Public Meetings - Post Falls, Idaho

The Post Falls City Council met on January 21, 2026, to address a range of items including a proclamation for America 250, approval of a design contract for the Fisher Lift Station project, introduction of an electronic storage detection dog for the police department, and citizen comments about local history. The meeting also included an executive session and a motion to table a discussion on adding an invocation to council agendas. Proclamation and Announcements - America 250 Proclamation: Mayor Randy Westland proclaimed 2026 as the year Post Falls joins the nation in celebrating America's 250th anniversary. Representatives from the Post Falls Historical Society (Catherine McClintick, Carol Yoast) and the Daughters of the American Revolution (Kathy Swanson) accepted the proclamation. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (5-0): Minutes of the January 6, 2026 City Council meeting; Payables for January 7-20, 2026; November Cash and Investments; West Fork Townhome Subdivision Final Plat; Kildare Meadows Subdivision Final Plat. Public Comments & Testimony - Kim Brown, Past President of the Post Falls Historical Society, thanked the council for the proclamation and urged public engagement with local history. She announced upcoming events: a heritage food festival on May 30, 2026, oral video history projects with the Idaho State Historical Society, and a living history presentation featuring George Washington. She noted that Post Falls has several National Register historic sites on city property and encouraged the council to promote heritage preservation. Discussion Items - Fisher Lift Station Design Contract: Jackson Fleshman, project manager, presented a design and engineering services agreement with Welch Comer Engineers for $350,790 (including 10% contingency). The existing Fisher Lift Station (constructed 2002) will be replaced by a regional station on an adjacent site purchased in 2023-2024. The project addresses high-priority improvements from the 2019 collection system master plan and will increase capacity to serve future development. Funding will come from capacity fees, with a possible analysis of using maintenance funds for condition-driven improvements. Council discussed the decommissioning of the Guy Road Lift Station, capacity fee usage, and potential land use after decommissioning. The total project cost is estimated at $3.5 million. - Canine Agreement for ESD Dog Uno: The council introduced Detective Jason Cope and his new partner Uno, a 3.5-year-old yellow lab trained to detect electronic devices. Uno was obtained at no cost through the Secret Service program; the city is responsible for ongoing veterinary care and food. The dog will assist in investigations, particularly Internet Crimes Against Children cases, and can locate hidden electronics such as tracking devices. Council members expressed appreciation for the commitment and noted the regional benefit. Executive Session - The council unanimously voted to enter executive session for approximately 12 minutes pursuant to Idaho Code 74-206d to discuss records exempt from disclosure. No action was taken during the session. Key Outcomes - Approved: Engineering design services agreement with Welch Comer Engineers for the Fisher Lift Station (unanimous). - Approved: Canine agreement for Detective Jason Cope and ESD dog Uno (unanimous). - Tabled: Consideration of adding an invocation to council agendas was tabled to a future meeting (unanimous). - Other: The council noted a follow-up on the Harmony Place HOA issue raised at the previous meeting.

