Kootenai County officials discuss new law enforcement contract proposals

A pivotal discussion on law enforcement funding and oversight took center stage at the Kootenai County Board of County Commissioners meeting on June 24, 2025. The conversation highlighted the need for a new law enforcement contract that better reflects the services provided and addresses the financial disparities among cities within the county.

Commissioners expressed concerns about the current contract's inadequacies, emphasizing that it does not accurately represent the work being done. One commissioner noted, “The contract that is currently in existence is not a great contract. It’s just not,” advocating for a supplemental contract to clarify costs and enhance accountability.

The dialogue also touched on the broader implications of law enforcement funding, with discussions about how different cities contribute to and benefit from shared services. A commissioner pointed out the significant variance in law enforcement costs per citizen, ranging from $226.40 to $611.49, underscoring the need for equitable funding models that ensure all residents receive adequate services.

The city of Hayden's potential move towards establishing its own police department was also a focal point. Officials acknowledged that while this could provide more oversight and employee satisfaction, it raises questions about the financial viability and support from the community.

As the meeting concluded, there was a call for collaboration between the county and city officials to refine the proposed contract and ensure it meets the needs of all stakeholders. The commissioners expressed optimism about moving forward, stating, “We’ve proposed a good contract. We significantly increased the amount of money that we want to give the county in fiscal year 26.”

This meeting marks a critical step towards enhancing law enforcement services in Kootenai County, with officials committed to addressing the complexities of funding and service delivery in a way that benefits all residents.