Sam: We do keep eye on Tubbs Hill

Deputy City Administrator Sam Taylor (RE: Fire on Tubbs Hill ):

“We do have police officers working overtime shifts that hike the hill at least once per shift, activity permitting. Our brand new Downtown Ambassador programs has also been expanded to serve this area from City Park to Tubbs Hill, from Lakeside Avenue to the water’s edge.

“The Fire Department does keep an eye on Tubbs Hill from the water when the fire boat is on the water for smoke checks, training or returning from a call and they also have full infrared capability they utilize day and night. The department also has full access around Tubbs Hill by fire access road that is utilized for the same type of calls. They note that typically campfire calls are historically generated in the very early morning by hikers and in the nighttime from residents across the lake or boaters. We very much appreciate those notifications.

“The best way to report a campfire on the hill is to call 911. If someone is seen camping on the hill, please utilize the non-emergency number for the Police Department: (208) 446-1854. Our Police Department tries to educate people when they encounter them and take enforcement action when appropriate. The department has made several drug, alcohol, and paraphernalia arrests in the Tubbs/McEuen area over the past month and so we are working hard to be diligent and enhance public safety in the area.”