design build. Clerk Poston said if the Sheriff has $6,000 to $8,000 for the jail, it should be listed in his budget for next year.

The meeting with Sheriff Kramer ended at 2:55 p.m. Mr. Kerby left the meeting.

Commissioner Cossairt moved to approve the amended minutes of July 30, 2018, to include the addition of recorded Ordinance 2018-1 as this ordinance had not been inserted into the original set of minutes by the time they were approved. Commissioner Kirby second. Motion passed unanimously.

Commissioner Kirby moved to approve the minutes of May 6 & 7, 2019. Commissioner Cossairt second. Motion passed unanimously.

3:00 p.m. Chief Deputy Clerk Tracie Isaac joined the meeting.

Commissioner Kirby 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, or public school student. Commissioner Cossairt second. Commissioners voted as follows: Chairman Dinning “aye”, Commissioner Cossairt “aye” and Commissioner Kirby “aye”. Motion passed unanimously. The executive session ended at 3:40 p.m. No action was taken.

Chief Deputy Clerk Isaac left the meeting.

Mr. Skeen listed who attended the meeting he had with the Department of Environmental Quality and Panhandle Health District at the landfill and he commented that these agencies were impressed after their inspection. One topic discussed was the wood pile and Mr. Skeen was given the tool to allow burning so now the landfill can burn strictly green wood waste. Trade waste is dimensional lumber, pallets, etc. Through the Air Quality Act the landfill can burn clean silviculture, green wood waste, tree trimmings, etc. Mr. Skeen said he can grind this green wood waste and use it as cover in a pilot program for 6 months to one year and he spoke of a ratio they need come up with using wood and sand. Trade waste would go to the company who takes our recycling at a cost of $107.00 per ton and the cost for trucking is $145.00 per hour from port to port, but railroad ties, power poles, etc., are not allowed. Those present discussed associated costs. Mr. Skeen said in talking with Matt Beeter with DEQ, the county can do a pilot program, but he will frown upon it due to vector problems, birds, fires, and combustibles. In talking to Cannon Hills, they can come in and grind the wood. Mr. Skeen said until the Air Quality Act verbiage changes, he recommends to continue grinding the wood. Chairman Dinning commented on grinding what we have and getting it out of the landfill and going forward, to separate what can and can’t be burned. Mr. Skeen said the amount will fluctuate every year. Those present discussed being able to obtain concrete data. Mr. Skeen said he would need to redo the monitored sites and he doesn’t have the roll offs. Mr. Owen said the landfill doesn’t have personnel to monitor those piles. Chairman Dinning spoke of determining data halfway throughout the year to determine how much tonnage there is for wood and if it’s not financially beneficial, then the county can burn. At least the county will know what the volume ratio is. Mr. Skeen said rather than start that, as of tomorrow, he will go by cubic yards of what brush is and is not coming in.

DEQ wants a pilot program on the Possi Shell cover for a period of six months to one year, but the landfill doesn’t have equipment for that. Chairman Dinning questioned if DEQ has a grant available for this project. Mr. Skeen said he has a meeting with Paul Klatt of JUB Engineering on May 31, 2019, and taking Possi Shell out of the plan for the landfill was suggested. JUB Engineering will work on the post closure plan, according to Mr. Skeen.

Those present discussed matters pertaining to the county’s small community exemption for the landfill and the federal statute associated with this exemption. Mr. Skeen commented that DEQ wants to know what the landfill’s operation will be in the future, such as a lined facility or transfer. Mr. Beeter is trying to eliminate gray areas, according to Mr. Skeen.

Mr. Skeen referenced an email received from a county resident who lives on Upper Pack River Road and who states he uses the Colburn collection site as he has been turned away from the Naples monitored sites because he had 7B plates and doesn’t keep his Boundary County tax bills, etc., in his vehicle for verification of his Boundary County residency. Mr. Skeen said we need to revisit having a tax bill in the vehicle. Mr. Skeen was referred to Assessor Ryals to determine residency. Those present discussed the sticker program that is used in Bonner County. Mr. Owen said Bonner County’s system is becoming stricter and he added that we just need an easier way to identify someone.

