The City Council of Challis is contemplating a potential ban on overnight camping in local parks and other city-owned properties. This move comes as council members are set to convene a public hearing during the upcoming City Council meeting to discuss amending an ordinance that would require campers to obtain prior approval from the city for overnight stays.

The proposed ordinance aims to address concerns raised by council members regarding prolonged stays in city parks, with exceptions likely to be made for specific events such as the Braun Brothers Reunion and the River of No Return Endurance Run. If the ordinance is revised, groups interested in camping in city parks would need to complete an application process for approval.

During a recent council meeting, attention was also drawn to a complaint from Lake Myers regarding damage to the skate park in a city park. Myers highlighted instances where rocks and boulders surrounding the skate park were thrown onto the concrete surface, causing damage that ranged from minor chipping to a significant split rendering part of the park unsafe for use.

In addition to the camping ordinance discussions, the council approved a zone permit for Krystan Stoll to establish a new location for his irrigation dealership in Challis. Stoll, the owner of High Country Irrigation in Mackay, plans to construct a building on a 1.2-acre commercial lot in Challis. The proposed building, measuring 40 by 60 feet and 16 feet tall, will feature a pipe storage area behind it. Stoll intends to connect the building to the city’s water, sewer, and electric systems.

The upcoming public hearing presents an opportunity for community members to voice their opinions on the proposed camping restrictions in city parks. As the City Council weighs the potential ban on overnight camping, considerations are being made to balance public access to recreational spaces with the need to preserve park amenities and ensure public safety. Stay tuned for updates following the council meeting where these critical decisions will be deliberated.