City Council approves billboard relocation while debating regulatory changes

Coeur d'Alene City Council has taken a significant step towards streamlining business regulations following a heated discussion on the relocation of billboards during their February 4, 2025, meeting. The council approved a motion to relocate and digitize a two-sided billboard to 3119 North Second Street, despite some dissent among council members regarding the complexity of the application process.

Councilman Gookin raised concerns about the cumbersome nature of the billboard relocation application compared to other businesses, such as massage parlors and liquor stores, which require simpler forms. He emphasized the need for the city to consider deregulation to make the process more business-friendly, aligning with broader trends at the state and federal levels.

The discussion also touched on the potential for revisiting the ordinance governing these applications. Council members expressed a desire to evaluate the current regulations to ensure they are not overly burdensome for businesses. Councilwoman Kiki suggested that both the option to amend the ordinance and the possibility of repealing it should be on the agenda for future meetings, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to regulation.

The council's decision to approve the billboard relocation reflects a commitment to adapt city policies to better support local businesses while also addressing concerns about maintaining community standards. As the council prepares to revisit the ordinance, stakeholders can expect further discussions aimed at refining the regulatory framework to foster a more conducive environment for business growth in Coeur d'Alene.