City Council

JANUARY 5, 2015 ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________ The City Council of the City of Idaho Falls met in Special Council Meeting (Council Work Session), Monday, January 5, 2015, at the City Council Chambers in the City Annex Building located at 680 Park Avenue in Idaho Falls, Idaho at 3:00 p.m. There were present: Mayor Rebecca L. Noah Casper Councilmember Michael Lehto Councilmember Dee Whittier Councilmember Ed Marohn Councilmember Barbara Ehardt Councilmember Thomas Hally Councilmember Sharon D. Parry (By Telephone) Also present: Brad Cramer, Planning and Building Director Rocky Deschamps Melanie Marsh, Human Resources Director Kerry Beutler, Assistant Planning and Building Director Kerry McCullough, Public Information Officer Reggie Fuller, Building Official Randy Fife, City Attorney Michael Kirkham, Assistant City Attorney Steve Wackerli Jeff Freiberg Dane Watkins Chris Fredericksen, Public Works Director Linda Martin, Grow Idaho Falls Rosemarie Anderson, City Clerk Mayor Casper called the meeting to order at 3:10 p.m., by starting with the Mayor and City Council Reports. Mayor Casper handed out the following Council Liaison Assignments for the 2015 year: 2015 City Council Liaison Assignments By Councilmember Michael Lehto: Ed Marohn:  Idaho Falls Power  Municipal Services Division  Public Works Division  Fire Division  Municipal Services Division  Human Resources/Legal Divisions  Bonneville Metropolitan Planning  Regional Development Alliance (RDA)/ Organization (BMPO) Idaho Falls Redevelopment Agency (IFRA) Thomas Hally: Dee Whittier:  Parks and Recreation Division  Planning and Building Division  Police Division  Parks and Recreation Division  Fire Division  Airport  Idaho Falls Redevelopment Agency  Bonneville Metropolitan Planning (IFRA) Organization (BMPO)  JANUARY 5, 2015 ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________ Sharon Parry: Barbara Ehardt:  Police Division  Public Works Division  Planning and Building Division  Idaho Falls Power  Airport  Human Resources/Legal Divisions  Library Board Liaison  Targhee Regional Public Transportation  Bonneville Metropolitan Planning Authority (TRPTA) Organization (BMPO) By Division Airport – IDA: Fire Division– IFFD: Dee Whittier, Lead Liaison Ed Marohn, Lead Liaison Sharon Parry Thomas Hally Internal City Services: Library: Ed Marohn, Lead Liaison for Human Resources Sharon Parry, Lead Liaison (and Board Liaison) Barbara Ehardt, Lead Liaison for Legal Services Municipal Services Division: Parks and Recreation Division: Ed Marohn, Lead Liaison Thomas Hally, Lead Liaison Michael Lehto Dee Whittier Planning and Building Division: Police Division: Dee Whittier, Lead Liaison Sharon Parry, Lead Liaison Sharon Parry Thomas Hally Idaho Falls Power – IFP: Public Works Division: Michael Lehto, Lead Liaison Barbara Ehardt, Lead Liaison Barbara Ehardt Michael Lehto City Council and Administrative Assignments Community Boards – Commissions Position Assignment BMPO – Bonneville Metropolitan Planning Organization Mayor Mayor Councilmember Sharon Parry Councilmember Dee Whittier Councilmember Michael Lehto Idaho Falls Downtown Development Corporation - IFDDC Mayor Mayor City Administrative Lisa Farris Idaho Falls Library Board Liaison City Council Liaison Sharon Parry Idaho Falls Power Board of Directors City Council All Councilmembers Idaho Falls Redevelopment Agency – IFRA Councilmember Thomas Hally  JANUARY 5, 2015 ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________ Senior Citizens ’ Center Board City Representative Michael Lehto/Kami Morrison Targhee Regional Public Transportation Authority – TRPTA Elected Official Barbara Ehardt Citizen or City Administration Mike O’Bleness Ammon/Idaho Falls Committees Hitt Road and 17th Street Dee Whittier, Barbara Ehardt Hitt Road, South of Sunnyside Michael Lehto, Thomas Hally Memorandum of Understanding Sharon Parry, Ed Marohn Hitt Road and First Street Michael Lehto, Barbara Ehardt Others County/Cities Meetings All Councilmembers Councilmember Lehto expressed his appreciation for the Public Works Division and the Street Department for their hard work in moving snow during the Christmas holiday. Further, he requested the City Council, should they need to call into a meeting, to use a hard line (not a cellphone) to be able to keep the highest level of professionalism. He stated that it was not necessary to call in for every meeting, only when there is an item that generates much public comment, or when a quorum is needed and that is the only way to be able to conduct a meeting. Councilmember Whittier and Councilmember Ehardt did not have anything to announce at this meeting. Councilmember Hally stated that the Master Plan for Tautphaus Park is complete. The new sanitation truck for the Parks and Recreation Division should be delivered next week. He commented that during the 2014 year, Noise Park has had three times the usage as that of previous years. The Zoo Superintendent position has been filled. Mayor Casper stated that the deadline for submission of the Citizen Review Committee Applications has been moved to January 12, 2014 due to the holidays. Councilmember Parry stated that the “Live Well Idaho Falls” press release was produced, with the first discussion for healthy living in the City being held earlier this evening. Councilmember Parry stated that she was proposing that the Mayor and City Council look at the growth money to go toward an employee wellness program. The Planning and Building Director appeared to review and further explain the following item: 1. Recommendations for