County commissioners support big loads on U.S. 12 in resolution

By Kathy Hedberg of the Tribune

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

GRANGEVILLE – The Idaho County Commissioners Tuesday passed a resolution supporting the transportation of oversized loads along U.S. Highway 12.

The commissioners were addressing the megaloads from ConocoPhillips and ExxonMobil/Imperial Oil at the heart of a dispute over whether the scenic highway should be used for such commerce. Three Idaho County residents filed suit and are attempting to stop the movement of the megaloads, citing the disruption to business and quality of life along the highway.

In their declaration supporting trucking the commissioners said the heritage, culture and custom of the people of Idaho County have developed as a result of trucking supplies and equipment.

Trucking supplies is a basic need of the people of Idaho County, the commissioners said, and the roads are an indispensable tool for commerce in the county. More than 100 miles of U.S. 12 is in Idaho County and the Idaho Transportation Department has the authority and expertise to issue permits for oversized loads, the commissioners said.

“Therefore, be it resolved … that Idaho County supports all trucking in and through Idaho County and supports the use of our transportation system for the transportation of goods. Further, Idaho County supports the issuance of ITD permits for oversize loads on Highway 12.”

The declaration was signed by Commission Chairman Skip Brandt and Commissioner James Rockwell. Commissioner Jim Rehder was absent.