Issue link: http://psai.uberflip.com/i/1018028
WEEKLY EDITION AUGUST 22, 2018 PAGE 8 Portable Sanitation and Local Ordinances KOS RESOURCE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 However the process used in Idaho and the important distinctions those decision-makers considered — such as between old time privies and modern portable restrooms, and between "seasonal" and "temporary" use — provide a roadmap for others in crafting sensible rules for their areas. Throughout processes like the one followed by Coeur d'Alene's leaders, the PSAI is always ready to assist city, county, and state governments. Our approach is not to take a political position, but rather, to provide background information, historical and current context, and to assist officials in making connections with their peers in other regions that may have already been through a similar exercise. When PROs call us they are usually seeking information about whether an ordinance someone claims is in place is really there or means what it is purported to mean. The PSAI's staff can usually do the research to find out what is on the books and act as a neutral party in helping address issues. We don't always succeed, of course, in getting the outcome the PRO would have hoped for. Sometimes the laws are not favorable to portable sanitation or it isn't feasible to challenge some local official's interpretation of an ambiguous rule. That's when it makes sense to clarify the rule, and in those cases the Idaho case study can be helpful. With an understanding of how local law is often made, you may be better equipped to affect the government processes in your area. Contact the PSAI office if we can be helpful to you in planning this sort of activity. While the PSAI's resources are limited, we are glad to assist you in taking local action and to serve as a resource to local officials. --kk