Adoption of the 2012 International Energy Conservation Code: The Planning and Building Director appeared to introduce Reginald Fuller, Building Official, who provided the following memo and PowerPoint Presentation regarding the 2012 International Energy Conservation Code:  JANUARY 5, 2015 ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________ City of Idaho Falls December 10, 2014 MEMORANDUM TO: Mayor and City Council FROM:Reginald Fuller, Building Official SUBJECT: RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ADOPTION OF THE 2012 INTERNATIONAL ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE Mayor and Councilmembers, In accordance with the Idaho Building Code Act, Idaho Code 39-4116 for local government adoption and enforcement of building codes and in IDAPA 07.03.01, “Rules of Building Safety”, Division of Building Safety, adoption of the 2012 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) with Idaho amendments is required by local jurisdictions. Where these amendments do not reflect the code as written which will affect the increase in energy efficiency over the previous 2009 IECC without the Idaho amendments with the exception of any local amendments by the jurisdiction. This is also to include the Idaho amendments in Chapter 11 for energy efficiency in the 2012 International Residential Code. The reason for this recommendation is that the 2009 IECC was adopted statewide in 2011 and had an estimated 15% increase in energy over the previous 2006 edition. The 2012 IECC increases energy efficiency by about another 15% over the 2009 edition. This in turn creates more energy efficient homes thereby providing energy cost savings for Idaho Falls homeowners. The Idaho State Building Board requires any jurisdiction wishing to adopt a code with provisions more restrictive than the state amendments advertise for public hearing giving notice for the time and place being published in the official newspaper of general circulation within the jurisdiction. The next available Council Meeting for this public hearing is January 22, 2015. If there are any questions or you need additional information, please let me know. Respectfully, Reginald Fuller – Building Official Slide 1 Adoption of the 2012 International Energy Code Recommendations Slide 2 History of Energy Codes:  In 1975, the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) developed the first national energy code, 90-75 “Energy Conservation in New Building Design”, for residential and commercial buildings.  The next code developed was the Model Energy Code (MEC) 1983 Edition. The Council of American Building Officials (CABO) released subsequent editions every few years until 1998.  JANUARY 5, 2015 ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________  In 1998, the International Code Council (ICC) developed the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and it became the new residential model energy code. The IECC has been updated every three years since that time.  In February of 2009, ICC developed the International Code Council (ICC) developed the 2009 IECC and it was adopted statewide in January of 2011. It had an estimated 15% increase in energy efficiency over the 2006 version. The 2012 IECC increases efficiency by about another 15% over the 2009 IECC. Slide 3 Current Status of Adoption:  The latest editions of the codes have been adopted every three years by the legislature with minor exceptions and amendments since 1976. The 2012 code cycle has been the exception to the rule. There was opposition to the 2012 IECC that was based primarily upon two erroneous assumptions. o 1. That new houses were being constructed with an Air Change per Hour Rate (ACH) of 7. When the volume of air in the house is replaced on time and hour, that is a very tight house. At an ACH of 7, it is a very loose house. o 2. That new homes in climate zone 6 (our zone) had to have a continuous layer of foam insulation on the exterior walls of the home in addition to the interior insulation. Slide 4 Current Status of Adoption: Those assumptions created the perception that meeting the requirements of the 2012 IECC would be difficult and raise costs significantly. As a result of these incorrect assumptions, the 2012 IECC, as amended by the building code board and adopted by the legislature, rolled the insulation and air tightness requirements of the 2012 IECC back to the levels required by the 2009 IECC. Slide 5 Analysis:  Both of the assumptions that created the opposition are incorrect.  During the last 12 months blower door testing has been done across the State, including a number of tests in our area. In 2013, ten (10) blower door tests were done in the Idaho Falls/Ammon area. The average ACH was 3.07. In 2014, additional testing was done with similar results. According to testing, current construction for air tightness varies in our area with 50% complying and 50% not complying with the new ACH requirements in the 2012 IECC.  The requirement for exterior insulation is required only if the prescriptive path is chosen for compliance. This is not the only compliance path and is seldom used for compliance in our area. Slide 6 Blower Door: Diagnostic Tools – Testing the air tightness of a home using a special fan called a blower door can help to ensure that air sealing work is effective. Often, energy efficiency incentive programs, such as the DOE/EPA Energy Star Program, require a blower door test (usually performed in less than an hour) to confirm the tightness of the house. Slide 7 Compliance Options:  REScheck, a software compliance alternative developed by the Department of Energy for code compliance, is used 99% of the time by contractors and designers in our area.  