Road access prevents motocross track

BONNERS FERRY — Despite the benefits a motocross track would bring to the community, a proposed commercial motocross track near Smith Lake was denied.

The biggest concern by the Boundary County Planning and Zoning Commission was the road accessing the property.

After nearly three hours of public comment in front of a packed courtroom, the Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously denied the conditional use permit application of John Becker, of 9B Motoplex LLC, to establish a commercial motocross track near Smith Lake.

PZ members were concerned about safely getting people in and out of the property, particularly during an emergency such as a fire, on narrow portions of Smith Lake Road. Also of concern was entering and exiting Highway 95 at the junction of Smith Lake Road with a blind corner nearby and less than ideal visibility.

Traffic would increase from 15 to 20 riders on practice days to up to 300 people on race days estimated Becker.

“There is no alternate access,” said Brent Featherston, of Featherston Law Firm and who represented the Smith Lake Neighbors Association. “The most disturbing is that the county should bear the expense of the road.”

Others opposed to the road were concerned with noise, dust, depreciation of property values, water, fire, safety, deed restrictions and overuse of Smith Lake campground.

“There is insufficient land to handle the noise issue,” said Matt Cossalman, PZ Chair, of the approximately 20 acres.

“It is incompatible and inappropriate for the zoning of the area,” said Tim Dougherty, who has lived on Smith Lake Road for 29 years. “Smith Lake area is not the best place in the county.”

Over 30 people showed up to support the motocross track and voice the value it would have for youth and families in the county.

“There is nothing else to do in this town,” said Kyle Smith, a nine-year-old motocross racer. “I have to go out of town to ride on a track. I go to Airway Heights or Libby to practice.”

“I think it is a great thing for kids and for the community,” said Becker. “It would prevent riding in undesired areas and provide kids a controlled environment to participate in an outdoor activity.”

There is great potential and lots of interest but there needs to be a plan for when it gets big expressed Marciavee Cossette, Planning and Zoning Commission member.

Becker applied for a conditional use permit for a motocross track with a motocross race series to be held in the summer.