Boise · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Boise public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Recognition of the Eustis townsite in West Boise
West Valley residents asked the city to recognize the historic Eustis townsite — once a real town with a school, churches, and an electric railway — as 84 new townhouse units rise nearby. They want it folded into preservation planning before more of its character disappears.
Five-foot driveway landscaping buffer requirement for single-family homes
Boise code requires a 5-foot-wide landscaping and screening strip alongside residential driveways, but the section defining what goes in that strip exempts single-family homes. The Hearing Examiner ruled the buffer itself still stands, settling how the code will be applied to new single-family driveways citywide.
Second residential driveway on curved corner lot
Doug Lasher Construction wanted a second driveway at 1535 S. Galaxy Way so an addition could serve as a garage-level entrance for elderly parents living with the family. The city said one driveway is enough, the curve near an intersection is a safety risk, and the examiner agreed.
Religious institution on West Franklin Road
A mosque got the go-ahead on 0.44 acres at 5353 W Franklin Rd, with no public opposition and staff support.
Billboard on West State Street
Lamar Outdoor Advertising won a permit for an off-site advertising sign on 0.39 acres at 3809 W State St, with no opposition.
CC&Rs versus city zoning authority
Neighbors argued 1972 covenants requiring one-acre lots should block the project; staff explained CC&Rs are private civil matters outside the city's development code, and a council approval doesn't invalidate residents' private legal remedies.