Bonners Ferry City Council discusses new business

BONNERS FERRY — The Bonners Ferry City Council met Tuesday to discuss new business for their bi-monthly meeting.

The only public comments made were by Steve Tanner and Gerald Higgs.

Bonners Ferry Police Chief Brian Zimmerman expressed gratitude on behalf of his deputies for the council approving a $2 increase to their hazard pay. Law enforcement felt appreciation for their recognition of working hard during the COVID-19 pandemic, he told the council.

Director of Economic Development Dennis Weed reported to the council the implementation and maintenance of bike trails throughout the county.

The goal is to generate other sources of tourism income, especially now that Canada has closed the border until Sept. 21 and potentially longer.

Weed reported that many businesses are having a difficult time finding people to employ.

City Engineer Mike Klaus has reported to the council that the Boundary County Library wishes to update its doors to be compliant with ADA regulations.

In other business at Tuesday’s meeting, the council:

• Approved the 72-hour internal advertisement of the newly vacant street superintendent position before posting an external notice.

• The council tabled talks about the role of the golf committee regarding the golf contractor’s contract.

• Council plans to create a detailed, exhaustive list of volunteers for Mirror Lake volunteer work they conduct. The goal is to limit liability by including all potential volunteers during a season.

• Council approved and authorized the mayor to sign a memorandum of understanding with the Boundary County School District.