9/24/26 Planning and Zoning Commission Workshop

The Kootenai County Idaho Planning and Zoning Commission held a workshop on September 24, 2026, focusing primarily on comprehensive plan updates related to natural resources, land use policies, and zoning regulations. Key procurement-related discussions included the review of a proposed contract with ALTA Engineering to conduct a study on surface mining impacts over the county's aquifer, specifically to determine appropriate setback distances to protect groundwater quality. Commissioners expressed concerns about the scope and adequacy of the study, emphasizing the need for site-specific data and clear recommendations on minimum vertical setbacks to groundwater. The commission also discussed zoning setback amendments in restricted residential zones, particularly addressing variance requests for properties created before 1973 and those with challenging topography. They considered options to adjust setback standards to reduce the frequency and cost of variance requests while protecting neighborhood character. The commission agreed to table the zoning setback amendments for further study, including slope-based criteria, and to seek clarification from the Aquifer Protection Board regarding the ALTA contract scope to ensure it meets the county's data needs before proceeding. No votes were taken, but action items include further staff analysis on zoning amendments and follow-up with the Aquifer Protection Board on the mining study contract. The next meeting is scheduled for October 22, 2026.