Mr. Skeen said he won’t use ground up wood for landfill cover and he will try to estimate the amount of green wood waste. Mr. Skeen asked if we need to go out to bid for wood waste or if the county can just extend the contract for that. Chairman Dinning said he would get in touch with Dan Redline with the Department of Environmental Quality and talk about it.

Mr. Skeen said he purchased a used cardboard bailer from Shopko for $1,750.00.

The meeting with Mr. Skeen and Mr. Owen ended at 4:28 p.m.

There being no further business, the meeting adjourned until tomorrow at 9:00 a.m.

***Tuesday, May 21, 2019, 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.

9:00 a.m., Commissioners held an elected officials/department heads meeting. Present were Chairman Dan Dinning, Commissioner Wally Cossairt, Commissioner Walt Kirby, Clerk Glenda Poston, Deputy Clerk Michelle Rohrwasser, Noxious Weeds Department Superintendent Dave Wenk, Veterans Service Officer Ron Self, Courthouse Maintenance John Buckley, Prosecutor’s Office Manager Tammie Goggia, Solid Waste Department Superintendent Claine Skeen, Chief Probation Officer Stacy Brown, Chief Deputy Clerk Tracie Isaac, Extension Office Educator Amy Robertson, Emergency Manager Mike Meier, Planning and Zoning Administrator John Moss, Road and Bridge Department Assistant Superintendent Renee Nelson and Foreman Randy Morris, Assessor Dave Ryals, Sheriff Dave Kramer, Restorium Administrator Karlene Magee, and Treasurer Sue Larson.

Chairman Dinning introduced Ron Self to those present as the new Veterans Service Officer. Mr. Self is also a member of the Planning and Zoning Commission for just over eight years now.

Chairman Dinning said budgets were to be turned in to the Clerk yesterday. Boundary County may be facing a challenging year so please turn the budgets in to allow time to work through them.

Commissioners are looking at updating the county’s Personnel Policy and in that are considering an “at will” policy, but that needs to be reviewed as there are some concerns. Other minor things were discussed so after the initial review, Commissioners will review it with their department heads.

Commissioners went around the room for department updates.

Mr. Skeen said he’s just been busy and dealing with the landfill’s operations plan. Mr. Skeen said he will have a meeting with the engineer at the end of the month. Years ago the county was led to believe the landfill was only licensed to use half of the property, but later found paperwork that explained the entire lot could be used. Mr. Skeen said he is looking at how to reduce the tonnage of garbage that goes into the hole. The limit is 20 tons per day and if the county hits that number, it causes some issues. The Department of Environmental Quality, Panhandle Health District and Environmental Protection Agency all have rules that the landfill has to follow. The City of Bonners Ferry does have a recycling program, it’s not mandatory, but recycling in the city is picked up every two weeks. Treasurer Larson commented that she would like it if the city would pick up recycling every week.

Ms. Goggia said the Prosecutor’s Office has been extremely busy and she added that the mud bog weekends are always very busy. There will be a jury trial going on today. Sheriff Kramer said there were 14 DUI arrests, a couple warrants, a couple accidents, citations, and Idaho State Police had approximately 200 contacts as a result of the mud bog.

Ms. Brown said the Probation Office is also busy and working on Odyssey issues as the procedures keep changing. Boundary County Emergency Manager Mike Meier is retiring May 29th so they will have a drop in get together for him between 1:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday.

Mr. Meier said he has a meeting with Bonner County Emergency Manager Bob Howard and Idaho Office of Emergency Management Local Area Field Officer Jay Baker to discuss protocol in the in the case of an emergency in Boundary County. Until then, it’s business as usual until he retires. Mr. Meier said one of the best things he can give people is music as he plays in a band and has a CD. Mr. Meier said in year 2012 the band he was in was voted the best new band in the United States. Mr. Meier added that he had been rated the #6 best drummer in the United States in the 1960s. Chairman Dinning said he brought Emergency Services a long way and Commissioners appreciate it.

Mr. Moss said Planning and Zoning is really busy and there aren’t enough hours in the week.

