FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

10/16/2025

Martin Landing Camping Closed for the Winter

 October 21^st – April 1^st 

Beginning Tuesday, October 21^st, 2025, Martin Landing will be closed to all camping for the winter. The main campground area will be gated and closed to vehicles. Walk-in access for day use, wildlife-viewing, and legal hunting and fishing activities will continue to be available year-round, though camping is also prohibited in the walk-in areas for the winter.

Martin Landing is expected to reopen for camping in April 2026. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about Martin Landing please contact:

Idaho Department of Fish and Game – 208-465-8465

Canyon County Parks, Cultural & Natural Resources – 208-454-6884 –parks@canyoncounty.id.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 9th, 2025

 CELEBRATION PARK INSTALLS NEW BOAT RAMP

 CALDWELL, ID – Today on October 9th, 2025, Celebration Park installed the first section of a new boat ramp in an effort to update and upgrade the park’s boating amenities and ease of access for boats and water vehicles.

This project marks the first construction phase of a two-phase process that has been in development for the past two years. According to Nichole Schwend, Director of Parks, “This has been a huge undertaking and something we are very excited about. It’s the first major boater improvement to the park in 30 years.” Director Schwend highlighted that part of the reason it took two years to get to this point was to ensure that the new boat ramp would not cause any harm to the area or impact any archaeological sites. “Maintaining and preserving the park’s history and archaeology is of the utmost importance.”

The first phase costs approximately $600,000, with the second phase expected to cost around $275,000. The project’s cost to taxpayers is offset by two Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation Waterways Improvement Fund grants, which together covered the entire cost of phase one.

It’s a worthwhile investment that improves one of Canyon County’s most popular destinations which is visited by thousands of people each season. The much-needed improvements ensure Celebration Park continues to serve the community for years to come.

(Please note, that the boat ramp is closed for the season and is not operational.)

###

For more information, please contact Andrew Feraci by email at Andrew.Feraci@canyoncounty.id.govor by phone at (208)-614-5012.

Daniel Colon Sentenced to Life in Prison for Violent Crimes Against His Family

Caldwell, Idaho – On October 8, 2025, District Judge Jonathan Brody sentenced 40-year-old Nampa man Daniel Colon to life in prison for his violent crimes against his family. Under the terms of the court’s sentence, Colon will not be eligible for parole for twenty-five years.

The sentencing follows Colon’s conviction in July 2025 by a jury on eleven felony and misdemeanor counts, including attempted murder, aggravated arson, and injury to a child. The convictions stem from a horrific incident in which Colon attempted to detonate an explosive device in the victim’s vehicle and set fire to their home while their five children were asleep inside. Earlier that evening, Colon had also strangled his wife, Tania Colon.

During the sentencing hearing, Ms. Colon addressed the court, describing the devastating impact of her husband’s abuse.

“He has crafted the perfect mask,” she said. “He knows exactly what he is doing.” Ms. Colon urged the court to impose the maximum sentence to ensure the safety of others, describing Colon as a man who “would rather see individuals dead than happy.”

Deputy Prosecutor Tracy Stoff, representing the Canyon County Prosecutor’s Office, requested a life sentence without the possibility of parole, emphasizing the calculated and premeditated nature of Colon’s actions.

“The defendant was thoughtful and meticulous as he planned the murder of his family,” Stoff said, highlighting his history of domestic violence. “We know that the defendant is a monster behind closed doors.”

Defense counsel argued for a lesser sentence, proposing shorter, fixed terms on certain counts. However, Judge Brody ultimately imposed a life sentence with a 25-year minimum before parole consideration, citing the severity of the crimes and the danger that the defendant posed to the community. Judge Brody described the defendant as exhibiting a “classic, severe domestic violence pattern of thinking.”

Following the sentencing, Canyon County Prosecutor Chris Boyd issued the following statement:

“I applaud the bravery of Ms. Colon, and I hope the court’s sentence provides this family with a measure of closure while they can heal in safety. I also want to commend the Nampa Police Department and the Nampa Fire Department for their professional and thorough investigation in this case. Our community will not tolerate domestic violence, and I hope this sentence sends a message that those who commit these horrific acts against their family members will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

Daniel Colon Sentenced to Life in Prison for Violent Crimes Against His Family

###

For more information, please contact our Prosecuting Attorney’s Office at (208)-754-7391

THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS DECLARES OCTOBER AS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH

CALDWELL, ID – Today, the Canyon County Board of Commissioners signed a proclamation declaring October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in collaboration with the Canyon County Sheriff’s Office and the Canyon County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.

