City Council

January 12, 2017 The City Council of the City of Idaho Falls met in Council Meeting, Thursday, January 12, 2017, in the Council Chambers in the City Annex Building located at 680 Park Avenue in Idaho Falls, Idaho at 7:30 p.m. Call to Order: There were present: Mayor Rebecca L. Noah Casper Councilmember Michelle Ziel-Dingman Councilmember John B. Radford Councilmember Ed Marohn Councilmember David M. Smith Councilmember Thomas Hally Councilmember Barbara Ehardt Also present: Randy Fife, City Attorney Kathy Hampton, City Clerk All available department directors Pledge of Allegiance: Mayor Casper invited Mikey Seward, a 9th grade student at Compass Academy and Boy Scout Troop #387, to lead those present in the Pledge of Allegiance. State of the City Address presented by Mayor Casper: Coming Together: The Spirit of Community Introduction Given the swirl of national political events, I have been struck lately by the significant contrast between our city and our nation. At the national level, it seems we are divided by party, by region, and even by race. But, in Idaho Falls, we are not. We do things differently here. We may debate and we may even disagree, but without question, we have more in common than not. And that allows us to come together with mutual respect and with a spirit of community—to help each other and to solve problems. An example of this is the record snow fall we have been experiencing. In early December the City Council established a new written snow removal policy. Whenever there is a significant storm, it allows snow removal work to begin without delay and to go around the clock until done. We had our first tests of the policy on December 16th and again on Christmas Day. After each snowfall, city workers and contractors completed residential neighborhoods in 72 hours. That’s much faster than the 4-5 days it used to take us and especially impressive when you consider that our crews plow 700 lane miles of roads with each major storm. The new policy has been a great start toward improved service and efficiency, but realistically we expect it will be improved going forward. So back to the Christmas Day snowstorm. On that day I personally saw so many of you do what government cannot do. Neighbor helped neighbor move snow from a driveway or sidewalk. Folks whose cars wouldn’t start 1  January 12, 2017 were rescued by those with jumper cables. Those who slid off a road were helped, often by multiple hands (in my case, also a tow strap). That is the spirit of community we enjoy in Idaho Falls. We pull together. That is what makes this a special place to live, and a community I am immensely proud to serve. Tonight I will highlight other instances where citizens and government have proven that when we come together we can thrive. 2016 City Milestones and Accomplishments City departments accomplished much during 2016, and we have great plans for 2017. There is much to tell, but here are some of the highlights. Airport. In April, IDA passed its annual FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) safety inspection with zero discrepancies—the highest rating a commercial airport can receive. The rating also came with comments and accolades for our efficiency, management and overall safety.  Our airport requested and received an additional $1M in FAA funding that we used in 2016 to construct a de-icing pad and other aircraft safety features.  In 2016 we created new revenue streams by adding three new corporate hangars and a $1M Enterprise Rent-a-car storage and maintenance facility.  We also extended aircraft rescue and specialized aircraft fire fighting to 24-hour coverage, making our airport much safer for pilots who must land after hours.  In 2017 you will see an expansion of the baggage claim area as well as other runway and airfield improvements to enhance safety.  We continue negotiations with Alaska Airlines as we try to establish a Seattle route. This process is challenging as the airline wants guarantees of cash or passengers to minimize their risk if the route isn’t well supported at the beginning. Community Development Services. This department is the gateway to development in our city.  In 2016 the department handled over 2000 new construction permits. This is the most construction activity we have experienced since 2007 – before the Great Recession.  Together with the Idaho Falls Redevelopment Agency and private sector partners, CDS is working to develop the former Saving Center site and the Bonneville Hotel property into bustling economic and downtown residential hubs. Idaho Falls Fire Department. The number of service calls the IFFD responds to increases steadily every year— we saw a 10 percent increase in the past two years alone.  And this past year, for the first time since 1995, the City Council added two additional ambulances to our fleet. This has greatly reduced our response time per call. Every additional minute we save translates into lives saved—a very important fact.  Improved response times can also translate into dollars saved. Insurance companies regularly use a fire department’s response times when calculating a community’s insurance risk level. This is called an ISO rating. Our department’s ISO rating will be re-assessed later this month. With all of the safety improvements the city has invested in recently, we anticipate moving from a class 3 ISO rating to a class 2 ISO rating—only one other city in Idaho has achieved this. If it happens, fire insurance rates throughout the city could be reduced, resulting in significant savings for property owners. We will notify the public when this happens.  