Cabin proposal to get public hearing

The Kootenai County commissioners delayed deliberations on a proposed chain of cabins by Hayden Lake on Thursday, instead voting unanimously for a public hearing on the matter.

Applicant Nielson Ventures, LLC requested the hearing to present why the Nielson family thinks its proposal should be approved, according to county staff.

The county has not set a date yet for the public hearing.

Nielson Ventures LLC, managed by Jeff Nielson, is seeking a conditional-use permit to establish a private, family-owned resort on an undeveloped 50 acres on Henry Point.

The site is on the northeastern shores of Hayden Lake.

The Nielson family, which has vacationed at the spot for generations, would construct up to 28 private homes or cabins over the next 30 years.

Jeff Nielson wrote in an e-mail that Nielson Ventures will submit a project narrative to the county in about a week. It will be further discussed at the hearing.

"We believe that this will be helpful to them (the commissioners) as they deliberate our case," Nielson wrote.

The commissioners agreed they were open to hearing the applicant's information.

"I think if people request a hearing, they should have that opportunity," said Commissioner Dan Green.