Council approves $67K grant for vault toilets at Francis Wallace site

In a spirited meeting on July 7, 2025, the Valley County Board of County Commissioners gathered to discuss significant developments, including the acceptance of a grant aimed at enhancing local facilities. The highlight of the session was the announcement of a $67,612 grant from the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation (IDPR) designated for the installation of vault toilets at Francis Wallace Park.

Commissioners expressed their enthusiasm for the project, recognizing the importance of improving public amenities. "Anytime we can improve our facilities with this type of stuff, I’m really excited about starting to do this with our projects," one commissioner remarked, emphasizing the positive impact on community access and comfort.

The board unanimously approved the acceptance of the grant, allowing the project to move forward. The toilets are expected to be operational year-round, a feature that will greatly benefit visitors to the park, especially during winter months.

However, the discussion also revealed challenges regarding the expansion of the parking area at Francis Wallace. While the board received approval to expand the footprint, they faced restrictions on importing materials like gravel to enhance the site. This limitation raised concerns about the practicality of the parking area, particularly during adverse weather conditions. "Having a mud parking lot doesn't do us much good," one commissioner noted, highlighting the environmental implications of the current situation.

Looking ahead, the board is exploring options to improve the parking structure and manage overnight traffic more effectively, with plans to present further developments in the coming month. As the meeting wrapped up, the commissioners remained committed to finding solutions that balance environmental concerns with the needs of the community, ensuring that Valley County continues to be a welcoming destination for all.