Hanes_dh.doc

March 24, 2000

Gary Hanes
PO Box 20
Winchester, ID 83555

Re: Abandonment of the Grangeville Line

Dear Gary:

Pursuant to our telephone conversation today, I have enclosed several documents for your information. The first document is the “draft” Environmental and Historical Report (EHR) prepared by Camas Prairie RailNet. I apologize for the previous copy that’s hard to read. I have also included for your review a copy of the comments to the draft EHR submitted by the DEQ, Idaho Transportation Department, and the State Historical Society. Finally, I have included a copy of the sign-up sheet from last Wednesday night’s meeting.

I am pleased to learn that you have been retained by John Bennett to organize local interests to oppose the abandonment of the Grangeville line. As I indicated in my telephone conversation, you may want to consider retaining Tom McFarland for his legal expertise in these matters. I can attest that Tom is an extremely knowledgeable expert in these matters and we have worked well together in opposing abandonments.

If you have further questions regarding rail line abandonments or you believe that it would be advantageous for me to meet with your group when it forms, please contact me at [phone]. Good luck in organizing the opponents to the abandonment.

Sincerely yours,

Donald L. Howell, II
Deputy Attorney General

Enclosures

Cc: Ron Law
Vld/L:Haines_dh