HomeMy Public PortalAbout2023.04.27 Regular Meeiting MinutesMINUTES
McCall City Council
Regular Meeting
McCall City Hall -- Legion Hall
VIA TEAMS Virtual
April 27, 2023
Call to Order and Roll Call
Pledge of Allegiance
Approve the Agenda
Consent Agenda
Public Comment
Business Agenda
Adjournment
CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
1
Mayor Giles called the regular meeting of the McCall City Council to order at 5:30 p.m.
Mayor Giles, Council Member Maciaszek, Council Member Nelson, Council Member
Nielsen, and Council Member Thrower all answered roll call.
City staff members present were Anette Spickard, City Manager; Bill Punkoney, City Attorney;
Sarah Porter, Deputy Clerk; Erin Greaves, Communications Manager; Linda Stokes, City
Treasurer; Michelle Groenevelt, Community Development Director; Brian Parker, City Planner;
Kurt Wolf, Parks and Recreation Director; Eric McCormick, Golf Course Superintendent; Chris
Curtin, Information Systems Manager; Traci Malvich, Human Resources Manager; Dallas Palmer,
Police Chief; Nathan Stewart, Public Works Director; Meredith Todd, Assistant City Planner;
Amanda Payne, Local Option Tax and Short-term Rental Administrator.
Also, in attendance was Ryan Garber, Captain of Fire Prevention and Code Enforcement McCall
Fire District.
Mayor Giles led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
APPROVE THE AGENDA
1
Council Member Maciaszek moved to approve the agenda as submitted. Council Member
Nielsen seconded the motion. In a voice vote all members voted aye, and the motion carried.
CONSENT AGENDA
1
Staff recommended approval of the following ACTION ITEMS. All matters which are listed
within the consent section of the agenda have been distributed to each member of the McCall City
MCCALL CITY COUNCIL
April 27, 2023 Regular Meeting
Page 1 of 8
Council for reading and study. The items listed are considered routine by the Council and were
enacted with one motion.
1. City Council Regular Minutes — March 30, 2023
2. City Council Special Minutes — April 13, 2023
3. Payroll Report for the period ending April 14, 2023
4. Warrant Register — GL
5. Warrant Register — Vendor
6. AB 23-081 City Licenses Report to Council Per McCall City Code
Per McCall City Code Title 4 Chapter 9, the City Council has determined the City Clerk
shall be delegated the authority to process and grant or deny all alcoholic beverage
license applications, other than certain circumstances involving catering permits, which
the City Clerk shall review the application for catering permit for completeness and
forward said application to the Police Chief. The Police Chief upon receipt of the
application shall make a recommendation to the City Clerk to approve or deny the
application. Whenever the City Clerk shall determine that an application for alcoholic
beverage license transfer or renewal is complete, the City Clerk shall approve or deny
such application. All decisions of the City Clerk shall be reported to the City Council at
the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting after such a decision. The City Clerk
is also responsible for all processing of business, taxi, snow removal, pawnbroker, child
daycare licenses, vendor and short-term rental permits, and public event applications.
Action: Review the license report.
7. AB 23-082 Treasurer's Report as Required by IC 50-208
Treasurer's report of accounts and office activity during March 2023 regarding care,
management, or disposition of moneys, property, or business of the City. Action: Review
the Treasurer's report.
8. AB 23-083 Treasurer's FY22 4th Quarter Report as Required by IC 50-208
Treasurer's quarterly report of accounts and office activity during July, August, and
September 2022 regarding care, management, or disposition of moneys, property, or
business of the City. Action: Review the Treasurer's report.
9. AB 23-084 Treasurer's FY23 2nd Quarter Report as Required by IC 50-208
Treasurer's quarterly report of accounts and office activity during January, February, and
March 2023 regarding care, management, or disposition of moneys, property, or business
of the City. Action: Review the report.
Council Member Nelson moved to approve the Consent Agenda as submitted. Council
Member Maciaszek seconded the motion. In a roll call vote, Council Member Nelson,
Council Member Maciaszek, Mayor Giles, Council Member Nielsen, and Council Member
Thrower all voted aye, and the motion carried.
PUBLIC COMMENT
1
Mayor Giles called for public comment at 5:33 p.m.
Sixteen (16) written comments were received and are included in Attachment A.
MCCALL CITY COUNCIL
April 27, 2023 Regular Meeting
Page 2 of 8
David Gallipoli, 200 Scott St
Mr. Gallipoli addressed the Council regarding the local deer herd. Mr. Gallipoli noted speaking to
experts about controlling the population of deer using vaccines. Feeding the herd already kills the
deer and it is only a matter of time until chronic wasting disease shows up.
Joey Petri, 225 Valley Spring Rd
Mr. Petri echoed Mr. Gallipoli's concerns for the local deer herd. Additionally, Mr. Petri requested
a partnership between private and public entities for the pulverization of glass for recycling to limit
the waste going to the landfill.
Hearing no further comments, Mayor Giles closed the comment period at 5:40 p.m.
BUSINESS AGENDA
1
AB 23-090 Wildlife Public Engagement and Education Plan and Direction to Staff
Communications Manager Erin Greaves presented to the City Council stating that on April 13th,
2023, the Council gave staff direction to develop a plan for a community conversation surrounding
the concept of a wildlife Ordinance in the City of McCall. Manager Greaves reviewed a public
outreach and education plan that included details of the planned community meeting for May 4,
2023, and the expected next steps in the process. Highlights included an exit survey for any public
attending as well as a survey available for members of the public that were unable to attend, sharing
wildlife data in response to the Council's request, and the creation of a community data matrix
encompassing other cities dealing with the same issue.
Council Member Nelson complimented Manager Greaves on the process of community
involvement planned. Council Member Thrower agreed with the format presented to the Council
and requested additional scientific studies and smaller tables if there is a large turnout to the
meeting. Manager Greaves noted that the Idaho Department of Fish and Game and Idaho
Conservation League will be in attendance for educational purposes.
Council Member Maciaszek noted the need for messaging to include that the city and community
are in this together and there needs to be a plan of action to work together. Additionally, it is
important to understand and gather information to see if the community sees deer as an issue and
what the community sees as a solution. Council Member Nielsen noted agreement with Council
Member Maciaszek and the need for positive conversations with positive actions. Council Member
Thrower asked if it is possible to get the studies and information out before the forum. Manager
Greaves noted that the information will be presented at the meeting and not before; this meeting
is the start of a process to provide a good solution for the community.
Mayor Giles noted having a lot of confidence in the direction staff is headed. Council Member
Nelson noted interest in knowing if the lice are transmittable to other animals including pets and
the risk to the animal community of McCall. Mayor Giles noted that most people agree on the goal
of a healthy and wild deer herd. The goal is not to eliminate all the deer.
MCCALL CITY COUNCIL Page 3 of 8
April 27, 2023 Regular Meeting
AB 23-088 Captain Ryan Garber, McCall Fire and EMS, will give an update to Council
regarding the Fire Inspection Process for Short -Term Rentals and ask for
Direction from Council regarding Sleeping Areas
Ryan Garber Captain of Fire Prevention and Code Enforcement, McCall Fire & EMS performs
the fire inspection of all Short-term Rentals (STR). Captain Garber presented the numbers of
inspections on STRs to date and of those inspections how many have passed and how many have
failed the inspection. He discussed the primary failure points including windows and other egress
issues. Highlights included the process to educate homeowners, fire prevention instead of
suppression, and review of inspection numbers. Captain Garber noted that a prevalent annoyance
to homeowners is having to have the fire extinguisher visible. Allowing anything other than the
standards that Idaho has adopted will not occur during the STR inspections as it is important to be
consistent. About 25% of owners have had an issue with window size or placement but several
owners have begun replacing windows to be compliant. Another egress issue comes with condo
units that do not have egress in loft spaces that are currently being used as sleeping areas. Council
Member Maciaszek noted some of the condos were built for commercial use but were converted
into living spaces.
Mayor Giles noted that, in general, the City Council takes safety seriously and the regulations for
the fire safety inspection are reasonable. Council Member Maciaszek asked how a loft is treated
during the fire inspection. Captain Garber noted all sleeping spaces are treated the same regardless
of whether it is a loft, a living room, or a separate room. Council Member Maciaszek noted that if
the owner of the property wants to sleep in the loft without an egress window the owner can do so.
Captain Garber noted that yes, it is that person's choice and used the example of the choice to wear
a seatbelt or not wear a seatbelt when in a vehicle. The law requires the use of a seatbelt, but any
person can make a choice not to wear a seatbelt. Council Member Maciaszek noted the City of
McCall is not reinventing the wheel with the regulations currently in place for health and safety.
