A comprehensive plan that could shape the next 20 years in Post Falls brought together the city's Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council on Tuesday.

The document serves as a guide for city leaders to capture “the needs, priorities, and aspirations of the entire community — both today and for future generations,” Planning Manager Jon Manley said.  

The plan focuses on long-term land use and infrastructure policy, baseline data and key trends shaping Post Falls’ future.  

The conversation between officials and community members turned to housing needs. Looking at a gap in middle-income housing, some asked whether cottage homes might pose a solution. 

“What are the barriers to get these realized if they’re desirable?” Manley asked. 

The question, “how would you describe Post Falls today?” was met with answers including bedroom community, crowded and transitioning.

Participants were then asked to consider how they envision Post Falls 20 years from now. Terms such as safe, home, stable and walkable were among the replies from the audience. 

Responses about challenges Post Falls could face in the next 20 years covered cooperation, cost, anti-growth attitudes, affordability, conflicting visions and not in my backyard feelings about change. 

The comp plan will be finalized over the next year and a half.

Manley said an advisory committee will be formed “to represent the diverse interests and perspectives within the community” while supporting the planning and zoning commission.