Some jumping the gun on security concept

SANDPOINT — The concept of using retired law enforcement or military personnel in the community to enhance security in the Lake Pend Oreille School District remains just that — a concept.

Bonner County Sheriff Daryl Wheeler emphasizes the idea has not fully fleshed out or formally adopted by his department and the school district.

The concept was mentioned as an option that the district may consider in two news stories by The Daily Bee and was also reported by Spokane TV stations, leading some to mistakenly conclude that it is going to happen or is already under way.

“We have to look at that stuff very slowly,” said Wheeler, who’s received inquiries from other agencies wondering if the program has proven successful.

Wheeler said his office is merely discussing it with the district as a possibility and that the $10,000-$15,000 cost estimates are very preliminary.

“It’s a huge undertaking,” said Wheeler.

Although guns are banned on school campuses in Idaho, state law empowers school districts to allow certain personnel to carry them. Wheeler said his office is unwilling to provide that training.

“We wouldn’t take on that liability,” Wheeler said.