Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Housing Authority topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Blaine County weighs future of Housing Authority after Ketchum withdraws funding
Summary
Commissioners heard competing views on whether to dissolve the Blaine County Housing Authority after the City of Ketchum withdrew funding. County counsel said a resolution and an audit would be required before dissolution; the Board did not decide and requested further evaluation.
Commissioner Muffy Davis opened a discussion on whether Blaine County should dissolve the Blaine County Housing Authority (BCHA) after the City of Ketchum announced it would withdraw funding.
Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Amanda Greer told the Board that "under Idaho Code, the Board may dissolve the Housing Authority by resolution" but that an audit of the Authority’s financial condition is required prior to any dissolution. She urged following the formal procedural steps before any final action.
Darrell Faust, speaking on behalf of the Housing Authority, argued the BCHA provides valley‑wide consistency in housing policy, manages deed‑restricted units, and runs a countywide housing database and referral system. "We serve the whole valley and ensure consistent application of housing policies," Faust said, urging the Board to maintain the Authority’s operations.
Ketchum Mayor Pete Prekeges and Council President Spencer Cordovano told the Board the City prefers dissolving the Authority or returning Ketchum‑based housing assets to the City so Ketchum may manage deed‑restricted units internally. Prekeges said the city is moving to manage housing through its own department and favors local control of units inside city limits.
County Administrator Kirk Flannigan advised that an orderly process will be needed to address transitions, funding implications, and intergovernmental coordination should the Board direct dissolution or a transfer of assets. The Board said further evaluation and coordination with the Housing Authority, the City of Ketchum, and the public will be needed before any final decision.
The hearing concluded without a formal vote; the Board indicated it would request additional information to guide any eventual resolution or transition process.