REScheck allows for trade-offs to achieve compliance.  JANUARY 5, 2015 ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________ Slide 8 Cost Analysis for Compliance: Compliance can be achieved in several ways depending on the size and window area of the home. On several tests conducted, all that would need to be done is to provide R-19 insulation instead of R-13 insulation in the basement walls. The increased cost for a typical 1500 square foot home to be insulated to R-19 is between $128.00 for batt insulation and $256.00 for blown in insulation. The cost of a blower door for the air tightness testing is estimated to be around $200.00. The total costs could be between $353.00 and $483.00 which also includes high efficacy lighting costs. Slide 9 IECC 2012 Overview:  Idaho Energy Cost Savings for New Single- and Multi-Family Homes: 2012 IECC as compared to the 2009 IECC.  Moving to the 2012 IECC from the 2009 IECC is cost-effective over a 30-year life cycle. o On average, the reduction to energy bills will significantly exceed increased mortgage costs. o After accounting for up-front costs and additional costs financed in the mortgage, homeowners should see net positive cash flows (i.e., cumulative savings exceeding cumulative cash outlays) in 1 year for the 2012 IECC. Slide 10 Cost Savings:  Moving to the 2012 IECC from the 2009 IECC is cost-effective over a 30-year life cycle. o A study conducted by the U. S. Department of Energy and the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) shows that Idaho homeowners will have energy savings in our climate zone of $285.00 annually or $23.75 a month. o The increased costs for an additional $500.00 to a 30-year mortgage at a 4% interest rate is $2.39 a month and for a $1,000.00 increase the cost is $4.77 a month. o Each year, the reduction to energy bills will significantly exceed the increased mortgage costs. Slide 11 Cost-Effectiveness of IECC 2012 vs. 2009: The U. S. Department of Energy (DOE) evaluates the energy codes based on three measures of cost-effectiveness: Life-Cycle Cost: Full accounting over a 30-yer period of the cost savings, considering energy savings, the initial investment financed through increased mortgage costs, tax impacts, and residual values of energy efficiency measures. Cash Flow: Net annual cost outlay (i.e., difference between annual energy cost savings and increased annual costs for mortgage payments, etc.). Simple Payback: Number of years required for energy cost savings to exceed the incremental first costs of a new code. Slide 12 Recommendations:  We believe it is in our best interest to adopt the 2012 IECC as written for the following reasons: o The cost is minimal and the homeowner will benefit from a reduced utility bill.  JANUARY 5, 2015 ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________ o The level of comfort will be increased. o The longevity of the home is also increased due to tighter construction and the reduction of air infiltration. o Controlled ventilation provides for healthier inside air for the occupants of the home. The Planning and Building Director stated that this item will be presented to the Mayor and City Council for consideration at the January 22, 2015 Regular Council Meeting under a public hearing. 2. Planned Unit Development (PUD) Ordinance: The Planning and Building Director handed out a draft copy of the Planned Unit Development Ordinance, which has been approved at a public hearing by the Planning Commission. The following information was also passed out regarding Planned Unit Developments: PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENTS (PUD) What is a PUD?  It is a development tool that communicates use to promote development and redevelopment of existing properties.  They can include both residential and commercial uses and combinations of those uses.  The process allows traditional zoning standards to be varied and waived to allow flexibility in site design and building layout. In exchange for this flexibility in minimum standards a proposed PUD must meet specific objectives and characteristics set out by ordinance.  They are used when the desired mix of uses, densities or layout would be unattainable under traditional zoning.  They are not intended to be a general relation of development standards, creating an anything goes environment.  This ordinance should identify specific characteristics when it should be used and specific performance standards that will be achieved in exchange for the added flexibility of the PUD designation. Why allow for a PUD option?  PUD’s are often used for master planned communities because they allow a process where the City can consider the development as a whole and the developer can vest the development rights for multiple phases.  Because of the allowed flexibility from traditional zoning the PUD is also a useful tool for the development of difficult properties that would otherwise be undevelopable.  A PUD can be used to promote redevelopment of existing properties and neighborhoods. o Promote diversification of development types. o Achieve compatible land uses with the surrounding area. o Provide usable common space and facilities. o Promote the efficient use of land and utilities. o Provide for appropriate phasing. Identified concerns with the current PUD Ordinance.  Standards only address residential development.  JANUARY 5, 2015 ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________  Cohesive connections between phases or the existing neighborhood are not addressed.  