HomeMy Public PortalAbout2017.11.17 County Commissioners - Re Public Hearing 216 East Park Street
City of McCall McCall, Idaho 83638
Phone 208-634-7142
www.mccall.id.us Fax 208-634-3038
November 16, 2017
Dear Valley County Board of Commissioners,
The City of McCall Council and Staff thought it was important to comment on the Valley County
Waterways Ordinance with the new changes.After reviewing the Ordinance, specifically the impacts on
Payette Lake No Wake Zone,the City is in support of preserving the 300' no wake zone for the following
reasons:
1. Health and safety:The no wake zone provides a safer environment for non-motorized users to
enjoy and recreate on Payette Lake.
2. Recreation: McCall is experiencing more and more users of non-motorized recreational activities
such as kayaking, stand up paddle boards, and swimmers. Many of the residents and visitors
never experience the lake from a motorized boat so it is important to have safe opportunities
for all to utilize the lake.
3. Erosion to the shoreline: Wave action has significant impact on the shoreline of Payette Lake
and keeping a no wake zone helps minimize wave impacts.
4. Economic development: McCall's economy relies on all types of recreational users and the City
is supportive of designated areas for different users.
We have concerns about the elimination of specific items included in the 2008 Ordinance that include:
• Age limits to operate water craft
• Speed limits
• House boat provision
• Properly marking no wake zones (exempting areas where lake is over 60 ft. deep.)
We understand the importance of enforcement and educating the public. We are open to being a
partner in the education process with our businesses and agencies to ensure we are protecting our
water source and ensuring health and safety for all. We,the McCall City Council, request that the County
Commissioners defer their decision on the proposed ordinance until the City of McCall can meet and
discuss the proposed changes with The County Commissioners. Please let me know if you have any
further questions. Feel free to contact the Mayor at 208-869-9860 or iavmonPmccall.id.us.
Sincerely,
Bob Giles, Council President
On behalf of the McCall City Council