By Mike Behary, Director of Community Development
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-ever 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/
