Motocross track permit sought

BONNERS FERRY — A motocross race series could be coming to Boundary County this summer if the permit is approved.

The race series would include eight to 12 race events and possibly two snowmobile race events, snow permitting.

John Becker of 9B Motoplex LLC is requesting a conditional use permit from Boundary County Planning and Zoning to operate a commercial motocross business from May through October at his property near Smith Lake.

Planning and Zoning will be holding a public hearing on the application on Thursday, May 16 at 5:30 p.m. in the main courtroom of the Boundary County Courthouse.

The motocross track would be located near Smith Lake, shortly after the junction of Templman Road and Smith Lake Road.

There would be one large motocross track and a second smaller track designed specifically for beginner youth riders. Designated parking, pit and spectator areas would be constructed.

According to the application, the primary hours of operation would be Friday through Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. On non-race days, the track would be open for practice. Primitive camping would be available and quiet hours would be from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m.

There is no public motocross track north of I-90 and 9B Motoplex would be dedicated to a safe, healthy, family friendly motocross racing experience, according to the application.

Many residents of the Smith Lake area have submitted comments with concerns of noise, vandalism, erosion, wildlife disturbances and reduction of value in their properties. The nearest house is 1,429 feet away from the center of the proposed operation.

According to the application, dust would be controlled by spraying water over the track surface, the same technique used at fairgrounds and tracks around the country.

Written comments will be accepted until Thursday, May 9 by mail or email. Written comments can be sent to Boundary County Planning and Zoning, PO Box 419, Bonners Ferry, ID 83805; faxed to 208-267-7814; or emailed to planning@boundarycountyid.org.

Written comment will be accepted at the public hearing provided the material is read into the record. There may be a five-minute limit per person on verbal testimony.

Further information on this application is available at the Planning and Zoning Office, Room 16 of the Courthouse, and the application is available for public review. Information is also available by calling 267-7212 or by visiting the county website, www.boundarycountyid.org

Anyone requiring special accommodation due to handicap or disability should contact the planning office at least two days prior to the hearing.