Common open space is required, but no minimum standard provided.  Amendment and phasing processes undefined.  Language regarding mobile/manufactured home courts should be moved to RMH Zone. Components of the proposed PUD Ordinance.  Residential and commercial uses or a combination of uses allowed.  Minimum standards established in relationship to existing development and neighborhood.  General objectives and minimum performance standards outlined.  Common space required (minimum 25%).  Specific amenities are also required as part of development plan.  Minimum landscaping and streetscape requirements provided.  Phasing plan required for review and approval.  Amendment process provided for.  Mobile/manufactured home courts language moved to RMH Zone. Following a brief discussion regarding the above information, the Planning and Building Director stated that this PUD Ordinance will be discussed at a public hearing scheduled for January 22, 2015 for consideration. 3. Broadway Ford – Vacation of Portion of Nevada Street: The Planning and Building Director explained that the Planning Commission considered this request within a Preliminary Plat that was provided by Broadway Ford at their December 2, 2014 Meeting. The Planning Commission was reluctant to move forward on the Preliminary Plat request, until they received a general consensus from the City Council as to whether they would approve of the vacation of a portion of Nevada Street. Staff comments were as follows: The area is currently zoned HC-1 and I & M-1. The Ford Dealership is in the process of constructing a new facility on the west side of Nevada Avenue. As part of that development, they vacated a portion of Seattle Street, combining several parcels that they owned. The Ford Dealership also owns property on the east side of Nevada and proposes vacating the southern portion of the street and platting it as one lot to create a contiguous site. The proposal also includes the dedication of additional right-of-way to allow the remaining portion of Nevada Avenue to end in a cul-de-sac and continue to provide access to the remaining parcels on this block. The proposed lot will have frontage onto Broadway, but access will need to come from the main access, approved as part of the Ford Dealership site plan, or from Nevada Avenue on the north side. The plat indicates that the Ford Dealership’s parking lot would be extended east into this lot with the existing Detail Shop remaining on the northern end of the property. Removal of the Nevada Avenue intersection on Broadway is consistent with the access management plan. The intersection is currently 200-feet west of Utah Avenue. The access management plan recommends 660-feet of separation between intersections for arterials. Also, to be considered, is traffic circulating in the area. Mr. Wackerli, who owns the remaining property in this block between Nevada and Utah Avenues spoke with staff and indicated that he is not in favor of the plat  JANUARY 5, 2015 ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________ because of the vacation of Nevada Avenue. He stated that because of the difficulty in making left-hand turns onto Utah and Broadway that some vehicles will utilize right-turns onto Broadway and Nevada Avenue to loop around in order to make the turn at the lighted intersection of Utah Avenue. The preliminary plat meets the minimum requirements of the subdivision ordinance, but is dependent upon the approval of the vacation request by the City Council. The Planning and Building Director provided the following letters that were submitted by neighboring businesses in this area: Excellence Heating and Cooling 480 North Utah Avenue Idaho Falls, Idaho 83402 excellenceheating@cableone.net January 5, 2015 To Whom It May Concern: We are writing this letter in regards to the proposal to vacate a portion of Nevada Avenue for the Broadway Ford remodel. We oppose this notion because we are concerned it would cause further congestion on Utah Avenue making it more difficult for us to do our job. It would also make it more difficult for our customers who frequently visit our location as well. We appreciate any consideration you could give our business and the surrounding businesses on this matter. Sincerely, s/ Brian Medrain Brian Medrain Owner of Excellence Heating and Cooling, LLC ******************** Musselman Equipment Company, Inc. And Drive Line Service of Idaho Falls 375 Lindsay Boulevard Idaho Falls, Idaho 83402 (208) 522-7601 – (208) 522-7604 - Fax: (208) 522-7602 1-800-479-7604 January 5, 2015 To Whom It May Concern: It has been brought to my attention that the City is considering closing Nevada Street from Broadway to Denver Street. Our freight is delivered via the alley between Lindsay Boulevard and Utah Avenue. The trucks cannot exit left on Utah Avenue. They must turn right on Utah and then left on Denver Street and left on Nevada to get access to Broadway. This would have considerable impact on our freight delivery.  