The public is invited to attend the event, tour the new facility, and see firsthand the enhancements made to better serve voters and election operations.

The $3.6 million (previously stated as $4.7 million, this project was completed under budget), 16,500-square-foot facility was funded through federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and was designed to meet the growing needs of Canyon County. The new building significantly expands space for early voting, election training, and secure ballot processing, ensuring a more efficient and accessible elections process.

In May, during the groundbreaking, Canyon County Clerk Rick Hogaboam emphasized the importance of this new facility, highlighting its role in safeguarding fair and secure elections. “Canyon County is the second-largest county in the state, and as our population grows, so does the need for a modernized elections office that can properly serve our voters,” said Hogaboam. “This building is a testament to our commitment to election integrity and voter accessibility.”

Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, guests will have the opportunity to tour the facility and learn more about the improvements designed to enhance election operations.

The Board of Canyon County Commissioners is pleased to announce the grand opening of the new Canyon County Elections Building on February 10, 2025, at 2:00 PM at 5801-B Graye Lane in Caldwell.
The public is invited to attend the event, tour the new facility, and see firsthand the enhancements made to better serve voters and election operations.

“Surveillance data suggests low levels of virus circulation throughout Canyon County,” said Jim Lunders, Director of the Canyon County Mosquito Abatement District.

Lunders explained that the District routinely sets gravid traps and dry ice-baited EVS Traps at over 100 locations to monitor adult mosquito populations and the presence of vector-borne diseases. To date, the District has tested nearly 1,300 mosquito pools this season for West Nile virus, with three testing positive, each from different locations.

The areas where the mosquitoes were collected have been treated for both larval and adult mosquitoes.

“We encourage the public to help us reduce the mosquito population by eliminating larval habitat around your homes,” Lunders stated.

To reduce the risk of exposure to West Nile virus, Lunders recommends the following precautions:

Eliminate Standing Water: Remove or treat all sources of standing water, such as flooded fields, birdbaths, unused wading and swimming pools, clogged gutters, and old tires. “If it holds water for seven days, it can produce mosquitoes,” Lunders warned.

Personal Protection: Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when in mosquito-infested areas. Use mosquito repellents containing DEET, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, Picaridin, or 2-undecanone, following the directions on the container. Ensure all screen doors and windows are in good repair and fit tightly.

Protect Livestock: Vaccinate horses for West Nile virus (WNV), Western Equine Encephalitis (WEE), and other diseases. Use EPA-registered residual insect sprays on horses, following the directions on the container. Have your livestock watering troughs stocked with mosquitofish for free by submitting a service request to the CCMAD.

Report Large Sites: Notify the District at (208) 461-8633 if you have a site that is too large to eliminate so it can be properly treated.

For more information on mosquitoes and the diseases they carry, visit:

• Idaho Department of Health and Welfare https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/health-wellness/diseases-conditions/west-nile-virus
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention https://www.cdc.gov/westnile/index.html
• Canyon County Mosquito Abatement District https://www.2cmad.org/

According to the Canyon County Mosquito Abatement District West Nile virus has been detected in mosquitoes collected on August 1, 2024, southwest of Melba, Idaho, and on August 6, 2024, west of Caldwell. This marks the second and third positive test results in Canyon County this season.

Event Details:

• When: Thursday, July 25, 2024, at 11:30 A.M.
• Where: The Center, 110 County Fair Ave, Caldwell, ID 83605

The $7.6 million, 45,000-square-foot facility features a modern, sleek design and includes a 30,000-square-foot air-conditioned expo hall, indoor and outdoor meeting spaces, and the new Fair administrative offices. This multi-use facility will serve as a key venue for the Canyon County Fair, City of Caldwell events, the Caldwell Night Rodeo, Simplot Stadium events, and activities at the College of Idaho.

The groundbreaking ceremony for this project was held on July 28, with representatives from Boise-based HC Company, Caldwell City Council, Caldwell Urban Renewal District, and Fair Director Diana Sinner joining the Commissioners.

“Find Your Fun” at the Canyon County Fair!

Come and be a part of this exciting day as we celebrate a new era for the Canyon County Fairgrounds. The ribbon-cutting will kick off a day full of fun and festivities at the fair, inviting the community to explore the new facilities and enjoy the events planned throughout the day.

The Board of Canyon County Commissioners are excited to invite the public to a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of “The Center,” the new Expo Building at the Canyon County Fairgrounds. This event marks the completion of a significant addition to the fairgrounds, designed to enhance the experience for all attendees and support a variety of community events. The ceremony will take place on the opening day of the Canyon County Fair, Thursday, July 25, 2024, at 11:30 A.M.

