Commission ignore public in accepting ARPA funds

On July 18, 2022, the Boundary County commissioners voted unanimously to accept and spend the American Rescue Plan Act funds given to them by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. When asked by a member of the audience if he could raise an objection, he was told by one of the commissioners that this was county doing its business so public comment was not allowed.

The commissioners were warned repeatedly that there were risks to the community involved if they voted to accept these monies. The main one being the demand the money be repaid with interest if it is not spent according to the U.S. government’s wishes. The group decided to accept the money on the advice of their attorney anyway.

The voters have spoken and two of the commissioners lost their bids for re-nomination during the May 17, 2022, Republican primary.

The vote of the present commission has put Boundary County at risk by accepting money that was not needed in the first place.

“He who would trade liberty for some temporary security, deserves neither liberty nor security.” (Benjamin Franklin)

GREG LAMBERTY

Bonners Ferry