Hayden City Council approves land acquisition for new Public Works facility

During the Hayden City Council meeting held on April 22, 2025, key discussions centered around community engagement, public safety, and the acquisition of land for city facilities. The meeting highlighted the council's commitment to fostering communication with residents and enhancing public safety services.

One significant topic was the proposal for the Commission to set up a tent at local events to better engage with the public. This initiative aims to strengthen community ties and provide residents with direct access to information about local services, including updates from the Northern Lakes Fire District and the sheriff's department. The council emphasized the importance of transparency and keeping citizens informed through regular reports and open discussions.

Additionally, the council discussed the potential for a citizen survey to gather feedback on community policing and overall safety in Hayden. This survey is seen as a valuable tool for understanding residents' perceptions of law enforcement and crime in the area. The council expressed a desire for direct feedback from citizens to guide future decisions and improve community relations.

In terms of operational matters, the council moved forward with an action item to authorize the mayor to sign a purchase and sale agreement with Kootenai County for the acquisition of two parcels of land intended for the city's Public Works facility. This acquisition has been a topic of previous meetings, and the council received updates indicating a willingness from county representatives to collaborate on the sale, which will be funded through the sale of another city property.

The meeting concluded with a reminder for council members to attend the next public safety meeting scheduled for June, emphasizing the importance of maintaining open lines of communication between the council and the community. Overall, the discussions reflected a proactive approach to addressing community needs and enhancing public safety in Hayden.