Council Member Nelson noted that if it is not up to code it is not safe, and the codes have been put
in place for public safety. Council Member Thrower noted that enforcing the code without
exception is the expectation but input from the community and property management companies
on how the process is going with the new regulations should be sought. Additionally, Council
Member Thrower asked if Captain Garber sees most of the issues being residences that were built
before the code or if the problem spaces were not designed to be sleeping areas. Mr. Garber noted
the residential building code has been in place since 1979 in the State of Idaho, but homeowners
can change out windows without a building permit which can change the egress to not meet the
code. Council Member Nielsen agrees with Mr. Garber not setting any leniency for the inspection
process and requirements.
AB 23-089 4th of July Fireworks Update and Direction to Staff
Parks and Recreation Director Kurt Wolf presented to the City Council. Due to cost increases and
contractor availability, the fireworks display which was previously done by the McCall Chamber
of Commerce has gone from an estimated $10,000 - $16,000 to $15,000 - $25,000. City Staff were
able to secure a contractor for the show, however, the only way the company can justify a show in
McCall on the 4th of July is for it to be a much larger display which comes at a higher cost. The
same company can justify a smaller scale show on Saturday, July 1 for a cost of $15,000, but to
schedule a show on July 4 the cost jumps to $25,000.
MCCALL CITY COUNCIL Page 4 of 8
April 27, 2023 Regular Meeting
City staff has researched various funding mechanisms to offset the cost increase, including the
following:
• Community Sponsorship Program — based on a tiered level sponsorship model.
• Partnership program with other agencies such as McCall Fire, Southern Idaho Timber
Protection Association, Payette National Forest, and Valley County to promote a
community show on the lake and a more fire -safe community.
• General operating budgets: (surplus auction revenue, marketing line item, parks operating
line items.)
The Council consensus was to keep the firework show on the 4th of July.
AB 23-092 Request for consideration of a Code Amendment to McCall City Code 8.14.8(B)
— Alcohol in City Parks
Police Chief Dallas Palmer presented to the City Council draft language that would amend McCall
City Code 8.14.8(B) and provide 4th of July alcohol restrictions in a predetermined manner,
eliminating the need for the City Council to revisit the restrictions and approve by resolution on
an annual basis. However, the draft language still provides an opportunity for the City Council to
revisit and adjust alcohol restrictions by resolution if the City Council were to determine it
necessary. Chief Palmer reviewed previous City Council decisions regarding alcohol in city parks
during the 4th of July and the new proposed code language.
Current Language:
"By resolution, the city council may prohibit the possession and/or consumption
of alcoholic beverages in designated city parks on specific days from July 1 through July 7 each
year. Signs will be posted in each park announcing the restrictions at least twenty-four (24) hours
in advance of the beginning of any period of such restrictions. "
Proposed Draft Language:
"Unless otherwise set by resolution of the McCall City Council, the possession and/or
consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in lakeside city parks from 8:00 p.m. on July 3rd
through 8:00 a.m. July 5th each year. Signs will be posted in each park announcing the restrictions
at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance of the beginning of any period of such restrictions. "
The Council agreed with the code language aside from Council Member Nielsen who expressed
being opposed to the ban on alcohol in City parks altogether.
AB 23-091 Request for Construction Contract Award: Davis Beach Intake Station
Reconstruction Project
Public Works Director Nathan Stewart presented to the City Council. The City, in collaboration
with Clear Solutions, Inc., has conducted formal bidding for the Davis Beach Intake Station
Upgrades. This project provides various building and mechanical replacements/upgrades to meet
regulatory requirements, improve performance and efficiency, and enhance aesthetics.
Major components include:
• Replacement of the raw water pressure main 12 -inch flow meter
MCCALL CITY COUNCIL Page 5 of 8
April 27, 2023 Regular Meeting
• Replacement of antiquated electrical and ventilation components
• Installation of variable frequency drives (VFDs) to improve pump performance, control,
and energy efficiency.
• New roof, exterior siding, and architectural elements to maintain the structure and improve
aesthetics.
• Epoxy coating of interior concrete flooring, new exterior doors, and exterior pavers at
doorway entrances
No expansion of the building footprint or pump station capacity will occur with this project. All
required design/architectural elements of the project have been submitted to the City Planner for
Administrative Design Review Approval. The bid opening occurred on April 20, 2023. The bid
was reviewed by the Project Engineer, Eric Landsberg of Clear Solutions Inc, for accuracy and
responsiveness to the bidding specifications. Work on the exterior of the building is expected to
be completed by late October 2023 but internal upgrades may take longer depending on part
processing times and availability.
Council Member Nelson appreciated the aesthetics put into the building design in response to
public comments previously received regarding the look of the building. Council Member Nielsen
stated that it would be beneficial to have a pathway to the beach at the pump station location.
Director Stewart reviewed working with Parks and Recreation Director Kurt Wolf for
improvements to access to the pump station and the beach for public recreation.
Council Member Maciaszek moved to award the construction contract to the responsive low
bidder Dalrymple Construction in the amount of 498,096.00 and change the order amount
up to 10% over the contract amount and authorize the Mayor to sign all necessary
documents. Council Member Thrower seconded the motion. In a roll call vote Council
Member Maciaszek, Council Member Thrower, Mayor Giles, Council Member Nelson,
all voted aye, Council Member Nielsen voted no, and the motion carried.
AB 23-085 Request to Reject Bid for the McCall Golf Course Clubhouse Access
Improvements— Phase 2
Golf Course Superintendent Eric McCormick presented to the City Council stating that the
Engineer's Estimate for the clubhouse access improvements project construction cost, which
accounts for the current volatile construction market, was $208,742.98 for the combination of the
Base Bid and Bid Alternate #1. The city advertised bids and received one bid from Dyrud
Construction. The received bid is 80.31% above the Engineer's Estimate. City Staff recommended
that the bid be rejected, and the project be rebid in summer 2023.
The City Council had no questions regarding the request to reject the bid for the McCall Golf
Course Clubhouse Access Improvements.
Council Member Nelson moved to reject the bid from Dyrud Construction for the McCall
Gold Course Clubhouse Access Improvements — Phase 2 and authorize the Mayor to sign all
necessary documents. Council Member Thrower seconded the motion. In a roll call vote
Council Member Nelson, Council Member Thrower, Mayor Giles, Council Member
Maciaszek, and Council Member Nielsen all voted aye, and the motion carried.
MCCALL CITY COUNCIL Page 6 of 8
April 27, 2023 Regular Meeting
AB 23-086 Request to Appoint Dave Petty to the McCall Area Planning & Zoning
Commission
City Planner Brian Parker presented to the City Council. Pursuant to McCall City Code Chapter
3.12, the McCall Area Planning and Zoning Commission consists of seven (7) members, four (4)
of which are appointed by the McCall City Council. On March 7, 2023, the Commission vetted
seven (7) letters of interest for the Planning and Zoning Commission vacancy and determined that
only three (3) interested individuals were qualified pursuant to McCall Code Section 3.12.02 and
still interested in serving: Toni Curtis, Dave Petty, and Mike Spilotros.
At the McCall Area Planning and Zoning Commission's April 4, 2023 meeting, the Commission
further reviewed the remaining applicants and recommended appointing Dave Petty to the McCall
Area Planning & Zoning Commission. The vacancy was advertised for two weeks in the Star -
News and a thorough public outreach effort through the Communication Department. Mayor Giles
asked Planner Parker for the reasons the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended Mr.
Petty. Planner Parker noted Mr. Petty's financial background and business background.
Council Member Thrower moved to appoint Dave Petty to a three (3) year term on the
McCall Area Planning & Zoning Commission. Council Member Nielsen seconded the
motion. In a roll call vote, Council Member Thrower, Council Member Nielsen, Mayor Giles,
Council Member Maciaszek, and Council Member Nelson all voted aye, and the motion
carried.
AB 23-087 Request for Daily Vendor Fee Evaluation and Direction to Staff
Deputy City Clerk Sarah Porter presented to the City Council. On January 12, 2023, the City
Council reviewed the Staff recommendation to change the Annual Vendor fee to $140 to match
the Business License fee for a new business and to cover the extra time it takes to get the proper
approvals from the landowners. This fee would cover a Vendor that is in one location for a year.
However, the Vendor would be required to pay the $50 a day fee if they chose to move locations.
At that time staff also recommend eliminating the 6 -month permit fee. These fees more accurately
cover staff time to administer. After considering Council's questions and comments staff later
recommended the annual fee to be clarified as a 3 -12 -month permit in the same location,
maintaining the $50 a day fee if they choose to move locations.
On March 9, 2023, Council adopted Resolution 23-04 updating the Comprehensive fee schedule
as follows:
$50 Per Day
$140 for 3-12 months in one location (Long Term fee)
$50 Per Day is added to Long Term fee when moving locations.
After working with the new fee schedule, the Clerk realized that the per -day fee should be a per -
day or per -event fee, whichever is applicable, as it does not take any more staff time to prepare a
daily permit than it does a per -event permit. Staff is requesting to hold a public hearing to
reconsider the daily permit fee and change it to a per -day or per -event fee, whichever is applicable.