Our population has grown by 26 or 28 people from one year ago so revenue sharing will decrease. Chairman Dinning said census representatives had a meeting with Commissioners recently to discuss trying to get as accurate a count as possible. They did clarify there is a short US Census form and that is the actual official form as opposed to a longer form that happens to look like the census form, but is not. The Census Bureau is looking for census workers right now and they will pay $12.00 to $15.00 per hour as well as pay for gas.

Ms. Nelson said Road and Bridge is busy and they’re trying to regroup to figure out things. Mr. Morris said Road and Bridge is still brushing District 5 Road and it should be finished quickly. Work on Plato Drive started yesterday and this road will be widened, repaved and sidewalks will be put in. Today Road and Bridge is also working on Madson Road and getting ready for dust abatement. Potholes will start to get fixed in a week or two, but there had been an issue with the clutch so hopefully that work will resume tomorrow or the next day.

Mr. Self said he has worked with 17 veterans since the first of the month. The hours of the Veterans Service office are from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Thursdays. Flags will be put out at the cemetery on Friday. Mr. Self said he has been working with members of the American Legion as well as Mike Weland of Kootenai Valley Times to put together a webpage for veterans so he’s the administrator for that page.

Mr. Buckley said he’s just been really busy. As it pertains to the task list, he already has those same tasks on his own list so if they don’t get done right away, he is working on them.

Mr. Wenk said he is working on road spraying for weeds, but he just needs less wind.

Ms. Robertson said the Extension Office has a lot of day camps for kids coming up. Ms. Robertson listed various courses coming up. The fair will be here before we know it so the Extension Office is getting things in place for that. The theme of the fair this year is “all the buzz”. The Extension Office has two college interns this year and one intern started this week and the second one starts the following week.

Ms. Magee said she is just busy. The Restorium has training with Blue Cross. Ms. Magee said she is in need of part-time employees. The Restorium is fairly full at 37 residents.

Assessor Ryals said his office will mail out valuation notices the third of June. Values have increased again although they are very low so there will be training on values in order to keep the county out of the cross hairs of the State Tax Commission. Assessor Ryals further explained that if the county’s values are too low, the state will place a higher value and residents will basically have no appeal rights. Residential improvements are all going up, agriculture values have decreased and forestland values are up slightly, but those are negotiated values. Commercial values did not change. Assessor Ryals clarified that an increase in value does not mean taxes increase.

Chief Deputy Clerk Tracie Isaac said the county had 98 employees sign up for Life Flight coverage this year.

Sheriff Kramer said his office is looking at remodeling for space at the armory and that will result in no longer having to pay rent at the creamery building. The Sheriff had a meeting with the prosecutor, city prosecutor as how to reduce the inmate population.

Clerk Poston said the City of Moyie Springs is having their bond election today for the sewer project.

Mr. Meier handed everyone a CD of his band’s music and informed them that New Zealand Environmental wanted to use the last song on the CD as their theme song.

The elected officials/department heads meeting ended at 9:20 a.m.

9:30 a.m., Noxious Weeds Department Superintendent Dave Wenk met with Commissioners to give his department report. Mr. Wenk said he had started road spraying in the south end of the county. Tomorrow Mr. Wenk said he will travel to Priest Lake to work on the Cooperative Weed Management Association (CWMA) spray date and he will be backpack spraying for one day. Mr. Wenk said he would like to help as this group had helped him last week. Mr. Wenk said he is buying more chemicals from John Higgins as well as buying from a company located behind TrussTek. There is a meeting in Stanley in July that Mr. Wenk will attend. Mr. Wenk discussed going to pick up his department’s trailer for the side by side. The cost is $2,000.00, which is budgeted for.

Mr. Wenk asked about attending Idaho Agriculture conferences. There is money in his budget for travel and lodging. The first meeting is in Moscow in November, then that’s followed by meetings in Pocatello, Twin Falls, and Boise. There is a meeting called the Leadership and Government in Agriculture with the Legislature and it’s basically about professionalism in the industry. The County’s Noxious Weed Board is in favor of Mr. Wenk attending this meeting as well. The Knotweed at Deep Creek will be treated and he spoke of how difficult this weed is to treat. The worst place for this weed is near Bruen’s Bridge in Naples and the weed is like bamboo and the beavers eat it.

The meeting with Mr. Wenk ended at 9:37 a.m.

