Lakeside QRU plans new building

The Lakeside Quick Response Unit has one more hurdle to clear before construction can begin on a new ambulance building.

The group needs a conditional-use permit to build on a site 750 feet west of U.S. 93 on the north side of Bill’s Road.

The Flathead County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on the request at 6 p.m. April 6 at the Earl Bennett Building, 1035 First Ave. W. in Kalispell.

Longtime Lakeside residents Al and Cora Luna last year donated two acres of land to the Lakeside QRU. The lot is west of the Lakeside Fire Hall, which the unit has been sharing with the Somers Fire Department.

The new ambulance hall will have three garage bays to house the current ambulance and provide space for two more in the future. There also will be overnight quarters for staff to accommodate future growth.

The new building will include meeting space and be available for community uses.

A permanent landing site for the ALERT helicopter is planned at one end of the property, according to QRU President Steve Rosso.

The Flathead County Planning Office has recommended approval of the conditional-use permit, noting in a staff report that the plan provides adequate access and traffic circulation.