ZONING: Dock request is lacking

Zoning is a major decision made by government. Zoning establishes land value and sets a precedent for development. The test for approving zoning is compatibility. Is the zoning compatible with existing zoning and uses in the area? If it is, then any use permitted by the zoning designation should be acceptable.

The commercial zoning code states: “1. Any wholesale, retail or service business.” If a use is approved then terminated for any reason, any other use listed in the zoning category is permitted by right without further review. The question is not do we approve a specific use, but rather is every use listed in the zoning category acceptable for this property? If not, then the zoning request should be denied.

A function of government is encouraging a viable economy. It is not providing a competitive advantage for one business over another.

Boat sellers may prefer being located on the water, but not all are. It should be the same with dock builders. A place to load dock construction materials on a barge is necessary. Storing building materials at the water’s edge is not. Barges need some propulsion to be moved; typically power boats are used which create wakes and potentially may leak gas and oil. Wolf Lodge Bay may not be the best location for this type activity.

There are 11 code criteria for a zone change, most of which do not appear to be satisfied with this dock builder’s proposal.

PHIL WARD, AICP

Coeur d’Alene