Infrastructure

Athol October 4-6, 2016
For Water and Waste Direct Loans and Grants through USDA Rural Development, and Community Facilities Direct Loans and Grants: Fact sheets in Appendix E and F respectively. Contact Howard Lunderstadt, 208-762-4939, howard.lunderstadt@id.usda.gov.

For individuals, USDA Rural Development offers help with costs connecting to city water, installing a septic, or removing an old septic. Go to https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/individual-water-wastewater-grants.

For wastewater treatment system cost support, Idaho Department of Commerce can help access Community Development Block Grants or Rural Development Block Grants at http://commerce.idaho.gov/communities/community-grants/ or call Idaho CDBG team at 208-334-2470.

For additional Rural Funding Resources see http://ric.nal.usda.gov/Rural-Federal-Funding-Database.  Also, see A Guide to Funding Resources, available here: https://www.nal.usda.gov/ric/guide-to-funding-resources.

The Idaho Rural Water Association (IRWA) circuit rider program could provide further input on questions regarding the capacity and condition of the water and wastewater systems.  In addition, a rate study is to be completed by IRWA, which would complement the current water facilities plan.  Go to http://www.idahoruralwater.com/ or call Kevin McLeod at 208-343-7001.

Department of Environmental Quality wastewater: Go to https://www.deq.idaho.gov/water-quality/wastewater/wastewater-systems/. Contact Larry Waters, 208-373-0151, larry.waters@deq.idaho.gov.

Panhandle Health: Go to http://panhandlehealthdistrict.org/environmental-health/septic. Call 208-415-5220.

Transportation Resources
BNSF (Burlington Northern-Santa Fe Railroad) spokesperson at the Review was Serena Carlson of Carlson Strategic Communications, 208-818-4338, serena@carlsonstratcomm.com.

Operation Lifesaver’s mission is to end collisions, deaths and injuries at highway-rail grade crossings and on railroad property through a nationwide network of volunteers who work to educate people about rail safety. State website: http://www.olidaho.org/ . Contact State Coordinator Travis Campbell at 208-465-8226, or at oli.idaho@gmail.com  North Idaho contacts: For Kootenai County – Jonelle Greear, Idaho State Police, 208 209-8624, jonelle.greear@isp.idaho.gov or for Bonner and Boundary County – Kurt Lehman, Bonner County Sheriff’s Office, 208-263-8417, ext. 3022, klehman@bonnercountyid.gov.

Safe Routes to School has a document addressing the challenges of rural communities in accessing resources set aside federally for communities with less than 5000 residents. http://www.saferoutespartnership.org/resources/fact-sheet/srts-small-rural.

Guide to quiet zone establishment from Dept. of Transportation can be downloaded here https://www.fra.dot.gov/eLib/Details/L04781. It links to the BNSF page http://www.bnsf.com/communities/faqs/train-horns/ and the UP page http://www.up.com/real_estate/roadxing/industry/horn_quiet/index.htm.

Community Builders New Mobility West program provides technical assistance to help communities with mobility planning. Contact:  Jillian Sutherland, Jillian@communitybuilders.org.

ITD Freight Program manager regarding need for an underpass: Jeff Marker, Jeffrey.marker@itd.idaho.gov.

Road Safety Audit or a Road Diet on old 95. FHWA, LHTAC and ITD typically can provide this service. ITD contact could be Visiting Team member Justin Wuest at Justin.Wuest@itd.idaho.gov or the District 1 District Engineer. Call their office at 208-772-1200.

The Blue Cross/Blue Shield Foundation has provided money for planning and projects that encourage active living (e.g. biking).  Go to http://www.bcidahofoundation.org/, or contact Kendra Witt-Doyle, kwitt-doyle@bcidaho.com.

Idaho Health & Welfare Community Activity Connection Grants.  Go to http://www.healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/Health/IdahoPhysicalActivityandNutrition(IPAN)/PhysicalActivity/tabid/1970/Default.aspx and http://www.cdc.gov/obesity/downloads/UrbanDesignPolicies.pdf.

The Idaho Department of Transportation has a website with information and links to ITD initiatives related to bicycling and walking, tips and resources for bicycling and walking in Idaho, information on how bicycle and pedestrian projects are implemented, as well as useful links to other organizations that are committed to bicycle and pedestrian mobility. Go to http://itd.idaho.gov/bike_ped/proposals.htm.

For Transportation Alternative Program funding, contact Susan Kiebert with LHTAC at skiebert@lhtac.org or Jared Holyoak with ITD, Jared.holyoak@itd.idaho.gov.

The Transportation Research Board publishes resources related to selecting chemical treatments for unpaved roads.  Go to http://docs.trb.org/prp/14-3437.pdf.

For transportation plan funding, the Local Highway Technical Assistance Council (LHTAC) provides a variety of educational opportunities and other assistance to local jurisdictions and transportation agencies in rural Idaho.  Go to http://lhtac.org/.  Contact Susan Kiebert at skiebert@lhtac.org or call 208-344-0565 ext. 1028.

Idaho Walk Bike Alliance.  Go to http://idahowalkbike.org/.  Contact Cynthia Gibson at 208-345-1105, Cynthia@idahowalkbike.org.

For an example of a very good local advocacy group that makes recommendations to the city on bike and ped, look at Bike Walk Nampa.  LaRita Schandorff is the lead.  bikewalknampa@gmail.com. They also have a fantastic bike/pedestrian plan that would be a good model.

For help with a path connection between Farragut and Athol, New Mobility West (a partnership between Community Builders, Project for Public Spaces, Idaho Smart Growth, and Bike Walk) does concept planning and technical assistance for regional systems. http://newmobilitywest.org.

Community Housing, Policing, and other infrastructure Resources
Crowd funding is a low-risk, easy way to raise funds for community projects and confirm community interest. Several sites have been created for this including: https://www.indiegogo.com/ and https://www.kickstarter.com/.

USDA Rural Development has a limited amount of grant funds available to assist in the development of essential community facilities (including infrastructure, streets, roads, and bridges) in rural areas and towns of up to 20,000 in population (https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/community-facilities-direct-loan-grant-program/id). Grants are authorized on a graduated scale. Applicants located in small communities with low populations and low incomes will receive a higher percentage of grants.

Grants are available to public entities such as municipalities, counties, parishes, boroughs, and special-purpose districts, as well as non-profit corporations and tribal governments.  Contact Howard Lunderstadt, 208-762-4939, howard.lunderstadt@id.usda.gov.

Idaho Smart Growth (ISG) offers a number of resources that can help the City act on many of the planning, zoning, and transportation-related recommendations in this report.  Go to www.idahosmartgrowth.org. Contact Deanna Smith, (deanna@idahosmartgrowth.org) or Elaine Clegg, (elaine@idahosmartgrowth.org) at 208-333-8066.

Resources for placemaking and lighter, quicker, cheaper: Project for Public Spaces: http://www.pps.org/reference/lqc-resources/.

Community Policing Defined is a free publication from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Community Oriented Policing Services. To download, go to http://www.cops.usdoj.gov/pdf/vets-to-cops/e030917193-CP-Defined.pdf.

The U.S. Department of Justice’s Community Oriented Policing Services maintains a website containing resources, funding information, and training opportunities. Go to http://www.cops.usdoj.gov/.

The Criminal Justice Program at Idaho State University might be able to assist with an evaluation and implementation of community policing strategies. Go to http://www.isu.edu/sociology/criminaljustice.shtml. Contact Program Director Anthony Hoskin, PhD, 208-282-2170, hoskanth@isu.edu.

