ITD refuting developer's allegations

SANDPOINT - The Idaho Transportation Department is refuting allegations that it has mistreated a Sandpoint marina owner whose docks were removed to make way for the U.S. Highway 95 bypass.

Last week, developer Ralph Sletager filed claims against several state agencies and contractors for the Sand Creek Byway alleging his private property and civil rights were trampled in the dock dispute.

"We believe we've treated Mr. Sletager fairly and equitably under both the federal and state laws," said ITD spokeswoman Barbara Babic.

Babic said ITD's legal counsel has advised the department not to discuss the specific allegations raised in Sletager's claim, which include taking private property without compensation, conspiracy to subvert due-process rights, misrepresentation and fraud.

Idaho's Department of Administration is reviewing the claim, according to Deputy Attorney General Karl Vogt, who had no further comment.

Sletager insists the docks in question were properly permitted and that ITD had no right to remove them without compensation. State transportation officials alleged the docks encroached onto bypass right of way.

Sletager also argues an encroachment permit for the highway re-routing project should never have been granted because ITD did not own the land that was a needed for the project, which is a requirement under Idaho's administrative rules.