Pole barn policy plan to get public hearing
Kootenai County commissioners will hold a public hearing tonight on proposed changes to the county’s zoning laws that would clarify when and where residents can build pole barns.
The county is trying to ensure that residents can put up the garagelike structures, often used to store RVs and boats, without turning some areas into rows of metal warehouses.
The Planning Commission in June recommended approval of the changes, which were crafted after the county imposed a moratorium on pole barn construction in agricultural-suburban areas such as Bonanza Ranch, southeast of Coeur d’Alene.
The proposal would change the definition of an accessory building, clarifying that property owners can only build on land where there is a primary structure, such as a house.
It also would add personal storage buildings to the law, and property owners could apply for a special notice permit to build pole barns on lots where there is no primary dwelling. The special notice process requires the county to post the site with a notice showing that the owner wants to build a personal storage structure.
If neighbors object, the county can have a public hearing.
The 6 p.m. hearing is at the Kootenai County Administration Building, 451 N. Government Way. For more information, call (208) 446-1070.
– Erica Curless
Schools can get funds for college preparation
About a dozen schools in North Idaho are eligible for money from a six-year, $17.8 million federal grant recently awarded to the state Board of Education.
Called the GEAR UP Idaho grant, the money is to help prepare low-income students for college, according to a press release from the board. Middle schools and high schools where at least half the students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch are eligible for a piece of the money.
Half of the grant money is earmarked for scholarships. More than 600 students are expected to be awarded four-year scholarships worth about $16,000 in the next six years, beginning this school year. The money will also fund additional career counselors and regional counseling centers throughout the state, which will include community advisory committees.
Eligible schools include Lakes Middle School and the Project CdA alternative high school, as well as Boundary County Junior High, Priest River Junior High, Shoshone Junior High, Kellogg Middle School and Lakeside Middle School in Plummer.
– Meghann M. Cuniff
Free physicals today for student athletes
Young people planning to participate in school sports this fall can get free physicals today thanks to a partnership between Kootenai Medical Center and Coeur d’Alene Pediatrics in Coeur d’Alene.
The free exams are available to all middle school, junior high and high school athletes who require physicals for participation in sports. They’re available from noon to 4:30 p.m. at KMC’s Post Falls Health Park at 1300 E. Mullan Ave.
Athletes must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and should bring immunization records. Wear appropriate sports clothing for the exam. Call (208) 777-1330 or (208) 667-0585 for more information.
– JoNel Aleccia