The Planning and Zoning Commission met on January 14, 2026, to consider two public hearings: a zone change for a medical campus and an annexation for single-family residential development. The commission also recognized outgoing Commissioner Walton and announced an upcoming joint workshop. Ceremonies and Announcements - National Rubber Ducky Day was recognized. - A joint workshop with City Council and the advisory committee was announced for February 17, 2026, to discuss a fiscal impact analysis for the comprehensive plan. - Commissioner Kibby Walton attended his last meeting; the commission thanked him for his service. An opening on the Planning and Zoning Commission was announced. Public Comments & Testimony - No public testimony was offered on the first hearing (Prairie Medical Zone Change). - On the second hearing (Prairie Annexation), Barb Hitts expressed concerns about traffic safety near bus stops and pedestrian crossings on Prairie Avenue and Lynn Street, noting that additional housing could exacerbate dangers. She urged the commission to consider these impacts. Discussion Items - Prairie Medical Zone Change (ZC25-2): Staff presented a request to rezone approximately 30.88 acres from Community Commercial Services (CCS) to Community Commercial Mixed (CCM) to allow a medical campus with a future hospital bed tower. The current CCS zone has a maximum height of 45 feet, while CCM allows up to 105 feet. Applicant Ben McGran described a phased development including a 14-bed emergency department, outpatient imaging, and medical office buildings, with the height increase intended to preserve open space and create a healing environment. The commission noted the site's location at a key intersection (Highway 41 and Prairie Avenue) and discussed infrastructure capacity, compatibility with the comprehensive plan, and a development agreement that will prohibit residential use on the site. - Prairie Annexation (ANNX25-5): Staff presented a request to annex approximately 20 acres and zone them R1 (single-family residential). The applicant, Drew Dittman, explained that this was the third application after previous denials by City Council. The commission discussed the site's location north of Prairie Avenue, compatibility with surrounding commercial and multifamily uses, traffic access via Lynn Street, and the benefits of infill development and right-of-way dedication. Public testimony raised safety concerns, and the applicant noted that subdivision planning would address school bus stops and pedestrian improvements. Key Outcomes - Prairie Medical Zone Change: A motion to recommend approval to City Council, finding the CCM zone consistent with approval criteria, passed unanimously (7-0). The recommendation will be forwarded to City Council for final action. - Prairie Annexation: A motion to recommend approval of R1 zoning to City Council, finding the request meets approval criteria, passed unanimously (7-0). The recommendation will be forwarded to City Council. - The meeting was adjourned.

The Post Falls City Council meeting on January 7, 2026 (convened on January 6 local time) included the swearing-in of a new mayor and councilor, filling a council vacancy, electing a council president, appointing two Urban Renewal Agency members, and addressing a citizen complaint regarding a homeowners association. The council also refuted inaccurate media reports about the appointment process. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the December 16, 2025 council meeting. - Approved accounts payable for December 17, 2025 through January 7, 2026. - Approved request to lease a Ricoh copier. - All three items passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Jasmine Reed (member of the Harmony Place HOA on Pleasant View and Idaho Street) described severe HOA governance problems: lack of records, delinquent dues (35%), a lost lawsuit, difficulty maintaining a board, and threats against board members. She requested city support to dissolve the HOA, noting that 70 of 100 homeowners favor dissolution. The mayor stated the city would investigate. Discussion Items - Agenda Clarification: Council President Joe Malloy clarified that Action Item 3 comprises two separate items: a meet-and-greet for Council Seat 5 and the election of a council president. - Mayor’s Statement on Appointment Process: Newly sworn Mayor Randy Westlin outlined state law procedures for filling a council vacancy, denied rumors of bypassing the council, and emphasized transparency (live-streamed interview). He nominated Jack Mosby as the sole candidate, asserting his duty to choose the best qualified person without a political show. - Interview & Appointment of Jack Mosby (Council Seat 5): Mosby, a civil litigation attorney and former Marine, shared his background and vision for Post Falls. He identified housing affordability and job creation as top priorities and expressed support for limited government and traditional values. Councilmembers questioned him about his political philosophy, growth management, and experience. He was appointed on a 4-1 vote (Councilor Ziggler dissented). - Election of Council President: Councilor Joe Malloy was nominated and elected council president unanimously. - Interview & Appointment of Joe Rodriguez (Urban Renewal Agency): Rodriguez, an economics/finance professional and small business owner, discussed his understanding of urban renewal and tax increment financing. He opposed using TIF for residential projects and supported focusing on job creation and blight remediation. Appointed unanimously. - Confirmation of Dominic Parmentier (Urban Renewal Agency, in absentia): Mayor Westlin requested confirmation despite Parmentier’s absence (out of the country), citing the need for a fully constituted board for upcoming officer elections. Some councilmembers expressed discomfort voting for an absent candidate, but after discussion (noting Parmentier’s 30 years of civil engineering experience), he was confirmed unanimously. - Council Member Comment Rebutting Media Criticism: Councilor Stigler (possibly Ziggler) delivered a detailed rebuttal to a January 2, 2026 letter in the CDA Press that criticized the appointment process. She pointed out factual inaccuracies, including that a public call for applications was made at the December 16 meeting, that the mayor’s nominee was subject to council vote, and that citizens could seek elections only for regular cycles. She defended the process and urged an end to internal conflict. Key Outcomes - Appointment of Jack Mosby to Council Seat 5: Approved 4-1 (Ziggler opposed). Mosby was sworn in immediately. - Election of Council President: Joe Malloy elected unanimously. - Appointment of Joe Rodriguez to Urban Renewal Agency: Approved unanimously. - Appointment of Dominic Parmentier to Urban Renewal Agency: Approved unanimously (in absentia). - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously. - Citizen Issue (HOA): No immediate action; mayor promised follow-up.

