|  EDUCATE AND ADVOCATE |
September Program Meeting Recap: Igniting Conservative Action in Bonner County
What a fantastic turnout we had at our September Program Meeting! The energy was palpable as our dedicated group of conservative Republican women and men came together to share insights, spark ideas, and reinforce our commitment to the principles that make America strong. Your enthusiasm not only filled the room but also generated a wealth of actionable strategies to advance our shared conservative values here in North Idaho.
Diving into Taxes: Spotlight on the Northside Fire District Levy
As conservative Republicans dedicated to preserving the principles of limited government, individual liberty, and fiscal prudence, the Bonner County Republican Women, Inc. (BCRWI) has long been a voice for taxpayer protection in North Idaho. Our September Round Table Discussion highlighted taxes as a pressing concern, with a spotlight on fire district levies that threaten to erode the financial security of hardworking and retired families. Now, as the November 4, 2025, election approaches, we're compelled to inform you about the Northside Fire District’s proposed permanent levy override—a measure that would balloon the district's budget from $661,071 to $1,345,410, imposing an additional $684,339 annually and hiking property taxes by an estimated $20.20 per $100,000 of taxable assessed value starting in Fiscal Year 2026. This isn't just a budget tweak; it's a doubling of the levy that demands scrutiny, especially after voters wisely rejected similar expansions in May. BCRWI isn't anti-firefighter; we're pro-accountability. Our mission, rooted in educating an informed electorate, compels us to spotlight how this levy diverts funds from families to unproven expansions.
To stay ahead of the curve on all elections, sample ballots are now available through the Idaho Secretary of State's Voter Information Lookup tool. Simply enter your details at https://elections.sos.idaho.gov/ElectionLink/ElectionLink/VoterSearch.aspx to preview upcoming races, measures, and candidate info tailored to your precinct.
Empowering Our Conservative Voice: Ideas in Action
The discussion evolved into a brainstorm of practical ways to bolster the conservative cause at the grassroots level. We believe that real change starts locally, and these suggestions reflect our dedication to education, engagement, and empowerment—core to BCRWI's mission of promoting Republican values through community involvement. Here's a deeper look at the highlights, with tips to get started:
· Attend Local Government Meetings: Knowledge is power! Show up to City Council sessions in Sandpoint or Ponderay, Bonner County Board of Commissioners hearings, or School Board deliberations. These forums shape policies on everything from zoning to education funding. Pro tip: Review agendas in advance via county websites and prepare one concise question to voice your perspective—it's a low-barrier way to influence decisions firsthand.
· Run for Local Office: Why not you? With vacancies and terms opening regularly, consider throwing your hat in the ring for roles like county commissioner or school board trustee. BCRWI can connect you with training resources through our network. Remember, local wins build the foundation for statewide conservative momentum.
· Write Letters to the Editor: Amplify your voice in the Sandpoint Reader or Daily Bee. Share fact-based opinions on issues like tax relief or school choice. Keep it under 300 words, cite reliable sources, and submit via email—it's a quick, impactful way to sway public discourse and rally like-minded readers.
· Become a BCRWI Member and Dive into Activities: Joining our ranks (dues are affordable and support our voter education efforts) opens doors to hands-on involvement, from hosting tabling events to co-chairing programs. Whether you're a newcomer or a veteran activist, your skills—organizing, speaking, or simply showing up—make a difference. Visit bcrwinc.com to sign up today!
· Launch a Voter Registration Drive: With elections around the corner, let's ensure every eligible conservative is registered and informed. Partner with us to set up drives at local fairs, churches, or markets. Tools like Idaho's online voter portal make it easy—focus on young families and new residents to grow our base organically.
These ideas aren't just talk; they're blueprints for a stronger, more conservative Bonner County. Let's commit to one this month and report back at our next gathering!
