Parking Requirements

Issue 1: Whether to eliminate parking requirements in the downtown core.

The City of Sandpoint previously adopted parking requirements for Sandpoint businesses. Businesses were required to provide parking every time there was (1) new construction; or (2) a change in use to an existing building. If one of these two things occurred then businesses would be required to come into compliance with current parking regulations by (1) building parking according to a city formula; or (2) paying "in lieu" fees for each parking spot not built.

Several businesses in Sandpoint were not in compliance with current parking regulations. The Loading Dock, for example, changed uses (from a store to a restaurant) and therefore was required to provide multiple parking spots or pay the in lieu fees.

Analysis 1: We want to encourage businesses to build in our downtown. We also want to encourage the remodel and re-use of our historic buildings. Unfortunately, parking requirements are so stringent that new buildings often will have to demolish other buildings just to provide parking. Parking requirements discourage new construction, re-use of historic buildings and changes in use to current buildings.

The elimination of parking requirements allows for new construction in the downtown, frees up space for development, and creates infill as current parking lots can be built upon.

Conclusion 1: I supported elimination of parking requirements within our downtown only. This measure will only work if it is part of a larger process to address future parking needs. We need to continue to plan for a City parking garage so that people can work and shop downtown conveniently.