County exit from Sliter Park would cost Bigfork

It won’t be long until Bigfork’s Everit L. Sliter Memorial Park is buzzing with summer activity again.

The public space, known simply as Sliter Park, plays host to a bevy of community events, beginning Memorial Day weekend with the always-packed Bigfork Whitewater Festival. Not long after, the Riverbend Concert Series kicks off as locals and visitors alike gather each Sunday on the lawn for live music in one of the most picturesque settings in the valley.

The park property that abuts the Swan River along Bridge Street is owned by PacifiCorp, which operates the nearby hydroelectric powerhouse. PacifiCorp is mandated by federal law to provide public access to the river, which it fulfills with Sliter Park.

About 45 years ago, the company entered into a lease agreement with Flathead County Parks and Recreation to manage the space with regular upkeep.

Then about 15 years ago, amid concerns from the county that managing the park wasn’t worth the time and cost, the nonprofit Community Foundation for a Better Bigfork stepped up to take on some of that expense. The foundation currently pays up to $5,000 annually in park operations.

But with the current lease agreement set to expire in July, the county Parks Department is once again ready to step away from the obligation, citing issues with rising costs and a maintenance team that is at capacity, as well as difficulties getting prompt approval from PacifiCorp to perform work.

“We’re being really stretched thin, not only from a budget standpoint, but also from a staffing standpoint, so we’re having to cut back services somewhere,” county parks director Chris Maestas said.

While seeking budget savings is appreciated, county officials must step back and look at the big picture. A wider lens reveals a treasured public space that contributes not only to community connectivity, but also serves as a valued economic driver. Without county involvement, it would be nearly impossible for Whitewater Festival and Riverbend Concert organizers to meet PacifiCorp’s insurance requirements, likely leaving those events without a home.

What’s more, the county has a trusted partner in the foundation that is willing to chip in funding to offset maintenance costs. This unique public-nonprofit collaboration has served Bigfork and the greater Flathead Valley well for years, and it should not be swept aside for a couple thousand dollars in savings at the expense of two long-standing events.

The county Weed/Parks and Recreation Board meets Monday to discuss the lease. It would behoove the board to hit pause and allow the foundation and Bigfork residents a chance to raise additional funds to keep this public asset open and thriving for the greater good.

It’s a solid bet that Bigfork will rise to the occasion.