Event Details:

• When: Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at 10:15AM
• Where: 5801-A Graye Lane, Caldwell, ID 83607 (the warehouse next to the West Valley Humane Society Building)
• RSVP: By June 20th to BOCC@canyoncounty.id.gov or chad.thompson@canyoncounty.id.gov

Warehouse Expansion: The new warehouse, spanning 12,500 square feet, significantly increases previous storage capacity, nearly tripling the 4,500 square feet of rented space we currently are using. This facility will support various County functions, including the storage of County, Sheriff’s Office, and Emergency Management equipment. With the additional space, the facility can now accommodate vehicles and trailers. Staff is also considering utilizing the space for records storage to meet the growing needs of different departments.

West Valley Humane Society Roof Upgrade: The roof upgrade project at the West Valley Humane Society includes replacing the previous canvas roof with a wood-framed one and adding insulation to the roof. These improvements provide a controlled temperature environment, making it easier to keep the area cool in the summer and warm in the winter, significantly benefiting both staff and animals. The three adoption kennel areas, which were not previously temperature-controlled, will now offer a comfortable environment year-round.

Funding and Project Details: The combined projects were completed on budget, thanks to ARPA funds, with the total projected cost being $3,392,000. The new warehouse was completed at $2,542,000, and the animal shelter roof and kennel enclosure cost $850,000. The warehouse is now complete, and the animal shelter project is targeted for completion by June 12, 2024.

This initiative was led by Beniton Construction and Rick Bugatsch Architecture (RBA).

Please join us for the ribbon-cutting ceremony and enjoy light refreshments as we showcase these enhancements that will serve Canyon County for years to come.

Ribbon-cutting Ceremony for New County Warehouse and West Valley Humane Society upgrades

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.***

The unanimous decision followed an almost three-year-long process and a crucial agenda meeting, marking a significant step forward in enhancing waste management services in the region.

The decision and new partnership with Timber Creek Recycling was called a “win-win” for the County by all the Commissioners.

Commissioner Leslie Van Beek praised the services and innovative spirit that Timber Creek Recycling has demonstrated since integrating into the Nampa community. This new facility represents a significant step forward for Canyon County, showcasing the BOCC’s vision for a sustainable future and strong community partnerships.

“With a good working board and a vision for the future—that’s what I see in this board and this community partnership—we’re moving Canyon County forward and that’s an amazing win,” Commissioner Van Beek said.

Commissioner Zach Brooks spoke of the convenient location and the value it will bring to the County, highlighting that it will be closer for some residents who will no longer have to trek all the way out to Pickles Butte Landfill.

Chairman Brad Holton acknowledged that while the process might have felt long the board needed to do its “due diligence” to ensure the partnership between a private business, like Timber Creek Recycling, and county government was done correctly.

“As a board, we’ve made every effort to do our due diligence and ensure this was a public process. Transitioning from private business to intersecting with government can be cumbersome, and I appreciate Timber Creek Recycling’s patience. At the end of the day, this partnership is an efficiency for Canyon County citizens and a win-win for both sides, which is not always common in government and private industry,” said Chairman Holton.

Key Benefits for the Canyon County Community:

Enhanced Waste Management: The new transfer station will serve as an additional drop-off location for household waste, alleviating traffic congestion and reducing wait times for residents using landfill services. The facility will help minimize blowing waste and trash along Missouri Avenue and throughout the County, as fewer vehicles will need to travel to and from the landfill.

Strategic Location and Future Expansion: The site is strategically located within the County and close to major transportation routes, making it convenient for residents. It’s zoned for industrial use and minimizes its impact on neighboring properties. There is potential for future expansion, including the installation of a rail spur for efficient freight movement.

Commitment to Sustainability: Timber Creek Recycling manages over 400 million pounds of recyclable materials annually, underscoring their dedication to sustainability. By preventing the need to move materials multiple times, the company’s innovative processes reduce environmental impact and enhance operational efficiency.

Innovative Recycling Practices: Timber Creek Recycling has introduced several pioneering recycled products to the Treasure Valley over the past seven years, including concrete with rebar, sheetrock, biosolid compost, and both commercial and packaged food waste recycling. Canyon County is among the first in Idaho to recycle and repurpose sheetrock and clean wood, showcasing a commitment to sustainability and innovation.

Community and Economic Benefits: As a private transfer station, Timber Creek Recycling assumes more financial and operational risks, protecting the community from unexpected liabilities. The facility’s construction is estimated at $3 million and is slated to open by late fall/winter of 2024, bringing jobs and economic growth to the region. By extending the lifespan of public landfills and encouraging economic development through material reuse, the new facility will have a lasting positive impact on the community.

