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Rathdrum Westwood Historical Society asks Kootenai County for $30,000 toward jail building roof
Summary
The volunteer-run Rathdrum Westwood Historical Society requested $30,000 from the county to replace a deteriorating section of roof on the 1890 jail building; the society has one bid for $42,000 and $11,740 remaining from a prior IHT grant.
Representatives of the Rathdrum Westwood Historical Society asked the Board of County Commissioners for $30,000 to replace a failing roof on the society’s restored 1890 jail building.
Lisa Peterson, speaking for the volunteer nonprofit, said the building — listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2001 — was saved from demolition and rebuilt by the society with private funds and volunteer labor. Peterson said the roof over the original cell room has damaged or missing shingles and that a recent patch was not a long-term solution. The society provided a single bid from Granite Roofing for $42,000 that uses the high-quality cedar shingles recommended by the state for historic structures. Peterson said the group has $11,740 remaining from a previous Idaho Heritage Trust (IHT) grant and requested the county provide $30,000 to cover the balance.
Why it matters: The jail building serves as the historical society’s museum and meeting space; volunteers provide tours and local historical programming. Peterson said the building’s overall condition is good and a full roof replacement would extend its life for decades.
Commissioners said they would consider the request during the county’s budget process; Commissioner Duncan asked that the society also contact other local jurisdictions and partners to pursue a joint funding approach. Commissioner Eberline said mandated county services take priority during budget season and the board would weigh requests accordingly.
During public comment that followed, Ron Hartman suggested soliciting multiple roofing bids before committing public funds; Gary McDonald of Bayview thanked commissioners for moving forward on a separate dock project.
No funding decision was made; commissioners said the request will be considered as part of the regular budget process and welcomed further outreach to other potential funders.