Commissioners contacted County Civil Attorney Tevis Hull via telephone at 9:37 a.m.

Chairman Dinning said Commissioners have received a request from Boundary Ambulance Service for funding in advance of the county’s tax payments coming in. Boundary Ambulance needs funds and Commissioners can issue that payment against the tax receipts coming in. The county had issued funds in this fashion once in the past, but in this case Boundary Ambulance Service asked if the repayment can be broken up into the two tax payments. County Outside Auditor Leonard Schulte is out of the office until Thursday, but does County Civil Attorney Tevis Hull have input on this? Attorney Hull said he doesn’t have any input. The last request for advanced funds totaled $40,000, but it wasn’t that far out from the tax payment. The reason for requesting funds is due to a low ambulance call volume and Commissioners want Boundary Ambulance Service to be successful. Clerk Poston said there is something about this request in that it consists of two budget years. Clerk Poston questioned what happens if Boundary Ambulance Service has another bad time of year in the fall. Attorney Hull said he would hesitate to agree to extend the repayment to December, but it could come out of the June tax payment. Chairman Dinning thinks repayment will have to come out of June tax disbursement. Attorney Hull agreed.

Commissioners are in the process of reviewing the Personnel Policy and are thinking about keeping it similar to how it is now. Chairman Dinning said as it pertains to an at will policy, theoretically, a newly elected official could let their existing employees go.

9:43 a.m., Commissioner Kirby 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, or public school student. Commissioner Cossairt second. Commissioners voted as follows: Chairman Dinning “aye”, Commissioner Cossairt “aye” and Commissioner Kirby “aye”. Motion passed unanimously. The executive session ended at 10:02 a.m. No action was taken.

The call with Attorney Hull ended.

Commissioner Cossairt moved to sign the Certificates of Residency for Emmet Melior, Geneva Freeman-Mason and Allieah Sandelin. Commissioner Kirby second. Motion passed unanimously.

Courthouse Maintenance John Buckley joined the meeting at 10:03 a.m.

Mr. Buckley provided Commissioners with a quote for redoing the sidewalks and the total is approximately $15,000 to have all of the work done. Those present reviewed the budget. Clerk Poston said the Courthouse was supposed to be painted so what task is supposed to get done first? Commissioner Dinning suggested getting a quote to have the painting done. Mr. Buckley was asked to get another quote and then look into the sidewalks to see which project is best. Mr. Buckley said even if work to the sidewalks is done next year, there is some patch work he would like to take care of.

Mr. Buckley spoke of a quote received from Garland Roof Repair for work needed to the Sheriff’s Office roof. The core sample of the form is good, but it’s not attached as it should be. The new quote for work after boring is $120,000.00. The roof will have to be replaced, but Mr. Buckley said he thinks he needs to find better costs and get someone else to take a look at it.

10:20 a.m., Boundary Economic Development Council (EDC) Director Dennis Weed joined the meeting.

Commissioners and Mr. Buckley continued their discussion on quotes for roof work.

10:27 a.m., Mat and Valerie Suprenant with E.L. Automation joined the meeting.

Mr. Buckley left the meeting at 10:30 a.m.

Mr. Weed commented that he wanted to talk about the State memorandum of understanding for the Economic Development Program for fiscal year 2019-2020. The State has reduced their funding from $32,000 to $30,000. Funding support from the City of Moyie Springs and Avista have increased and funding for the other agencies has been kept the same. Clerk Poston said she usually invoices for the payments so she would like Mr. Weed to let her know of any changes. Mr. Weed said there is a fund, he would like it built back up for expenses. Chairman Dinning agreed. Mr. Weed said when he took over as EDC Director, the budget was $58,500 and now it has decreased to $51,450 and he would like to see the budget back up to the $58,000 to $60,000 range. Clerk Poston said the budget was increased a few years ago. The Kootenai Tribe’s contribution hasn’t changed. It was said North Idaho College has also contributed to funding the program. Mr. Weed said he will approach other entities that have contributed before, to include banks. The county’s contribution for year 2020 is $8,000 and that is the amount the City of Bonners Ferry will contribute as well. Moyie Springs will pay $2,400 or $2,500. The Kootenai Tribe funds $4,000. The county still needs to sign off on the $8,000. Mr. Weed said Avista will provide him with the amount of their contribution soon.