The Division of Governmental Services and Studies (DGSS) at Washington State University is a university outreach unit jointly supported by the College of Arts and Sciences and WSU Extension. It serves the applied social science research needs of various governmental agencies. It also supports basic research and grant-related work for faculty and graduate students of the School of Politics, Philosophy, and Public Affairs, the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology, and the Edward R. Murrow College of Communications. The DGSS is a potential resource for recommendations related to law enforcement. Go to https://dgss.wsu.edu/.

USDA Rural Development’s Section 504 Home Repair program offers grants and low interest loans to help low income persons to improve, repair, modernize and remedy health and safety hazards BEFORE the home is badly in disrepair and unsightly. Go to http://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants.

USDA’s Rural Housing Service provides a number of single and multi-family loans and grants. Go to https://www.rd.usda.gov/about-rd/agencies/rural-housing-service.  For Self-Help Housing the USDA Rural Development (USDA RD) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) combine resources to help very low- and low-income households who construct their own homes. Go to https://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/hudprograms/shop and

https://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/comm_planning/economicdevelopment/programs/shop.

The HOME Program helps to expand the supply of decent, affordable housing for low- and very low-income families by providing a formula grant to the Idaho Housing and Financing Association (IHFA). IHFA uses their HOME grants to fund housing programs that meet local needs and priorities. IHFA may use their HOME funds to help renters, new homebuyers, or existing homeowners. Go to http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/comm_planning/affordablehousing/programs/home/.

Cascade Community Review April 26-28, 2016
2017 Cascade Comprehensive Plan Update Go to http://tinyurl.com/ydb5ztor

Prospects for New Housing Cooperatives: Feasibility Study for Housing Cooperatives in the Northern Rockies. June, 2016 http://tinyurl.com/koecdeu |Montana Cooperative Development Center, NeighborWorks Montana

Idaho Housing and Finance Association, Project and Business Financing. Go to www.idahohousing.com

Mountain Plains Equity. Go to https://www.mpequity.com/

Southwest Cooperative Housing Authority. Go to www.sicha.org.

Community Builders. Go to www.communitybuilders.org.

Affordable Housing Online/Valley County stats. Go to https://affordablehousingonline.com/housing-search/Idaho/Valley-County#income

Housing Toolbox for Western Policymakers (Mostly Idaho). Go to http://fairhousingforum.org/uncategorized/toolbox/

Idaho Department of Commerce. Go to www.commerce.idaho.gov.

USDA Rural Development | Multi-Family Housing Programs | Single Family Housing Programs | Mutual Self-Help Assistance Grants | Housing Preservation Grants. Go to https://www.rd.usda.gov/id.

The Housing Company. Go to http://www.thehousingcompany.org

NW Integrity Housing. Go to http://nwintegrityhousing.com

Community Frameworks. Go to www.communityframeworks.org

Resident Owned Communities — ROCUSA. Go to https://rocusa.org.

Housing Assistance Council | Rural Voices | Innovation in building technologies for affordable rural housing (Volume 21, No. 3). Go to http://www.ruralhome.org

More Guests, Empty Houses: Airbnb is great for tourists. Is it great for the housing market?— Slate (February 2014). Go to http://tinyurl.com/mbn6266.

Housing Diversity = Community and Economic Success. Go to http://tinyurl.com/o6nksw4.

Did Airbnd Kill the Mountain Town, an article in Outside magazine, July 11, 2017. Go to https://www.outsideonline.com/2198726/did-airbnb-kill-mountain-town.

Maintained by the Association of Idaho Cities, the Municipal Research and Services Center is excellent source of information and example ordinances on a variety of planning issues, including housing. Go to http://mrsc.org/Home/Explore-Topics/Planning/General-Planning-and-Growth-Management/AccessoryDwelling-Units-in-Plain-English.aspx. for a large volume of information about permitting accessory dwelling units.

Go to https://accessorydwellings.org/what-adus-are-and-why-people-build-them/for a one-stop source about accessory dwelling units.

“Mountain Towns Learn to Love – and Regulate Short Term Rentals”. Denver Post, February 20, 2016. Go to http://www.denverpost.com/2015/02/20/mountain-towns-learn-to-love-and-regulate-shortterm-rentals/.

Colorado Association of Ski Towns offers a publication called Vacation Home Rentals: Issues, Emerging Trends, and Best Practices. Go to http://coskitowns.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/VHR-report-6- 12-15-FINAL.pdf.

American Tiny House Association. Go to http://americantinyhouseassociation.org/.

Kootenai September 29, 30, October 1, 2015
Transportation and Infrastructure Resources The USDA Rural Development Community Facilities (CF) Program has a limited amount of grant funds available to assist in the development of essential community facilities (including infrastructure, streets, roads, and bridges) in rural areas and towns of up to 20,000 in population. Grants are authorized on a graduated scale. Applicants located in small communities with low populations and low incomes will receive a higher percentage of grants. Grants are available to public entities such as municipalities, counties, parishes, boroughs, and special-purpose districts, as well as non-profit corporations and tribal governments. Contact Howard Lunderstadt, Community Program Specialist, 208-209-4367, howard.lunderstadt@id.usda.gov.

For additional Rural Funding Resources see http://ric.nal.usda.gov/Rural-Federal-Funding-Database. Also see A Guide to Funding Resources is available here: http://www.nal.usda.gov/ric/ricpubs/fundguide.html.

The Blue Cross Foundation Grant program funds, among other things, community walking and biking trails. Go to http://www.bcidahofoundation.org/.

Idaho Health & Welfare Community Activity Connection Grants. Go to http://www.healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/Health/IdahoPhysicalActivityandNutrition(IPAN)/PhysicalActivi ty/tabid/1970/Default.aspx and http://www.cdc.gov/obesity/downloads/UrbanDesignPolicies.pdf.

The Idaho Department of Transportation has a website with information and links to ITD initiatives related to bicycling and walking, tips and resources for bicycling and walking in Idaho, information on how bicycle and pedestrian projects are implemented, as well as useful links to other organizations that are committed to bicycle and pedestrian mobility. Go to http://itd.idaho.gov/bike_ped/proposals.htm and http://itd.idaho.gov/bike_ped/FundingGuide2013.pdf.

Operation Lifesaver’s mission is to end collisions, deaths and injuries at highway-rail grade crossings and on railroad property through a nationwide network of volunteers who work to educate people about rail safety. State website: http://www.olidaho.org/ . Contact State Coordinator Travis Campbell at 208-465- Kootenai Community Review 35 September 29-October 1, 2015 8226, or at oli.idaho@gmail.com North Idaho contacts: For Kootenai County – Jonelle Greear, Idaho State Police, 208 209-8624, jonelle.greear@isp.idaho.gov for Bonner and Boundary County – Kurt Lehman, Bonner County Sheriff’s Office, 208-263-8417, ext. 3022, klehman@bonnercountyid.gov.

Main Street: When a Highway Runs Through It is an excellent book published by the Oregon Department of Transportation to educate communities about pedestrian safety and community design associated with highways within city limits. Go to http://contextsensitivesolutions.org/content/reading/main-street/resources/main-street-when-ahighway/.

The Local Highway Technical Assistance Council provides a variety of educational opportunities and other assistance to local jurisdictions and transportation agencies in rural Idaho. Go to http://lhtac.org/. Contact Susan Kiebert, 208-597-4219, skiebert@lhtac.org.

Idaho Walk Bike Alliance. Go to http://idahowalkbike.org/. Contact Cynthia Gibson at 208-286-1628, Cynthia@idahowalkbike.org.

Idaho Smart Growth (ISG) offers a number of resources that can help the City act on many of the planning, zoning, and transportation-related recommendations in this report. They have a variety of publications, including “Area of City Impact: A Toolkit of Guidelines and Resources” and also offer a training on the same topic. Go to www.idahosmartgrowth.org. Contact: Deanna Smith (deanna@idahosmartgrowth.org) or Elaine Clegg, (elaine@idahosmartgrowth.org) at 208-333-8066.

