Commissioners table winter-parking ordinance after wide public comment; parks staff to refine plan

Valley County commissioners on Oct. 29 heard hours of public testimony on proposed changes to Valley County Code 13-5103-4, which would standardize winter parking rules and introduce or revise fees at the county's snow-parks, including Franci Wallace and Brush Creek. After hearing outfitters, groomers and residents describe safety, operational and economic impacts, the board tabled the proposal to 11:15 a.m. Monday, Nov. 3, to allow staff and stakeholders one week for revisions.

Director Bailman and Valley County Parks & Recreation staff said the proposed amendments were developed by a working group that included snowmobile clubs, outfitters, backcountry property owners and outfitters. The stated goals are to: define parking areas in county-managed lots; open more day-use parking at Franci Wallace by restricting most long-term overnight parking to Brush Creek; establish standardized fees to help fund maintenance; and…