OUR GEM: Help shape the future of Kootenai County

Kootenai County is inviting residents to help shape the future of their community by participating in the update of the county’s comprehensive plan and the development of the county’s first Parks & Waterways Plan.

These long-range planning efforts will help guide growth, recreation, infrastructure, land use, transportation, housing and economic development decisions over the next 20 years. Most importantly, the plans are being built with public input at the center of the process. 

The comprehensive plan specifically applies to the unincorporated areas of Kootenai County, those areas outside incorporated city limits. The plan serves as a policy guide for future development and investment decisions and is required under Idaho law. It establishes a shared vision for how the county should grow while preserving the character, quality of life and natural resources that make North Idaho unique. The plan also helps County officials make informed decisions regarding zoning, roads, emergency services, utilities, public facilities and future development proposals. 

Kootenai County has experienced significant growth over the past several years. As more families, businesses and visitors continue to move to the area, thoughtful planning becomes increasingly important. The updated comprehensive plan will help the county balance growth with the protection of property rights, rural character, natural landscapes and the overall quality of life valued by residents throughout the region. 

At the same time, Kootenai County is creating its first Parks & Waterways Plan to evaluate current recreation facilities and identify future needs for parks, trails, waterways, open spaces and public access opportunities. The plan will help determine where improvements may be needed, identify service gaps and prioritize future recreational investments as the county continues to grow. 

The Parks & Waterways Plan will also examine how residents and visitors use existing recreational assets and waterways throughout the county. Public feedback will help identify priorities for future improvements, including recreational access, trail connectivity, park amenities and preservation of natural resources. The goal is to create a balanced and sustainable recreation system that serves residents today while planning for future generations. 

Community participation is essential to both planning efforts. Residents are encouraged to complete the online survey and share their thoughts about growth, recreation, transportation, housing, public services and the future of Kootenai County. Public feedback will help guide decision-making and ensure the plans reflect the values and priorities of the community. 

The survey can be accessed at: Keeping Kootenai website, https://keepingkootenai.com/ 

Mike Behary is the Director of Community Development for Kootenai County.

The Our Gem Coeur d’Alene Lake Collaborative is a team of committed and passionate professionals working to preserve lake health and protect water quality by promoting community awareness of local water resources through education, outreach and stewardship. Our Gem includes local experts from the University of Idaho – Idaho Water Resources Research Institute, Coeur d’Alene Tribe, Idaho Department of Environmental Quality, the Basin Environmental Improvement Project Commission, Kootenai Environmental Alliance, Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber of Commerce and Kootenai County.