POST FALLS, Idaho – Some neighbors that reside near Marina 33 continue to voice concerns after an expansion project at the marina was approved by the Idaho Department of Lands (IDL).
The project was approved in February and is led by Stancraft Companies. The goal of the project is to expand the existing marina at the former Red Lion Templin’s Hotel.
“Our attorney filed with the judge in the court system. And so, it’s against IDL’s decision… to stop the permit of Stancraft,” Sheri Scofield, a neighbor opposed to the project, said.
Sheri and Scott Scofield live across the river from Marina 33 and said they filed their appeal in court on May 5.
They formed an LLC in opposition to the marina expansion project with other neighbors in the area.
The project would add over 100 new boat slips, increase fuel service and build a new ship store.
The Scofields argue that the project will overcrowd an already narrow section of the river that is prone to near-collisions and shoreline damage.
“The river already has four or five 300 ft choke points. So, this river is very narrow and it’s very shallow… This is going to be a highly trafficked area for boats. And it’s not uncommon to have 30 to 40 ft boats to come through here,” Scott Scofield said.
NonStop Local reached out to Stancraft Companies and spoke with a Marina 33 project manger. He told NonStop Local that there is a lot of excitement around the project, but declined to comment any further.
NonStop Local also spoke with Post Falls Mayor, Ron Jacobson. He is in favor of the project, however, said the city has no jurisdiction over this.
“I just want to see property brought back… It’s approved. Personally, it’s not going to affect me one way or the other. But, I very much understand the concerns the citizens have expressed… I do understand where they’re coming from,” Mayor Jacobson said.
He added that the city met with neighboring agencies and IDL to better understand concerns and find solutions to deal with traffic on the river.
IDL told NonStop Local that all they could confirm is that a Petition for Judicial Review was filed in court on March 17.
In the meantime, the Scofields are working to rally more neighbors and raise money to handle the legal fees to block the project.
“We want to preserve our river. We want to preserve the quality of the river, the safety of the river, for the people who live off the river too,” Sheri Scofield said.
A public hearing regarding this matter will be held at the Kootenai County Administration Building on May 28 at 3 p.m.
