MY TURN: Support for preserving downtown Cd'A

On Jan. 31, 2024, City Council member Dan Gookin wrote an opinion piece regarding the recent approval of a Marriott Hotel contemplated for downtown Coeur d'Alene. Mr. Gookin called for residents of Coeur d'Alene to assist him in preserving the historic nature, charm and beauty of our downtown. I support Mr. Gookin in this quest. 

The city has not engaged its residents in important dialogue regarding the impact such a decision will have on our city. No analysis has been required regarding the impact to parking, traffic, lighting, wind and access to McEuen Park. Further, the Marriott's design is not unique to Coeur d'Alene. It looks like any other Marriott in the country. This is an insult to the unique character of our downtown.

The Goals and Objectives of the City's Comprehensive Plan, Goal CI section 1 states, "The CdA citizens are well informed, responsive and involved in community discussions."

Section 1.1 states, "Foster broad based and inclusive community involvement for actions affecting business and residents to promote community unity and involvement."

These goals have not been met when a significant project can be approved by the Design Review Committee and the city planning staff with no opportunity for the community to be involved until the plans are set in place. 

What is the purpose of issuing a public comment notice if true community sentiment is not considered in the decision-making process? This seems to be a perfunctory way to follow legal protocol. The intent of the legal protocol has not been served. This breeds distrust, fractionalizes our community and is contrary to the Goals and Objectives stated in the city's Comprehensive Plan.

The city standards for such a project were developed nearly 20 years ago. Our community is quite different all these years later. In order to serve our community in a contemporary way, analysis of the impact to the community must be required alongside the specific building design. 

I call on the Mayor and City Council members to reconsider the design of the contemplated building and consider a forthcoming design appeal. Further, I call on the Mayor and City Council members to update our city standards to require an impact analysis for projects of this size and scope.

These steps will help us preserve our unique community. Please email the Mayor and City Council members to support revising our city's building standards and require parking, traffic and scope impact on our community. Attend a City Council meeting to express your opinion. Support City Council member Dan Gookin in his quest to revise the city's standards. Let your voice be heard.

• • •