The daily or event fee would still be applicable to a long-term vendor who changes location.
MCCALL CITY COUNCIL Page 7 of 8
April 27, 2023 Regular Meeting
The Council directed staff to schedule a public hearing to adopt the updated fee.
AB 23-080 Acknowledgement of an Open Meeting Law Violation and Cure
City Manager Anette Spickard presented to the City Council stating that the March 31, 2023 City
Council Meeting Agenda did not get posted within 24 hours of the scheduled meeting as required
by ID Code § 74-204(2). The City is self -reporting the violation and wishes to cure such violation
as outlined in Idaho Code § 74-208. No action was taken at the March 31, 2023, Special Council
Meeting, and therefore, there is nothing to declare void.
Council Member Nielsen moved to recognize the open meeting law violation of failure to post
the Agenda for the March 31, 2023, Special Council Meeting, any actions taken at that
meeting are void. Council Member Nelson seconded the motion. In a roll call vote, Council
Member Nielsen, Council Member Nelson, Mayor Giles, Council Member Maciaszek, and
Council Member Thrower, all voted aye, and the motion carried.
Upcoming Meetings Schedule Discussion
The Council discussed upcoming meetings.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
1
At 7:15 p.m. Council Member Thrower moved to go into Executive Session for:
• Personnel - 74-206 (1)(b) To consider the evaluation, dismissal, or disciplining of, or
to hear complaints or charges brought against, a public officer, employee, staff
member or individual agent, or public -school student
• Records - Pursuant to Idaho Code §74-206 (1) (d) To consider records that are exempt
from disclosure as provided in chapter 1, title 74, Idaho Code
Council Member Nielsen seconded the motion. In a roll call vote, Council Member Thrower,
Council Member Nielsen, Mayor Giles, Council Member Maciaszek, and Council Member
Nelson all voted aye, and the motion carried.
Council discussed the City Manager's annual evaluation.
ADJOURNMENT
1
Without further business, Mayor Giles adjourned the meeting at 8:01 p.m.
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MCCALL CITY COUNCIL
April 27, 2023 Regular Meeting
Page 8 of 8
April 27, 2023 Regular Meeting - General
Comment
Name Address Email Opinion Content
Attachment A
Deborah 7995 debhudson515@yahoo.com Neutral Hello I just read the article about the question what to do with
Hudson west the growing population of deer in Mccall. My husband and I go
Arapaho to Mccall twice a year for a timeshare week. My husband goes
Garden several extra times to ski. He has a season pass at Brundage
City every year. We love seeing the foxes and deer and all the lovely
Idaho birds. My idea of a solution would be to have a deer reserve
83714 somewhere close to the highway in a flat area where the city
would provide a large reserve with hay for the deer from first
snowfall to may. Or maybe November to may. It would be like
the elk reserve in Jackson hole. Then there could be signs
telling about the reserve and saying do not feed the deer. If
you provided a place for the deer to go that had some food I
am pretty sure people wouldnt be feeding them. There might
be a benefit to raise money to feed the deer to alleviate the city
paying for it. Local restaurants and grocery store could buy
whole deer butchered and have venison on the menu. Maybe
one of the landowners would donate or sell land for the
reserve. It would be fenced but mostly have food and shelter
for the deer in winter. If mountain lions caught their meal out
at the reserve it would just be natural. The deer in Mccall are
for a non skiier like me the most beautiful part of Mccall and I
am always so happy to see them. Thanks Deborah
Public Comments Page I of 26
Apnl 27, 2023
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Attachment A
Public Comments
April 27, 2023
Page 2 of 26
Attachment A
The citizens of McCall should be appalled at the actions of our City Council and our City Manager. The
City of McCall has major infrastructure problems. Every citizen encounters these daily: potholes that are
a serious hazard to our community and to our visitors, lack of sidewalks, unpredictable garbage service,
and "oh, by the way" the increased cost of the sewer system that has cost each and every one of us
because of lawsuits in the past. Not one person has been harmed, or murdered, by a deer.
We are diverting the attention of the hard-working taxpayers onto the emotional issue of the self -
generated ideas from the Fish and Game who want to slaughter the deer. There is not one shred of an
instance where the murder or removal of deer has been successful anywhere. Just like the City of
Billings, Montana, the deer here are a tourist attraction. They have harmed no one.
Nature takes care of itself. Populations rise and fall and that has happened for eons, long before there
was a City of McCall. We need to draw attention to the many failures of Fish and Game. Anyone want to
talk about the effects of a reintroduced wolf population? Anyone want to talk about the effect of
planting mackinaws into Payette Lake and the devastation to the native cutthroat trout? That was all on
the shoulders of Fish and Game. Shame on them.
Fish and Game should find a real reason for their jobs instead of coming up with lice and "just too many."
Really? This "deer hunt" is nothing but a search for job justification.
While Fish and Game takes up the time of city officials considering killing the deer our City Council
should be thinking about the cost of housing for public officials, city employees. This cost will directly
raise taxes for all the hard-working and voting constituents of McCall. Raising taxes for all will create a
city with no affordable housing — ever — for the average wage earner in McCall. And for those folks who
rent — their rents will go up because the property owner has been asked to pay, through their taxes, the
building costs for those that don't pay. The hypocrisy of this City Council and City Manager is horrid.
Jenny and John Fawcett
Public Comments Page 3 of 26
April 27, 2023
Attachment A
From: Erin Greaves
To: Sarah Porter
Subject: FW: Town Deer
Date: Thursday, April 27, 2023 11:14:33 AM
For the record
Original Message
From: Patty Hickman <hickmanpatty35@gmail.com>
Sent: Thursday, April 27, 2023 11:13 AM
To: Erin Greaves <egreaves@mccall.id.us>
Subject: Town Deer
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless
you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Greetings,
I would like to publicly express my concern about the lack of complete information regarding the Town Deer. I have
been a full time resident of Mccall since June of 1976, I have had the opportunity to observe our Deer population
over the span of all of these years. What I have witnessed is that the Deer population has survived despite all the
growth that has taken over their habitat.
For the Fish and Game to state that the reason for this population is here solely because of residents feeding the deer
is not accurate information.The first winter that I noticed deer not migrating was a result of their habitat being
invaded by new homes and a much better form of nourishment for them with the ornamental plants, flowers, fruit
trees, shrubs etc. Then snow came and they were stuck in town believing that the new food source would be there all
winter. As the years have passed, the generations of deer have grown and unfortunately for them the instinct to
migrate out of town in the winter was forgotten and not passed down to the new generations each year.
I used to feed the deer thinking I was helping them make it through the winter, through education I have learned that
this was not the best way to be their champion. I have talked to other wildlife managers in Colorado about how they
do it with their town deer and found that it is possible to coexist with wildlife in our community without feeding
them. I believe that with more education, signage in town and a no feeding ordinance we can find the best balance
for all.
I question the value of the mountain lion sightings as being a much bigger presence now due to the deer. We have
had sightings in town since I moved here. I personally believe that more sightings are happening because of all the
cameras on homes and businesses. Because of my ring camera I see all sorts of wildlife that would have gone
unnoticed in the past.
Please stop and put the breaks on the attempt to eradicate the local deer, they are a part of the community and what
makes our little town stand out. They are a destination feature not a problem. Yes some get hit by cars, is that
because someone fed them or maybe because cars speed up and down our streets or are distracted by cell phone
usage while driving or both. Yes in the spring we have fawns born and mama deer are protective, if you have your
dog on a leash per city code you should be able to keep it from getting too close to the fawns and mamas.
Let's see if together we can work towards a solution for residents both human and wildlife. How can we help? Do
we need an action group made up of residents? Help us help the community and insure the safety of the wildlife. We
can coexist, it is working in towns all over the country.
Thanks
Patty Hickman
Public Comments Page 4 of 26
April 27, 2023
Attachment A
Sent from my iPhone
Public Comments
April 27, 2023
Page 5 of 26
"The greatness of a nation can be judged by the way its animals are treated."
Attachment A
-- Mahatma Gandhi
April 24, 2023
Dear Mayor Giles and McCall City Council members,
I watched the April 13, 2023, McCall City Council meeting where once again the McCall Chief of
Police Dallas Palmer, Idaho Fish and Game Regional Manager Ms. Regan Berkley, and Regional
Supervisor Josh Royse spoke about what has been labeled as the "town deer herd" issue.
Many of us who have been following what we believe is an artificially drummed -up issue have grave
concerns and question the information presented to the Council over the past couple of years, and the
potential "solutions" recommended to this drummed -up problem.
Is this truly the most pressing issue facing the City? Not economic development, not marketing efforts,
not affordable housing, not infrastructure (roads, high speed Internet, sewer/wastewater capacity, airport,
etc.), not property taxes?
