Kootenai County Seeks Public Input for Future Growth and Parks Plans

Residents invited to participate in online survey to shape county's Comprehensive Plan and first Parks & Waterways Plan.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 4:49am

An abstract, out-of-focus photograph depicting people enjoying outdoor activities in a verdant park setting, with soft, warm pools of light and color creating a serene, atmospheric mood.Kootenai County's parks and recreation planning aims to enhance public access and quality of life for residents.Coeur d'Alene Today

Kootenai County is asking residents to take part in an online survey to help update the county's Comprehensive Plan, a 20-year blueprint for growth and development, as well as contribute to the creation of the county's first Parks & Waterways Plan.

Why it matters

These planning efforts will provide a framework for managing future growth, guiding infrastructure investments, and ensuring Kootenai County remains a great place to live, work, and recreate. Public input is crucial to shaping the county's long-term vision and priorities.

The details

The online survey takes about 20 minutes to complete and covers topics like land use, transportation, housing, and recreation. The Comprehensive Plan is required by Idaho's Local Land Use Planning Act and will be updated over the next year. The new Parks & Waterways Plan aims to identify future recreational needs, expand access to parks and trails, and enhance the overall quality of life in the county.

  • The online survey is open now and will continue until April 2027.
  • The Comprehensive Plan update is expected to be completed by April 2027.

The players

Kootenai County

The local government of Kootenai County, Idaho, which is responsible for overseeing the Comprehensive Plan and developing the new Parks & Waterways Plan.

Mike Behary

The Community Development Director for Kootenai County, who stated that these planning efforts will provide a clear framework for managing growth and guiding infrastructure investments.

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What they’re saying

“These planning efforts represent an important step in proactively preparing for the County's future. They will provide a clear framework for managing growth, guiding infrastructure investments and ensuring that Kootenai County continues to be a great place to live, work and recreate.”

— Mike Behary, Community Development Director

What’s next

The county will continue to collect public input through the online survey until April 2027, when the Comprehensive Plan update is expected to be completed.

The takeaway

Kootenai County residents have an opportunity to shape the long-term vision and priorities for their community by participating in the online survey. These planning efforts will help ensure the county continues to be a desirable place to live, work, and enjoy outdoor recreation as it grows and develops in the coming decades.