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Sagle residents press county over Panhandle Bike Ranch operations after permit vacated
Summary
Residents told commissioners PBR operated post-judicial remand without an approved CUP, causing noise, traffic and environmental impacts. Planning staff and the prosecutor said the CUP was vacated/remanded; the applicant modified the application and the county issued a stop/violation action but a new complete application is required before a new hearing.
Residents from Sagle and nearby neighborhoods pressed the Bonner County commissioners Dec. 9 to accelerate enforcement action against Panhandle Bike Ranch (PBR), which neighbors say continued operations after a court vacated the original conditional use permit (CUP).
Shauna Champlin summarized the local record: an April 2024 CUP approval was appealed, remanded by the court in June 2024, and — she said — PBR nonetheless operated during the 2025 season. Champlin said operations generated constant noise, increased traffic on private easements, erosion and reduced property values for nearby residents.
Commissioner staff and legal counsel explained the administrative path. The county’s position described in the meeting: the original CUP was vacated/remanded by the court, the applicant modified their application, and Planning will not schedule a remand hearing until the modified application is deemed complete. Planning staff and prosecution also said the county issued an enforcement letter and a stop-action tied to the CUP situation.
Commissioner Williams urged neighbors to compile evidence of post-decision operation (photos, video, dates) and submit a comprehensive request for a formal agenda item so the BOCC can consider escalating enforcement or refer the matter to the prosecutor for civil action. Assistant prosecutor Nate Adams noted prosecutorial actions can follow but require the BOCC’s direction where civil collection and enforcement are concerned.
What residents asked for: prompt clarity on whether the county enforcement team will pursue fines or other remedies, and an explanation of the timetable for scheduling any remand hearing once a complete application is filed.
