Post Falls marina project draws opposition

A proposed expansion of Marina 33 at the former Red Lion Templin's Hotel on the River faced public scrutiny Thursday night during a hearing at Coeur d'Alene High School.

The hearing attended by about 25 people was triggered by some opposition to an Idaho Department of Lands application. It focused on plans by new owner StanCraft to add 100 boat slips to the existing marina. StanCraft purchased the 1986 waterfront property earlier this year.

Administrative law judge Merritt Dublin, who emphasized her independence from IDL, presided over the hearing. During the evidentiary portion, audience members sought to challenge statements made in StanCraft counsel Scott Hislop's presentation.

The expansion application, filed through 414 PF Hospitality, LLC, outlines plans to "expand the existing commercial marina including private moorage, reconfigure existing fuel lines with two new dispensaries and build a new ship store on the Spokane River." The project would also relocate the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office boat garage.

Resident Scott Scofield expressed concerns about the additional boat slips before the meeting began.

In written testimony, Post Falls resident Darren Mabe argued the expansion was "in direct conflict with the interests of every homeowner on the river and those citizens who already use the Spokane River for recreation."

Mike Ahmer, representing IDL, clarified the department's jurisdiction during the hearing. He said IDL cannot regulate the brightness of lighting or the number of boats on the river, two concerns raised by residents in an Oct. 28 letter that prompted the hearing.

Barbara Erbes, a six-year riverfront resident, noted changes she's already observed. 

"Does the Spokane River have no limit? How far will the ecosystem be stressed before it's too far?" she asked in written testimony, citing decreased non-motorized activity on the waterway.

The IDL is accepting public comments on the marina expansion proposal through Friday.

    Mike Ahmer presented on behalf of the Department of Lands during an administrative hearing concerning Marina 33 in Post Falls Wednesday night at Coeur d'Alene High School.
  

    Scott Hislop, counsel for StanCraft, presented during a Department of Lands administrative hearing concerning Marina 33 in Post Falls Wednesday night at Coeur d'Alene High School.