HomeMy Public PortalAboutAB 23-057 Federal Comment Letters discussionMcCALL CITY COUNCIL 216 East Park Street
AGENDA BILL McCall, Idaho 83638
Number AB 23-057
Meeting Date March 9, 2023
AGENDA ITEM INFORMATION
SUBJECT:
Direction to staff regarding comment letters to federal agencies on projects
Department Approvals
Initials
Originator
or
Supporter
Mayor / Council
City Manager
Originator
Clerk
Treasurer
Community Development
Police Department
Public Works
Golf Course
COST IMPACT:
n/a
Parks and Recreation
FUNDING SOURCE:
n/a
Airport
Library
TIMELINE:
n/a
Information Systems
Grant Coordinator
SUMMARY STATEMENT:
At the February 23rd meeting, Council determined it would like to discuss the issue of providing comment letters to federal agencies on projects. Most recently Council has received several
public comments requesting the city to submit comment on the “Horse Heaven Exploration Project” in the Boise National Forest near the Stibnite area. According to the Forest Service,
“this project is limited in scope to the exploration of potential minerals within existing roads on Golden Gate Hill. The proponent would be required to submit a new plan of operation
if they wish to pursue the development of a mining operation. At that time the forest service would undertake a separate environment analysis and public engagement period.” The deadline
to comment on this project is April 3, 2023. Information about this project can be found at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=62304
Considerations for Council to weigh related to developing and submitting comments for this and future other projects are:
What is the project, where is it located, and are there implications to the city?
What stage of the federal process is the project in and is it the right time for comments?
Will the city’s “standing” with the federal agency be affected if we do not comment?
Does the city have the staff time and resources to review the project documents, prepare the comments within the given timeframe; and can the review of the letter be scheduled with Council
within the timeframe?
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Direction to staff
RECORD OF COUNCIL ACTION
MEETING DATE
ACTION