“Area of City Impact Agreements in Idaho” is a publication of the Economic Development Clinic in the College of Law at the University of Idaho. Go to http://www.uidaho.edu/law/academics/practicalskills/clinics/econ-dev/city-impact-agreement.

Givens-Pursley Law Firm in Boise has published the Land Use Handbook: The Law of Planning, Zoning, and Property Rights in Idaho (as well as other handbooks of interest to Idaho communities). The handbook provides a complete and readable explanation of comprehensive plans and related requirements found in the Local Land Use Planning Act. To download for free, go to http://www.givenspursley.com/Publications.aspx.

Idaho Chapter of American Planning Association. Daren Fluke, President, 208-869-3903, darenfluke@gmail.com.

American Planning Association’s “Community Planning Assistance Teams” program. Go to http://www.planning.org/communityassistance/teams/.

This link from the Ketchum Urban Renewal Agency offers a comprehensive list of Idaho projects completed through the use of Urban Renewal http://ketchumura.org/wpcontent/uploads/2012/01/Microsoft-Word-Final-Spurring-Private-Investment-and-Creating-Jobs-inIdaho-2-15-12FINALDRAFT.pdf.

The Blue Cross/Blue Shield Foundation provides grant money for planning and construction projects that encourage active living (e.g. biking and walking). Contact Kendra Witt-Doyle, kwitt-doyle@bcidaho.com.

Neighborhood Housing Services sponsors programs to help the elderly and disabled with raking and painting using volunteers. Go to http://www.nhsid.org/what-we-do/paint-the-town-boise/apply-forpaint-the-town-services and http://nwboise.org/rake-up-boise/.

The Idaho Office of Energy Resources offers low interest loans to help home owners with energy efficiency improvements. Contact Tammy Japhet, tammy.japhet@oer.idaho.gov, 208 332-1663. Go to http://energy.idaho.gov/financialassistance/energyloans.htm.

USDA Rural Development’s Section 504 Home Repair program offers grants and low interest loans to help low income persons to improve, repair, modernize and remedy health and safety hazards. Go to http://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants. Contact 208-733- 5380, Ext. 4.
 

Fairfield June 24-25, 2015
The USDA Rural Development Community Facilities (CF) Program has a limited amount of grant funds available to assist in the development of essential community facilities (including infrastructure, streets, roads, and bridges) in rural areas and towns of up to 20,000 in population. Grants are authorized on a graduated scale. Applicants located in small communities with low populations and low incomes will receive a higher percentage of grants. Grants are available to public entities such as municipalities, counties, parishes, boroughs, and special-purpose districts, as well as non-profit corporations and tribal governments.  Contact Dale Lish, dale.lish@id.usda.gov, 208-785-5840, ext. 119.

In some cases, success has been made possible by the creation of a non-profit organization specifically formed to fund and construct a trail or trail system. The Latah Trail Foundation is one example (http://www.latahtrailfoundation.org/default.aspx?PageID=1, 208- 874-3860, latahtrail@gmail.com). Other communities have started out by forming a pedestrian and bicycle advisory committee. In nearly every example, success has required the passion, organization, and advocacy of local citizens and community groups.

The Center for Transportation Studies at the University of Minnesota publishes a Gravel Road Maintenance and Design Manual.  Go to http://www.mnltap.umn.edu/publications/videos/gravelroadmaintenance/.

For more on gravel road maintenance, contact Jason Giard at the Federal Highway Administration office in Boise.  He’s one of the operations engineers and he’s had a long career with Montana DOT, FHWA and is a real expert on alternative maintenance options.  Contact Jason Jason.giard@dot.gov or 208-334-9180(ext. 123).

For an example of a very good local advocacy group that makes recommendations to the city on Bike and Ped look at Bike Walk Nampa.  LaRita Schandorff is the lead.  bikewalknampa@gmail.com. They also have a fantastic bike/pedestrian plan that would be a good model.

The Sonoran Institute’s New Mobility West program does concept planning and technical assistance The Local Highway Technical Assistance Council can help Fairfield and Camas County identify potential funding for highway safety and other transportation projects. Contact Laila Kral at lkral@lhtac.org.

The Blue Cross/Blue Shield Foundation has provided money for planning and projects that encourage active living (e.g. biking and walking).  Contact Kendra Witt-Doyle, kwitt-doyle@bcidaho.com.

Neighborhood Housing Services sponsors programs to help the elderly and disabled with raking and painting using volunteers.  Go to http://www.nhsid.org/what-we-do/paint-the-town-boise/apply-for-paint-the-town-services and http://nwboise.org/rake-up-boise/. 

Idaho Power offers a number of programs to help home owners and renters reduce their energy costs.  Go to https://www.idahopower.com/EnergyEfficiency/Residential/default.cfm?tab=Residential

The Idaho Office of Energy Resources offers low interest loans to help home owners with energy efficiency improvements.  Contact Tammy Japhet, tammy.japhet@oer.idaho.gov, 208 332-1663.  Go to http://energy.idaho.gov/financialassistance/energyloans.htm.

USDA Rural Development’s Section 504 Home Repair program offers grants and low interest loans to help low income persons to improve, repair, modernize and remedy health and safety hazards. Go to http://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants.  Contact 208-733-5380, Ext. 4.

The Idaho Water Resource board offers grants and low interest loans for projects designed to conserve water usage.  Funds may be used for both drinking and irrigation water projects. https://www.idwr.idaho.gov/waterboard/Financial%20program/financial.htm

Contact Stuart VanGreuningen, 208-287-490, stuart.vangreuningen@idwr.idaho.gov.

Preston March 3-5, 2015
The USDA Rural Development Community Facilities (CF) Program has a limited amount of grant funds available to assist in the development of essential community facilities (including infrastructure, streets, roads, and bridges) in rural areas and towns of up to 20,000 in population. Grants are authorized on a graduated scale. Applicants located in small communities with low populations and low incomes will receive a higher percentage of grants. Grants are available to public entities such as municipalities, counties, parishes, boroughs, and special-purpose districts, as well as non-profit corporations and tribal governments.  Contact Dale Lish, dale.lish@id.usda.gov, 208-785-5840, ext 119.

In some cases, success has been made possible by the creation of a non-profit organization specifically formed to fund and construct a trail or trail system. The Latah Trail Foundation is one example (http://www.latahtrailfoundation.org/default.aspx?PageID=1, 208- 874-3860, latahtrail@gmail.com). Other communities have started out by forming a pedestrian and bicycle advisory committee. In nearly every example, success has required the passion, organization, and advocacy of local citizens and community groups.

The Center for Transportation Studies at the University of Minnesota publishes a Gravel Road Maintenance and Design Manual.  Go to http://www.mnltap.umn.edu/publications/videos/gravelroadmaintenance/.

The Transportation Research Board publishes resources related to selecting chemical treatments for unpaved roads.  Go to http://docs.trb.org/prp/14-3437.pdf.

For more on gravel road maintenance, contact Jason Giard at the Federal Highway Administration office in Boise.  He’s one of the operations engineers and he’s had a long career with Montana DOT, FHWA and is a real expert on alternative maintenance options.  Contact Jason Jason.giard@dot.gov or 208-334-9180(ext. 123).

The Congestion Management and Air Quality (CMAQ) program provides funding for PM2.5 non-attainment areas, of which Preston is part.  Funding must be used transportation‐related projects that contribute to air quality improvements and reduce congestion.  Franklin County is the only PM 2.5 non-attainment area in the state. The state is not required to spend the CMAQ funds, but if they do, they can only use them in PM2.5 non-attainment areas.  For more information, contact Chris Peirsol, ITD Senior Transportation Planner for District 5 (208-239-3300, chris.peirsol@itd.idaho.gov) or Brian Shea, ITD headquarters in Boise (208-334-882, brian.shea@itd.idaho.gov).  Local officials should also be in contact with Dwight Horsch, ITD Board Member representing District 5.

