Bonner County Commission resolves mapping error zoning property as recreation

In a pivotal Bonner County Board of Commissioners meeting on March 4, 2025, the board addressed a significant zoning issue that has left local property owners in limbo. The discussion centered around a mapping error that incorrectly designated certain parcels as split-zoned, impacting property development rights.

Dave Bowman, a concerned resident, highlighted the confusion stemming from a 2008 zoning map that had mysteriously disappeared from public access. He argued that the previous decisions by the planning department had created a bureaucratic mess, preventing property owners from moving forward with their development plans. "This guy cannot move ahead with the development that he wants to do... because this board says, well, there's no hurry," Bowman stated, urging the commissioners to exercise their discretion to resolve the issue.

Jack Topher, another property owner, echoed these sentiments, explaining his desire to build a shop on his parcel but facing delays due to the split zoning. He emphasized that the original zoning indicated his property was entirely recreational, and the recent changes were a clerical error. "I just want to move forward with my MLD," Topher pleaded, underscoring the financial strain caused by the delays.

Tyson Glahe, a Bonner County resident, confirmed the mapping error, stating that the overlay in the GIS system did not accurately reflect the intended zoning. The board members recognized the clerical nature of the error and expressed their intent to correct it.

Ultimately, the commissioners voted unanimously to interpret the zoning boundary as entirely recreational, paving the way for property owners to proceed with their plans. This decision not only resolves the immediate concerns of affected residents but also sets a precedent for addressing similar mapping discrepancies in the future. The board's commitment to rectifying these errors signals a proactive approach to land use and planning in Bonner County.