County has first locally sponsored 'Boot Camp' for business

Chris Kuykendall, Clearwater County Economic Development specialist, updated Clearwater County Commissioners about economic development progress during their meeting Jan. 17, including the first locally sponsored business development "Boot Camp" in Pierce.

The "Boot Camp" had seven participants and three are interested in starting businesses.

She also explained that that City of Elk River is submitting an application for a 319 DEQ grant. DEQ invited the city to apply for the grant funds to pursue an Idaho NonPoint Source Management Grant to address water quality issues in Elk Creek Reservoir. The high levels of algae and vegetation invasion has a negative impact on visitor experiences. This could fund a process to try applying herbicides to treat the algae in Elk Creek Reservoir. The consensus was to sign a letter of support for the grant application.

Sheriff Alan Hengen, Chief Deputy Chris Goetz reported on Sheriff's Department issues and a waterways report was given by Deputy Randy Herman and Ted Leach. The Waterways Advisory Board is requesting approval for an application to Department of Parks and Recreation for a Waterways Improvement grant for 2007. Herman explained they are working on the waterways improvement grant for funding to replace the motor on the inflatable vessel.

Dr. Maurice Masar, Goetz, Don Gardner and Bill Maison of Emergency Management updated commissioners on concerns about a flu epidemic. There is not any substantiated data for proof of an epidemic. The World Health Organization has flu vaccinations for 12 million people.

Clerk Robin Christensen provided information on the Commissioner's District boundaries. She received information from the 2000 Census to determine the changes in the population of the county that would necessitate changing the boundary of the districts. The county census reflects the population is down by seven. The boundaries of Commissioner's Districts have not changed.

Christensen also presented an engagement letter to hire Presnell and Gage to complete the 2004/2005 audit report. They are requesting $10,950 for the professional services contract. Signing of the letter was approved.

Gardner reported that the quarterly reports are due to the State for SHGP grant funding. He has submitted an application for new repeater equipment to replace the EMS repeater located on Norton Knob. Funding would be through Homeland Security grant funds.

Road and Bridge Supervisor Rob Simon presented an update. The Local Professional Services contract with Keller and Associates was discussed. The contract will be reviewed with legal counsel. He has directed the road crew to take three English walnut trees out of the right of way on Sunnyside Road. They are a hazard for motorists. County roads are still closed for hauling. Hauling will be allowed when the temperature is equal to or less than 28 degrees.

The commissioners approved a letter of support for Clearwater Soil and Water Conservation District in relation to a grant application for Phase 3 for a project on the Lower North Fork. This work will be completed in 2006-2007 on the lower Northfork TMDL Implementation Plan. The soil district will collaborate on a joint project with Idaho Department of Lands and Potlatch Corporation.

The Treasurer's request for Cancellation Apportionment on taxes for a Summary Total of $8,553.76 was approved as was cancellation of the solid waste fees for 2005 taxes on MHA36NO3E090721A.

Liquor license renewals for River's Edge Hospitality, Sunset Mart #3 & 11, Shot Glass, Barneys Sooper Market, Woodlot Tavern, Flame Bar, Riverside Sport Shop, Pierce Mini Mart, Fiesta En Jalisco, Elk Horn Bar, Elk River Lodge and Atkinson Distributing were approved.

Commissioner Pete Curfman gave an update on the regional Mental Health meeting. The ACT team is in place to work on the Mental Health Court

TJ Rausch, Planning and Zoning administrator, gave a report on building permits and planning and zoning. The P & Z Commission will be electing the chair and vice chair at their meeting in January.