Good morning, Post Falls.

Specialized Needs Recreation will hold its 41st annual Gems and Jeans fundraiser on Sept.

25 at the Best Western Plus Coeur d’Alene Inn—featuring auctions, entertainment and surprises—to support programs that build life skills for people with special needs. Longtime board member Susie Brott said the event has an unmatched positive impact and noted early bird tickets are available through Friday at $75 each.

Kevin Croffoot was named interim fire chief for Northern Lakes Fire Protection District a week ago after retiring Chief Pat Riley, following his injury last September at the Wolf Lodge Steakhouse fire which had him on administrative duties.

He will lead a department of 54 firefighters with interim deputy chiefs Luke Michael and Brad Belmont as the district plans to hire nine more staff and build a station in Garwood amid growing needs.

On Tuesday, the Post Falls City Council approved a contract with Integrus Architecture to design an $11.7 million Public Works Operations Center that will move operations from the Water Reclamation Facility to a new 9.5-acre site on Hargrave Avenue — design will continue through early 2026 with construction starting next spring.

Kootenai County's housing market has stayed strong through spring and summer with a median price of $545,000 in Coeur d'Alene and 1,398 homes sold by July, while active listings rose nearly 10% to 1,243.

Jennifer Smock of CDA Regional Realtors said a recent dip in interest rates has revived buyer activity — well-priced, quality homes tend to sell quickly.

Post Falls Food Truck Festival

11 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Post Falls Pavilion — Free entry — Celebrate culinary delights with 16 food trucks and local vendors at this three-day festival.

Killer Hot Rod and Classic Cruise

1-4 p.m. — Killer Burger Hayden — Free entry — Celebrate classic cars and hot rods in a vibrant community gathering.

Northwest Classic Car & Hot Rod Show

10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. — The Club at Prairie Falls — Free entry — Admire stunning muscle cars and rare classics while enjoying food and drinks.