County discusses America250, Idaho program
CHLOE COCHRAN | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 3 months, 1 week AGO
SANDPOINT — During Bonner County’s business meeting Nov. 25, county commissioners discussed the America250 Program and how to manage remote workers.
In a packed agenda for last week’s meeting, two of the items brought forth for discussion were introduced by county commissioners.
Commissioner Ron Korn brought up the first action item for the board, presenting the America250 Program and the 2026 Idaho Ambassador Program.
“Communities are coming together to commemorate this momentous occasion, reflecting on the past, celebrating the present and envisioning the future,” according to the America250 website. “Idaho, known for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture and resilient spirit, joins us in the nationwide celebration with its own unique twist, emphasizing the importance of multi-generational connections across seven generations.”
Korn shared that the board of commissioners has appointed Deputy Clerk Veronica Dixon to serve as the point of contact for the America250 and Idaho Ambassador Program.
Program Ambassadors are tasked with promoting the America250 program’s activities that recognize principles and foundational thoughts that emerged during America’s revolutionary period, according to the program’s website.
More information about the ambassador program can be found at https://america250.idaho.gov/ambassador/
The program itself aims to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, commemorating the occasion through reflection of the past, present and future. According to the site, Idaho aims to celebrate the anniversary through the emphasis of multigenerational connections.
In other discussion, Commissioner Asia Williams brought forth the conversation around work-from-home county workers and the costs associated with that style of work relating to insurance and technology requirements.
While a decision wasn’t made regarding remote workers, all commissioners unanimously agreed that there needed to be a review of remote work requests and how it affects the county. Commissioner Brian Domke shared his support in weighing the pros and cons on a case-by-case basis, while also having a specific approval policy.
Korn additionally touched on the personal aspect of working in-office, citing team building and an even distribution of work.
“They’re (remote workers) are missing out on the camaraderie and awesome work experience of being around with your teammates. And you miss out on team building and everything else,” said Korn.
All commissioners agreed that it was important to allow some flexibility when it came to workers’ schedules.
ARTICLES BY CHLOE COCHRAN
Change of plea set in Gabor case
A Bonner County resident facing severe allegations of child abuse and kidnapping is expected to enter a plea on the charges during a March 10 status conference.
Hope zone change request continued to May
A land use hearing for a requested zone change in Hope has been continued to May to allow the applicant time to address issues noted in letters from the Sam Owen Fire District and Bonner County Road and Bridge, among other claimed concerns found in the file’s staff report.
Ambulance district nears full separation from county
“We’re in a really good spot as an ambulance district,” Chief Jeff Lindsey said to the Bonner County commissioners during the Bonner County Ambulance District’s first March meeting.