Rathdrum commission recommends updates to zoning code, conditions MR minimum lot size at 6,500 sq ft

The Rathdrum Planning & Zoning Commission voted 4-0 to recommend proposed updates to Rathdrum City Code Title 15, the city’s zoning and permitted-uses code, and attached a condition raising the MR (mixed-residential) district minimum lot size to 6,500 square feet.

Staff presented a packet of changes and then opened a public hearing and workshop. Staff member James summarized the code edits, including revisions to annexation criteria, removal of older residential zone options, new rules for downtown sidewalk dining, revised lot-mix requirements for the MR district, and subdivision standards addressing green space and school impacts. James told the commission that for annexations the draft would require that “the proposed annexation must meet at least 75% of the designated relevant goals and or policies of the comprehensive plan.”

Why it matters: the recommended changes rework which residential zones may be established going forward, add numeric impact tests for subdivisions (including a proposed school-capacity threshold), and add new public-space and open-space requirements. Together, the edits are intended to tie future rezones and annexations more closely to Rathdrum’s comprehensive plan and to require studies (traffic, school, aquifer) before some developments proceed.

Major items summarized

- Vote and motion: Chair Nina Beasley moved to “recommend the consideration of proposed updates to the Rathdrum City Code Title 15 (zoning and permitted uses) with the condition that the MR district minimum lot size is changed to 6,500 square feet.” The motion was seconded (second not specified in the record) and passed by roll call: Ken Boleski — aye; Nick Burns — yes; Nina Beasley — aye; Sydney — yes. The commission’s action is a recommendation to…