For an example of a very good local advocacy group that makes recommendations to the city on Bike and Ped look at Bike Walk Nampa.  LaRita Schandorff is the lead.  bikewalknampa@gmail.com. They also have a fantastic bike/ped plan that would be a good model.

Chris Danley, Vitruvian Planning, has done a lot of work with communities for Safe Routes to School, Health Impact Assessments, and he recently developed a walk audit clinic for communities.  He does really hands on work to help build support for bike and pedestrian projects in small communities.  Contact him at cdanley@vitruvianplanning.com.

The Sonoran Institute’s New Mobility West program does concept planning and technical assistance type training on particular corridors. Contact Jillian Sutherland, jsutherland@sonoraninstitute.org. 

The Local Highway Technical Assistance Council can help Preston and Franklin identify potential funding for highway safety and other transportation projects. Contact Laila Kral at lkral@lhtac.org.

The Blue Cross/Blue Shield Foundation has provided money for planning and projects that encourage active living (e.g. biking and walking).  Contact Kendra Witt-Doyle, kwitt-doyle@bcidaho.com.

For models of good Safe Routes to School programs, look at Idaho Falls, Sandpoint, and the Treasure Valley.  For Idaho Falls, contact DaNiel Jose (DJose@bmpo.org).  For Treasure Valley contact Lisa Brady for the YMCA Safe Routes Program (Lisa.Brady@ymcatvidaho.org).

Aberdeen March 4-6, 2014
The USDA Rural Development Community Facilities (CF) Program has a limited amount of grant funds available to assist in the development of essential community facilities (including infrastructure, streets, roads, and bridges) in rural areas and towns of up to 20,000 in population. Grants are authorized on a graduated scale. Applicants located in small communities with low populations and low incomes will receive a higher percentage of grants. Grants are available to public entities such as municipalities, counties, parishes, boroughs, and special-purpose districts, as well as non-profit corporations and tribal governments.  Contact Dale Lish, dale.lish@id.usda.gov, 208-785-5840, ext 119.

In some cases, success has been made possible by the creation of a non-profit organization specifically formed to fund and construct a trail or trail system. The Latah Trail Foundation is one example (http://www.latahtrailfoundation.org/default.aspx?PageID=1, 208- 874-3860, latahtrail@gmail.com). Other communities have started out by forming a pedestrian and bicycle advisory committee. In nearly every example, success has required the passion, organization, and advocacy of local citizens and community groups.

A rental housing search can be done at the USDA website.  Go to http://rdmfhrentals.sc.egov.usda.gov/RDMFHRentals/select_state.jsp.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers a tool to search for affordable rental housing.  Go to http://www.hud.gov/apps/section8/step2.cfm?state=ID,Idaho.

The HUD’s public housing program was established to provide decent and safe rental housing for eligible low-income families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. Public housing comes in all sizes and types, from scattered single-family houses to apartments for elderly families. There are approximately 1.2 million households living in public housing units, managed by some 3,300 HAs. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) administers Federal aid to local housing agencies (HAs) that manage the housing for low-income residents at rents they can afford. HUD furnishes technical and professional assistance in planning, developing and managing these developments.  http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/states/idaho/renting

The Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA) has a searchable data base for Idaho renters and landlords.  IHFA’s multifamily finance department has the lending expertise to offer affordable housing developers a full array of financing alternatives. From Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, which offer incentive to developers to build affordable rental housing, to a combination construction/permanent loan, a separate permanent loan through a consortium of banks, or subordinate financing.  Go to http://www.housingidaho.com/.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Guaranteed Rural Rental Housing Program was established to increase the supply of moderately-priced housing in rural areas; ensure that housing is affordable to low- and moderate-income rural residents whose incomes are 115 percent of area median income (AMI) or less; provide housing that is decent, safe, sanitary, and competitive in the market; and foster risk-sharing partnerships with public and private lenders.  Under the program, the Agency will provide credit enhancements to encourage private and public lenders to make new loans for affordable rental properties that meet program standards.  Go to http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/HAD-Guaranteed_Rental_Loans.html.

USDA has a Rural Repair and Rehabilitation Loan and Grant program. The program provides loans and grants to very low-income homeowners to repair, improve, or modernize their dwellings or to remove health and safety hazards. To obtain a loan, homeowner-occupants must be unable to obtain affordable credit elsewhere and must have very low incomes, defined as below 50 percent of the area median income. They must need to make repairs and improvements to make the dwelling more safe and sanitary or to remove health and safety hazards. Grants are only available to homeowners who are 62 years old or older and cannot repay a Section 504 loan. For Income and Property Eligibility please see the Eligibility Site. Loans of up to $20,000 and grants of up to $7,500 are available. Loans are for up to 20 years at 1 percent interest. A real estate mortgage and full title services are required for loans of $7,500 or more. Grants may be recaptured if the property is sold in less than 3 years. Grant funds may be used only to pay for repairs and improvements resulting in the removal of health and safety hazards. A grant/loan combination is made if the applicant can repay part of the cost.

The Southeaster Idaho Community Action Agency (SEICAA) has an Energy Assistance program. Income eligible participants apply annually for a once per year cash benefit to assist with winter heating bills. For more details, visit their Energy Assistance page at http://www.seicaa.org/energy-programs/energy-assistance.

SEICAA has a Weatherization Program that provides energy conservation services to income eligible households in southeastern Idaho. The program is available to those who qualify year round. Renters, as well as homebuyers, are eligible to apply for services. The Weatherization Program helps to increase energy efficiency by concentrating on the problems of heat loss and air filtration. Measures taken to improve energy efficiency may include repairs to broken windows, insulation, caulking and weather-stripping. In addition to the material improvements made to eligible homes, Energy Conservation Education is provided to participants.  Go to http://www.seicaa.org/energy-programs/weatherization.

The Idaho Recreational Vehicle (RV) Program is a grant program that helps public entities develop RV facilities.  Go to http://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/idaho-recreational-vehicle-rv-program.

See Appendix F for information from Idaho Housing and Finance Association about completing a housing needs assessment and housing plan.

Contact Erik Kingston, Housing Resources Coordinator, Idaho Housing and Finance Association, (ErikK@IHFA.ORG, 208-331-4706) for additional information about assessing housing condition and needs. 

Rural Housing Guaranteed Loan.  Applicants for these loans may have an income of up to 115% of the median income for the area.  Families must be without adequate housing, but be able to afford the mortgage payments, including taxes and insurance. In addition, applicants must have reasonable credit histories.  Go to http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/HAD-Guaranteed_Housing_Loans.html.

Rural Housing Direct Loan - Section 502 loans are primarily used to help low-income individuals or households purchase homes in rural areas. Funds can be used to acquire, build (including funds to purchase and prepare sites and to provide water and sewage facilities), repair, renovate, or relocate a home.  Go to http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/HAD-Direct_Housing_Loans.html.

The Rural Repair and Rehabilitation Loan and Grant program provides loans and grants to very low-income homeowners to repair, improve, or modernize their dwellings, remove health and safety hazards, complete repairs to make the dwelling accessible for household members with disabilities.  Grants are available to dwelling owners/occupants who are 62 years of age or older.  Go to http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/HAD-RR_Loans_Grants.html.

Self-Help Housing:  The USDA Rural Development (USDA RD) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) combine resources to help very low- and low-income households who construct their own homes.  Eastern Idaho Community Action Partnership receives funding for the program through USDA Rural Development’s Section 502 Mutual Self-Help Housing Loan Program and HUD’s regional administrator of Self-Help Homeownership Opportunity Program (SHOP).  Go to http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rhs/sfh/brief_selfhelpsite.htm and http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/comm_planning/affordablehousing/programs/shop, respectively.

