Disrespectful process at planning meeting

I attended the Nov. 15 Whitefish Planning Board hearing on Ryan Zinke’s planned unit development. Mr. Zinke proposes to convert his properties on West Second Street into an inn and a microbrewery. Six close neighbors expressed serious concerns about the consequences these projects would have on their lives and properties.

The Planning Department staff report warned of disastrous results if a commercial use was granted without a prior corridor study for our northern entrance into Whitefish. They recommended tabling the project and listed concerns about inadequate noise buffers and changes to the character of existing neighborhoods.

They stated that this project was well beyond the scope of a conditional use permit — the permit used by other zone-compliant businesses in this corridor. But should the board vote for approval, staff recommended certain conditions be imposed.

The board raised not one question about the PUD. On the other hand, they took time to discuss another neighborhood proposal that required only a CUP. Why would a project that doesn’t deviate from current zoning get such a grilling, and Mr. Zinke’s be given an immediate nod?

As opposing neighbors gave comments, only one board member, Mary Vail, bothered to pay attention; the others appeared openly annoyed and disinterested. A vote to approve was accomplished swiftly by all members except Mary Vail.

Diane Smith categorically dismissed the staff recommendation for a corridor study before taking this irreversible step. At Mr. Zinke’s request, Rick Blake struck out vital conditions that would have given neighbors some protection. Ultimately, not one concern was given a fair discussion — if any discussion at all.

Something is very wrong here. What I witnessed at this hearing was a blatantly disrespectful process.

— Susan Prilliman