JANUARY 5, 2015 ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________ Therefore, I am against the closure of Nevada Avenue. Respectfully submitted, s/ Dean Musselman Dean Musselman Owner/Manager Musselman Equipment Company, Inc. Driveline Service of Idaho Falls ******************** Commercial Real Estate Services 434 Gladstone, P. O. Box 2363 Idaho Falls, Idaho 83402 January 5, 2015 Brad Cramer, MPA, AICP City of Idaho Falls Planning Director Office: (208) 612-8268 Dear Brad: I am writing this letter in behalf of a client of mine who I have worked with on the property located at 810 West Broadway. It is of my understanding that there is a proposal in place to possibly vacate Nevada Avenue outlet to Broadway. My professional opinion as a Commercial Real Estate Broker in Idaho Falls, is that this could cause some monetary damage to the surrounding business owners. As you know, Utah Avenue is already a very congested commuter outlet running north and south off of Broadway. I know that if a commuter is heading south on Utah from Lindsay Boulevard and would like to travel west on Broadway, they can take Nevada as an alternative outlet when traffic is backed up on Utah. This helps relieve some pressure on the already congested Utah and Broadway intersection. Likewise, if a commuter would like to head north on Utah from Broadway, they can turn on Nevada and also reduce traffic congestion at this above mentioned intersection. Please consider that the 810 West Broadway property would be compromised heavily by making this change and would severely impact this property owner’s value as well as others along Denver Street. As you know, any time you reduce traffic flow to a property, you reduce demand and ultimately value to all the properties affected. I would pledge against this proposal. In my opinion, if there were any consideration to be made to Nevada Street, it would be to make the outlet on to Broadway a right turn only to keep the traffic flow moving on and off Broadway smoothly. Sincerely, s/ Shane Murphy Shane Murphy ********************  JANUARY 5, 2015 ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________ Terry and Sons Upholstery Company, Inc. 395 Lindsay Boulevard Idaho Falls, Idaho 83402 January 5, 2015 I would like to express my concerns with changes that are being considered in the Lindsay Boulevard, Utah Avenue, and Broadway Area. 1. Consideration should be given to the larger vehicles such as trucks or vehicles with trailers that stop in front of our business to deliver or pick up items and then need to get onto Broadway from Lindsay Boulevard. They come during the busier times of the day and it is hard for them to access Broadway and without a signal light at the intersection it would be more difficult as they try to pull into traffic on Broadway. 2. Traffic would increase on Utah Avenue at the intersection with Broadway. 3. If the signal at Lindsay and Broadway is removed then Seattle Street would be a cross over to Utah to be able to access a signal for left turns onto Broadway during peak traffic times, but it is the one way the wrong way for that. 4. Another concern is the Lindsay Boulevard sign over the intersection of Utah Avenue and Broadway as it is confusing to many motorists trying to find the business in the 300 and 400 blocks of Lindsay. I thank you for your work in making our area better and thank you for your consideration. Terry Young 395 Lindesay Boulevard Idaho Falls, Idaho 83402 ******************** Xpress Cash 780 West Broadway Street Idaho Falls, Idaho 83402 208-542-0006 208-542-0007 (Fax) January 5, 2015 To Whom It May Concern: We are writing this letter regarding the vacation of Nevada Avenue. Customers are already having a hard time getting in and out of our business. Traffic is a concern, and we are opposed to that vacation. s/ Veronica Martinez Veronica Martinez ********************  JANUARY 5, 2015 ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________ EDGE Construction Supply 1503 East Riverside Avenue P. O. Box 3437 Spokane, Washington 99220 509-535-9841 800-348-4808 509-534-3139 (Fax) I am the Branch Manager for Edge Construction Supply located at 760 West Broadway. I am very much against the proposal to block off part of Nevada Street. We have a loading dock in the back of our store that is used by customers, freight drivers, UPS and Federal Express, and our sales and delivery personnel. The way the dock is located, you must pull out onto Utah Avenue to exit the store. Many times, Utah is backed up past our alley that we use to exit onto Utah. Most of our delivery semis turn right onto Utah and then travel down one block to Denver turning left and then onto Nevada Street. Nevada Street has no stop light and it is much easier to make a right-hand turn to Broadway and on to I-15. The only other option is to use Lindsay Boulevard but turning right onto Broadway means you have to cross two lanes of traffic within one short block if you want to continue west on Broadway. Utah is already very busy and will only add to that if the traffic from Nevada has to use Utah if it is closed off. Please consider the other businesses in the area but will be affected if this is allowed to go through. s/ Rocky Deschamps Rocky Deschamps Branch Manager Edge Construction Supply 760 West Broadway Idaho Falls, Idaho 83402 208-522-7082 ******************** EDGE Construction Supply 760 West Broadway Idaho Falls, Idaho 83402 208-522-7082 I am very suspicious about the traffic study that was conducted and paid for by Broadway Ford for the following reasons. 1. One day’s worth of traffic study may not be a good representation of what is typical and the peak times of traffic for that street might not be within the hours they studied. 2. Broadway Ford stated that they service 100 cars a day, if that is the case, where were those cars in the study.  