Societies are judged by how they treat their young, the elderly, and animals. Deer were in the area well
before the city was incorporated. It is us humans who encroached on their territory, not the other way
around. It is ironic for the city to have a "premier" development with clubhouse and golf course named
"Whitetail" while waging a war on deer.
My husband is a veterinarian, I am an attorney, and we both have been following closely this issue. My
husband dedicated 27 years of his professional life to alleviating the suffering of animals. We both care
deeply about animals, including deer. We have loved McCall for a long time and are disheartened by
these developments. This is an artificially created problem, hyped up, blown out of proportion, and
pushed by a few individuals who appear to be fanning the flames. There are also some special interests
involved.
An important part of Idaho Fish and Game's mission is "to provide a continued supply of wildlife for
hunting, fishing, and trapping." Mr. Royse emphasized in the meeting that his agency receives zero
general fund tax monies, and that they are entirely funded by hunters and anglers. Hunters and anglers
pay Ms. Berkley's salary and Mr. Royse's salary. The City's mission is different. The City has a much
broader constituent base, and the City is supported by taxpayer dollars. We pay the salary of the Police
Chief and of the City Manager.
You are in charge. The buck stops with you. You do have the power to allow all the deer or most of the
deer in McCall to be killed next winter or to have annual deer killing sprees going forward. You do have
that power. You also have the power to criminalize residents and visitors feeding the deer. Give an apple
to a deer the second time within 12 months? Misdemeanor charge, six months jail time, $1,000 fine.
Although you may have the power, it does not mean that it is the right thing to do. I hope that you will
continue to show compassion and wisdom. What gives us hope, is that the Council to date has not
rushed into a decision and refrained from taking action without careful consideration of both immediate
and long-term ramifications of those actions. There are some people who would like you to believe that
you "must" act, that you have no choice but to act. That, at a minimum, you must adopt a no feeding
ordinance. In reality, you do have a choice. So far, the Council has been willing to listen. We hope that it
Public Comments Page 6 of 26
April 27, 2023
Attachment A
will continue to do so: doing its own research, listening to all constituents, recognizing bias, questioning
the motivations of groups and individuals, and carefully weighing what action, if any, is necessary.
I agree with the Humane Society of the United States that killing deer, even if their numbers are greatly
reduced, will not stop people from hitting deer with their vehicles, will not protect gardens, etc.
https://www.humanesocietv.org/resources/why-deer-killing-programs-dont-solve-conflicts-deer The City
should develop a plan, and part of that plan should be a strong commitment to non -lethal methods
whenever possible —as demonstrated by adequate and ongoing funding approved for these non -lethal
methods, carefully researching these methods, ongoing assessment of the effectiveness of these methods,
allowing sufficient time for results to show, and commitment to changing non -lethal strategies as
needed, instead of jumping directly to killing deer, if the first thing attempted does not work as expected.
A lousy massacre
Some of you may consider Ms. Berkley the "expert." I suggest that all we have to do is look at how the
Cascade "pilot project" went down to realize that you need to do your own research, not just blindly
listen to Ms. Berkley or anyone else for that matter. In my personal opinion, the Cascade "pilot project"
was a disaster. I do not pretend to be an "expert," but I do know how to do research, I have done my
research, and I could predict that it was not going to go well for the deer. Just like I could predict that a
trap and transport operation in McCall was not going to go well for the deer.
Previously, when the Fish and Game presentations in front of you discussed trapping and relocating the
deer, I encouraged you to do your own research and look at the readily available studies and statistics on
deer morbidity and mortality rates associated with trap and relocate operations.
After Cascade passed a no feeding ordinance, that opened up the door for Fish and Game to swoop in
with the grand plan of trapping and relocating the deer. https://idfg.idaho.gov/article/fg-will-trap-
attempt-relocate-cascade-town-deer-winter
They were planning to trap deer for 2-3 weeks. Fish and Game even said that stopping feeding and
attempting to relocate deer is "the most humane option." Cascade passed the ordinance, and Fish and
Game embarked upon implementing this "most humane option." They had to stop after two days. Over a
two-day period, they trapped 20 deer. Out of those, they killed 15 deer, and the five were transported.
Those that were transported, we do not know what condition they were in at the time of transport, after
transport, and what happened to them since. We do not know if they are still alive or not.
Fish and Game killed the deer in Cascade because they had lice. Armed with a magnifying glass, they
examined the lice found on the trapped deer. Ms. Berkley admitted that she is not a lice expert. They
sent the lice to a lab in the Midwest for a parasitologist to determine whether the lice were "exotic"
louse or not. Too bad the deer were already killed. They were already dead before the results could
confirm whether or not the lice were "exotic."
It was not a huge surprise that the deer trapped in Cascade had lice. The "exotic" lice can cause itching,
skin lesions, hair loss. Exotic lice is not the only thing that causes hair loss in deer. Deer normally shed
their hair (normal "molt") twice a year. In the spring they shed their winter coat, and in the late summer
they shed their summer coat.
Deer with "exotic" lice cannot be relocated. Since it's been determined that the McCall deer also likely
have this "exotic" lice, the McCall deer cannot be relocated (thank God, as many of us opposed trapping
and transporting deer for other reasons).
Ms. Berkley admitted that they knew that they had this "exotic" lice in the area, because several years
ago they found it in a deer in Cascade. These "exotic louse" have been found in Idaho for many years,
Public Comments Page 7 of 26
April 27, 2023
Attachment A
including in Riggins where in 2012 Fish and Game killed 60 deer after determining that more than 90
percent of the deer in Riggins had this "exotic" lice. https://idfg.idaho.gov/press/deer-riggins-killed-
control-exotic-louse-infestation
These pictures were taken on January 29, 2023, in Cascade, just before Fish and Game began its "pilot
project." They don't look emaciated, their hair has not fallen out, they definitely do not look hairless like
the picture in Ms. Berkley's presentation. They do not seem to be suffering. Certainly not suffering that
warrants being killed. They may or may not have been part of the 15 that were killed just days later.
Public Comments
April 27, 2023
Page 8 of 26
Attachment A
The following are pictures from Fish and Game's website taken during the trapping and relocation
operation:
https://idfg. idaho. gov/article/fg-stops-cascade-deer-trapping-after-two-days-due-high-prevalence-
chewing-lice
Public Comments
April 27, 2023
Page 9 of 26
Attachment A
Public Comments
April 27, 2023
Page 10 of 26
Attachment A
A deer is being tackled. Another deer watches the humans implement "the most humane" option.
rnall
Public Comments
April 27, 2023
Page 11 of 26
Attachment A
Imagine the trauma suffered by the 5 deer who were not killed but were trapped and shipped somewhere
else, a place completely foreign to them as these deer do not migrate.
According to Idaho Fish and Game's mission, "All wildlife... shall be preserved, protected, perpetuated,
and managed. It shall be only captured or taken at such times or places, under such conditions, or by
such means, or in such manner, as will preserve, protect, and perpetuate such wildlife." You decide if
based on those pictures this "pilot project" lived up to that mission.
This could have been McCall, had the Council acted on the information Ms. Berkley presented to the
Council last time around. By not rushing in to act on the first information it was fed, the Council averted
this kind of "lousy" massacre. It sure would not be a good marketing campaign for a tourist town.
Whether some locals like it or not, McCall relies on tourism dollars. Whether some "full-time residents"
like it or not, McCall also relies on property taxes paid by second home owners and part-time residents.
Some of them actually pay more in property taxes than those who use their homes as primary residence
and thus take a homeowners' exemption. Visitors, part-time residents also pay sales taxes when they
come to town and spend their money at local businesses. There are many stakeholders, and their voices
are important to the continued vitality and viability of the town.
Ms. Berkley reported that this past winter they "initiated a pilot project" to count "town deer" in McCall.
The method involved dividing the town into four quadrants, in each quadrant one vehicle drove around
to count deer "so they were not double -counting deer." Importantly, McCall's total area is over 6,300
acres. Based on this method, Ms. Berkley stated that they were "relatively sure" that they did not have a
lot of deer movement across town while they were counting. It was nice of the "town deer" to stay put
while they were being counted. The same strategy was used again in January and February. Based on
this, Ms. Berkeley stated that there is a minimum of 258 deer "living in town" during winter. Since there
is no deer fence around the city, I am not sure why Ms. Berkley assumed that the deer "lived" within city
limits, and not in the area of impact or in Valley County, and that they did not come and go freely since
they do not know where the City's official boundary line is located. It is important to note that McCall
does not have historical deer survey data to show an actual trend. This was a one-time "pilot project."
Other cities have several years' worth of data to inform their decision -making. Other cities do not rely
on Fish and Game alone to determine the method of counting or doing the actual counting for the city.
During this pilot project, they also "learned" that deer in McCall were "very habituated to people." Ms.
