Grants, Infrastructure, and Ordinance Updates
County commissioners opened the January 12 meeting with a short public discussion on a proposed Parks and Recreation grant to improve Packer John Park after noting the item was not formally listed on the agenda despite a published legal notice. The board agreed to revisit the topic at a future meeting to allow additional public comment.
Planning and Zoning Official Meredith Fisher reported slow activity, noting that an advertisement was run to fill the New Meadows Planning and Zoning Commission seat vacated by the late Al Becker. Three applications were received, with interviews anticipated at an upcoming meeting.
Fisher also announced two hearings scheduled for the following week: a rezone request and a conditional use permit application. Additional updates included continued work on the Packer John Park grant, noting that proposed picnic tables and restrooms will be ADA-compliant.
County commissioners approved a sales agreement provided by Waste Management Official Steve Shelton for the purchase of a compactor. The agreement includes a seven-year note with a total net cost of $683,879.07. The motion passed unanimously.
Commissioners then discussed the ongoing interview process for the EMS director position, including whether outside experts should participate. Commissioner Viki Purdy noted that an experienced medical director was available to assist by observing interviews, offering feedback, or participating directly if requested. Interviews were confirmed for the afternoon, and it was noted that several candidates demonstrated strong qualifications and relevant experience.
Commissioner Daren Ward brought attention to complaints regarding deteriorating conditions on Goodrich Road, noting standing water and sections where the road base has eroded, making travel difficult. Temporary measures were discussed with Road and Bridge Official Adam Balderson, though it was acknowledged that gravel work is limited by wet seasonal conditions.
Next, Commissioner Ward presented a breakdown of the costs associated with the purchase and renovation of the new “blue building,” (former Starkey offices) including $120,000 for the purchase, $90,800 for mold remediation, and $5,500 for roof repairs. These expenses nearly exhausted the $260,000 originally available from election funds.
To continue the project, Commissioner Ward proposed allocating $75,000 from remaining capital project funds, bringing the available funding to $335,000. After current expenses, approximately $118,700 remains for interior construction, including security upgrades. Commissioners discussed prioritizing essential construction first and deferring cameras or flooring if needed until the next fiscal year.
Preference for using local contractors and completing the project carefully holds precedence. The board expressed general support for the funding approach and agreed to move forward while monitoring costs closely.
Sheriff Ryan Zollman presented the commissioners with proposed revisions to the county chain ordinance, including expanding it’s coverage to apply countywide rather than to specific mileposts. Commissioners approved of the modified penalties by eliminating misdemeanor charges and replacing them with a $300 payable infraction when a traffic hazard occurs, while retaining a $150 infraction for non-hazard violations. The board agreed to move forward with the ordinance adoption process.
Department reports included jail stats, with 26 state inmates and 3 county. Nearly full capacity.
Once more, commissioners discussed areas of impact, but this time with the city of New Meadows. If you can recall, the Idaho Legislature recently amended Idaho Code Section 67-6526, clarifying that counties have primary jurisdiction over areas of impact outside city limits, while cities are entitled to prior notice and may provide input, but do not control development decisions. Adams County commissioners reviewed and applied these changes to the city of New Meadows, redefining the area of impact to reflect anticipated growth, geographic considerations, infrastructure, and public service availability.
The updated ordinance limits the area of impact to lands likely to be annexed within five years, ensures proper notification to property owners and the city, and repeals previous ordinances 2010-02 and 2010-04. Commissioners emphasized that inclusion in the area of impact does not require annexation, alter taxes, or grant the city authority over private development, but provides the opportunity for the city to comment on county planning applications. Following a public hearing and answering residents’ questions, the board unanimously approved Ordinance 2026-01, officially adopting the revised area of impact boundaries for New Meadows.