JANUARY 5, 2015 ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________ I believe that Nevada Street might have some local importance in the future. Much of the land between Utah Avenue and I-15 is undeveloped and will need access to Broadway. The property beyond Western Recycling and Hampton Inn could be developed soon and add even more to the traffic of Utah Avenue when that happens. The traffic now is already heavy and would only get worse once the development takes place if Nevada is vacated. Widening Utah is an expensive option with all of the businesses that are located right at the street with no setbacks. Who benefits from this action other than Broadway Ford? One point that was brought up at the P & Z Meeting was it was for safety. I believe safety will suffer with the elimination of Nevada as people will be exiting from Broadway Ford’s lot instead of an actual street with stop signs and sight distances much better. Pedestrians would be crossing a marked crossing instead of parking areas. Utah Avenue is a 35 mph road except from Hampton Inn to Broadway when it drops to 25 mph because of the traffic and pedestrian use. Please consider the other business that would be affected in your deliberation. Rocky Deschamps Branch Manager Edge Construction Supply 760 West Broadway Idaho Falls, Idaho 83402 208-522-7082 ******************** Notice of Public Hearing Idaho Falls Planning Commission December 2, 2014 Objection to Preliminary Plat: West Broadway Addition, 2 nd Amended This document summarizes some of the issues and concerns regarding the proposed preliminary plat to vacate a portion of Nevada Avenue and close it off to through traffic. ACCESS AND TRAFFIC Traffic congestion on Utah Avenue occurs on a regular basis including after normal business hours, particularly at the intersection of Utah and Broadway and backs up traffic beyond Denver Street. There currently is a tremendous amount of heavy semi-truck and medium-duty truck traffic plus it is a heavily traveled road by passenger cars and trucks. It is virtually impossible to exit the front, side, or back parking lots at 810 West Broadway (northwest corner of Utah and Broadway) without having to wait a significant amount of time or taking chances and pulling out hoping the oncoming traffic will yield. Employees of surrounding businesses and other savvy drivers often turn onto Denver Street then onto Nevada Street to avoid the congestion/bottleneck of traffic on Utah Avenue which currently helps the traffic flow on Utah Street.  JANUARY 5, 2015 ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________ Significant traffic increases on Utah Avenue due in part to:  Additional hotels  Additional restaurants  Fast food  UPS  Wal-Mart  Commercial businesses  Heavy truck traffic from Highway 20 to service local businesses  Circle Valley Produce Traffic considerably increases during the tourist season with trailers, campers, boats, etc. and many out-of-town travelers stay in hotels located on Utah Avenue. This just exacerbates the traffic dilemma because many travelers are driving slow, unsure where they are going, and create a lot of anguish and frustration for other drivers. Incidences of road rage and near miss accidents have increased due to the traffic congestion on Utah Avenue. …amount of heavy trucks, UPS double and even triple hauls, freight trucks, car haulers, potato trucks, petroleum trucks, cargo trucks, and delivery trucks plus recreational vehicles. All of this traffic adds to driver frustration and safety. Basically, this study is one single day for 4 hours only and it does not even come close to demonstrating the current traffic situation and congestion in this area. It appears to be entirely biased in favor of Broadway Ford who hired them. SAFETY Emergency vehicles would be hindered to reach businesses on Denver Street or Nevada Avenue if there is only one arterial egress/ingress. Due to the back-up of traffic on Utah Avenue, it would be difficult for fire trucks, ambulances, police, etc. to reach businesses in a timely manner. Nevada Avenue provides a more direct access to these businesses and makes it much more efficient, convenient and safe for them to respond by having two arterial entrances and exits. Traffic congestion creates frustration and short tempers which are already evident with the current conditions on Utah Avenue. Adding additional traffic by closing off Nevada Avenue to exit onto Broadway will create more frustration, more drivers taking chances and pulling out in front of oncoming traffic, and cause more accidents. We have observed and experienced multiple times, south-bound vehicles on Utah Avenue crossing the double-yellow line (oncoming traffic lane) to get around the backed up traffic in order to get in the left-turn lane. This creates a dangerous situation for north-bound traffic as well as those in the south-bound turn lane. If the Wackerli property is utilized for another car lot, as it is being considered, two main arterial entrances/exits are crucial in order for large transport trucks to safely deliver vehicles. Transport trucks cannot turn around in a cul-de-sac nor can they safely back up onto Denver Street to exit. It would make it virtually prohibitive to function as a car lot without Nevada Avenue access to Broadway. If the Wackerli property is utilized for retail or wholesale stores or multiple use store(s), two main arterial entrances/exits are vital to facilitate large volumes of traffic for customers, employees, and delivery vehicles.  