Sandpoint officials warn of scam email requesting payment of development fees

By Reader Staff

City Hall is cautioning residents to be wary of a scam that purports to collect fees related to development applications.

According to a news release, a local developer received an email message apparently from the Planning and Zoning Commission providing details of the proposed development and requesting payment of fees.

Sandpoint Mayor Jeremy Grimm said the scam is again making the rounds, and advised recipients to “always double-check the sender’s email address, scrutinize any message requesting payment or sensitive information, and, if in doubt, pick up the phone and call the person who sent it.”

So far no recipient of the scam message has reported losing any funds. However, Grimm added, “The public needs to be aware that these scams are prevalent. These types of email messages can come across as entirely genuine, reflecting an urgency that could compel even the most vigilant among us to act.”