Sheriff’s Office okays temporary mooring, 9‑1‑1 maintenance and telecom contract; public questions use of executive sessions

The Bonner County Board of Commissioners approved three Sheriff’s Office contracts and heard public concern about transparency and executive sessions.

Sergeant Gary Hollenbeck of the Sheriff’s Office Marine Division asked the board to approve a temporary mooring contract at Holiday Shores Marina for $250 to cover May 1–May 31 while the department awaits higher water for its usual mooring location; the board approved the agreement.

The Sheriff’s Office also presented a maintenance agreement for the 9‑1‑1 radio system with Raycom, asking the board to approve a slightly revised amount from a previously approved consent agenda item. The board approved the maintenance agreement for $27,984.66 from the 9‑1‑1 technology contract services fund.

Later, the Sheriff’s Office proposed a 36‑month agreement with Zipley Fiber for non‑emergency phone lines for 9‑1‑1 operations. The presenter outlined monthly recurring charges and overage rates and the board approved the contract and authorized administrative signature.

During public comment Jim Lady said Bonner County appears to use executive sessions too often and urged the board to be more transparent; a commissioner explained that executive sessions are listed on the agenda when there is a possibility protected critical‑infrastructure information might be discussed and that the board often chooses not to enter executive session after review.

All three Sheriff's Office contractual items were approved on roll call; staff were directed to complete signature and administrative follow‑up tasks.