Post Falls planning commission approves Painted Rock subdivision, contingent on council annexation and zoning

The Post Falls Planning and Zoning Commission approved the Painted Rock subdivision (file SUBD25-3) on Aug. 12, 2025, finding the proposal meets subdivision standards but making the approval contingent on the city council’s pending annexation and zoning decisions.

Planning staff described the proposal as an application by Rhino Land LLC with Whipple Consulting Engineers as the applicant to subdivide approximately 4.67 acres into 21 single‑family detached lots in a proposed R‑2 (medium density residential) zone. Planner Justin Sowder told commissioners the proposal includes a condition that “no lots can gain access from Midway or Maguire,” and that the existing house on Lot 16 is proposed to remain but must be addressed and accessed from Leahy Avenue for emergency access.

The commission’s approval was conditioned on the staff report conditions (items 1–12) plus two additions discussed during deliberations: (1) that lots be addressed from and take access from interior streets (added as condition 13) and (2) that approval is contingent on annexation and adoption of the recommended R‑2 zoning by the city council (listed in the motion as a contingent condition). The motion passed by roll call; commissioners recorded unanimous approval.

Staff and applicant presentations and the review noted the following: East Greenacres Irrigation District…