The meeting was called to order at 01:59:46 UTC (local time unspecified) on December 17, 2025. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by a Girl Scout from Troop 2472. The council removed a parade ordinance from the agenda. A Girl Scout representative honored Mayor Jacobson, and the new parks and recreation director was sworn in. The council unanimously approved a 16-item consent calendar, passed seven ordinances on first reading, and debated three new business items: an Urban Renewal Technology District Plan Amendment, a Crown Reserve Park Construction Improvement Agreement, and a Quarry Sports Complex sewer easement. Citizen comments highlighted the Holidays and Heroes program and urged fairness in council vacancy appointments. Retiring Parks and Recreation Director Dave Fair delivered a farewell presentation on the department’s growth and future needs. Council members gave farewell remarks to outgoing Mayor Jacobson and Councilmember Davis. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the December 2, 2025, council meeting; accounts payable December 3–17, 2025; October cash and investments; fiscal year 2025 street and road report; salary survey contract with Optimal Talent Dynamics; construction improvement agreements for Arrived Post Falls, Harvest Meadows Subdivision, North Place East Fourth Edition; final plat approvals for Crown Reserve Subdivision and Walka States Minor Subdivision; grants of rights-of-way and easements for Poll Line and Zoros (ANNX-24-2), Maguire (ANNX-25-4), and Echo Estates (ANNX-24-5); and annexation/development agreements for Maguire and Echo Estates. All items were approved unanimously by roll call vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Carrie Thorson (2508 Powder Horn Street) thanked the Post Falls Police Department for leading the Holidays and Heroes program for over 25 years. She then urged the council not to disqualify applicants for the upcoming council vacancy based on their service on planning and zoning commissions or having previously run for office, noting that two previous vacancy interviews had been “confrontational” and disqualified many qualified volunteers. Discussion Items - Urban Renewal Technology District Plan Amendment – Bob Seal (Community Development Director) presented the amendment, which adds approximately $6.4 million in eligible public roadway, water, and sewer improvements to the 2018 plan. The amendment is not a modification (no reset of revenue allocation). Jameson Smith (CEO, Kootenai Health) and Ben McGran (project manager) described a collaborative project involving Kootenai Health, MultiCare, Parkwood Properties, and Lakeside Development. The planned Prairie Medical Campus (Phase 1: $120 million, emergency department and medical office building, completion late 2027/early 2028) plus Parkwood Medical Park ($100 million) and Lakeside Senior Living ($50 million) are expected to create over 1,500 high-quality jobs. The infrastructure improvements (complete Zoros, Fenicus, and Prosper streets) would accelerate development and improve connectivity. Council members discussed the benefits of completing roads now versus incremental phasing, and concerns about taxpayer reimbursement versus developer responsibility. The ordinance was placed on first reading and passed unanimously (7–0). - Crown Reserve Park Construction Improvement Agreement – Robbie Quinn (Parks Planner) presented a shared-cost agreement with the developer (Metalist Development) for a 3.6-acre neighborhood park. The developer would build basic amenities (grading, landscaping, asphalt path, road frontage) and the city would reimburse $349,380.01 for additional amenities (basketball courts, sidewalks, parking, utilities, etc.) upon final inspection and dedication. The city would own and maintain the park. Council debate focused on the value of the land (estimated at $860,000) and the shift from an HOA-maintained green space to a city park. Concerns were raised about taxpayer expense for developer benefit, but the council ultimately approved the agreement (6–1, with Councilmember Mulloy dissenting? Roll call showed Mulloy? Actually roll call: Mulloy? Ziglar? Aye? The transcript says:

The Post Falls City Council met on December 3, 2025, at 1:59 AM UTC (meeting held December 2, 2025) to consider a consent calendar, two public hearings, budget amendments, and other items. The meeting drew a large crowd for the McGuire annexation, which prompted extensive public comment both in favor and opposition. The Council approved the annexation with a 4–1 vote and also passed several ordinances and budget amendments. Consent Calendar The consent calendar included minutes from November 18, 2025, payables through December 3, 2025, September cash and investments, acceptance of canvassed election results, several annexation-related items (Linger, Painted Rock, G2, Echo Estates), final plat approvals, and a van replacement for Parks and Recreation. Council members asked about the van’s purpose and cost; after explanation, the consent calendar was approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - North Place Right-of-Way Vacation (VAC25-3): No public testimony was offered. The applicant, Kevin Schnydmiller, explained the vacation would align with the approved preliminary plat and that the city would receive 2.5 times the right-of-way area in new streets. - McGuire Annexation (ANX25-4): - In Favor: Multiple speakers, including Wade Jacqueline, John Rudabaugh, Darren DeCody, Jason Knox, Chris Meyer, and Andrew Rogers, argued that the project provides much-needed entry-level housing, supports local workforce retention, and aligns with the comprehensive plan. Applicant Ray Kimball emphasized that the R2 zone with a single-family detached restriction would create smaller, more attainable lots (22 lots vs. 16 under R1) and that the developer would pay for road improvements, saving taxpayers over $670,000. A letter from McKenna Snyder was read in support. - Opposed: Over a dozen residents, including Patrick Graham, Tamara Dale, Gerald Dale, Michael Gardner, Ashley Tilton, Jacob Zink, and others, raised concerns about traffic congestion, safety near the railroad crossing, loss of rural character, increased taxes, and the misleading use of "affordable housing." They argued that the R2 density (up to 1,425 daily trips vs. 34 currently) would overwhelm infrastructure, jeopardize emergency services, and harm property values. Several noted the recent failure of a fire levy and stated that the annexation does not meet comprehensive plan goals to avoid urban sprawl. Discussion Items - McGuire Annexation Deliberation: Council members debated whether the annexation was in the city’s best interest. Councilman Weslin highlighted the need for starter homes and strategic right-of-way acquisition. Councilman Zigler noted the zoning consistency with the transitional future land use map. Councilman Stigleader voted no, citing existing undeveloped R2 parcels and uncertainty about affordability. Councilwoman Blue expressed sympathy for opponents but favored the project for continuity and infrastructure improvements. The mayor (non-voting) acknowledged the difficulty of the decision but emphasized private property rights. The final vote on approval was 4–1 (Weslin aye, Zigler aye, Blue aye, Stigleader no). The zoning (R2 with single-family detached restriction) was also approved 4–1 (same split). - Budget Amendments: Finance Director Jason presented two budget amendments. The first (carryover of $2.6 million) funded items ordered in 2025 but not yet received, including fleet trucks, trail extensions, and park projects. The second ($703,000) used salary savings for items like a crash attenuator, police body cameras, and facility assessments. Both were approved unanimously. - Water Reclamation Facility Contract Amendment: Andrew Arbini reported substantial completion of the tertiary upgrades and sought approval for a $1,800 amendment to Panhandle Area Council for wage compliance closeout. Approved unanimously. - Duck Regulations: Council directed staff to research allowing ducks on smaller parcels (similar to chickens) and to consider increasing the permitted number of hens. The issue will return in May 2026. Key Outcomes - McGuire Annexation Approved: The Council approved the annexation of 18.11 acres (R2, single-family detached) with a 4–1 vote, directing staff to prepare a final ordinance and reasoned decision. - Consent Calendar Approved: All 12 items passed without objection. - Budget Amendment 1 (Carryover): Approved unanimously. - Budget Amendment 2 (Salary Savings): Approved unanimously. - Water Reclamation Contract Amendment: Approved unanimously. - Ordinances Approved (all unanimously): Warren Field Park Vacation, Painted Rock Annexation, and Linger Annexation were placed on first and only reading and approved. - Executive Session: Council entered a 15-minute executive session to discuss pending litigation (Idaho Code 74-206F). No action was taken.

