Council approves rezone to allow expansion of daycare near Kootenai Health

The Coeur d'Alene City Council on May 20 approved a zoning change from R-12 to C-17L for three parcels along West Emmett Avenue, clearing a path for possible expansion of an adjacent daycare used by Kootenai Health employees.

Planning staff presented the request, ZC-325, on behalf of Melrose Properties LLC (doing business as Parkwood Business Properties). The parcels total roughly 0.957 acres at 417, 421 and 503 West Emmett Avenue. Staff told council the request conforms to the city's comprehensive plan and falls within a transition area between commercial and residential uses. The City's Planning Commission recommended approval at its April 8 hearing.

Chris Meyer, representing the applicant, told council there is a waiting list of about 50 children for the existing daycare and that Kootenai Health considers childcare an employee retention tool. Meyer said the property assemblage will allow the owner and the hospital to plan a future expansion if needed; he also noted the area is in an urban neighborhood and inside the Health Corridor urban renewal district.

Council deliberations touched on neighborhood impacts, traffic and parking. Staff noted the existing sidewalk on Emma Avenue ends at the parcel and said engineering would review approaches and access to minimize driveway conflicts. Several council members said they support childcare expansion while balancing residential concerns.

The council adopted the ordinance amending the zoning map (Council Bill 25-111) after public hearings and the required findings. Roll call recorded unanimous support.

Speakers and staff: Shawn (city planner/staff), Chris Meyer (Parkwood Business Properties/Melrose Properties LLC).