Ideas to improve the community

A few ideas to improve our community:

1. Create a Lake County Residents’ Neighborhood: Create an exclusive subdivision for Lake County residents to reduce home prices and property taxes. County could subsidize the infrastructure (water, septic, roads, sidewalks, power). The following restrictions will keep these units less expensive:

• Residents must have lived in Lake County for at least three years. Employees of Lake County government (e.g., school staff, police) may qualify after one year of employment.

• Homes must be primary residences or sold if vacated.

• No rental units allowed.

2. River Surf Spot with the Tribe: Partner with the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) to create a free surf spot in the river below the dam, similar to Brennan’s Wave in Missoula. This would offer a safe, accessible space for local youth to surf. The costs of many youth programs exclude those who need them most.

3. Free Driver’s Education for High School Students: Offer free Driver’s Education during school hours, rather than early mornings, to make it accessible to all students. Currently, the $250 fee is a barrier for many families.

Learning to drive is a key life skill, ensuring safety and independence. Providing this course at no cost will support the well-being of students and the community. No other extracurricular activity is as important.

– Matt Lee, Polson