HOME:  The HOME Program helps to expand the supply of decent, affordable housing for low- and very low-income families by providing a formula grant to the Idaho Housing and Financing Association (IHFA). IHFA uses their HOME grants to fund housing programs that meet local needs and priorities. IHFA may use their HOME funds to help renters, new homebuyers, or existing homeowners.  Go to http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/comm_planning/affordablehousing/programs/home/.

The Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) Program is based on Section 42 of the Internal Revenue Code.  Its purpose is to provide the private market with an incentive to invest in affordable rental housing. Federal housing tax credits are awarded through IHFA to developers of qualified projects. Developers then sell these credits to investors to raise capital (or equity) for their projects, which reduces the debt that the developer would otherwise have to borrow. Because the debt is lower, a tax credit property can in turn offer lower, more affordable rents.  Go to http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/comm_planning/affordablehousing/training/web/lihtc/basics.

Non-profit Housing Providers like the Eastern Idaho Community Action Partnership are adept at financing and developing affordable housing primarily through the HOME and LIHTC programs described above.  Go to http://www.eicap.org/ or call 208-522-5391.  They can also help with weatherization/energy efficiency efforts.

“Shared Equity Models Offer Sustainable Homeownership” is an on-line article that could give the community additional ideas about how to keep existing affordable housing in their community.  Shared equity homeownership offers an alternative option to renting and traditional homeownership. The term refers to an array of programs that create long-term, affordable homeownership opportunities by imposing restrictions on the resale of subsidized housing units. Typically, a nonprofit or government entity provides a subsidy to lower the purchase price of a housing unit, making it affordable to a low-income buyer. The most widely implemented subsidy retention programs include community land trusts (CLTs), deed-restricted housing programs, and limited equity housing cooperatives.  Go to http://www.huduser.org/portal/periodicals/em/fall12/highlight3.html.

Through its Community Impact Grants program, the Home Depot Foundation provides awards up to $5,000 in the form of store gift cards for the purposes of housing modifications, repairs, and weatherization work.  Special emphasis is placed on projects that benefit and/or involve veterans.  Go to http://homedepotfoundation.org/page/applying-for-a-grant.

The Federal Housing Administration offers mortgage insurance for Manufactured Homes Parks.  Go to http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/housing/mfh/progdesc/homepark207

FHA's Streamlined 203(k) program permits homebuyers and homeowners to finance up to $35,000 into their mortgage to repair, improve, or upgrade their home.  Go to http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/housing/sfh/203k/203kmenu.

Contact Lesley Krone (lkrone@nhsid.org, 208-258-6215), Events & Special Projects Manager at Neighborhood Housing Services, to learn about developing a Paint the Town project.

Building Trust Between the Police and the Citizens They Serve is a publication of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Community Oriented Policing Services in coordination with the International Association of Chiefs of Police.  It describes in detail a variety of strategies and best practices related to building trust between law enforcement agencies and residents.  It is a available for free download at http://www.theiacp.org/portals/0/pdfs/buildingtrust.pdf.

Community Policing Defined is also a free publication from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Community Oriented Policing Services.  To download, go to http://www.cops.usdoj.gov/pdf/vets-to-cops/e030917193-CP-Defined.pdf.

The U.S. Department of Justice’s Community Oriented Policing Services maintains a website containing resources, funding information, and training opportunities.  Go to http://www.cops.usdoj.gov/.

The Criminal Justice Program at Idaho State University might be able to assist with an evaluation and implementation of community policing strategies. Go to http://www.isu.edu/sociology/criminaljustice.shtml.  Contact Program Director Teresa Casey, PhD, at 208-282-2576 or casetere@isu.edu.

The Division of Governmental Services and Studies (DGSS) at Washington State University is a university outreach unit jointly supported by the College of Arts and Sciences and WSU Extension. It serves the applied social science research needs of various governmental agencies.  It also supports basic research and grant-related work for faculty and graduate students of the School of Politics, Philosophy, and Public Affairs, the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology, and the Edward R. Murrow College of Communications.  The DGSS is a potential resource for recommendations related to law enforcement.  Go to http://dgss.wsu.edu/Index.html or call 509-335-3329.

Dubois June 5-6, 2013

• Contact Erik Kingston, Housing Resources Coordinator, Idaho Housing and Finance Association, (ErikK@IHFA.ORG, 208-331-4706) for additional information about assessing housing condition and needs.
• Rural Housing Guaranteed Loan.  Applicants for these loans may have an income of up to 115% of the median income for the area.  Families must be without adequate housing, but be able to afford the mortgage payments, including taxes and insurance. In addition, applicants must have reasonable credit histories.  Go to http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/HAD-Guaranteed_Housing_Loans.html.
• Rural Housing Direct Loan - Section 502 loans are primarily used to help low-income individuals or households purchase homes in rural areas. Funds can be used to acquire, build (including funds to purchase and prepare sites and to provide water and sewage facilities), repair, renovate, or relocate a home.  Go to http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/HAD-Direct_Housing_Loans.html.
• The Rural Repair and Rehabilitation Loan and Grant program provides loans and grants to very low-income homeowners to repair, improve, or modernize their dwellings, remove health and safety hazards, complete repairs to make the dwelling accessible for household members with disabilities.  Grants are available to dwelling owners/occupants who are 62 years of age or older.  Go to http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/HAD-RR_Loans_Grants.html.
• Self-Help Housing:  The USDA Rural Development (USDA RD) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) combine resources to help very low- and low-income households who construct their own homes.  Eastern Idaho Community Action Partnership receives funding for the program through USDA Rural Development’s Section 502 Mutual Self-Help Housing Loan Program and HUD’s regional administrator of Self-Help Homeownership Opportunity Program (SHOP).  Go to http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rhs/sfh/brief_selfhelpsite.htm and http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/comm_planning/affordablehousing/programs/shop, respectively.
• HOME:  The HOME Program helps to expand the supply of decent, affordable housing for low- and very low-income families by providing a formula grant to the Idaho Housing and Financing Association (IHFA). IHFA uses their HOME grants to fund housing programs that meet local needs and priorities. IHFA may use their HOME funds to help renters, new homebuyers, or existing homeowners.  Go to http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/comm_planning/affordablehousing/programs/home/.
• The Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) Program is based on Section 42 of the Internal Revenue Code.  Its purpose is to provide the private market with an incentive to invest in affordable rental housing. Federal housing tax credits are awarded through IHFA to developers of qualified projects. Developers then sell these credits to investors to raise capital (or equity) for their projects, which reduces the debt that the developer would otherwise have to borrow. Because the debt is lower, a tax credit property can in turn offer lower, more affordable rents.  Go to http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/comm_planning/affordablehousing/training/web/lihtc/basics.
• Non-profit Housing Providers like the Eastern Idaho Community Action Partnership are adept at financing and developing affordable housing primarily through the HOME and LIHTC programs described above.  Go to http://www.eicap.org/ or call 208-522-5391.  They can also help with weatherization/energy efficiency efforts.
• “Shared Equity Models Offer Sustainable Homeownership” is an on-line article that could give the community additional ideas about how to keep existing affordable housing in their community.  Shared equity homeownership offers an alternative option to renting and traditional homeownership. The term refers to an array of programs that create long-term, affordable homeownership opportunities by imposing restrictions on the resale of subsidized housing units. Typically, a nonprofit or government entity provides a subsidy to lower the purchase price of a housing unit, making it affordable to a low-income buyer. The most widely implemented subsidy retention programs include community land trusts (CLTs), deed-restricted housing programs, and limited equity housing cooperatives.  Go to http://www.huduser.org/portal/periodicals/em/fall12/highlight3.html.
• Through its Community Impact Grants program, the Home Depot Foundation provides awards up to $5,000 in the form of store gift cards for the purposes of housing modifications, repairs, and weatherization work.  Special emphasis is placed on projects that benefit and/or involve veterans.  Go to http://homedepotfoundation.org/page/applying-for-a-grant.
• The Federal Housing Administration offers mortgage insurance for Manufactured Homes Parks.  Go to http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/housing/mfh/progdesc/homepark207
• FHA's Streamlined 203(k) program permits homebuyers and homeowners to finance up to $35,000 into their mortgage to repair, improve, or upgrade their home.  Go to http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/housing/sfh/203k/203kmenu
• Contact Lesley Krone (lkrone@nhsid.org, 208-258-6215), Events & Special Projects Manager at Neighborhood Housing Services, to learn about developing a Paint the Town project
   

