County commissioners consider tax, fee hikes

BONNER COUNTY —Commissioners responded favorably Monday to the suggestion of a 4-percent increase in county solid waste fees. If formally approved, residents would see the revised fees reflected on their December 2016 property tax bills, according to county sources. Commissioners Dan Dinning, LeAlan Pinkerton and Walt Kirby will vote on the increase at next week's meeting.

On another topic, commissioners made plans to review fee policies at the Boundary County Community Restorium to ensure they are equitable to both private pay patients and those using Medicaid.

"We will have to look it over and see how it all fits," said Dinning.

"The rate is still way, way too low. It ought to support itself," said Kirby.

According to Restorium administrators, there is a disparity of about $400 per month between what Medicaid will cover and the rate paid by private patients. Additionally, the facility's rates will go up by 4.8 percent in October, potentially widening the gap. 

Those with relatives at the Restorium who are paying privately would like to see the disparity in fees addressed so that all residents receive equal treatment, as stated in the facility’s bylaws, according to a member of the board.

The commissioners agreed that an adjustment is in order, but said they would like to take time to consult the documents and county officials regarding what action they are allowed to take according to the rules that regulate such facilities.

They also discussed the fact that residents are willing to come from outside the area to get a spot at the well-respected Restorium.