The Board of Bonner County Commissioners agreed in April 2021 to abandon 2,550 feet of Camp Bay Road to Green Enterprises, LLC, arguing it was in the public interest because the county would no longer have to maintain that portion of road.

From a common sense perspective, I can’t imagine where denying access to the lake for the public is in the public’s best interest. Not long after the county decided to vacate the public right of way, the county commissioners also agreed to spend $830,000 to pave Camp Bay Road to the proposed gated community. I find this very disturbing indeed.

This might have a familiar ring to those of you who have been following the recent land giveaway next to the sheriff complex by our generous county commissioners. The commissioners are saying they are trying to save us taxpayers money by giving away county property to a big developer. Then they spend thousands of our tax dollars to pave the Camp Bay Road for that same developer. Then they lose a court battle involving the Camp Bay access and are ordered to pay the court cost with our tax dollars.

The findings of fact in the county’s decision said the vacation was in the public interest because … “No public agency or neighbors have objected to the proposed vacation." This sounds a lot like if no one sees me steal something then I guess it isn't wrong.

Once again, our board of county commissioners are caught with their hand in the cookie jar. They should be ashamed and embarrassed, but the frightening thing is … they are not. If you care about your county, your tax dollars or public lake access let your voices be heard. Attend the Feb. 16 Board of Bonner County Commissioners' hearing on the outcome for Camp Bay.

BETTY ANDERSON

Bonner County