The Post Falls City Council met on November 21, 2025, and conducted a brief meeting consisting of a consent calendar approval and adjournment. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved the consent calendar, which included the McGuire annexation zoning recommendation (file number 8 and X25-4) and the meeting minutes from November 12, 2025. Key Outcomes - The consent calendar was approved unanimously by a roll call vote (5-0). - The meeting was subsequently adjourned with no further business.

The Post Falls City Council met on November 19, 2025 (meeting began the evening of November 18, 2025) to consider three public hearings, three ordinances, and several new business items. Key actions included approval of two annexations with zoning designations, a budget amendment continuation, a water treatment service contract, and a lift station power upgrade award. Consent Calendar - November 3, 2025 City Council Meeting Minutes – Approved. - Accounts Payable (November 5–18, 2025) – Approved. - ARC Subdivision Final Plat – Approved. - Early Dawn and Zeroth Annexation Grant of Rights of Way and Easements (ANNX-24-1) – Approved. Public Hearings 1. Echo Estates Annexation (ANNX-24-5) & Zone Change to R2 - Applicant (Justin Souter, City Planner): The request is to annex approximately 9.72 acres west of Gabriel State Subdivision, north of Echo Drive, with medium density residential (R2) zoning. The site is within the West Prairie Focus Area, consistent with the comprehensive plan. The city can provide services; existing septic must be replaced with city sewer. A future subdivision would require improvements to Echo Drive. - Developer (Jeremy Turzuli, land use consultant, and Ryan Stoker, developer): Presented three development options: small lots (4,800–8,000 sq ft), larger quarter‑acre lots, and a preferred twin‑home layout (each half fee‑simple, with attached shop). They emphasized the twin‑home concept as a diverse housing option not previously built in the area. The developer is willing to enter a development agreement restricting multifamily and improving Echo Drive to city and highway district standards, including a pedestrian connection on McGuire Road. They requested annexation first to have certainty before investing further. - Public Testimony – In Favor: Ryan Stoker (developer) summarized neighborhood outreach; most neighbors opposed any development but some accepted larger lots. Jeremy Voller (Anthem Pacific Homes) supported the twin‑home concept, noting it would provide affordable entry‑level homes with shops, filling a market gap. - Public Testimony – Opposed: - Kathy Bleasner (2931 West Echo Drive): Opposed due to road inadequacy, traffic safety, sewer odor, and desire to preserve agricultural character. Developer initially said Echo Drive was not his problem. - Debbie Volka (Echo Drive): Opposed R2 zoning; cited outdated comp plan, loss of rural feel, property value concerns, and inadequate road infrastructure. Requested R1 zoning instead. - Stephanie Johnson (Okanagan Avenue): Opposed, noting the developer did not contact many residents. Expressed concerns about construction traffic on narrow Okanagan Avenue and preferred larger lots. Asked for clarification on whether Okanagan would be used for construction access. - Council Deliberation & Vote: - On whether annexation is in the city’s best interest: Council members Westlin, Blue, and Zigler expressed concerns about the “peninsula” of county land, lack of direct connectivity, and the road hurdles. Mulloy and Davis supported annexation, citing proximity to Seltice Way, potential connectivity improvements, and the twin‑home concept’s benefits. Mayor Jacobson cast the deciding vote in favor (4–2: Davis, Westlin, Mulloy, Mayor did? Actually roll call: Davis? I (aye); Blue? Aye; Westlin? Aye; Ziglar? Nay; Mulloy? Aye; Stigleader? Nay. So 4–2. Motion passed. - On R2 zoning: Council discussed consistency with comprehensive plan, goals, and policies. Zigler and Stigleader opposed, citing density and impact concerns. Others supported subject to a development agreement requiring Echo Drive upgrades from McGuire to Corbyn, sidewalk on McGuire, and a restriction on multifamily. Motion passed 5–2 (Davis, Blue, Westlin, Mulloy, Mayor; Zigler and Stigleader opposed). 