Federal money eyed for golf course repairs

Kalispell city officials agreed to ask the Flathead County commissioners to declare a state of emergency so that the city can pursue federal funds to pay for infrastructure repairs at the Buffalo Hill Golf Course.

At Monday’s council meeting, City Manager Jane Howington said floodwaters have eroded areas at the city-owned golf course. The estimated damage to city infrastructure at the golf course is $312,000.

Of greatest concern to city officials is the erosion at the No. 13 tee that is near a city sewer trunk line. The ground has eroded to within seven feet of the sewer trunk line, she said, and the ground is still eroding.

“We don’t think the line is in any danger, but we don’t want to take a chance,” she said.

Other problems at the golf course include part of the path at the No. 7 tee has fallen into the Stillwater River, she said. And, erosion has resulted in the footings under the cart bridge now being in the river.

Officials from the Federal Emergency Management Association were in Kalispell last week evaluating the damage, she said. They indicated the city could qualify for disaster funding to repair flood damage and to do preventive work to avoid additional flood damage.

City Council members can’t declare an emergency, Howington said. That action must be taken by the county commissioners. Hence, the planned request.

While a presidential disaster declaration has been made for 31 Montana counties and four Indian reservations, Flathead County wasn’t on that list because the county largely escaped flooding this summer.

Howington said she understands and agrees with the county’s desire to not alarm citizens by declaring a disaster. So, she’s crafted a disaster request that’s specific to the golf course.

If commissioners agree to make the declaration, other flooded areas of the county would also be eligible to seek federal funds, Howington said.

She cautioned council members that the declaration allows the city to apply for funds, it’s not a guarantee of any funds.

Reporter Shelley Ridenour may be reached at 758-4439 or sridenour@dailyinterlake.com.