10/22/26 Planning and Zoning Commissioner: Community Development

The Kootenai County Planning and Zoning Commission held a workshop on October 22, 2026. It approved the September 24 workshop minutes. During the comprehensive plan update, the consultant presented draft natural-resources policies addressing groundwater quantity and quality, habitat, soils, and implementation priorities. Staff also reported that park-improvement concepts for county-owned properties are being developed, but no funding or procurement decisions were discussed. A proposed setback amendment would provide reduced setbacks for parcels created before January 3, 1973; commissioners discussed public feedback and alternatives, including a possible administrative exception. The item is expected to go to a public hearing on December 10 at 6 p.m.; no amendment was adopted at the workshop.

The commission also reviewed draft data-center zoning approaches, including how to define micro data centers, whether they would require administrative approval or a conditional use permit, and whether larger facilities should be prohibited. Members emphasized limiting unintended effects on hospitals and other businesses while protecting the Rathdrum Prairie aquifer. Staff will further review definitions and consult county IT staff and other sources before the issue proceeds. No contracts, vendor selections, spending approvals, or other procurement actions were identified; an aquifer study was described as already underway, with no new study award decided.