2. G2 Development Annexation (ANNX-25-2) & Zone Change to Residential Mixed (ZC-25-1) - Staff (John Manley, Planning Manager): The applicant (G2 Real Property Holdings, represented by Scott MacArthur) requests annexation of 10 acres and rezone of an adjacent 8.3 acres from R1 to Residential Mixed (RM). The site is at the southeast corner of Horsehaven and North Serena Street, a county island. The proposed subdivision includes single‑family detached homes, cottage lots, and open space. Planning & Zoning recommended approval. The development agreement restricts commercial uses and limits multifamily. - Applicant (Scott MacArthur, Macarthur Engineering): Explained the RM zone allows up to 8 units/acre; the concept plan shows 6 units/acre with a mix of lot sizes. The development will provide needed pedestrian and road improvements on Horsehaven and Syringa, completing key city connections. Emphasized homeownership and attainable housing. - Public Testimony: None. - Council Deliberation & Vote: All members expressed support, citing connectivity, filling a county island, housing diversity, and consistency with the comprehensive plan. Council approved the annexation and zoning unanimously (7–0). 3. Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Amendment 1 - Staff (Jason, Finance Director): Presented a budget amendment covering items ordered but not received in FY2025 (e.g., dump trucks, Christmas tree, park equipment) and new requests (e.g., crash attenuator, Chase restroom repairs, city building condition assessment). Total impact across funds is $3.3 million. - Discussion: Council members raised concerns about mixing rollover items with new requests. Zigler noted the presentation language was unclear; Malloy suggested splitting the items into separate categories. Jacobsen and others agreed to complete the public hearing and bring back a parsed version for further deliberation at the next meeting. - Outcome: Motion to continue consideration to the next meeting, directing staff to break out the items, passed unanimously. Unfinished Business – Ordinances (First & Only Reading) - Idaho Ranch Annexation (ANNX-24-8): Approved (7–0). - Early Dawn and Zeroth Annexation (ANNX-24-1): Approved (7–0). - O'Brien Vacation (VAC-25-1): Approved (7–0). Discussion Items Water Reclamation Facility Tertiary Treatment Project – Service Contract & Warranty Terms with Wigen Water Technologies - Staff (John Beach, Public Works Director): Requested approval of a service contract with Wigen for post‑construction technical support at no cost for a set number of hours, and acceptance of modified warranty terms on membrane modules. The standard 1‑year full / 6‑year pro‑rated warranty would be reduced because the manufacturer (DuPont) based its warranty on the ship date (2019), not the in‑service date (March 31, 2025), resulting in a 22‑month gap. Wigen proposed a service contract to compensate for the reduced warranty, providing remote and on‑site support for four hours per month, valued at $14,000/year. Staff analysis estimated the warranty risk at $41,000, while the service contract could extend membrane life and save $143,000 per year of extended use. Council discussed the value and fairness; Nathan and others supported the recommendation. - Outcome: Motion to approve the service contract and modified warranty terms passed (7–0). Highlands and Montrose Lift Station Standby Power Upgrades – Award to Valley Electric - Staff (Andrew Arbini, Projects Division Manager): Presented the low bid of $175,079 from Valley Electric (engineer’s estimate $212,000). Total with 10% contingency is $192,587, funded from the annual lift station replacement budget. The project includes new generators at two lift stations. - Outcome: Motion to award the contract passed (7–0). Key Outcomes - Echo Estates Annexation: Approved 4–2; R2 zoning approved 5–2 with a development agreement requiring Echo Drive upgrades to city and highway district standards, a sidewalk on McGuire, and a restriction on multifamily. - G2 Development Annexation and Rezone: Approved unanimously. - FY2026 Budget Amendment 1: Public hearing closed; continuation to next meeting with itemized breakdown. - Three Ordinances (Idaho Ranch, Early Dawn/Zeroth annexations, O'Brien vacation): All approved on first reading and adopted. - Water Reclamation Service Contract: Approved. - Lift Station Power Upgrades: Awarded to Valley Electric.