Berkley reported that there were "numerous instances" where deer walked up to their windows. Seems
like deer were friendly while they were being counted. Ms. Berkley also reported that they saw "a very
high fawn:doe ratio." She stated that it was "nearly twice what we usually see at that same time on our
winter range, on our natural herds." Ms. Berkley did not explain how comparing the fawn to doe ratio in
non -hunted populations to the fawn to doe ratio in hunted populations (non -similar environments and
non -similar deer populations) was relevant, nor did she compare McCall's fawn:doe ratio to other
similar non -hunted deer populations in similar environments. Nor did she explain what is an "optimal"
fawn:doe ratio in these types of environments/populations? Assuming the counting was correct (which is
a big if considering the method), this was still just one snapshot. There was no information provided on
the sex ratio or other ratios. Fawn to doe ratios can change from year to year, depending on the
conditions. Some winters we could lose a lot of fawns, while other years we could see really good
recruitment. Fawn recruitment is the number of fawns that survived long enough to be recruited into the
fall population. Fawn recruitment is an indicator of herd health. High quality habitats commonly have
more than one fawn recruited per adult doe. Deer in McCall appear to be doing just fine, lice or no lice,
"exotic" lice or not -so -exotic lice.
Public Comments Page 12 of 26
April 27, 2023
Attachment A
Ms. Berkley concluded that the McCall deer population is "growing rapidly." Again, it is important to
note that there is no historical data on the actual trend. McCall did not count deer year after year to see if
the number of deer was increasing or not, and if it was increasing by how much. Therefore, that
conclusion (high growth rate) was not based on actual data. It was simply a guess based on comparing
the snapshot of fawn:doe ratio to the ratio in deer populations that are not similar to the deer in McCall,
in a different environment.
Ms. Berkley also stated that the "natural" winter "town deer" population is "likely very close to zero."
That statement made no sense. Deer that live in McCall do not migrate. They have not been migrating
for generations. Staying in McCall during the winter is what's "normal" to them. Whether or not Valley
County in general is a natural winter range for mule deer is irrelevant. Saying that deer remain in town
year-round "mostly due to feeding" is misleading at best. If that were the case, a feeding ban would
ensure that deer that did not migrate before would magically start migrating somewhere all of a sudden.
Not even Fish and Game believes that. They were also concerned that deer would simply starve to death
if all feeding stopped (whether people voluntarily stopped feeding or forced by an ordinance that
criminalizes feeding). Hence the previous plan of trapping and transporting the deer --a proposal many of
us vehemently opposed, and now even Fish and Game scrapped it because of lice. If a feeding ban
would magically make the deer migrate, the Council would not have to worry about deer starving to
death or having to make the decision to kill the deer before they starve to death since they do not migrate
(of course more palatable words would be used like "removing deer lethally").
This is why it is so important that the Council carefully considers both the short-term and the long-term
implications of any decision it makes. Adopting an ordinance and criminalizing feeding the deer just
kicks the can down the road, unless you figure out what happens after the ordinance is adopted. Are you
going to kill the deer? Are you going to allow them to starve to death? I do not believe that there's an
overwhelming support for a feeding ordinance from those who understand that a feeding ordinance will
simply create other problems, and it will force the Council to have to make other decisions that many in
the community vehemently oppose (like killing the deer or harming them in other ways). There's
definitely no agreement on criminalizing feeding the deer. It is also misguided to believe that if people
would just voluntarily stop feeding the deer, all issues would be resolved. If everyone (community
members and visitors) would all suddenly stop feeding the deer, the result would be that the deer would
likely starve to death during the winter.
During the April 13th meeting, Ms. Berkley stated in her presentation that Fish and Game received "over
50" mountain lion reports in McCall. She admitted that it was not atypical for Fish and Game to receive
reports of mountain lion sightings. Ms. Berkley did not provide an exact number and did not provide
additional information about those reports. However, she did state that "likely" 3-5 mountain lions
"reside" in town. It is unclear how a mountain lion's in -town residence is established. How do we know
that they don't "reside" in Valley County and just visit McCall periodically during the night? Ms.
Berkley did state that the mountain lions exhibit normal mountain lion behavior (activity mostly at night,
they eat deer, not exhibiting aggressive behavior towards humans or pets). Mr. Royse stated that so far
the mountain lion behavior is not concerned to them at all: "What we are seeing from mountain lions in
McCall is not concerning at all." Ms. Berkley also said that these mountain lions are largely trying to
avoid interactions with humans. Everything else is simply speculation and scare tactic.
Ms. Berkley also reported that they received 40+ (no exact number) of dead or injured deer calls. Ms.
Berkley did not give an exact number of calls concerning injured deer, nor did she give the exact number
of calls concerning dead deer. She did not say whether all those calls were regarding dead or injured
deer seen within city limits or also included calls about dead or injured deer seen outside city limits in
the surrounding area. She did not say that those calls were about 40+ different deer (i.e. she did not say
Public Comments Page 13 of 26
April 27, 2023
Attachment A
that Fish and Game accounts for multiple calls about the same injured or dead deer). Several people
could have called about the same injured deer, and some of the calls could have been about an injured
deer that later died prompting calls from others about a dead deer, when in reality only one deer was
involved. Without accounting for repeated calls about the same deer, the number of calls, by itself,
provided little useful information.
If there is an issue with motorists hitting the deer with their vehicles, the first thing the City and the
Chief of Police should do, is enforce existing speed limits. Crack down on those who speed and crack
down on inattentive or careless driving. Why assume that it was the deer's fault that they were hit?
Speed could be a factor, inattentive or reckless driving could also be a factor. Were the drivers driving at
reasonable speed under the circumstances? Enforce existing laws before adopting new ordinances. This
is what the Chief of Police's role should be. This is what the Council and City Manager should instruct
the Chief of Police to do. His role right now seems more like the tail that is wagging the dog. The City
could also investigate where the deer are hit and explore the possibility of lowering the speed limit or
increasing fines in those areas. Instead of criminalizing giving deer an apple, instruct the Chief of Police
to enforce existing laws.
The City should also invest in several road/street signs: one at each entrance to the city, and signs at
frequent deer crossing locations. These signs should have pictures of doe with fawn on them, flashing
lights, and perhaps even some text warning drivers to slow down and drive carefully. The signs should
be large so they are easily seen and read.
SLOW
DOWN
WILD LIFE
CROSSING
SLOW DOWN
RESPECT WILDLIFE
AND PROPERTY
The City could also see if there are ways to work with the Idaho Transportation Department. There could
be informational posters posted around the walking trails and around town. The City could install
devices that warn deer of oncoming cars. Fencing could be used effectively in some areas. There are a
great number of non -lethal solutions that have not yet been explored and in which the City has not
invested.
The City should also enforce leash laws. Having walked a lot in McCall with our dog, almost every
single time we encountered several people who did not have their dogs leashed. If the dog owners do not
have control over their pets, it is more likely that the dogs run up to or after a deer, and of course if the
deer does not appreciate that, it will be the deer that will be labeled "aggressive."
During the April 13th meeting, staff said that the City had a $1,000 budget for education efforts. That is
woefully inadequate, especially if the City considers the issue to be important (important enough to
entertain the idea of considering an ordinance that would hit people with criminal penalties and/or large
fines and would force the Council to have to kill the deer). If people are not even aware that the City has
done some education outreach, then that effort has not been adequate. How can they be educated if they
Public Comments
April 27, 2023
Page 14 of 26
Attachment A
have not even heard or seen what has been put out to date? Education could also include information
about deer resistant gardens, defensive driving, etc. Education is not a one-time thing, it must be
ongoing.
It is no surprise that many full-time and part-time residents, visitors, and long-time friends of McCall
adamantly oppose the killing (lice or no lice) of the deer. Now that the trap and transport idea has been
scrapped, and Fish and Game already warned that if feeding stops, the deer will likely starve to death,
should the Council allow itself to be pushed to adopt a no feeding ordinance, then it will be put into a
position to have to kill the deer. Likely a one-time killing spree will not suffice, it may be an annual
killing spree. Will the Council allow people to shoot deer in town within City limits?
It is easy to target someone or something once it is labeled a "pest." That is what some did with the deer
here. It reminds me of the rabbit drives where people rounded up the rabbits and clubbed them to death.
There are a lot of historical photos and some videos about the practice. Many of us would hate to see an
annual shooting/clubbing of deer in McCall.
Rabbit drives are not the proudest moments in Idaho's history. Idaho made national headlines in the
1980s: "About 800 men, women and children, armed with ax handles, baseball bats, tire tools and golf
clubs, stretched across a mile of the desolate prairie near Mud Lake and rounded up jackrabbits which
they claim have done an estimated $5 million in crop damage e...Many of the jackrabbits were beaten to
death during the drive and others captured in a pen had their necks broken and their heads decapitated."
https://www.idahopress.com/news/state/mud-lake-was-scene-of-1981 jackrabbit-
killing/article f513a070-8cec-55ca-8ee2-f9a13a2e57fa.html
A picture from the dustbowl of the practice of bludgeoning rabbits ("pests") to death.
