Lewiston planning commissioners approve zoning clearance for Springtree Counseling

The Lewiston Planning Commission voted to approve a zoning clearance for Springtree Counseling, allowing Heather Stevenson to operate a family mental-health counseling practice from leased office space in the city’s business park. Staff said Stevenson has practiced in Logan and is moving back to Lewiston with office space at 275 North 1300 East.

Commission staff noted the proposed use falls under the city’s human-services use in a commercial area and therefore required a zoning clearance but not a conditional-use permit. “So Heather is a mental health counselor. She’s had her business in Logan,” a staff member said during the presentation. Commissioner (unnamed) moved to approve the clearance, a second followed, and the motion passed on a voice vote with all members present saying “Aye.”

Why it matters: The decision clears the way for an outpatient counseling practice in the business park and reflects the commission’s role in applying zoning standards to professional and human-services uses. Staff will notify the applicant of the clearance and the business may proceed with licensing and tenant build-out as required by city procedures.

Next steps: Staff will follow up with the applicant about any licensing paperwork and monitor compliance with standard land-use conditions such as occupancy and parking requirements tied to the office location. The commission did not attach additional conditions at the meeting.