Gate could block proposed subdivision

COEUR d’ALENE — Debate over a gate could block a proposed subdivision.

Next month, Kootenai County commissioners will reconsider the matter of Lakestone Estates, a proposed 24-home subdivision that would sit on 8 acres in Bayview.

County code requires that access be provided to the road with the lowest functional classification serving a proposed subdivision. For that reason, plans were made to open Fir Road as a secondary exit and entrance to the subdivision.

A narrow road with no shoulders or sidewalks, Fir Road would become a throughway leading to Highway 54.

Many residents objected to a throughway, while Lakes Highway District supported it on the grounds that it would provide better traffic circulation for the area.

Sheryl Puckett is one of the Bayview residents who urged commissioners not to allow a throughway.

“The increased traffic would disrupt the neighborhood,” Puckett said. “It really would. A thoroughfare through our neighborhood would create traffic safety issues, decrease property values and degrade our quality of life.”

County commissioners cast a split vote April 13 to approve the subdivision with the condition that the developer install a gate at the through road with a code for residents and emergency vehicles to access. The gate would prevent the general public from using the subdivision as a throughway.

Bill Brooks cast the dissenting vote, expressing disapproval of the subdivision.

“A subdivision like this does not fit well in the Bayview community,” he said. “It’s a nice project but I’m going to vote against it.”

Since then, Lakes Highway District has reportedly informed the county that it is unwilling to accept a gate. Eric Shanley, director of highways, could not be reached for comment Thursday.

Pat Braden, legal counsel for the county, said the highway district has leverage. It can withhold approach permits or refuse to sign off on the plat, effectively killing the project.

When community development director David Callahan brought the matter to county commissioners this week, Bruce Mattare noted the efforts of Bayview residents to block a thoroughfare.

Suzette McGoldrick reportedly collected 415 signatures from citizens who opposed opening up Fir Road.

"This intersection has parked boat trailers, swimmers, kids, dogs, canoes, Lake House Restaurant traffic, float house guests, fishing derby guests, pedestrians, golf carts and 25,000 visitors all on our launch area and water front. Do we want 50 more cars tearing through our 4x5 grid side streets?" wrote McGoldrick on the online petition at petitions.eko.org.

“At what point do the people in the community not have a voice?” Mattare said.

“They have a voice,” said Commissioner Leslie Duncan. “They have elections coming up in May and they can replace those board members.”

Lakes Highway District commissioners are expected to discuss the gate during their May 1 meeting, at the request of residents.

Kootenai County commissioners will take up the matter again May 11.