L
Whether taking out the deer by hiring contractors to shoot them all dead, or saying that that is too
expensive and allowing people to hunt down deer in town, or organizing an annual clubbing of Bambi,
we are adamantly opposed to killing the McCall deer or harming them in other ways. We do realize that
for some hunters it must be very frustrating that the town deer are off limits and "untouchable." We also
realize that for some people hunting the town deer would be great fun. However, we should remember
Public Comments
April 27, 2023
Page 15 of 26
Attachment A
that clubbing the rabbits also sounded like a great idea and was made into a family event at the time.
Based on feedback from Fish and Game, the deer may even walk up to the hunters looking to kill them.
Instead of getting an apple (which could be criminalized), they would get a bullet or an arrow into their
flesh. No need to get up too early, drive to a remote location, just go into someone's backyard (with
permission of course), shoot the deer on the spot, have a cup of joe at the Fogglifter Cafe, and brag
about all the meat that is being donated "to feed the hungry." Of course we all know that these types of
programs are never about charity meat. That is simply a red herring.
One need not be against hunting in general to find killing of town deer highly objectionable. Even some
avid hunters I know do not agree with the practice. Additionally, as some communities found out the
hard way, the decision to invite armed individuals to wander neighborhoods, stalking and killing the
town deer, pits neighbor against neighbor, can be a political hot potato, and can generate a lot of
negative publicity for the town.
We ask you to please take your time to study the issue, listen to all constituents, develop a well -thought
out plan, budget resources accordingly, and implement that plan.
Sincerely,
-- C
Edit Szanto, J.D., Ph.D.
Public Comments Page 16 of 26
April 27, 2023
April 27, 2023 Regular Meeting -
General Comment - Student Speeches
Name Address Email Content
Carter 415
Tucker Colorado
St McCall
Idaho
83638
tuckerc@mdsd.org
Attachment A
McCall has a major issue with potholes. One example is Wisdom Road, and I
drive down that road whenever I go to hang out with my friend. On one of those
drives, I was going 35 mph, which is the speed limit, and I hit a pothole. It ended
up popping my tire and damaging my rim due to how deep it was. Luckily, I was
able to get it replaced for free. Many more people have had experiences very
similar to that where they hit a big pothole and they must get some part of their
vehicle fixed, and it is not free. However, this problem is not unique to McCall.
Places all over the United States have problems with potholes. According to the
American Automobile Association, potholes caused 44 million drivers, on
average, 406 dollars per person for repairs. That is almost 18 billion dollars in
total. Potholes have the potential to cost many residents money as well. McCall
needs a way to deal with potholes so that we can get this number down, and
maybe even help other places. First, we will look at roads in McCall with potholes
that desperately need repairs. Then, we will look at the problems potholes cause.
Finally, we will look at ways to report those problems and fix them. There are
many roads in McCall that have potholes, however, I have spoken to two McCall
residents about roads that have given them trouble. I asked Trevor Dow, who has
lived here four years; he said that Davis St could potentially cause damage to
someone's car. He gets picked often for school and has experienced why the
potholes could cause damage. The second resident I spoke to was Jack Aitchison,
who has lived here for 16 years. He stated that the potholes on West Valley Rd
are several feet long and up to half a foot deep. This has caused damage to his
car such as a hole in the car's muffler and other damage to the bottom of the
car. But what other problems arise from potholes not being fixed? Besides
damage to vehicles, potholes can cause many more problems. An article titled "Is
it illegal to patch a pothole? Can you be sued? Yes, but some in Jackson do it
anyway." This article talks about how, even though it is illegal, citizens will patch
potholes themselves and how unsafe and inappropriate it is to do so. A problem
that can come from people fixing potholes themselves is safety. Someone could
be fixing a pothole, and a distracted driver could be heading towards them and
run them over. If this could happen in Jackson, Mississippi, who's to say it can't
happen in McCall? The other part of the article is how people can get sued for
fixing potholes. However, Jackson police do not do anything about it. McCall
police would, and people who don't know that it is illegal could be fined an
amount they might not be able to pay off. So, not only are there safety issues,
but also financial issues that could be created by potholes not being fixed. Now
that we've looked at the problems, let's look at a solution. A solution for less
problems from potholes is a way to report them so they can get fixed more
quickly. Pewtrusts.org talks about how places such as San Diego and Hartford are
using an app for people to report potholes. By implementing this into McCall,
the city could find where potholes show more every year and fix them before
they become a bigger problem. Using this kind of tech and tracking the
potholes, McCall and other places can have less pothole problems. I know
potholes aren't McCall's biggest problem, but if I am being honest, they are very
annoying. I am not alone in this. When asked, more than half of my class said
that potholes are very annoying. Every other person and I in McCall see and deal
with them every day, and it is pretty ridiculous considering they have an easy fix.
Thank you.
Public Comments Page 17 of 26
April 27, 2023
Attachment A
Name Address Email Content
macy 13762 palmerm@mdsd.org City council and residents of McCall, Idaho, my name is Macy Palmer, I am
palmer Nisula Rd submitting this comment to address a pressing topic that affects our
McCall community: the local housing crisis. I have lived in McCall for about 16 years,
Idaho and I have gotten the chance to watch as our population has grown, and
83638 McCall has changed. And to give you a little background on why I chose this
topic is because this issue separated my family. I come from divorced parents
and my mother had moved into a house off Davis Street in April 2021 and one
year later the homeowners we were renting from told us we had 90 days
(about 3 months) before they turned our home into an Air B 8t B. And due to
the housing crisis, my mom could not find another house in our town pushing;
her out to Boise; while we stayed here with my father. As we all know, McCall is
a beautiful and vivacious small town that attracts tourists from all over the
world. However, this reputation has put a strain on our local housing market,
making it progressively more difficult for many of our residents to live with
affordable and safe housing. The lack of affordable housing has caused many
families to struggle, putting a hamper on people's finances and causing them
to make difficult choices between paying rent, buying groceries, or even
seeking medical care. Not only is this issue affecting families but local
businesses: if we can't afford to live here businesses cannot find employees.
While there is no straightforward answer to this tangled problem, we as a
community can find a way to address it. We need to work together to find
ways to increase the supply of affordable housing in McCall. One way to do
this is by implementing Deed Restrictions. As quoted from a City McCall "Deed
Restrictions place restrictions on the property for how an owner may use or
resell the property. These restrictions can be similar to those found in
community Land Trusts in promoting permanent affordability, like resale price
control and income restrictions." (McCall Area Housing Study pg. 37)
Additionally, we need to explore alternative housing solutions such as tiny
homes, modular homes, and accessory dwelling units. As I found from the City
of McCall "Theses homes are less than 1,000 square feet, though a true a "tiny"
house is usually less than 400 square feet. While these homes are cost effective
in their building cost alone, they also save residents money in most other
housing cost that multiply with home"
(MCCALL IN MOTION pg. 38) And Cont... about ADUs (dwelling units) "These
improve rental options and availability with little extra cost to the city and extra
income for residents, effectively improving affordability for existing
homeowners. These smaller, more affordable housing options can be built
quickly and efficiently, providing immediate relief to our housing crisis. But
what are other small towns like ours doing to help alleviate housing issues?
Well... In Crested Butte Colorado for the for time ever are implementing as
quoted "The formal declaration — a mechanism typically used for natural
disasters, or, more recently, a pandemic- could possibly open avenues for
federal funding as well as streamline Frisco's budget policies to allow speedy
re- allocations of funds towards housing." (Jason Blevins). Or they are also
implementing an "Empty home fee" Also as quoted "There seems to be more
local support for an "empty home fee," which would tax second homeowners
who leave their mansions on town unoccupied except for a few weeks a
year" (Jason Belvins) Now these are just a couple of options to consider. And
the Empty home fee could be beneficial due to the fact that 73% of our home
are owned by second homeowners. We must also advocate for policies that
protect renters, such as rent control, security deposit regulations, and just -
cause eviction laws. These policies can help ensure that renters are not
exploited or forced to leave their homes without cause or warning. In
conclusion, the housing crisis in McCall, Idaho, is a problem that affects all of
us. We must come together as a community to find an accomplishable and
realistic answer by incentivizing developers, exploring alternative housing
options, and advocating for renters' rights by doing this we can take steps
towards a more inclusive and sustainable housing market. Thank you.
