County dials back operations

SANDPOINT — Bonner County is dialing back its daily operations next week to limit potential exposure to the coronavirus pandemic.

Although there were no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Bonner County as of Friday morning, there are 23 confirmed cases within Idaho, in addition to cases in Spokane County.

Bonner County Commission Chairman Dan McDonald said a reduction in customer traffic along with a desire to protect employees and families factored into the decision.

“We saw the exposure with a number of our departments that have direct contact with the public and while following a strict protocol with respect to disinfecting surfaces, etc. We felt that continued direct contact with the public could detrimentally affect our employees and families,” McDonald said on Friday.

The reduced operations begin on Monday and are scheduled to extend to Friday, April 3.

The reduction does not apply to Bonner County Airports or Bonner County Coroner, Bonner County EMS and Bonner County Solid Waste which are continuing normal operations.

Reduced operations are as follows:

• Courts — The courts will continue to operate although it will be on a limited basis in accordance with an Idaho Supreme Court order. The Bonner County Prosecuting Attorney and Public Defender offices also will operate subject to the supreme court’s order.

• Department of Motor Vehicles — Locations in Ponderay and Priest River will be closed, although the Idaho Division of Motor Vehicles is granting extensions on expired or expiring registrations until June 30. County DMV staff is available at 208-265-1430.

• Driver’s Licensing — This office is also closed, although the Idaho DMV is granting extensions on expired or expiring licenses and permits until June 30. County licensing staff can be reached by calling 208-265-1431.

• Fair — The fair office will be closed, but staff will be available at 208-263-8414.

• Justice Services — This office is continuing operations. Those with questions may call 208-263-1602.

• Road & Bridge — This department will continue to operate, although staffing has been scaled back.

• Sheriff’s office — The sheriff’s office has modified its operations and is limiting some of its services. For more information call 208-263-8417.

“Concern for our employees and the citizens of Bonner County is of the utmost importance to us,” Jessi Webster, the county’s public information officer, said in a news release.

Keith Kinnaird can be reached by email at kkinnaird@bonnercountydailybee.com and follow him on Twitter @KeithDailyBee.