This proclamation is intended to raise awareness, honor victims, and illustrate the serious impact domestic violence has on our community. Domestic violence is a crime that cuts across all boundaries, affecting people of every race, religion, age, and economic status. Its effects are immense, impacting the judicial system, health care providers, schools, friends, and families throughout our community.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month reminds the community that healing and prevention are collective responsibilities. It’s a chance to spread information about warning signs, resources, and how communities can step up to help prevent abuse before it escalates. This month is intended to also give a space to honor the lives lost, support survivors, and recognize the resilience it takes to rebuild after abuse.

A press conference regarding the proclamation will be held on Monday, October 6, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at Justice Park (1022 Albany St, Caldwell, ID 83605), located just outside the Public Administration Building.

###
For more information, please contact Andrew Feraci by email at Andrew.Feraci@canyoncounty.id.gov or by phone at (208)-614-5012

The Canyon County Driver’s License Office will be open from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM on Tuesday, October 28. The office will be closed for the first part of that morning to allow staff to attend training. We apologize for the inconvenience and ask that you please plan your visits accordingly. Customers are encouraged to book appointments in advance to avoid potential wait times. You can book an appointment by clicking here.

Please note: the reduced hours on October 28 are only for the Driver’s License side of the DMV. The Motor Vehicle Title & Registration Office will maintain regular business hours.

Caldwell, ID – Canyon County is gearing up for the November 4th general election. Please keep in mind the following:

Voter registration information. Voters can check their voter registration status at voteidaho.gov. The public can still pre-register to vote until Oct. 24. After Oct. 24, registration will only be available in person at early voting or on election day with valid proof of identification and address verification. If voters have changed address since they last voted, they will need to update their voter registration.

Polling locations. Voters can identify their polling location here: View My Voting Location (idaho.gov).

Sample ballots. Voters can view their sample ballot here: Voter Information Look-up. (Please note that there are some precincts in which there is no election.)

Absentee ballots: The deadline to request an absentee ballot is October 24, 2025. Registered voters can sign up for an absentee ballot on voteidaho.gov or requests may be mailed, scanned and emailed, or delivered to the Canyon County Elections Office at 5815 Graye Ln. Caldwell, Idaho 83607 or
electionsclerk@canyoncounty.id.gov. Once voted, absentee ballots must be mailed (or physically returned) to the Elections Office at 5815 Graye Ln. Caldwell, Idaho 83607 by 8:00 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, November 4, 2025.

Early, in-person voting: In addition to the established locations for election day, early voting will be available for three weeks from October 14-October 31, Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., at the Canyon County Elections Office at 5815 Graye Ln, Caldwell, Idaho 83607, situated near the county DMV building.

Electioneering prohibitions: Idaho Code prohibits electioneering at polling locations within 250 feet of the designated primary entrance/exit of a polling location. This excludes adjacent private property that may be within the 250 feet.

Logic and Accuracy (L&A) Test: The L&A Test is open to the public and will examine all aspects of the tabulation programming to affirm the operational readiness of the election system equipment. The test is scheduled for October 9, 9 a.m., at the Canyon County Elections Office, 5815 Graye Ln. Caldwell, Idaho 83607.

Clerk Hogaboam: “Thanks to the many poll workers and location hosts for election day. Please know there is time to request an absentee ballot up to October 24 and that registered voters can return their ballot by mail, if they prefer. We also added an additional week for early voting. Please check the deadlines and plan accordingly among all the options for qualified voters to cast a ballot for the election.”

###
For more information, please contact the Canyon County Election Office at (208) 454-7562.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 23nd, 2025

CANYON COUNTY PUBLISHES REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS REGARDING ANIMAL SHELTER SERVICES

CALDWELL, ID – On September 18^th, 2025, the Canyon County Board of Commissioners voted to move forward with issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP) regarding animal shelter services.

The purpose of the RFP is to provide a fair and transparent process for evaluating proposals from qualified individuals and vendors who are capable of delivering these services in a way that meets the needs of the County. Through this process, the Board and Municipal partners seek to gather innovative solutions and ensure the highest standard of care for animals, while also being mindful of taxpayer resources.

A mandatory pre-proposal conference will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at the Canyon County Animal Shelter building located at 5801 Graye Lane, Caldwell, Idaho 83607. Proposers will be given the opportunity to meet with County personnel and discuss the content of the RFP in further detail.

Proposals will be due to the Board of County Commissioners office (1115 Albany St, Caldwell Id. 83605) by Monday, October 20, 2025, at 5:00 pm. The opening of proposals will be conducted in a public meeting to ensure transparency in the evaluation process.