Public Comments Page 18 of 26
April 27. 2023
Attachment A
Name Address Email Content
Ava Rinker 914 Valley rinkera@mdsd.org My name is Ava Rinker, and I have attended McCall Donnelly School District for
Rim Rd the entirety of my school career. I care greatly for this community and am excited
McCall for the opportunity to discuss ways to improve it. I would like to bring up the
Idaho concept of waste and what we can do to play our part in bettering the
83638 environment. According to a NRDC website, around 28 percent of what we throw
away is made up of food scraps and garden waste. This is valuable material that is
being tossed aside in abundance year after year. That is why I would like to
propose the idea of a community compost here in McCall. Now, this isn't a new
concept. In a report produced for the City of McCall, written by Casey O'Leary,
called "McCall in Delicious Motion", an idea for a community compost was
presented by Kurt Wolf. The plan was to set up a compost area in River Front
Park, an area where the soil quality was very poor "due to decades of extractive
and polluting activities there", as stated by Kurt, in order to reduce the amount of
waste heavily produced by McCall (which is described to be tons of grass
clippings, wood chips, and other debris). The compost would be set in place to
not only to reduce trash being thrown out but also to enrich the landscape with
the compost produced. The only setback is time and money, with the general cost
of this project estimated around
$10,000. I do believe that this effort would serve to greatly improve our
surroundings. Research has shown that composting not only does wonders for
the soil beneath us, like preserving water and lessening erosion, but it also
reduces the amount of greenhouse gas emissions which can help soothe the
effects of climate change if done in large amounts, and also has shown to reduce
trash volume by 30%. If we don't do something now, trash in our area is only
going to keep growing with every passing year. I urge you to consider this
opportunity with haste as this would provide a great service to McCall sooner
rather than later.
Public Comments Page 19 of 26
April 27. 2023
Name Address Email Content Attachment A
Kayla Davis Ave kayelysea@gmail.com
Anderson Y 110
McCall ID
83638
My name is Kayla Anderson, and I have lived in McCall for over 14 years. In
McCall, I wish I could see more outdoor activities centered around the arts.
McCall is well known for having many recreational activities year-round,
including skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, skiing, boating, paddle -
boarding, etc. These activities are very sporty and physically demanding,
which may not appeal to everyone, myself included. Personally, I enjoy art and
theatre, which means I don't really take part in these activities as much as
others. Of course, we do have acting opportunities such as at the Alpine
Playhouse, but I'd be more interested in a natural environment to enjoy the
arts during the warm weather and not limited to indoors. Noticing this
significant lack of outdoor areas that express my interest in acting, I started
doing research into my ideal addition to the city: an outdoor amphitheater.
During my research, I noticed that it has been in the Parks Improvements plan
since 2005. The best price option I could find was for an outdoor
amphitheater in Legacy Park, for a cost of 42,000 dollars. With its size and
location, Legacy Park would be a fantastic place for an outdoor amphitheater.
Since it is centrally located, art shows, fundraising, bands, etc. would bring
together the community under something art based rather than sport based.
McCall is ever growing, and a public, outdoor amphitheater that stays year-
round would greatly influence performing arts in our town, and let people see
just how creative McCall residents can be.
Trevor 713 Fir St dowt@mdsd.org My name is Trevor Dow, and I have lived in McCall for 4 years.
Dow McCall ID Before that, my family and I had visited periodically for 5 years, and
83638 I believe this has given me a unique experience. With this comment,
I would like to address the lack of advertisement and community
knowledge for events that happen throughout the community. For
example, the Alpine Playhouse. As a proud member of the McCall -
Donnelly High School Drama club I am very interested in everything
they do, but I've only recently learned of their existence through
fellow actors. After emailing Judy Anderson, one of the several
volunteers at Alpine Playhouse, I've learned that yes, plenty of
people go to see these performances with an average of 70 filled
seats per night out of 100 seats. Still, a lot of people don't realize
that we have an amazing way to express our theatrical abilities
and/or experience incredible stories. Yes, this is a trivial problem
but that means that there should be a trivial solution and there is.
After talking with the communications director, Erin Greaves, I
understand that there are several places in buildings to advertise
for nonprofit events, but the lack of profit posting is odd. I'm not
proposing that we allow profit posting in these buildings, but
instead set up a separate area where it is available. I propose that a
bulletin board be set up in a central, public place like Legacy Beach,
for any offline advertisements for events or important dates for
businesses and any other people. This has worked very well for the
city of Boise. According to Idaho.gov, "The intent of this bulletin
board policy is to help ensure the consistent and efficient use of
public notification tools in the Capitol Complex. Our goal is not to
prohibit use, but to preserve areas for proper use by everyone."
This is exactly what I see our public bulletin board doing for our
town, informing the residents in a professional way.
Public Comments Page 20 of 26
April 27, 2023
Attachment A
Name Address Email Content
Kaeley 354 East Khiatt8115@outlook.com My name is Kaeley Hiatt, and I have lived in the McCall/Donnelly
Hiatt Roseberry area for almost 9 years. Over the years I've experienced all the
Road various kinds of weather, climate, and seasons that the area has to
Donnelly offer. However, due to climate change our environment has been
Idaho negatively impacted and we need to make it one of our top
83615 priorities. I realize McCall Is a small place that may not seem like it
affects Climate change that much, however in the Draft 2018
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventories, it says that 66 percent of
our CO2 emissions come from residential energy. And that will only
increase as more people move here. Our CO2 emissions have
caused a widespread of things to happen. But one thing it has
caused is our temperatures in McCall to rise, which in turn can
cause a higher potential risk of wildfires. During the summer in past
years, there's always been a wildfire season, but for the most part,
it's a short season. But lately, the wildfire seasons just seem to be
getting longer and longer. The smoke just keeps getting worse and
worse. The climate change we experience here has affected my
ability, as well as others, to go outside during the summer. In the
Draft 2018 Greenhouse gas Emissions Inventories, it states that the
endless amount of smoke that surrounds our town puts us at
potential health risks. This summer I rarely went outside during the
wildfire season due to it irritating my eyes as well as my throat. I
had difficulty breathing whenever I was outside. We need to
mitigate the effects of climate change within our community, or it
will just keep getting worse. Our greenhouse gas emissions not
only have increased wildfires, but they has also increased the algae
blooms in our lakes. Now I know Cascade Lake isn't something
you're entirely in charge of, however, Over the years, due to higher
temperatures and warmer weather, the algae blooms in the lake
have been growing increasingly at a faster pace. And these algae
blooms can not only harm your pets, but also you as well. If we
don't do something, our lake may end with the same fate as
Cascades. I am aware that the council has their own ideas as to how
we can combat climate change. But I do have a few ideas of my
own. Due to much of our carbon emissions being from residential
estates, I think if we found a way to incorporate renewable energy
into the new homes that are being built. It would lower the
percentage of CO2 emissions caused from residential homes. Now I
am aware that due to the legislature in Idaho, the council isn't
allowed to force people to build their houses in a certain way.
However, we can make a Green Building Incentive Program. For
example, Let's say if you design your house as a passive house,
solar ready, EV ready, etc., then you can have a square footage
bonus of a certain amount. Another possibility could be if you
design your house like I stated before, then the council could offer
aid with retrofitting things in your house like windows, ac units,
insulation, etc. I urge the City Council to create an organization
specifically for climate change made up of city officials and
community residents. As a community, we carry the responsibility
to address how climate change has affected us and how we can
add a resilient community. The problem of Climate Change may
seem small now, but if we ignore it, it will only become a larger
problem for the residents of McCall as well as the city.
Public Comments Page 21 of 26
Apnl 27. 2023
Attachment A
Name Address Email Content
Morgan 467 Gold
Moser Fork Rd
Donnelly
Idaho
83615
mosermo@mdsd.org
My name is Morgan Moser and I'm a student at McCall Donnelly
High School. I have lived in Valley County for five years. I would like
to address the problem we have with our degraded roads in the
City of McCall: potholes. First, I'm going to talk about the problems
with the potholes and why they are bad for our vehicles, next where
they are and last what we can do to fix them. First, everyone knows
potholes are bad for our vehicles; they puncture tires and crack
wheels in our cars. Larger potholes can cause collisions and severe
injury. Cars aren't cheap and potholes make it worse. Potholes that
have crossed my mind are the ones at Miners, when one tries to
make a right-hand turn into traffic; Stibnite Street, when going up
the hill into the left parking lot. Right before you go up the hill on
Floyde Street, you can't avoid them. And Deinhard when making a
right-hand turn into Ridleys. These are potholes I encounter every
day, either going to school, the store, or work. However, we can
address these problems by fixing them as soon as one appears, so
it doesn't get bigger or worse. For example, Pewtrusts.org states
pothole technology in Hartford Connecticut has a system of a
pothole tracker app. Consisting of roads in the area that the
individual can click on the road and then the city has a map of
where to go and fix the roads. Considering our weather in the
winter it would make sense to fix the potholes right as the snow
melts. If we look at Shore Lodge for example and miners, you can
tell the roads are considerably different. Since tourists go to Shore
Lodge and the majority of locals go to miners why are we fixing the
roads for the tourists and not the people who live here. Let's spend
our money on the roads that need it most and the roads most
people travel on.