JANUARY 5, 2015 ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________ There is currently a median turn lane off of Broadway onto Nevada Avenue for efficient, effective and safe traffic flow. There is no median turning lane on Utah which creates dangerous entering and exiting off of or onto Utah Avenue. MARKETABILITY Alleviating access to one of the two arterial roads would significantly hinder the economic development and marketability of the Wackerli property(s). Wackerli supports the Idaho Falls beautification and economic development initiatives and envisions property(s) owned by Wackerli to grow and enhance the landscape of this area in the future. Wackerli currently has the following 7 buildings at 5 different addresses which are affected by the Nevada Avenue closure. See map enclosed. a. 810 West Broadway b. 810 West Broadway No. 2 Shop c. Nevada Denver Compound d. 502 Utah e. 502 Utah No. 2 f. 480 Utah g. 725 West Broadway The value of these properties would be negatively impacted by the closure of Nevada Avenue due to limited access with only one ingress/egress road to serve this area. These properties have multiple business potential and limiting the access is limiting the ability to attract good tenants and limiting the economic development and growth potential for this area. Has the City of Idaho Falls or County considered the affect this closure will have on current and future property values? In summary, closing this road is narrow-minded and is not taking into consideration the future growth potential for this area. The City of Idaho Falls supports small business and they should be supporting and helping all small businesses grow and enhance their businesses, not help one small business at the expense of many other small businesses. s/ Steve Wackerli Steve Wackerli ******************** Chester’s Grand Teton Harley-Davidson 848 Houston Avenue Idaho Falls, Idaho 83402 208-523-1464 December 2, 2014 City of Idaho Falls, I am writing in behalf of Chester’s Grand Teton Harley-Davidson, regarding the closure of Nevada Street.  JANUARY 5, 2015 ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________ We here at Chester’s respectively think that it is in the best interest of our fellow neighbors that Nevada Street stays open. We sincerely thank you in advance for any time and consideration you may be able to give our request. Thank you, Chester’s Grant Teton Harley-Davidson 848 Houston Avenue Idaho Falls, Idaho 83402 208-523-1464 ******************** Craig Stephenson Western Recycling 1020 Denver Street 208-529-9908 December 2, 2014 Idaho Falls Planning Commission Craig Stephensen Western Recycling 1020 Denver Street 208-529-9908 Dear Members: I have been at this location since 1994. There have been many changes along the way, especially on Broadway. The corner of Broadway and Utah has had several car accidents, as well as cars trying to get on Broadway from the Wal-Mart parking lot. All I am trying to say is we have four to eight City of Idaho Falls trucks come every day. We load and unload on average fifteen semi-trucks per week, not counting the City trucks. I just hope you would not give our competition a hand up by limiting access to our facility. I would encourage some type of traffic study before this change is made. I think you should consider how the extra traffic is going to impact the intersection. Thank you very much for your consideration in this matter. Sincerely, s/ Craig Stephenson Craig Stephenson ********************  JANUARY 5, 2015 ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________ Chili’s 620 North Utah Avenue Idaho Falls, Idaho 83402 208-552-2577 208-552-2587 (Fax) December 2, 2014 To Whom It May Concern: Utah Avenue is a highly congested road and I feel like cutting off access by closing Nevada will only add to the congestion and make it harder for guests and employees to get in or out. Jeff Keller General Manager Chili’s Bar and Grill ******************** Rad Detail Pros, Inc. December 2, 2014 I, Robert Montague, of Rad Detail Pros, Inc. would like to address my concern on the road closure to be done at Nevada Avenue. This would result in traffic backing up on Utah Avenue, which would block access to and from business entrance of Rad Detail Pros. This would also make it very dangerous for my clients as well as my employees, due to extreme traffic congestion. I’m afraid this would be a big mistake, and cause more grief for what it’s worth. Sincerely, s/ Robert Montague Robert Montague Rad Detail Pros ******************** Commercial Tire December 2, 2014 To Whom It May Concern: In regards to the proposed road closure/West Broadway Addition, I, Scott Hammon, Manager of Commercial Tire at 850 Denver Street, feel that this would be a problem for many of our clients who get work done at our facility. The problem that I see happening for current and future traffic is that it will make North Utah Avenue our only route to Broadway. With the majority of our customers being semi-trucks, this would cause a major back up at the traffic light on Broadway Avenue and Utah Avenue. It may also cause congestion on the roadway for other customers to get to the businesses farther down Denver Street. The way it currently is, it gives the semi-  JANUARY 5, 2015 ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________ trucks leaving our building direct access to Broadway and the freeway making it more convenient for them. Regards, s/ Scott Hammon Scott Hammon Commercial Tire The Planning and Building Director read the following recommendation from Hales Engineering, Innovative Transportation Solutions: Summary of Key Findings/Recommendations The following is a summary of key findings and recommendations:  The p.m. peak hour volumes were used for analysis because the p.m. peak had over 35 percent more traffic than the a.m. peak hour with higher volumes at every movement at the signalized intersection.  All intersections are currently operating at acceptable levels of service during the p.m. peak hour.  