State history office coming to CDA

The Idaho State Historical Society is seeking public input to assist in the update of the Idaho Historic Preservation Plan. 

The plan was last updated eight years ago, and since that time the population of Idaho has grown by more than 250,000 people.

The Idaho Historical Preservation Office will be holding open houses. One is scheduled at the Coeur d'Alene Public Library from 5 to 6 p.m. April 30.

A local historian advocated for the City Council on Tuesday to approve an emergency moratorium on demolition permits until a new code can be written to protect historic buildings. 

Deb Mitchell cited the recent demolition of the 1925 home of the late Dr. E.R.W. "Ted" Fox, and the possible loss of the historic Roosevelt School built in 1905 as evidence of the need for such a moratorium.

"Right now, anyone can get a permit and tear the building down the next day," Mitchell said. "This is why the Dr. Fox house caught everyone off guard. We need a waiting period."

The IHPP establishes the priorities and goals for the historic preservation community throughout the state. It includes tribes, nonprofits, private firms, other government agencies, historic preservation commissions, owners of historic properties and individuals.

"With so many different groups and organizations making up Idaho’s historic preservation community, it is necessary to have a common framework for our efforts," the release said. "The purpose of the IHPP is to help ensure that all of these dedicated and passionate preservationists are better able to carry out the work necessary to try and bring the Plan’s vision to reality. The plan identifies priorities for historic preservation activities throughout Idaho."

Another group focused on history is holding a meeting next month.

Coeur d'Alene's Historic Preservation Commission has scheduled its receptions and awards celebration for 6 p.m., May 1 at the Jewett House.