The meeting convened at 5:30 PM on November 12, 2025, with all five commissioners present. Two major public hearings were held on annexation and zoning requests for properties at McGuire Road/Pole Line Avenue and Cecil Road/16th Avenue. The commission forwarded zoning recommendations to the city council after public testimony and deliberation. Consent Calendar - Approved the meeting minutes from October 14, 2025, on a unanimous roll call vote. Public Comments & Testimony McGuire Annexation (ANX 25-4) - In favor: John Rudebaugh, Wade Jacqueline (applicant), Amy Gilmore, Charlie Renz, and Jason Knox spoke in support, emphasizing the need for affordable housing, pedestrian safety, infrastructure improvements (including a quarter mile of sidewalk), and the economic benefits of development. The applicant confirmed the development would be single-family detached homes, not apartments. - Opposed: Marilee Owen (neighbor), Floyd Mossberg, Don Lydell, Alan Horning, Gerald Dale, Tim Terrell, Debbie Vaca, and one anonymous speaker raised concerns about traffic safety on two-lane roads, loss of rural character, density (R2 versus R1), potential for multifamily, emergency vehicle access blocked by trains, and the prior denial of the Brainerd annexation nearby. Gerald Dale reported that 35 of 36 neighbors he surveyed opposed the plan. - Several written comments were read into the record, including an anonymous poem opposing government overreach and letters from property owners citing tax increases and safety risks. Gaul Annexation (ANX 25-1) - In favor: Tri Vagall (property owner’s representative) and Anthony Bennett spoke in support, citing plans for cottage homes, a small commercial area (coffee shop, dog grooming, daycare), infill development, and improvements to Cecil Road and 16th Avenue. The applicant stated existing mobile homes would be removed with tenant assistance. - Opposed: Patricia Murphy (neighbor) argued that commercial uses are inappropriate in the residential neighborhood, traffic on 16th Avenue is already dangerous for children walking to bus stops, and the proposal lacks thoughtful planning. - One neighbor requested a six-foot vinyl fence along the property line, which the applicant indicated they would consider. Discussion Items McGuire Annexation - Staff (Justin Souter) presented the 18.11-acre site as a county island with four parcels, requesting R2 zoning (medium-density residential). The future land use map designates the area as “transitional.” The applicant (Ray Kimball, engineer) argued that R2 allows smaller lots for entry-level homes, provides $681,000 in right-of-way and infrastructure improvements at no cost to the city, and follows the comprehensive plan’s goals for infill and pedestrian connectivity. City engineer Robert Paulis clarified that McGuire Road is slated for a five-lane widening and Pole Line for three lanes per the current transportation master plan, though future traffic may decrease when McGuire is closed at Highway 53. Commissioners debated whether R2 or R1 better fits the transitional designation, noting the need for attainable housing. - Commission deliberation: All five commissioners agreed the proposal meets the three review criteria (consistency with future land use map, comprehensive plan goals, and no adverse service impacts). A motion was made to recommend R2 zoning with a recommendation to limit development to single-family detached housing, which passed unanimously (5-0; one commissioner voted “with heavy heart”). Gaul Annexation - Staff presented the 7.76-acre site (four parcels, one owner) requesting a Residential Mixed (RM) zone, which allows up to 10% commercial (neighborhood-friendly uses like coffee shops, daycare, no gas stations) and residential at medium density. The conceptual plan shows cottage homes and a small commercial corner. Commissioners questioned the lack of a fixed density maximum in the RM zone; staff clarified that development agreements would impose conditions, and actual density would be limited by parking and setbacks. The applicant (Nick Evner, engineer) stated they intend to use the RM zone for cottage homes and small retail, with sewer and water connections available nearby. - Commission deliberation: Concerns were raised about open-ended commercial uses (e.g., convenience stores) so close to existing commercial corridors. Commissioner Schreiber suggested that city council review allowable uses. Others noted the RM zone requires a development agreement, which can restrict uses. A motion to recommend RM zoning with a note to city council regarding commercial use concerns passed unanimously (5-0). Key Outcomes - McGuire Annexation (ANX 25-4): The commission voted 5-0 to recommend R2 zoning to the city council, with a recommendation that development be limited to single-family detached homes (as stated by the applicant in the annexation agreement). - Gaul Annexation (ANX 25-1): The commission voted 5-0 to recommend Residential Mixed (RM) zoning to the city council, directing staff to prepare a recommendation that addresses the commission’s concerns about allowable commercial uses (e.g., convenience stores) for council consideration. - Both recommendations will be forwarded to the city council for final zoning and annexation decisions. - The commission also noted a special meeting on November 20, 2025, at 5:30 PM to approve consent agenda items.

