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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Pinewater Plaza Developers Appeal Decision Community Supports Project, Spokeswoman Says

Developers of Pinewater Plaza are appealing a decision denying a zone change along the Newport Highway that would allow them to build a shopping center anchored by Wal-Mart.

Hearing Examiner Mike Dempsey denied the request Feb. 13, noting the rezone is not consistent with the comprehensive plan.

Neighbors, hoping to keep the large retail center out of their neighborhood, cheered the decision.

In his decision, Dempsey pointed to neighborhood opposition as one reason for the denial.

In their appeal, attorneys for the developers said there is substantial support for the project from the community.

“Given the response we’ve had, we are confident there is broad-based support in North Spokane.,” said Cynthia Lin, project spokeswoman.

“This is the best site on the North Side,” said Lin. “With mitigation, there is no significant impact on the adjacent neighborhood.

“Fred Meyer and Costco have both recently been built in the area, abutting single family neighborhoods. Conditions in this area have changed dramatically,” said Lin.

In the appeal, attorneys for the developers also note it was shown at the hearing that the site is unsuitable for residential development.

Citizens for Neighborhood Preservation, who opposed the rezoning, haven’t decided on their next step, said resident Lee Spencer.

“One of our options is hiring an attorney. Another is doing it ourself with some assistance,” said Spencer.

The appeal will be heard by the Spokane County Board of Commissioners. No hearing date has been set.

Kinko’s gets new look

Kinko’s recently completed remodeling and updating technology at its North Division store.

“The remodel allows us to offer our customers more services while maintaining an optimal work environment for both our customers and our co-workers,” said Glenda Voelker, branch manager.

“We’ve received a lot of positive feedback from customers and we’re happy about that.”

New MacIntosh and IBM computers offer high-speed Internet access. There are also high-speed color copiers and oversize black and white copiers for large jobs such as blueprints, posters and banners.

Service helps with errands

Samaritan’s Errands is a service designed especially for senior citizens, people with disabilities and anyone who can’t easily leave their home.

John Palmer, owner of Samaritan’s Errands, will go shopping, take a pet to the veterinarian, pick up dry cleaning, or perform any of a myriad of daily errands.

Sandi Porta, who works with Palmer, is a licensed cosmetologist. She does in-home shampoos, sets, haircuts, manicures, pedicures and a range of personal services.

“A lot of people who need our service aren’t even aware of us,” said Palmer.

Palmer said they have a 10 percent discount for seniors and errand Number 10 is free.

They are especially interested in providing salon services to residents of retirement homes.

Samaritan’s Errands is based on the North Side, “but we are truly mobile,” said Palmer.

Samaritan’s Errands can be reached at 483-3168.

, DataTimes