Wake story was wrong; here's what happened

In a 2-1 vote Tuesday afternoon, the Kootenai County commissioners affirmed Parks and Waterways Resolution 2021-63, effectively making the Spokane River a no excessive wake zone.

The Press article Wednesday, “County: Different waterways, different rules” was incorrect.

The vote by commissioners approved the resolution as published except for the Fernan and Lower Twin Lakes provisions.

Those waterways will retain the 150-foot no excessive wake ordinance initially implemented by Kootenai County commissioners in May 2020.

Under Resolution 2021-63, which will apply to the entirety of the Spokane River area, an “excessive wake” is defined as “the wave resulting from continuous operation of a vessel: At the speed at which boats create the most wake, moving quickly and displacing the most water, i.e., plowing;

In an artificially bow-high manner to increase or enhance a wake, including wake enhancement by use of ballast, mechanical hydrofoils, uneven loading; or

To cause water to lap onto or over a dock, pier, or other lawfully permitted encroachment;.”

The decision came after two hours of public comment, mainly in opposition to the ordinance, on Monday. In response, Commissioner Bill Brooks said he felt the board should send the amended document back to the drawing board.

However, after a public member pressed for a decision on Fernan and Lower Twin Lakes, Brooks agreed to approve the resolution if it struck the two waterways from the language.

Commissioner Chris Fillios said the resolution is expected to go into effect Aug. 5.

The Press apologizes for any confusion caused by the information in the Wednesday article. Recordings of the public hearing and related meetings are available online through kcgov.us.