COOLIN — The Bonner County Zoning Commission approved a 23-lot subdivision off Sherwood Beach in Coolin during a Dec. 18 meeting. 

The approval received three votes in favor, with Commissioner Michelle Johnson abstaining from the vote. Approval of the file includes a condition that will require the project applicants to obtain a traffic impact study, which will examine how the proposed development will affect local traffic patterns.   

Yoman Bluffs subdivision is expected to sit on approximately 38 acres, consisting of 23 residential lots, ranging in size from 1 to 2 acres, and three tracts. Located off Sherwood Beach Drive in Coolin, the proposed subdivision is zoned Recreational.  

According to the staff report on the file, one tract will be used as a sewer easement, while the other two will be for common open space.  

The development will be served by individual septic systems, with an HOA-owned water system. According to the staff report, a sewer will be installed adjacent to the lots for future use once the Coolin Sewer District lifts its moratorium.  

Public comment was largely opposed to the proposal, with residents citing concerns about potential sewer contamination and road damage that could result from the addition of 23 homes. 

One resident referenced “common sense,” saying that the county is already short on resources, especially with the increased development in the area. She also said that the roads and utilities have been impacted by the increase in residents, specifically during the summer months.  

“I can’t imagine fire trucks having to get in there (connecting road) with 23 additional homes,” the resident said.  

Applicants of the file, in rebuttal of public concerns, stated that a professional was hired on the project to make sure the proposed subdivision complied with county standards.  

“There’s always going to be people who don’t want development in their backyard, but there’s reasons there are standards. We did our best to comply and make a subdivision that will be an asset to the community,” applicant John Mandere said.