Surveys show Kootenai County residents prioritize open space preservation

According to a study just released by the Coeur d’Alene Area Economic Development Corporation, Panhandle Affordable Housing Alliance, and the University of Idaho titled “Next Steps: The Updated Housing Availability and Affordability Study,” Kootenai County from 2010 to 2020 experienced 17.3% growth, making it the third fastest growing county in Idaho. From 2021 to 2022, Idaho grew 1.82% making it the second fastest-growing state in the country. Idaho’s population reached 1.939 million, and that number continues to grow as people move to this beautiful area.

Recent surveys conducted by what was formerly known as the Regional Housing Growth Issues Partnership, now Connect Kootenai, in 2021 and 2023 show that open space preservation is a top priority for Kootenai County residents. As a result of the survey, a committee was formed to dive deeper into ways to preserve and protect open space. When you take into consideration that Kootenai County’s housing deficit (which means the shortage of homes needed for the volume of current and incoming residents) is between 4,938 units to as high as 7,000 units, the subject of open space becomes even more relevant.

Preservation of open space could provide many wonderful attributes such as connecting trails, providing recreational opportunities, protecting drinking water, and preventing over-utilization of the wastewater treatment plants and water districts in our area. The preservation of existing open space, without attention and action, may be lost to development. Open space is essential for future generations of Idahoans to enjoy the majestic beauty of Kootenai County. Protecting open space above the Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer would add a layer of protection and preservation to our drinking water supply.

Growth and development challenges have been in the spotlight in Kootenai County for many years. In 2008, Kootenai County officials began to address transportation and infrastructure concerns and work to protect the drinking water supply provided by one of the Pacific Northwest’s largest sole-source aquifers.

County Commissioners want to put the power in the hands of voters. In the upcoming bond election, voters will decide whether to invest in the preservation of open space through this bond. A two-thirds vote is required for passage of the $50 million bond on the Nov. 7 ballot.

The goal is to purchase land to preserve natural open spaces for recreational purposes and public use. The most important focus is the Rathdrum Prairie, one of the most threatened areas. By preserving the land on the Rathdrum Prairie that sits above our aquifer, we would protect this clean groundwater source. In addition, funding would be allocated to provide connection of existing trails, dog parks, and community gathering places to enhance the quality of life for our residents.

If the bond passes, the Kootenai County Parks and Waterways Director, under the direction of the Commissioners, would work with the Open Space and Park Development Citizens Advisory Board to provide recommendations to the Commissioners regarding the acquisition of property and the cost necessary to provide those amenities to the public. All meetings regarding proposed purchases of property will be open to the public. 

Please visit: Frequently Asked Questions — Kootenai County Open Space Bond Info (kcbondinfo.com) for more information.

Become an educated voter.

For registration and voting information, please visit the Kootenai County Elections website: kcgov.us/917/Election-Information-November.

Kootenai County's commitment to preserving open space, enhancing recreational opportunities, and safeguarding vital resources is a reflection of its dedication to maintaining the well-being and quality of life of the County’s residents.

The Our Gem Coeur d’Alene Lake Collaborative is a team of committed and passionate professionals working to preserve lake health and protect water quality by promoting community awareness of local water resources through education, outreach, and stewardship. Our Gem includes local experts from the University of Idaho Community Water Resource Center, Coeur d’Alene Tribe, Idaho Department of Environmental Quality, Basin Environmental Improvement Project Commission, Kootenai Environmental Alliance, Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber of Commerce and Connect Kootenai.

Greta Gissel is the executive director of Connect Kootenai.