The Post Falls City Council met on November 4, 2025, to approve multiple contracts, ordinances, and grants. The meeting included discussions on the Water Reclamation Facility solids handling improvements, Quarry Sports Complex grants and design, annexations, and a well rehabilitation contract amendment. All votes were unanimous. The council also received annual reports on impact fees and the drinking water division. Consent Calendar - Minutes from October 21, 2025 – Approved. - Payables October 22 through November 5, 2025 – Approved. - August Cash and Investments Report – Approved. - Warren Field Playfield Project Funding Agreement – Approved. - Pleasant View Annexation Development and Annexation Agreement Amendment (Addendum No. 1) – Approved. - Dorsey Consent to Annex Agreement – Approved. - Declaration of City Assets and Equipment as Surplus – Approved. - Harvest Meadows PUD (PUD-25-2, SUBD-25-4) – Approved. - Linger Development and Annexation Agreement (ANNX-24-11) – Approved. - Painted Rock Development and Annexation Agreement (ANNX-25-3) – Approved. - Steckman Annexation (ANNX-24-9) – Approved. - Elfers Annexation (ANNX-24-10) – Approved. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Appointment of Parks and Recreation Director: The council confirmed the appointment and approved the employment contract unanimously. - Water Reclamation Facility Solids Handling Improvements – Procurement Contract with BDP Industries: Andrew Arbini presented the purchase of an additional dewatering unit for $738,500 with a 5% contingency ($775,425 total). Staff noted the engineer’s estimate was $937,500 and that a preliminary quote from another vendor was about $100,000 higher. Council members asked about budget variances and rate impacts; Public Works Director John Beachum explained that underruns would benefit future rate planning. The contract was approved. - Quarry Sports Complex Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Grant Acceptance: Parks Planner Robbie Quinn presented the $1.25 million grant (50% match) for phase one, which includes two multi-purpose fields, parking, restroom/concessions, and entry plaza. The grant scope covers earthwork, paving, landscaping, irrigation, sewer, and stormwater. The council approved the grant acceptance. - Quarry Sports Complex Phase One Design Agreement: Quinn requested approval of a $48,263 contract with Michael Terrell Landscape Architecture (plus $5,000 contingency, total $53,263) to take 90% drawings to 100% and provide bidding assistance. Funded by impact fees. Approved. - Steckman Annexation Ordinance (ANNX-24-9): The council suspended rules and approved annexation of 6.96 acres west of N. Spokane Street, between W. Grange Ave. and Prairie Ave., with zoning map amendment. - Elfers Annexation Ordinance (ANNX-24-10): The council suspended rules and approved annexation of 5.2 acres at 3556 N. Guy Road, with zoning map amendment. - Well Number Four Rehabilitation – Contract Amendment No. 1 with JUB Engineers: Jackson Fleshman presented a $92,600 amendment (plus $10,000 from management reserve, total $102,600) to address well testing delays and contractor support needs. The original contract completion date was delayed 2–3 months, with substantial completion now expected January 26, 2026, and final by February 26, 2026. Council members expressed concerns about cost and responsibility; Public Works Director Beachum clarified that no improper engineering occurred but that unknown site conditions and contractor questions required additional engineering support. The amendment was approved. - Annual Impact Fee Report: Staff presented the FY2023 and FY2024 report. Collections in 2024 were $5.3 million with $3.5 million expended, leaving a balance of $16 million. Council asked about project planning and expenditure timelines; staff noted ongoing transportation projects, traffic signals, and police department expansion plans. The report was accepted. - Drinking Water Division Annual Report: Utilities Manager Craig Bornpool reported that the city pumped 2.35 billion gallons of water in the last year, with 10 active wells and 4 reservoirs. He discussed fall chlorination, winter maintenance, backflow testing, and an unplanned motor failure at Well 8 in late July that was resolved within a week. The report highlighted conservation measures and the upcoming master planning effort. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of all action items: consent calendar, appointment, BDP Industries procurement contract, Quarry Sports Complex grant and design agreement, Steckman and Elfers annexation ordinances, and Well 4 contract amendment. - No public hearings were held (River City Corner special use permit canceled). - No new business or citizen issues were introduced. - Council comments: Thanked police staff for resolving a citizen concern near the skatepark and reminded residents to vote on election day. No executive session was needed.