The proposed Ford Dealership expansion will close Seattle Street and Nevada Avenue. The traffic on these roadways was rerouted to Denver Street and Utah Avenue in the plus project analysis. Trip generation was also calculated by the Ford Dealership expansion and added to the roadway network.  All intersections are anticipated to continue to operate at acceptable levels of service in the plus project scenario.  Future 2020 conditions were also analyzed. All intersections are anticipated to continue operating at acceptable levels of service during the p.m. peak hours.  With project traffic added and the closure of Nevada Avenue, all study intersections continue to operate at acceptable levels of service.  No mitigation measures are recommended, although some signal timing adjustments at Utah Avenue/Broadway Street (US-20) may be helpful in the future.  No problems are anticipated with the closure of Nevada Avenue to the roadway network. Councilmember Lehto expressed his concern with giving the City’s property and right-of-way away, when in the future, should the City require that property, they would have to purchase it back. Following a discussion on the above information, it was moved by Councilmember Lehto, seconded by Councilmember Marohn, to authorize the City Attorney to prepare the documentation necessary to vacate a portion of Nevada Avenue. Roll call as follows: Aye: Councilmember Marohn Nay: Councilmember Lehto Councilmember Ehardt Councilmember Parry Councilmember Whittier  JANUARY 5, 2015 ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________ Abstain: Councilmember Hally Motion Failed. The Planning and Building Director indicated that the Preliminary Plat will now go before the Planning Commission at a public hearing. If it is approved there, the Final Plat will be considered by the City Council at a public hearing at a Regular City Council Meeting. Discussion Item – Runoff Elections: Councilmember Lehto stated that this is a difficult issue in that it would appear to go against the will of the people, as there was an advisory vote taken in 2005 regarding this issue. He requested to know where we should go from here. The Mayor and City Council discussed the following items that should be considered regarding the Runoff Elections: Cost for Run-Off Election – Paid for by City from taxpayers dollars. Absentee voting becomes a bit of an issue. Any ballots coming back after the election cannot be counted. Can’t begin to send out ballots until after the canvass – approximately 1 week following election. That leaves only 3 weeks to send out Absentee Ballots and have them returned. Open registration period – closes before official announcement of run-off election. Absentee ballot – if a person moves in between – cannot register to request an absentee ballot. Affects military, missionaries, those going south. Voter turnout is likely to be lower in a Run-Off Election. This past election, 37% voted in November, less than 25% in December. There is never a true 50%+1 circumstance, as everyone does not get out and vote. So there is only 50%+1 for those that actually voted. With the Run-Off Election, even less get out to vote. Turn-around time to prepare for the Run-Off Election – all preparing, proofing, testing, and printing need to take place before the November election. If it looks like the turn-out will be close, preparations need to be held ahead of time. 30-day period following November Election to conduct Run-Off Election – There is a 20 day holding period where individuals can request a recount, so all documents need to be held for that time period. Due to the 20-day holding period, additional supplies have to be purchased, instead of being able to re-use some from the November election. Highly contested races produce more new registrations. All registration cards have to be put in the system prior to election. In the City’s most recent election, 500-600 cards were completed. All need to be entered before poll books can be printed.  JANUARY 5, 2015 ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________ The results have seldom been overturned with a Run-Off Election. It becomes difficult to find poll workers as no one wants to work in December. Publishing deadlines – legal notices need to be 12 days before election. Sample ballots need to be printed – Idaho Code deadlines. If you absolutely love the Run-Off Election, Washington has a Primary Election in May, with a General Municipal Election held in November. That would allow more time for each election to occur. (This may not be allowed in the State of Idaho, State Code will have to be checked.) City’s cost for conducting the 2013 Run-Off Election: $29,106.76 Councilmember Ehardt also provided information that she has collected. Councilmember Lehto stated that this item should not have been placed before the electorate and needed to have been considered by the City Council at the time. He commented that he was never in favor of Runoff Elections when this item was originally brought forward in 2005. Following a discussion regarding Runoff Elections, the City Attorney was instructed to prepare an Ordinance to repeal the Ordinance regarding Runoff Elections for Councilmembers. He requested that the City Council vote their own heart and mind, that there should no gamesmanship, and no division within the community on this issue. There being no further business, it was moved by Councilmember Hally, seconded by Councilmember Marohn, that the meeting adjourn at 4:55 p.m. _______________________________________ _____________________________________ CITY CLERK MAYOR ************************