The Kootenai County Board of County Commissioners meeting on May 8, 2025, highlighted significant concerns regarding the development of an RV park and related expenses. A key discussion point involved a property owner expressing frustration over miscommunication with their planner, Mr. Kimball, regarding the project’s requirements and costs.

The property owner revealed that they were initially assured by their consultant that the RV park would not encounter significant issues or expenses. However, as the project progressed, unexpected costs emerged, including a $500,000 septic system requirement that was disclosed only late in the application process. This revelation prompted the owner to question the reliability of the initial guidance provided.

Additionally, the owner raised concerns about a deeded access issue that was not communicated until the day of the Conditional Use Permit (CUP) hearing. They were informed that access to the property would need to be removed, which could have severely impacted the project. Fortunately, with the help of their attorney, the owner was able to address this issue before it became a significant setback.

The discussion also touched on the ongoing operation of a boat storage facility associated with the RV park. The owner expressed confusion over restrictions related to boat maintenance and washing, which they were unaware of until recently. This lack of communication has left the owner uncertain about the future of their business and the next steps to take.

The meeting underscored the importance of clear communication between developers and county planners to avoid costly misunderstandings and ensure that projects can proceed smoothly. The board's response to these concerns and any potential changes to the planning process will be closely watched by those involved in similar developments in Kootenai County.