PROPOSAL: Poleline predicament

As a Post Falls resident, the column concerning the local Planning Commission’s decision permitting a 300-unit apartment complex on Poleline east of Hwy 41 is disturbing.

As one of many concerned about escalating traffic congestion, I was frustrated to read about another development, one to yield 550+ vehicles. Two-lane Poleline lacks sidewalks/shoulders, creating safety concerns, and I often wait through several traffic light cycles to enter Hwy 41.

I challenge City staff and Commission members to observe and walk on Poleline during various weekday times before rubbing salt into an open congestion wound. Further, consider updating the Traffic Master Plan after data gathering and interviewing residents. I am not anti-development and understand the financial realities of city government. I’m simply asking that you grant permits after considering all factors and potential outcomes.

The column mentioned that a consultant to the developer is a Commission member who presented the case for the permit, and that fact was not disclosed at the hearing. Perhaps this is the greatest concern for residents. Idaho Statute 67-6506 - Conflict of Interest Prohibited in Local Land Use Planning - prevents a Commission member participating “in any proceeding or action when the member has an economic interest in the procedure or action. Any actual or potential interest in any proceeding shall be disclosed at or before any meeting at which the action is being heard or considered. A knowing violation shall be a misdemeanor.”

Isolated incident or accepted practice in Post Falls?

D. JAMES

Post Falls