Animal shelter services play a vital role in supporting public safety and the overall quality of life in Canyon County. The Board of County Commissioners remains committed to identifying a long-term solution that balances animal welfare with fiscal responsibility.

For more information, including the full Legal Notice and instructions on submitting a proposal, please visit:
https://www.canyoncounty.id.gov/elected-officials/commissioners/legal-notices/

###

For more information, please contact Andrew Feraci by email at Andrew.Feraci@canyoncounty.id.govor by phone at (208)-614-5012.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 5th, 2025

FREE HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE & ELECTRONIC WASTE DISPOSAL EVENT IS SEPTEMBER 13TH

CALDWELL, ID — Pickles Butte Sanitary Landfill will host its next free quarterly household hazardous waste and electronic waste disposal event on Saturday, September 13th, at the Ford Idaho Center (16114 Idaho Center Blvd, Nampa, ID 83687). The event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and there is no cost for Canyon County residents.

People are asked to remain in their vehicles and place their household hazardous and electronic waste in an easily accessible location, like the trunk or truck bed. Waste should be limited to 25 gallons and/or 20 items per household.

Common household hazardous waste and e-waste that will be accepted include:

• Cleaning Products: oven cleaners, drain cleaners, wood and metal cleaners and polishers, toilet cleaners, tub and shower cleaners, tile cleaners, bleach, pool chemicals.
• Indoor Pesticides: ant spray and baits, cockroach sprays and baits, flea repellents and shampoos, bug sprays, houseplant insecticides, moth repellents, mouse/rat poison and baits.
• Automotive Products: motor oil, fuel additives, carburetor and fuel injection cleaners, starter fluids, automotive batteries, transmission and brake fluid, antifreeze.
• Workshop/Painting Supplies: adhesives and glues, furniture strippers, oil or enamel-based paints, stains and finishes, paint thinners and turpentine, paint strippers and removers, photographic chemicals, fixatives and other solvents.
• Lawn/Garden Products: herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, wood preservatives
• Household Batteries and Fluorescent Light bulbs: nickel-cadmium batteries, lithium/lithium-ion batteries, fluorescent tubes and light bulbs.
• Other Flammable Products: propane tanks, kerosene, home heating oil, diesel fuel, gas/oil mix, lighter fluid
• Electronic Waste: cell phones, computers, monitors, printers, audio/video, small devices (iPods, gaming devices), other equipment with a cord

***Please note that no biological or radiological waste will be accepted. No explosives, ammunition, or prescription drugs will be accepted either. Business waste WILL NOT be accepted without an appointment. Call (208) 577-4737 to schedule an appointment.***

###

For more information, please contact Pickles Butte Sanitary Landfill at (208) 466-7288.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 3^rd, 2025

Canyon County Announces Intent to Issue RFP for Animal Shelter Services

Caldwell, ID- Canyon County is announcing its intent to initiate a Request for Proposals (RFP) regarding animal shelter services. This decision comes after careful consideration by the Canyon County Commissioners and the Mayors of both Nampa and Caldwell.

Earlier this month, officials from all three jurisdictions met to discuss concerns with the operation of the shelter, as well as the future of animal control services within the area. The meeting was triggered after many budget discussions for Fiscal Year 2026, during which the West Valley Humane Society (WVHS) requested a substantial increase in funding of $1.5 million total, with no room for negotiation.

The County and Cities agreed to a collective 280% increase in funding, setting aside nearly $1 million in total support for animal shelter services. Officials from the County and City emphasized that this reflects the priority placed on these essential services. Even in the face of difficult budgetary constraints, local government was able to find a way to fund the shelter to the best that they can right now. Despite this, WVHS officials expressed that it is still not enough to keep their doors open and operating within the area.

Over the past two years, community members have raised concerns about animal health and wellness, veterinary care, adoption opportunities, and overall shelter operations. With these concerns in mind, the County and Cities have agreed that the most responsible path forward is to issue an RFP to fully evaluate the costs and best practices for shelter operations. This process will provide insight into creative approaches to shelter management, encourage sustainable options, foster community partnerships, and ensure long-term accountability and transparency.

Officials noted that WVHS is not excluded from this process. “The County values the history and hard work of the staff and volunteers at WVHS and encourages them to submit a proposal as part of this process,” said Aaron Williams, Director of Constituent Services for Canyon County.

Animal shelter services are a vital part of the quality of life in Canyon County. Local governments remain committed to finding a solution that balances animal welfare with fiscal responsibility for taxpayers.

###

For more information, please contact Andrew Feraci by email at Andrew.Feraci@canyoncounty.id.gov or by phone at (208)-614-5012.