Glenns Ferry March 6-8, 2012
 

• The State of Idaho has grant programs for developing recreational facilities, including trails, access roads, waterways, docks, signage, restroom facilities, and so on.  Many grants are in the $50,000-150,000 range.  Go to http://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/recreation/grants/grant-programs.aspx.
• Idaho Department of Lands Community Forestry program.  Go to http://www.idl.idaho.gov/bureau/community_forestry/home/index.htm.
• The Idaho Transportation Department has a bicycle and pedestrian coordinator available to support the creation of a bike and pedestrian network.  Go to http://itd.idaho.gov/bike_ped/. 
• ITD’s Safe Routes to School Program.  Go to http://itd.idaho.gov/SR2S/index.html.  Jo O’Connor, State Coordinator, 208-334-4475, jo.o'conner@itd.idaho.gov.
• In partnership with the Idaho Transportation Department, Idaho Smart Growth provides assistance to communities assessing and developing Safe Routes to School projects.  ISG recently published its “Safe Routes to School Best Practices in Idaho” guidebook. Go to http://idahosmartgrowth.org/images/uploads/files/safe_routes_to_school_bp_final-compressed.pdf.  Elaine Clegg, 208-333-8066, Elaine@idahosmartgrowth.org.
• Staff at the Federal Highway Administration can help with develop a bike/ped advisory committee, conduct audits, etc.  Lori Porreca, Community Planner, FHWA Idaho Division, 208.334.9180, ext. 132, lori.porreca@dot.gov.
• The website of the Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center includes a page with detailed information about completing a walkability assessment or audit.  Go to http://www.walkinginfo.org/problems/audits.cfm.
• Main Street:  When a Highway Runs Through It is a book by the Oregon Department of Transportation that educates communities about pedestrian safety and community design associated with highways routed through downtowns.  Go to http://www.contextsensitivesolutions.org/content/reading/main-street-when-a-highway/.
• The Walkable and Livable Communities Institute offers tools, information, and best practices from across the country.  Go to http://www.walklive.org/.  360-385-3421.
• This website describes how the City of Idaho Falls is using and funding crosswalk or pedestrian flags: http://www.communitypathways.com/?q=node/6. Many rural Idaho communities are using them.
• Idaho Rural Water Association.  Shelley Roberts, CEO. , 208-343-7001 or 800-962-3257, sroberts@idahoruralwater.com.
• Rural Community Assistance Corporation, Jim Wilson, 509-927-6748, jwilson@rcac.org.
• Environmental Finance Center, Boise State University, provides education assistance regarding long term financial planning in the context of infrastructure and other capital improvements.  Go to http://efc.boisestate.edu/.  David Eberle, Executive Director, 208-426-1567, weberle@boisestate.edu.
• USDA-Rural Development, Carol Garrison, Community Programs Specialist, 208-459-0761, X116, Carol.Garrison@id.usda.gov.
• United Water provides information about low water conserving landscape design and plant materials (“xeriscaping”).   Go to http://www.unitedwater.com/idaho/idaho/xeriscape.aspx.
• An Introduction to Xeriscaping in the High Desert is a published by the City of Pendelton, Oregon’s Parks and Recreation Department.  Go to http://www.pendletonparksandrec.com/sites/pendletonparksandrec.com/files/File/XeriGuide.pdf.
• The Tony Hawk Foundation has provided funding for the construction of skate parks in Buhl, New Meadows, and McCall.  http://www.tonyhawkfoundation.org/grant_application.asp.
• US Bank Charitable Giving Program.  Our advice is to contact the local bank branch manager before engaging US Bank’s Idaho donation coordinator.  Go to http://www.usbank.com/community/state-contacts-deadlines.html.  Tori Van Allen, 208-765-7700.
• Idaho State Parks and Recreation offers grants for recreation projects, particularly if they are multipurpose and attract multiple audiences.  Go to http://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/aboutus/grants.aspx.
• The Association of Idaho Cities can help identify cities with park and recreation donation programs.  Go to www.idahocities.org, 208-344-8594.
• Community Transportation Association of Idaho facilitates local mobility planning, public outreach, and implementation of local and district mobility plans.  They are knowledgeable about the use of senior center vans.  Go to www.ctai.org. Brooke Green, District 3 Mobility Manager, 208-559-4402, bgreen@ctai.org.
   

Silver Valley September 13-15, 2011

• USDA Rural Development - Rural Repair and Rehabilitation Loans and Grants, http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/HAD-RR_Loans_Grants.html.
• Silver Valley Fuller Center for Housing, http://www.svfch.org, 208-786-6013, silvervalleyidaho@fullercenter.org.
• Idaho Housing and Finance Association Housing Information and Referral Center / Housing Hotline, http://www.ihfa.org/ihfa/housing-information-and-referral-center.aspx, Toll-free: 1-877-438-4472, hirc@ihfa.org.
• Free rental housing listing and locator service, www.housingidaho.com, 1-877-428-8844.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Homepage: http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/HUD. Links to programs and resources provided in an alphabetical index:  http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/siteindex/quicklinks. Link to a list of HUD-Approved Housing Counseling Agencies in Idaho (the counseling is free of charge): http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/hcc/hcs.cfm?webListAction=search&searchstate=ID.
• Idaho Housing and Finance Association, Erik Kingston, erikk@ihfa.org, 208-331-4706 (for information and advice related to completing a housing needs assessment).

Weatherization Resources

• Community Action Partnership Association of Idaho (CAPAI) – Weatherization Program, http://www.idahocommunityaction.org/programs/weatherization-html/.
• USDA Rural Development - Rural Repair and Rehabilitation Loans and Grants, http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/HAD-RR_Loans_Grants.html.
• Idaho Office of Energy Resources – Energy Efficiency/Building, http://energy.idaho.gov/energyefficiency/building.htm.
• Silver Valley Fuller Center for Housing, http://www.svfch.org, 208-786-6013, silvervalleyidaho@fullercenter.org.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development page on “energy efficient mortgages” (EEM’s) contains several links to other HUD programs (203K rehab, Title 1 home-improvement), which can be combined or used alone to make homes more energy efficient. Here’s the link to the webpage:  http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/housing/sfh/eem/energy-r.

Multifamily Housing Resources

• Boise County Fair Housing settlement, http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/12/20/1462074/jury-says-boise-county-violated.html.
• USDA Rural Development – Multifamily Housing Programs, http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/HMF_MFH.html.
• Idaho Fair Housing Forum, www.fairhousingforum.org.
• IHFA Multifamily Finance Department, http://www.ihfa.org/ihfa/multifamily-housing.aspx, 208-331-4880, multifamily@ihfa.org.
• IHFA Grant Programs Department (for project sponsors; no individual grants), http://www.ihfa.org/ihfa/grant-programs/home-program.aspx, Toll-free: 1-877-447-2687, grantprograms@ihfa.org.

