Dear Members of the Bonner County Planning Department,

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the conditional use permit application submitted for the construction of a commercial 170-acre downhill mountain bike park (File CUP0002-24) in our rural residential community of Sagle, Idaho. As a concerned property owner, I believe that approving this permit would have detrimental effects on our neighborhood and fail to comply with the criteria outlined in the Bonner County Comprehensive Plan.

• Consistency with the Bonner County Comprehensive Plan: The proposed bike park does not align with the goals and objectives of the Bonner County Comprehensive Plan, which emphasizes preserving the rural character and residential nature of our community. Introducing a large-scale commercial recreational facility contradicts the vision outlined in the plan.

• Incompatibility with the Neighborhood: The construction and operation of a large commercial downhill mountain bike park on land zoned for rural residential use is fundamentally incompatible with the surrounding neighborhood. Panhandle Bike Ranch would drastically alter the peaceful and serene environment we cherish, leading to increased noise levels, traffic congestion, and safety concerns for residents, wildlife, and visitors.

• Creation of Hazards: The proposed bike park poses significant hazards to public safety and welfare. Concerns about noise pollution, traffic safety for residents and local wildlife, fire risks, and impacts on wildlife enjoyment highlight the potential dangers associated with this project. These hazards threaten the well-being and character of the Sagle community and undermine the principles of responsible land use planning. 

Given these concerns, I urge the Planning Department to deny the conditional use permit for the downhill mountain bike park. It is imperative to prioritize the protection of our rural residential community and ensure that any development aligns with the values and objectives outlined in the Bonner County Comprehensive Plan.

Thank you for considering my perspective on this matter.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]