Public Comments Page 22 of 26
April 27. 2023
Attachment A
Name Address Email Content
Leire 3570
Navarro Ridge Dr
McCall
Idaho
83638
leirenavarroji@gmail.com
My name is Leire Navarro and I'm an exchange student from Spain
at McCall Donnelly High School. I have been in this town for just a
year, but I think that I could make this town a better place with
some ideas I have been thinking about through all this year. Today I
want to discuss the big problem that we have with sidewalks in this
town. We need to think more about the people that can't drive and
put up more sidewalks so that they can move around without
depending on someone who can drive. According to McCall's
website, the McCall City Council approved the implementation of a
Downtown Sidewalks Maintenance Program at no additional cost
to property owners through funding from the Local Option Tax. I'm
happy that the City Council agreed to do this, but I think they
should think through it a little more and expand the sidewalks until
there are enough. There are a few sidewalks in our town, but they
aren't very appealing. For someone wanting to walk, there must be
good looking sidewalks. The sidewalks in our town are also very
small. By this, I mean that only two people can walk together, there
is not enough room for a third person. Sidewalks should be wider
and that way it will be easier to walk, not only if there are many
people walking together, but also if there is someone carrying a
baby car or a wheelchair person going through. I have interviewed
a few people and they all agreed that we need sidewalks in E Lake
Street. There is no way to enter Albertsons without a car and we
need to change that. People should be able to go to the grocery
store on foot and breathe some fresh air. Making more sidewalks
and making them look good and attractive will encourage people
to use them and that will make our community healthier since
people will do more exercise even if it's just to go buy a snack.
Walking will also make them able to breath some fresh air and not
go from a closed space to anther closed space; from home to the
car, and from the car to the grocery store. As I previously
mentioned, I am from Spain, Europe, and I don't find as much of a
problem not being able to drive there. In Spain, the places are very
close together and you rarely need to take the car. We have a lot of
available public transportation too, which is very clean, so if it's
raining you can travel more comfortably. Where I live, we have
sidewalks everywhere and they are very appealing because most of
them are decorated with trees or bushes. When I walk on those
sidewalks, I feel better than walking on the ones that are here
because here, I feel like I'm going to be run over by one of those
cars that go right next to those tiny sidewalks. For example, from
my personal experience, I find sidewalks very effective because I
can't drive. I always have to find rides to get out of my house
because I can't walk where there aren't any sidewalks. It is true that
since many people here are able to drive, they don't see walking
very efficient because it is slower, which makes them not care about
sidewalks. The government doesn't receive many complaints, so
they don't see it as much as a problem, although it is. I think this
can help our town a lot and make our place a better community.
Thanks for your attention.
Public Comments Page 23 of 26
April 27, 2023
Attachment A
Name Address Email Content
Glenn 13075 richardsong@mdsd.org Hello, I'm Glenn Richardson, I live in Donnelly and go to school, and
Richardson Hillhouse spend most of my time here in McCall. Through my time here, I've
loop noticed a problem here come summertime. The Boat ramps are
Donnelly always a mess, especially on holidays. Last year my sisters came
Idaho home for Labor Day. They really wanted to go out on our pontoon
83615 boat and our jet skis. We drove out to the lesser -known boat ramp
at ponderosa park, and it was absolutely crazy. After we sat in line
for about 20 minutes, we finally got to a point where we could see
the parking lot. The lot was full of boat trailers, and the spots that
weren't already taken had someone standing there holding the
spot for their trailer. We turned around and unfortunately my sisters
didn't get to go boating. The fact of having all the boaters on
Payette Lake confined to 2 boat ramps is very dangerous and a
hazard to the community. If you look at the Cascade Reservoir, for
example, It has Around 10 Boat ramps, in order to spread the boat
traffic. I am proposing the construction of a new boat ramp on
Payette Lake. Most of the coastline is either private property or not
suitable for a boat ramp. A Possible site for a new boat ramp is the
east side of north beach. The topography is flat enough for a boat
ramp, and a large parking lot suitable for 30 boat trailer parking
lots, and 40 car parking spots. The only difficult part of this location
is there will have to be a 200 Ish yard walk from the parking lot to
the ramp itself. According to Justin Kunde at Pacific West
Construction. The estimated price for the parking lot and ramp
would be just under 200,000. Which could be paid for by a pass to
get into parking lot. This will also encourage the tourism of McCaII
to spread to the North end of the lake and will also help more
people experience the real McCall, and not just the small,
centralized spots. Due to the expanded parking, and more traffic
heading that way.
Public Comments Page 24 of 26
April 27, 2023
Attachment A
Name Address Email Content
Lydia 64 salmon wheatonl@mdsd.org My name is Lydia Wheaton and I live in Donnelly. I have attended
Wheaton loop McCall Donnelly school district for 11 years, I get my groceries here,
mccall id I obviously attend school here and have lived most of my life within
83638 the city limits of McCall, so this town is very important to me. I have
always enjoyed going to the local beaches along the lake in the
summer, and throughout the years I have noticed a growing
problem. According to the official website of McCall, more than
60,000 tourists visit our town every year and it is still a growing
number. This becomes a problem when they all want to visit the
lake at the same time while beach space decreases. Each year I try
to visit our lake in the summer, I am put off by the sheer number of
people all crammed on the same strip of land, with seemingly
thousands of children that don't even live here, scream at the top
of their lungs disturbing the peace for everyone else. Every year the
tourist population grows, it leaves less and less room for us locals
to enjoy our own town along with our beaches and leaves us
pushed out of our own home activities. This needs to change. It
isn't fair to the locals who have lived here their whole lives, and it
also isn't fair to the city workers, like my own father, who have to
go clean up all the trash on the beaches from people who don't
even live here. Nonetheless, there should be more beaches that
have easier access for our local public. For Ponderosa Park beaches,
there is a seasonal pass required which I think is an easily accessible
system that allows our locals to be thought of first. We are more
likely to buy the seasonal passes since we are more likely to be here
year-round, while tourists are less likely to buy them considering
that they probably won't use it more than a couple times a year.
This system allows the locals to become first priority in enjoying
Payette lake's natural beauty although it's still easily accessible to
everyone else. I believe that this is a system that should be
implemented on more of our beaches, not necessarily all of them
or the main three that we have in town, but the more "hidden"
gems, like Davis beach. We could also try creating funds for
creating more public beaches off branching from warren wagon
road this system to also account for the growing population of
McCall in general. This would allow people who live here a chance
to enjoy the two months out of the year we have summer weather.
This is an issue that I believe needs to be addressed and talked
about more in the community and thought upon more in the
future. Thank you for your time.
Public Comments Page 25 of 26
April 27. 2023
Attachment A
Name Address Email Content
Daniel 708 N 1st danieljackson192006@gmail.com Hello, my name is Daniel Jackson, Ijust wanted to thank everyone
Jackson Street for their time today. I am going to start by giving you some
McCall background on me. I have been a resident of Mccall for 17 years,
Idaho and I have played sports my entire life. These include fall, winter,
83638 and spring sports. However, I have found myself and my teams
falling short of those down in the valley, and areas where they can
train year around. This is what brought me to advocate for an
Indoor recreation center to be built in McCall. As I am sure
everyone can see, especially this year, the snow in McCall lasts most
of the year. Now this is great for those of us who like winter sports,
but for the people who aspire to have a future in fall or spring
sports that require grass, or a track, this makes it exceedingly
difficult. I decided to further my knowledge of a solution to this
problem that we have. After examining multiple city documents
and realizing that the plan for an indoor recreation center had been
in the works since before I was born; I was astonished that we had
not created one yet. In a poll done by the City of McCall, in the
"Pros Plan," drafted on November 16th, 2022, the community
shared their opinion on what they would like to see added to the
riverfront parkland. The number one request by the participants in
the poll was an indoor recreation center. So, as you can see, the
project is favored by the majority of McCall residents. The idea is
not only the number one choice but also highly feasible. In the
McCall Parks and Recreation Master Plan, a feasibility study was
conducted which said that the project would cost somewhere
between $13,000,000 to $16,000,000. The McCall Master plan also
states how an indoor recreation area would benefit everyone. It
says, "Development of a multi -generational/ multi -purpose
recreation and community center could serve a diversity of
functions and greatly enhance year-round livability and quality of
life of McCall's Citizens, in addition to providing additional
recreation opportunities for visitors." As the City of McCall clearly
stated, the benefits of a recreation center would be seen by all that
live and visit our town. As I have outlined, and I am sure you have
been aware, we need an indoor recreation center to be built in
McCall Idaho. We need an area where people can go to train,
exercise, and connect when the winter months do not seem to end.
I am not suggesting, and I am not advocating for you to consider
our problem. I am proposing action, and after 18 years of having a
plan in place to create a recreation center, it is time that we make
that plan come to fruition. I ask you to understand the problem
that I have detailed, comprehend the benefits I have outlined, and
create a lasting impact on the community, its residents, and all who
visit, with the addition of an Indoor Recreation Center to our
beautiful town.
Public Comments Pagc 26 of 26
April 27. 2023