Hayden, KCSO report contract progress

The city of Hayden said Tuesday that it has made "meaningful progress" toward finalizing a new law enforcement services contract with the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office.

"The city has produced a month-to-month agreement that addresses how overtime is billed, how accountability can evolve, and a direct overhead charge," a Hayden press release said. "Should Kootenai County accept these terms, financial support from the city can resume immediately."

The Kootenai County Board of Commissioners has received a draft agreement, and the Hayden City Council will consider it at its regular meeting Oct. 27.

"Both the city of Hayden and the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office remain committed to public safety and to establishing a contract that is fair, transparent, and acceptable to both parties," the press release said. 

Discussions continue to resolve any back payments related to the lack of a contract during October.

"The city looks forward to reaching this interim solution as soon as possible," the release said.

The city's $1.2 million contract for law enforcement services from the sheriff's office expired Sept. 30, after the City Council voted not to renew the proposed contract for fiscal year 2027. 

KCSO Sheriff Bob Norris declined to comment on Tuesday.