Hayden City Council outlines new zoning plans for residential and mixed-use areas

The Hayden Joint City Council and Planning & Zoning Committee meeting held on June 30, 2025, focused on significant changes to the future land use map, particularly regarding zoning and mixed-use areas in Hayden City, Kootenai County, Idaho. The council discussed the need to transition from a broad designation of future zones to a more defined approach, emphasizing the importance of single-family residential areas.

One of the key proposals involved narrowing the mixed-use zones on the future land use map, effectively reducing their depth in several locations. This adjustment aims to reflect the current commercial nature of these areas while allowing for potential higher-density developments in the future. The council acknowledged that most existing mixed-use areas are primarily commercial, which has implications for long-range planning, including transportation and sewer services.

Council members expressed concerns about the extent of mixed-use development, particularly along Hayden Avenue and the highway, where many properties are already developed. There was a consensus that any future mixed-use developments would require a zone map amendment and must meet specific standards for approval. This process ensures that the council and planning commission retain control over zoning changes, preventing undesirable developments in established residential neighborhoods.

Additionally, the council discussed potential future developments in the Hutter area, where a new road may be constructed. Property owners in this area would need to submit annexation requests, which would be reviewed by the council. The uncertainty surrounding future developments in this region highlights the complexities of planning in a growing city.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to maintaining the character of Hayden while accommodating future growth through careful zoning and land use planning. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential amendments to the land use map as the city continues to evolve.