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Spa told to close over code violations

DILLON -- Elkhorn Hot Springs was ordered to shut down this week after a state inspector reported finding 31 fire code violations at the facility.

But the owners said the problems were exaggerated and vowed to keep the facility open.

The Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest suspended the permit that allows the hot springs, about 45 miles northwest of Dillon, to operate on U.S. Forest Service land until it fixes the problems.

They include exposed wiring, lack of fire escapes and cracked chimneys, said John Strandell, investigations bureau chief for the Montana Department of Justice.

"These aren't minor problems that can be overlooked," he said. "They're very, very serious issues that need to be corrected."

He said state officials first discovered the violations last summer and gave the owners time to fix them.

"Our whole intent here is just for them to take this matter seriously and do the things that are required there as a public building," he said. "This would be no different than we do for any other public building throughout the state."

Orville Lovaas, who owns the buildings with his wife, Patty, said the state is grossly overstating the problems. His family has owned the lodge and 15 rustic cabins at the hot springs for a decade and has never been accused of violating any fire codes, he said.

"We have improved everything since we've had it, and now it's come up that this is a life-threatening situation?" Orville Lovaas said. "It's been this way for 50 years."

In a letter to the state, Patty Lovaas added the true fire hazard is unhealthy forest conditions, which she says are bound to start a wildfire.

The two vowed to contest the allegations and stay open.

"It's going to be a fight. I guarantee you that," Orville Lovaas said.

Published on Saturday, May 13, 2006.
Last modified on 5/13/2006 at 12:56 am

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