Resort proposal will get 2nd hearing
COEUR d’ALENE — A Hayden-area proposal for a boutique hotel, camping sites and outdoor event amenities will get a second public hearing after an examiner recommended denial of the project.
Kootenai County commissioners on Thursday tentatively agreed to April 12 for the hearing on a conditional-use permit request from Steve and LeAnne Larsen, members of Mountain Air LLC, for the property off Dodd Road.
The intent is to allow activities such as camping, educational programs associated with agritourism and weddings on 20 acres just west of Hayden Lake Road.
"The grounds for this request are such that the operation of this resort will take into account the best interests of the public by providing an additional campground to service the tourist attractions," states a project narrative submitted by the planning firm Verdis on behalf of the owners.
The property is 2 miles from Sportsman’s Park Road, a public access on Hayden Lake, and 11 miles south of Silverwood Theme Park.
However, the proposal was opposed by several neighbors during a hearing by the hearing examiner earlier on Feb. 1.
"Mountain Air Resort would like to profit in a way that is not intended for the agricultural property in question," neighbor Ken Locke wrote in a letter of opposition. "At our expense, we all stand to lose the ability to peacefully enjoy our properties and the county will open itself up to unexpected liability. A commercial property has no place in our area of the county."
Commissioners Marc Eberlein and Chris Fillios agreed to grant the applicant’s request for another public hearing. Commissioner Bob Bingham abstained from voting due to a conflict of interest.
"I have a relationship with one of the neighbors that I do believe would interfere with my judgment," Bingham said.
Twenty-eight tent sites and four recreational vehicle sites are proposed for the resort. They would have power only, with no individual water hookups, wastewater connections or a dump station. Two restrooms with sinks, septic tanks and drainfields for the camping area would be constructed. Showers would not be included.
A gazebo is planned as a central place for group campers to come together for meals and games.
Weddings for about 125 people, family reunions and church events are examples of what could be held at the site.
The application states that a 30-by-20-foot amphitheater would be for the resort’s customers. A retail store for the campers may eventually be added. No restaurants, bars, laundry facilities or fuel services are planned.
Quiet hours would be enforced after 10 p.m.
The current residence on the property at 5245 E. Dodd Road is operated as a five-room bed and breakfast but would grow into a 10-room boutique hotel, according to the narrative.