Opponents cast dark image over retreat plan

SANDPOINT — Opposition cast a pall over a proposal to turn a family’s retreat in the Cabinet Mountains near Clark Fork into an expanded commercial operation.

The Bonner County Planning & Zoning Commission’s hearing on the Shadow Valley Camp Retreat was slated to last 15 minutes, but stretched into a three-hour affair due to the amount of public testimony.

The commission tabled a decision so it could review a county road assessment of East Spring Creek Road and a road maintenance agreement on a private road leading to the retreat. The panel is also soliciting comment from Bonner County EMS and seeking verification that the roads are in compliance with the International Fire Code.

The comment period on those specific issues remains open until Feb. 13. The public hearing is set to continue at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 26.

The expansion ultimately involves adding 25 additional sleeper cabins and constructing a lodge on a 40-acre parcel off Sled Run Trail northwest of Clark Fork. It would be used for religious retreats, family reunions, weddings and conventions.

A half-dozen people spoke in favor of the proposal.

“Facilities for spiritual retreats are rare for the area,” said Scott Douglas, a pastor at the Cabinet Mountain Calvary Church.

But the project was politely mobbed by more than 20 valley residents who are against it.

Opponents contended roads leading to the site are too ill-suited for the increase in traffic. The added traffic would also exacerbate road dust conditions and maim the peace and quiet of their rural neighborhood, opponents said.

“Our homes are our retreat — that’s why we chose to build where we’re at,” said landowner Betty Rosholt.

Peak daily traffic was estimated at 25 vehicles in the morning and 25 in the evening, although opponents argued those figures were too low and don’t account for retreat visitors who will undoubtedly go sightseeing while they’re here.

Neighboring landowners also cringed at the thought of public address systems or music being played over loudspeakers during weddings and parties.

“Our stars are bright and our nights are quiet,” said Patricia Scarbrough.

Nearby residents said the acoustics in the valley are such that they can hear conversations and the giggles of playing children during Walker gatherings, which they take no issue with because they are family affairs.

Road and fire safety concerns were also a common theme among opponents, two of whom have retained legal counsel to fight the project.

“There’s one way in and one way out on a one-lane road,” said Bill Justice.

Clark Fork Fire & Rescue Chief Wes John said increased traffic will further degrade roads, which he doubts conform with fire code width and grade standards. There’s also bridge over Spring Creek that does not have a sufficiency rating.

“We have some concerns,” John said.