WASHINGTON—Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $1,852,000 for the Butte County Buildings Infrastructure Project in Butte County, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2024 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

Despite claims that CPF projects are "wasteful earmarks," Community Project Funding gives Members of Congress like Congressman Simpson the opportunity to bring Idaho tax dollars back home for Idaho priorities. These projects fill a clear and present need in communities across Idaho and enjoy broad community support. The federal dollars designated for CPF projects exist within existing budget limits. Rather than that money going to fund projects in different states, CPF projects give Idahoans a critical voice in determining where budgeted funding goes.

“County buildings in Butte are in dire need of infrastructure repairs, and without federal support, these pressing repairs would likely go unsolved,” said Rep. Simpson. “Supporting and assisting our local communities is one of my top priorities in Congress. I am proud to secure funding to help Butte County address its public building infrastructure needs.”

“Butte County is very grateful to have Congressman Simpson working hard to ensure that the needs of Idaho's citizens are met. Butte County will finally be able to complete necessary infrastructure upgrades to various County buildings, including the Sheriff's Office roof, ensuring that the response of emergency services will not be hindered,” said Hootie Langseth, Butte County Commissioner.

This funding would be used to replace roofing infrastructure at the Sheriff’s Office, Butte County Business Center, and the Health Department, as well as to replace crumbling sidewalks and parking lots. The current roofs lack structural integrity, which is key to the safety of the public when using the facilities. Leaks have deteriorated the sheetrock and window support in rooms that regularly used for important community and public service events. Crumbling sidewalks and parking lots increase the public risk of safely entering buildings.

As Idaho’s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho’s priorities and ensure Idahoans’ hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho. Rep. Simpson was the only member of the Idaho delegation to vote in favor of funding for Butte County buildings.