Emergency and Transitional Housing resources

• Shoshone County Clerk’s Office / Indigent Services, http://www.shoshonecounty.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=28&Itemid=11, 208-752-8601.
• IHFA-sponsored rental housing listing and locator service, www.housingidaho.com, Toll-free: 1-877-428-8844.
• Panhandle Shelter and Transitional Housing Providers (Kootenai, Bonner), http://www.housingidaho.com/pdfs/ID_Panhandle.pdf.
• Idaho Dept. of Health and Welfare Panhandle Region / Navigation Services, http://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/ContactUs/Region1/KelloggOffice/tabid/287/Default.aspx, Toll-free Idaho Care Line: 2-1-1 or 208-784-1352.
   

Bonners Ferry September 21-23, 2010

• Environmental Finance Center, Boise State University, Sustainable Rate Setting, Bill Jarocki, Director, 208-426-1567, http://efc.boisestate.edu/watershed/contactus.asp.
• Idaho Rural Water Association, Kevin McCloud, Water System Technician, 208-343-7001, kmcleod@idahoruralwater.com.
• Idaho Rural Water Association, Bill Burke, Wastewater Technician, 208-343-7001, bburke@idahoruralwater.com.
• Rural Community Assistance Corporation, Jim Wilson, 509-927-6748, jwilson@rcac.org.

• USDA Rural Development, Community Facilities Program, Howard Lunderstadt, Community Programs Specialist, 208-762-4939, howard.lunderstadt@id.usda.gov.
• Panhandle Area Council, Nancy Mabile, 208-772-0584 x3014, nancy@pacni.org.
• Department of Environmental Quality (State Revolving Fund and 319 funding), John Tindall, 208-769-1422, x4629, john.tindall@deq.idaho.gov.
• Idaho Department of Environmental Quality, Suzanne Scheidt, Drinking Water Manager, 208-666-4624, Suzanne.scheidt@deq.idaho.gov.
• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (509 program), 208-345-2155.
• “Fostering Sustainable Behavior:  An Introduction to Community –Based Social Marketing” by Doug McKenzie-Mohr and William Smith, 1999, New Society Publishers. www.cbsm.com is a related website with a large amount of information, best practices, and networking opportunities related to reducing waste.
• Second Chance Building Materials Center is a store in Boise that reclaims and sells excess building materials. It is operated by Supportive Housing and Innovative Partnerships, a non-profit organization providing support to people in long-term recovery. http://www.shipinc.org/store/index.html. Melanie Curtis, Director, 208-331-0900.
• Habitat for Humanity of North Idaho ReStore is similar to the Second Chance Building Materials Center above, and generates funds for North Idaho Habitat for Humanity. http://northidahohabitat.org/restore, Renee’ Taylor, ReStore Manager, 208-762-4352, ReStore@northidahohabitat.org.
• The Building Material Thrift Store in Hailey is run by the Wood River Land Trust. http://www.buildingmaterialthriftstore.org/Site/Welcome.html, 208-788-0014.
• The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality publishes (at least) two publications that might be helpful:  “Recycling in Idaho: Profiles of Community Recycling Programs”, http://www.deq.idaho.gov/waste/recycling/community_recycling_study_0903.pdf and the Idaho Recycling and Waste Management Directory, http://www.deq.idaho.gov/waste/recycling/recycle_directory_2004.pdf.
• The USDA Rural Development Solid Waste Management Grant Program may be used to evaluate current landfill conditions to determine threats to water resources, provide technical assistance and/or training to enhance operator skills in the operation and maintenance of active landfills, and provide technical assistance and/or training to help communities reduce the solid waste stream. http://www.usda.gov/rus/water/SWMG.htm, LaVonda Pernell, Loan Specialist, 202-720-9635, lavonda.pernell@wdc.usda.gov.
• The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality has a point person who can address community questions regarding recycling and other waste prevention measures. http://www.deq.idaho.gov/waste/recycling/recycling.cfm, Joanna Pierce, Pollution Prevention Coordinator, 208-373-0146, joanna.pierce@deq.idaho.gov.
• Managed by the Idaho Transportation Department, the Idaho Airport Aid Program provides grants for airport improvements. www.itd.idaho.gov/aero, Bill Statham, 208-334-8784. bill.statham@itd.idaho.gov.
• The Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program provides funding for runways, taxiways, and lighting. http://www.faa.gov/airports/aip/overview/, Sandy Simmons, 425-227-2656
• Safe Routes to School program, Idaho Transportation Department, http://itd.idaho.gov/SR2S/index.html, Jo O’Connor, State Coordinator, 208-334-4475, Jo.OConnor@itd.idaho,gov.
• International Walk to School Day, www.walktoschool.org.
• National Center for Safe Routes to School, www.saferoutesinfo.org, 919-962-7412.
• Diane Arrants, Safe Routes to School coordinator, Lake Pend Oreille School District, 208-263-2184, ext. 1027.
• Idaho Pedestrian and Bicycle Alliance is a statewide advocacy organization. Molly O’Reilly (Sandpoint resident), president@idahopedbike.org.
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Assistance regarding safe routes to school is found here:  http://www.nhtsa.gov/people/injury/pedbimot/bike/Safe-Routes-2002/toc.html.
• “Main Street:  When a Highway Runs Through It” is an excellent book published in 1999 by the Oregon Department of Transportation to educate communities about pedestrian safety and community design associated with highways within city limits. http://www.contextsensitivesolutions.org/content/reading/main-street/resources/main-street-when-a-highway/.
• Local Highway Technical Assistance Council, www.lhtac.org/, Lance Holmstrom, 208-344-0565, lholmstrom@lhtac.org.
• Maureen Gresham, State Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinator, can supply more information on the subject of pedestrian crossing flags. As an example of the flag program’s use, the City of Idaho Falls has over 40 crosswalks covered by the program and the flags are assembled using local donations and volunteers. Other Idaho communities using pedestrian crossing flags include Hailey, Bellevue, Twin Falls, and McCall. bikeped@itd.idaho.gov, 208-334-8272.
• “Case Studies on Transit and Livable Communities in Rural and Small Town America”, published by Transit for America, http://t4america.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/Livability-Transit-Rural-Case-Studies-WEB.pdf.
• Appaloosa Express Transit is a relatively new rural transit service operated by the Nez Perce Tribe. 208-843-7324, http://www.nezperce.org/content/Programs/Appaloosa%20Express.htm.
• Panhandle Area Council, John Austin, 208-772-0584 x3020, john@pacni.org.
• Community Transportation Association of Idaho is a resource related to transit. Clif Warren, District 1 Mobility Manager, 208-610-4289, cwarren@ctai.org.
   