Mike Murgoitio, CEO of Timber Creek Recycling, expressed excitement about the partnership with Canyon County, highlighting the company’s role as a good neighbor and partner. “This new facility represents a significant opportunity for the community, fostering sustainable practices and enhancing waste management services in the region,” said Murgoitio.

On May 17, 2024, the Canyon County Board of County Commissioners approved the contract agreement and necessary permits for Timber Creek Recycling to establish a full-service solid waste transfer station in Nampa.

Timber Creek Recycling manages over 400 million pounds of recyclable materials annually, underscoring their dedication to sustainability. By preventing the need to move materials multiple times, the company’s innovative processes reduce environmental impact and enhance operational efficiency.

The new transfer station will serve as an additional drop-off location for household waste, alleviating traffic congestion and reducing wait times for residents using landfill services. The facility will help minimize blowing waste and trash along Missouri Avenue and throughout the County, as fewer vehicles will need to travel to and from the landfill.

The L&A test, conducted at the Canyon County Elections Office, thoroughly examined all aspects of the tabulation programming and confirmed the operational readiness of the election system equipment. The test rigorously assessed candidate positions, offices, and measures, including undervote, write-in, and overvote capabilities, as well as the reporting functions of the system.

Canyon County Clerk Rick Hogaboam emphasized the importance of testing the functionality and accuracy of the equipment, stating, “The public has a right to observe this test and is encouraged to attend.”

The Elections Office welcomed constituents to observe the test and took the opportunity to address questions and demonstrate additional accuracy and verification measures, ensuring transparency and confidence in the voting process.

As the May 21 primary election approaches, the Canyon County Elections Office would like to share some important reminders for voters:

Early, In-Person Voting until May 17: Two locations for early in-person voting are available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. until May 17—the Idaho Hispanic Community Center (315 Stampede Dr., Nampa) and Caldwell Elks Lodge (1015 N. Kimball Ave., Caldwell). Registration is possible during in-person early voting, and any qualified elector in Canyon County may vote at either location.

Election Workers Still Needed: The Canyon County Election Office continues to process interested parties wishing to assist as poll workers. Interested parties are encouraged to visit https://elections.canyoncounty.id.gov/become-a-poll-worker/. With some training classes scheduled for later this week, there is still plenty of time to get interested individuals signed up to help at the poll locations around the county.

Printed, Hand-Marked Ballot Option: Early voting locations and select election day locations will feature a new print-on-demand ballot option for voters who prefer to mark their choices by pen on a printed ballot.

Sample Ballots: Sample ballots are available at Sample-Ballot-Printable.pdf (id.gov). It is highly encouraged that prospective voters come prepared to vote, as ballot choices vary based on political affiliation and jurisdiction.

The Canyon County Elections Office remains committed to conducting fair, secure, and transparent elections encouraging all eligible voters to participate in the democratic process.

For more information, visit the Canyon County Elections Office website at https://elections.canyoncounty.id.gov/ or call 208-454-7562.

The Canyon County Elections Office is pleased to announce the successful completion of the Logic and Accuracy (L&A) test, a crucial step in ensuring the integrity and accuracy of the upcoming May 21 primary election. The Elections Office welcomed constituents to observe the test and took the opportunity to address questions and demonstrate additional accuracy and verification measures, ensuring transparency and confidence in the voting process.

The Canyon County Elections Office is pleased to announce the successful completion of the Logic and Accuracy (L&A) test, a crucial step in ensuring the integrity and accuracy of the upcoming May 21 primary election. The Elections Office welcomed constituents to observe the test and took the opportunity to address questions and demonstrate additional accuracy and verification measures, ensuring transparency and confidence in the voting process.

Canyon County Early Voting is October 21 to November 1.

Key dates for voting in Canyon County.

Early, in-person voting. In addition to the established locations for election day, there are three locations for in-person, early voting. Any qualified elector in Canyon County may vote at any early voting location, as preferred for convenience. Each location serves the county at-large, as voters can check in and receive their specific ballot style based on residency. Early voting is available from October 21^st-November 1^st, Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., at the following locations:

• Idaho Hispanic Community Center (315 Stampede Dr., Nampa)
• Caldwell Elks Lodge (1015 N. Kimball Ave., Caldwell)
• Southwest District Health (13307 Miami Ln., Caldwell)

For more information on the November 5 Election, please visit the Canyon County Elections website.