In June 2025, I opened a small business named PNW Sauna, dedicated to bringing the joy and wellness benefits of sauna culture to our beloved community in Coeur d'Alene, ID. Since our opening, we've been operating in Atlas Waterfront Park, providing a unique health and relaxation experience year-round. To my dismay, I recently received an email from the city notifying us that we must vacate our location by October 15th, 2025, as our permit does not allow use during the winter despite clarifying previously that we could operate in the winter.

This abrupt decision has not only put our business at risk but also threatens the vibrant community experience we were cultivating. Encouraging the use of city parks during the winter is crucial. It fosters community connections, promotes local businesses, and helps us all make better use of our public spaces even in the cold, dark months.

A study by the National Recreation and Park Association shows that parks provide critical social, economic, and environmental benefits all year long. By permitting vendor operations during winter months, the city can breathe life into our parks, making them lively places for residents and visitors, regardless of the season.

I am asking the Coeur d'Alene city officials to consider revising the current permit regulations to allow the seasonal use of vendor locations in city parks during winter months. This change can open new opportunities for local businesses, like mine, to continue serving the community year-round, while keeping our parks bustling with activity throughout the year.

Please sign this petition to urge our city officials to make our parks accessible and active with vendor operations this winter and in the winters to come. Your signature can help ensure that small businesses, like PNW Sauna, remain a vital part of the Coeur d'Alene community all year long.