Residents turn out in opposition of marina expansion in Post Falls

POST FALLS — Post Falls Mayor Ron Jacobson addressed a crowd of concerned residents at Tuesday's City Council meeting regarding the proposed expansion of Marina 33 at Red Lion Templin's Hotel on the River.

"I know what the majority of you are here for," Jacobson said. "The city of Post Falls has no purview over the approval or the denial of expansion of the marina at Templin's, that is something we have no control over."

The mayor noted that he and several council members had received emails from residents opposing StanCraft's proposed marina expansion. Four residents — Scott and Sheryl Scofield, Jose Jara and Dick Teich — had formally filed for an administrative hearing to contest the proposal.

The application by 414 PF Hospitality seeks to expand the commercial marina, which would include some private moorage, reconfigured fuel lines and a new ship store on the Spokane River. The project would add approximately 100 boat slips to the existing 185, according to marina documents submitted to Administrative Law Judge Merritt Dublin.

Despite the city's public comment rules requiring discussion of city-related issues only, Jacobson allowed the group to select a spokesperson to present their concerns during the standard five-minute comment period. Sheryl Scofield, one of the original hearing petitioners, spoke for the group.

Scofield emphasized that opponents support property redevelopment and slip redesigns but oppose adding 100 new slips.

"The reason we came here was that the citizens have to have outlets," Scofield said. She expressed concerns about waterway congestion and safety, citing accidents and near-misses witnessed by residents. The group took particular issue with a letter from Jacobson, included in the initial StanCraft hearing materials, supporting additional slips and development of a public boardwalk.

"We are saying you guys have the ability to influence because you are our leaders," Scofield told the council. She warned that if StanCraft's appeal succeeds, Edgewater might seek similar expansion. 

"It's profit over the people's water," she added.

Jacobson clarified his position: While he supports the property's development, he hasn't taken a stance on the marina expansion. 

"I grew up swimming in that river," he said. "I used to be able to swim up and down the river and never have to worry about a boat. I wouldn't jump off the dock at this point, I know it is an issue."

The proposal is currently under judicial review. A final order is due Feb. 14. Residents opposing the expansion are exploring their options should the hearing favor the proposal. StanCraft officials declined to comment.