Coeur D'Alene residents oppose Woodman Subdivision citing wildlife and community impact

The Hayden Planning and Zoning Committee convened on July 8, 2025, to discuss a proposed subdivision that has sparked significant community concern regarding environmental impacts and neighborhood character. The meeting featured testimonies from local residents, emphasizing the importance of preserving natural buffers and wildlife habitats.

The first speaker raised concerns about the potential removal of trees, which they argued would expose homes to damaging winds and decrease property values. They highlighted the need for a natural buffer to maintain wildlife corridors and requested that the council deny the subdivision proposal. If approval was necessary, they urged for the inclusion of drainage, sewer, and traffic management plans, as well as the establishment of green spaces or parks within the development.

Another resident, Joni Young, shared her experiences living in the area since 1998, expressing sadness over the loss of natural habitats and wildlife due to recent developments. She emphasized the importance of preserving the rural ambiance of the community and suggested that the proposed subdivision could include a park to benefit all residents.

In response, Ian Woodman, the applicant and owner of the parcel, addressed the concerns raised by the community. He explained that he and his wife had previously chosen to preserve a significant portion of trees on their own property and expressed their commitment to maintaining the natural beauty of the area. Woodman noted that the proposed development would still preserve 3.82 acres of forested land and emphasized their intention to be thoughtful about tree removal during the subdivision's development.

The meeting concluded without a definitive resolution, but the discussions highlighted the ongoing tension between community desires for preservation and the need for housing development. The committee is expected to consider the feedback from residents as they move forward with the decision-making process regarding the subdivision proposal.