Looking Ahead: 2025-2026 Calendar and October Business Meeting
Excitement is building for the year ahead! Our comprehensive calendar of BCRWI activities—from guest speaker series and policy workshops to community outreach events—will land in your inbox this October.
Don't miss our October Business Meeting on Tuesday, October 15th, at 5:30 PM, hosted at the iconic Connie's Café in Sandpoint (307 N Division St.). This local spot, a Sandpoint staple since 1955, started as a humble gas station lunch counter and has grown into a cozy hub for good food, drinks, and conversation—perfect for our down-to-earth discussions. Arrive early to grab a seat and savor their classic American fare; we'll dive into planning, updates, and more member spotlights over food and drink.
We can't wait to see you there—together, we're unstoppable in preserving the conservative ideals that define our great nation. Questions? Reach out via Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/BCRWI, or our website, bcrwinc.com.
Click here to Register for the Oct Business Meeting (Registration is not necessary, but helps us with setup)
We had a wonderful Woman of Courage Luncheon
Honoring the 2025 Woman of Courage Janice McGeachen
Our Actions:
The Fire District Levies Failed!
Vote NO on Fire District Levies on May 20, 2025!
Update on Sandpoint Parking Plans
We've been keeping you informed about the planned resort at City Beach in Sandpoint, and parking fees planned for the city.
The Bonner County Daily Bee recently shared an updated on the planned fees. Check it out by clicking here.
OUR EVENTS
| ABOUT US The Bonner County Republican Women, Inc. political organization is dedicated to educating our members and community about local, federal and global issues as they relate to our Constitutional Republic form of government. Our mission is to see women from all age groups and walks of life as key players at the political table on national, state and local issues. As registered Republicans, we share a common set of values. These values include advocating for high-quality education, safe neighborhoods, lower taxes, economic prosperity, well-paying jobs, equal opportunities, a robust national defense, and a streamlined government. Learn More >> About Us | A MESSAGE FROM OUR PRESIDENT Dear Bonner County Republican Women, Inc. Members and Supporters, I am honored and privileged to address you as the President of the BCRWI. As we stand at the forefront of a new chapter, I am filled with enthusiasm and dedication to lead this organization toward a future that promotes the education of as many people as possible on the perils of the left’s agenda. Continued >> A Message From Our President |
Latest From Our Facebook Page . . . | An informed voter is a powerful voter. Identifying as a conservative is not the same as being a true conservative. How do you know where candidates stand and which organization is more than conservative in name only? Here are some tips to help: Follow the money. This state site has financial reports of candidates, organizations, and individuals that will tell you where funding comes from. Don’t fall for the name. The “Idaho Liberty PAC” spent its donor money on the campaigns of those who opposed the true liberty candidates. “Reclaim Idaho,” a Democratic organization trying to circumvent the people's will via the initiative process. “Take Back Idaho” has attacked the Idaho Freedom Foundation, a true conservative organization (and a good source of information). Idaho 97 supported mandatory vaccinations and masks and opposed the school choice movement. “Defend and Protect Idaho PAC” was created to attack true conservative candidates as “too extreme” and obtained most of its funding from liberals outside of Idaho. North Idaho Voter Services has attacked Bonner County Republican Women Inc, (BCRWI) our President, and other conservatives by label-lynching with the term “right-wing extremists.” They also sent out mailers encouraging cross-over voting during the primaries. Watch for label-lynching and keywords. Do they praise moderates and attack those who stand for the Constitution? Do they label lynch with terms such as “right-wing extremist” and “militant Christian fundamentalism” and describe any conservable viewpoint as “hateful rhetoric”? Find out for yourself. Attend meetings (school board, county commissioners, city council and other city meetings, library board—any meetings where decisions affect your quality of life and your tax dollars) in person or via zoom. Republican Central Committee meetings are a good way to discover the true conservatives in the county. It is possible to know where people stand. Watch with whom they align, listen to what they say, watch whom they attack, follow the money, vet everyone, and then use your vote to support true conservatives. |
