RESPONSE: Regarding wetlands in Hayden

I agree with Ms. Mille in her 10/18/2023 editorial that citizens should think for themselves. However, that is where our agreement ends. Let’s consider the facts. 

The wetlands did exist in the Stone Creek North subdivision. They were classified as Freshwater Emergent and Freshwater Forested/Shrub Wetlands. The US Army Corps of Engineers, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Idaho Department of Fish and Game, Idaho Department of Environmental Quality and the City of Hayden’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan acknowledge these wetlands.

IDEQ’s July 2020 letter to the city states, “a portion of the planned Stone Creek North Subdivision is designated wetland. It is generally understood that houses built on wetlands, where water naturally flows, have challenges dealing with excess water during the wet periods of the year.”

IDFG’s October 2020 and February 2023 letters to the city highlight that the 9-acre onsite wetlands existed, emphasize the importance of wetlands, and provide technical information addressing potential effects on wildlife, wildlife habitat and mitigation suggestions.

The current City Council has allowed construction to begin for the Stone Creek North subdivision, and the nationally recognized wetlands have been eliminated.

Seasonal and perennial streams exist on site. The Stone Creek North subdivision’s stormwater flows via the streams off site onto downstream properties. How will downstream properties be affected?

Is Ms. Stephanie Mille actually Stephanie Saterfiel, spouse of Roger who is running for re-election? Why not disclose your real name? Why resort to shaming citizens running for office, name-calling, and smear tactics?

Who’s the one spewing misinformation? Please vote on November 7.

ROB HARDING

Hayden