Those present discussed increasing the travel budget for the EDC Director so Mr. Weed can get done what needs to be accomplished. Mr. Weed listed different foundation meetings he could attend that would involve travel. Chairman Dinning talked about needing budget for travel so if Mr. Weed needed to visit with a company, he could do it. Mr. Weed said he was asked to go to Las Vegas for a retail show.

Mr. Weed commented that there are more business closures in Boundary County so far at this point in year 2019 than in all of year 2018. Mr. Weed discussed the Shopko Store and how there will probably be a need to split the store.

Commissioner Cossairt moved to approve and adopt the Economic Development Council budget as presented for year 2020. Commissioner Kirby second. Motion passed unanimously.

Mr. Weed informed Commissioners that there was a good turnout at the second public meeting in Moyie Springs for the sewer project. Mr. Weed spoke of the funding portion from the Department of Environmental Quality and he said he would look into that. Mr. Weed asked about the GEM grant. If the City of Moyie Springs passes the bond, Boundary County can possibly be reimbursed the entire cost. Mr. Weed agreed and reiterated that he will look into that.

Chairman Dinning explained that the EDC Council has a memorandum of understanding that was developed by the Boundary County School District Board, Boundary County, City of Bonners Ferry, City of Moyie Springs, and the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho back in year 2003. This is unique in that all five northern counties have Economic Development Councils that were set up as 501©3s, but Boundary County’s EDC is not set up that way. Mr. Weed said he is not sure if this EDC Board wants to be at this point yet.

The meeting ended at 10:50 a.m.

Chief Deputy Clerk Tracie Isaac joined the meeting at 11:00 a.m.

Ms. Isaac presented Commissioners with an updated job description and those present discussed the position.

Chief Deputy Clerk Isaac left the meeting at 11:14 a.m.

11:16 a.m., Commissioner Kirby moved to recess as the Board of Boundary County Commissioners and reconvened as the Boundary Ambulance Service. Commissioner Cossairt second. Motion passed unanimously.

Commissioner Kirby questioned the amount of savings the county has budgeted for Boundary Ambulance Service and Commissioners said that is information that was agreed to and funds were set aside for a building for emergency medical services and is something Boundary Ambulance Service agreed to as well.

Commissioner Kirby moved to advance $75,000.00 to Boundary Ambulance Service and upon the advice of the county’s civil attorney, that amount will need to be deducted from the county’s June tax disbursement. Commissioner Cossairt second. Motion passed unanimously.

11:18 a.m., Commissioner Cossairt moved to adjourn as the Boundary County Ambulance Service District and to reconvene as the Boundary County Board of Commissioners. Commissioner Kirby second. Motion passed unanimously.

Chairman Dinning said Commissioners are looking at the construction of a building for ambulance services and remodeling the armory and this is not cheap. Chairman Dinning said he hasn’t done these projects in government, only the private sector, so for peace of mind and time constraints, should Commissioners consider looking at hiring a project supervisor and have that person oversee the projects? Commissioners and Clerk Poston discussed details and raised questions of the construction of an EMS building and the remodel process of the armory.

11:40 p.m., Commissioners contacted Shoshone County Commission Chairman Mike Fitzgerald about the construction process as Shoshone County is in the process of constructing a new jail facility. Shoshone County will put a bond out in November, according to Commissioner Fitzgerald. Commissioner Fitzgerald spoke of cost estimates and a needs assessment and he stated that Shoshone County has hired an architect to put together a design and cost estimate and then retain a company for public relations. Commissioner Fitzgerald said Shoshone County relies heavily on Panhandle Area Council and he added that he recommends a professional for both Boundary County’s remodel and new construction project. Shoshone County did not seek proposals for an architect and the project was below the official bid process cost threshold. Commissioner Fitzgerald said he would see what he could find out for Boundary County.

The call to Commissioner Fitzgerald ended at 11:45 a.m.

There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 12:02 p.m.
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DAN R. DINNING, Chairman

ATTEST:

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GLENDA POSTON, Clerk
By: Michelle Rohrwasser, Deputy Clerk