New economic development director arrested for DUI

Tina Oliphant, executive director of the Kootenai River Development Council, was arrested May 29, only weeks after she was hired, and charged with driving under the influence-second offense and unlawful possession of open alcoholic beverage container. Oliphant pleaded not guilty in Justice Court before Justice of the Peace Jay Sheffield on June 2.

“It is a personal matter,” Kevin Peck, a member of the Lincoln County Port Authority board, said. “There is no plan regarding her job status.”

The Port Authority hires the Kootenai River Development Council to handle economic development in Lincoln County.

According to the police report, Oliphant strongly smelled of alcohol, had bloodshot eyes and had trouble standing and walking. Upon inspection of Oliphant’s car, the highway patrol officer found an open carton of wine on the floorboard. Oliphant’s car was found parked at a pullout on Highway 2 near mile-marker No. 22.

Oliphant posted $850 bond and retained Kalispell attorney Scott G. Hilderman. A jury trial is set for Sept. 3.

Lincoln County Commissioner Tony Berget, who serves on the Port Authority board, said he was unaware of the arrest. Peck said he was unaware that Oliphant had a previous conviction for DUI.

“Each commissioner is on our board in some manner, but we don’t see them much,” Peck said. “Our background check was related to her work life. I don’t know if we do a criminal background check.”

A conversation with Brent McCully, director of operations with KRDC, revealed that he was unaware of Oliphant’s arrest. McCully said Oliphant was out of town for the week and was not available.

“I believe she is out of town on business,” McCully said.

Messages left with Port Authority chairman Jim Mayo were not returned.