Bonners Ferry September 21-23, 2010

• The State of Idaho’s Travel Council Grant program can help build local and regional tourism-related websites, other forms of marketing, and familiarization (or “FAM”) tours for journalists. These funds might help leverage other resources. http://commerce.idaho.gov/tourism-grants-and-resources/about-the-itc-grant-program/. Renea Nelson, 208-334-2470, renea.nelson@tourism.idaho.gov.
• Two Degrees Northwest is a cultural tourism effort based in north central Idaho and southwest Washington coordinated by the University of Idaho Extension. http://www.2dnw.org/, Lori Higgins, Director, 208-885-9717, Higgins@uidaho.edu.
• Gem State Prospector, Idaho Department of Commerce, http://gemstateprospector.com, Jerry Miller PCED, 208-334-2470, ext 2143, jerry.miller@commerce.idaho.gov.
• Idaho Department of Commerce’s Show Me the Money funding newsletter often features grant opportunities for youth, education and recreational programs. Email jerry.miller@commerce.idaho.gov to get on the mailing list.
• USDA Rural Development, Community Facilities Program, Howard Lunderstadt, Community Programs Specialist, 208-762-4939, howard.lunderstadt@id.usda.gov.
• The Idaho Small Business Development Center maintains a list of business incubators around the state. http://www.idahosbdc.org/DocumentMaster.aspx?doc=1232.
• Idaho Community Development Block Grant, Tony Tenne, 208-334-2650 x 2111, tony.tenne@community.idaho.gov.
• Panhandle Area Council, Jim Deffenbaugh, 208-772-0584 x3005, jimd@pacni.org or Nancy Mabile, 208-772-0584 x3014, nancy@pacni.org.
• Idaho Department of Environmental Quality Brownfields Assessment Program, IDEQ’s Brownfields Assessment Program funds and conducts environmental assessments of brownfields sites when a lack of environmental information has complicated site redevelopment or reuse. http://www.deq.idaho.gov/Applications/Brownfields/index.cfm?site=brownfields.htm#assessment, Aaron Scheff, Brownfields Response Program Manager, 208-373-0420, aaron.scheff@deq.idaho.gov; north Idaho contact: Steve Gill, 208-666-4632, steve.gill@deq.idaho.gov.
• The City of Nampa created a revolving loan fund for restoring building facades in its historic downtown. http://ci.nampa.id.us/downloads/30/FA%C3%87ADE%20IMPROVEMENT%20PROGRAM.doc.
• Rural Development Initiatives (RDI) is a Eugene, Oregon-based nonprofit organization that helps towns and rural partnerships develop and diversify their economies by creating inclusive, long-term strategies and identifying and managing crucial projects. They conduct community trainings on leadership, effective organizations, and other topics in both English and Spanish. RDI's work is focused in Oregon but also reaches six western states (including Idaho) and British Columbia. http://www.rdiinc.org/. Noelle Colby-Rotell, 208-954-9564, nrotell@rdiinc.org.
• The Idaho Department of Commerce’s Idaho Business Network helps businesses pursue government contracting opportunities. http://www.commerce.idaho.gov/business/government-contracting.aspx, Sundi Neely, 208 334-2470, sundi.neely@commerce.idaho.gov.
• HUB Zone Certification, https://eweb1sp.sba.gov/hubzone/internet/, Larry Demirelli, 208-334-9004, larry.demirelli@sba.gov.
• Kuna High School (http://www.kunaschools.org/schools/khs/home/home.php, 208-955-0200, Gayle Patten), Weiser High School (http://www.sd431.k12.id.us/hs.htm, 208-414-2595, Lori Mooney), and Project CDA Alternative School in Coeur d'Alene (208-667-7460, http://www.cdaschools.org/project/index.htm) all have strong reputations in the area of vo-tech and post high school workforce training.
• RUPRI Center for Rural Entrepreneurship, taina@e2mail.org, 402-323-7339, http://www.energizingentrepreneurs.org/.
• Vandal Innovation and Enterprise Works (VIEW), University of Idaho, Michael McCollough, Director, mccollou@uidaho.edu, 208- 885-6478, http://www.uidaho.edu/view.aspx.
• TechHelp, http://www.techhelp.org/, 208-426-3767, techhelp@boisestate.edu.
• Panhandle Area Council can help with workforce development, entrepreneurship, business counseling, small business, and micro-entrepreneurial loan programs. Jim Deffenbaugh, 208-772-0584 x3005, jimd@pacni.org.
• U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Business Enterprise (RBEG) and Opportunity (RBOG) Grant Programs will fund engineering and feasibility studies and marketing tools (e.g. business directories). http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/busp/rbeg.htm and http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/ga/trbog.htm, Margaret Hair, 208-762-4939, margaret.hair@usda.gov. (This resource is potentially applicable to many aspects of economic development.)
• The U.S. Forest Service’s State and Private Forestry Program is a potential source of funding and assistance related to managing the impacts of wildfires on communities and the environment. http://www.fs.fed.us/spf/, Peggy Polichio, 406-329-3280.
• The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Federal Housing Administration’s Section 242 program can help communities finance hospital construction and improvement projects. http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/hsgmove/hotm0515.cfm. Jerry Royster, 208-334-1088, ext. 3017.
• The Idaho Health Facilities Authority offers low-interest loans for healthcare facilities, http://www.idhfa.org/. Shelley Shannon, 208-342-8772.
• State office of Rural Health and Primary Care, Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, http://www.healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/default.aspx?TabId=104, 208-334-0669, RuralHealth@dhw.idaho.gov.
• Funding is available through the Rural Health Care Access Program for telemedicine, physician recruitment and retention, and other projects related to improving health care access. http://www.raconline.org/funding/funding_details.php?funding_id=739.
• National Health Service Corps offers a loan repayment program and posts job vacancies for physicians and other health care professionals. http://nhsc.hrsa.gov/, 800-221-9393.
• USDA Rural Development, Community Facilities Loan Program, Howard Lunderstadt, Community Programs Specialist, 208-762-4939, howard.lunderstadt@id.usda.gov.
• Leadership Idaho Agriculture is a leadership development program for leaders in agriculture and in rural communities. http://www.leadershipidahoag.org/, Rick Waitley, 208-888-0988.
• Idaho Ag. in the Classroom, http://www.idahoaitc.org/index.html, Rick Waitley, State Director, 208-888-0988, rcwaitley@spro.net.
• Farmers’ Markets and AgriTourism, Idaho State Department of Agriculture, Lacey Menasco, lmenasco@agri.idaho.gov.
• The Idaho Department of Agriculture offers a free handbook entitled Starting a Specialty Foods Business, which is available free from the department’s website. http://www.agri.state.id.us/Categories/Marketing/Documents/specialtyfoodbook.pdf.
• USDA Value Added Producer Grant program provides funding to help eligible independent producers of agricultural commodities, agricultural producer groups, farmer and rancher cooperatives, and majority-controlled producer-based business ventures develop business plans for viable marketing opportunities and develop strategies to create marketing opportunities. VAPG grants facilitate greater participation in emerging markets and new markets for value-added products, http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/coops/vadg.htm. Howard Lunderstadt, 208-762-9799. howard.lunderstadt@id.usda.gov.
• The Rural School and Community Trust is a non-profit source of information, technical assistance, and information about funding sources for projects that support schools and communities in rural areas. info@ruraledu.org, 703-243-1487, www.ruraledu.org.
• Laura Moore Cunningham Foundation is a statewide funder of nonprofits, mostly for education and healthcare. Laura Bettis, Director, lmcf_idaho@msn.com.
• Rural Roots is a Moscow-based statewide non-profit organization supporting local food producers and the development of local food networks. http://www.ruralroots.org/, 208-883-3462.
• The Treasure Valley Food Coalition is a non-profit effort to build a sustainable local food system in SW Idaho. http://www.sccidaho.org/node/5, 208-424-6665.
• Idaho Department of Commerce’s Show Me the Money funding newsletter often features grant opportunities for youth, education, and recreational programs. Email jerry.miller@commerce.idaho.gov to get on the mailing list.
• The National Gardening Association is a source of support and information regarding school-based gardening education and projects (e.g. gardens, greenhouses, curriculum, etc.). Funding is available through the Youth Garden Grants program. http://www.kidsgardening.org/ygg.asp, 800-538-7476.
• The Agricultural Marketing Resource Center at Iowa State University offers a vast amount of information on multi-use kitchen incubators. 866-277-5567, AgMRC@iastate.edu, http://www.agmrc.org/markets__industries/food/kitchen_incubators.cfm,
• The Idaho Small Business Development Center maintains a directory of commercial incubator kitchens in Idaho. http://www.idahosbdc.org/DocumentMaster.aspx?doc=1232.
• Panhandle Area Council, Jim Deffenbaugh, 208-772-0584 x 3005, jimd@pacni.org.
• The Idaho Small Business Development Center associated with North Idaho College can assist with the development of a business plan for the school/commercial incubator kitchen project. 208-769-3333.