Residents, commissioners debate ownership and future of Blue Lake Community Center after vandalism

Bonner County commissioners held an extended discussion with community members about the Blue Lake Community Center after a local resident shot a window on the county‑owned building but then replaced the window and siding at his own expense.

Commissioner Williams summarized the incident and said the county covers insurance and maintenance costs for the facility while community members handle routine mowing and cleaning. Elaine Savage, speaking for the community, outlined the long history of volunteer maintenance and said residents appreciate the center's role in hosting local events and elections: “We love the community center.”

County staff and commissioners raised insurance and liability concerns because the facility is county property but community members have keys and use it informally. Commissioners discussed whether the community should form a nonprofit to manage the center, or whether the county should formalize a lease or usage agreement to clarify responsibilities. A community volunteer, Steve Smith, offered pro bono legal help to create a nonprofit and formalize management documents.

Board members directed staff (Christian and Bob Howard referenced in the discussion) to work with community leaders, collect historical documentation on ownership and use agreements, and return with options that address ownership, liability, maintenance responsibilities and whether a formal nonprofit or lease would be viable. The county also noted the center is used as an official polling place, which factors into decisions about access and continuity of public services.

Next steps: staff will compile ownership history, cost breakdowns and proposed management options and bring recommendations back to the board for consideration.