This summer, the fire department played a key regional role as we sent 25 highly-trained personnel out to 12 wildfire incidents in four western states. We are known throughout the west for our EMS (Emergency Medical Services) expertise. As we stepped up to support the agencies fighting the wildfires, we helped to 2  January 12, 2017 assure the safety of their fire personnel—that’s more lives saved. All of these efforts were ultimately reimbursed so Idaho Falls taxpayers didn’t carry the burden for that extra service.  We also anticipate the new Fire Station #1 will come together in late March or early April, further boosting our fire and emergency protection capabilities. The entire community will be invited to that ribbon cutting. Human Resources. Our newest City Director, Ryan Tew, came to us this past September from Salt Lake City. He and the capable HR staff are creating training programs for city employees to foster and encourage a city-wide culture of customer service and inclusion. We officially welcome you, Director Tew. Idaho Falls Public Library. Now, over at the library, the business of checking books in and checking books out picked up last year with over 1.5 million items placed in circulation.  We had 6000 kids participating in the summer reading program.  And the Smithsonian Institution’s travelling “Water Ways” exhibit hosted by the Library was seen by the more than 65,000 patrons who walked through the doors last June and part of July. Municipal Services. This department manages most of the vital administrative functions of the city.  Throughout 2016, Municipal Services led a core group of city staff as they implemented a new utility billing and accounting software system. As is always the case with complex data conversions, they encountered bumps along the way. But I am confident the new system will be a great benefit. One of my favorite features is the automatic bill pay.  As recommended by the Municipal Services Citizen Review Committee, the department has negotiated a contract for the Civic Auditorium with the Idaho Falls Arts Council for event management and marketing. And, I appointed a Civic Auditorium Citizen Committee to draft a long-term financial plan for this facility. This historic building is a community asset and at last we are on a path to make it more economically sustainable.  Finally, the accounting staff in Municipal Services is developing a financial forecast modeling for the 2017/18 fiscal year. This will allow city leaders to better understand our financial outlook as we set and manage future budgets. Parks and Recreation had another great year.  Volunteers are one major reason for this. Last year more than 1,500 people came together and donated more than 30,000 hours. This saved over $700,000 in expenses.  The city’s Connecting Our Community plan to develop a system of paths progressed as we completed renovations along the west and east sides of the River Walk between Broadway and Highway 20.  The Idaho Falls Zoo experienced record-breaking attendance, and staff finalized a five-year strategic plan that was approved by City Council.  New signs that are part of the city’s Signage and Wayfinding Plan were installed with more to come in 2017.  2016 recreation numbers increased as we have added more youth and adult teams. We are also incorporating STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) educational elements into programming, as well as classes aimed at connecting youth to nature.  After extensive public input and involvement, the department completed master plans for Tautphaus and Heritage Parks, and the City Council adopted them.  Working together with Public Works, Parks and Recreation obtained grant funding to construct a path around the Pinecrest Golf Course area. This project should begin in 2017.  Other plans for 2017 include renovation of the River Walk south of Broadway. Idaho Falls Police Department. We live in a safe community because of the hard work of the policemen and policewomen who work diligently each day to protect us. They deserve our sincerest thanks and the utmost respect. The IFPD is in the spotlight right now for reasons that, to me, further highlight the importance and necessity of coming together with mutual respect. As we move forward, I wish to foster a culture of trust among all parties so 3  January 12, 2017 that we may have constructive conversations. Everyone wants the same thing—a department that excels in every way possible. As a part of that, it is important to me that we acknowledge the department’s many successes from this past year.  Blue in the School –This program puts officers in the classrooms of 12 participating District 91 schools. Officers visit their schools at least once a month to spend time with students, attend recess and lunch, participate in school projects and other activities.  Coffee with a Cop – Launched in October 2015, this program brings citizens and officers together to communicate one-on-one.  The IFPD honored three local officers with Life-Saving Awards this past year – Bonneville County Sheriff Lt. James Foster and Idaho Falls Police Officers Dustin Howell and Blaine Reed. Congratulations again, gentlemen.  When it comes to Community Engagement, the IFPD participated in and/or hosted more than 100 classes, presentations, station tours, ride-alongs and events during 2016. This includes the annual Community Night Out event in August and the Citizen’s Police Academy.  Citizen’s Watch Patrol volunteers assist our department with abandoned vehicles, parking violations, neighborhood patrols, vacation watches, etc. A very impressive 1000 volunteer hours was donated by the CWP—Impressive! Going forward, it is critical that this department in particular remain in touch with the demands and needs of our citizens. That is why I am organizing a community-wide survey and Law Enforcement Roundtable discussion on policing in our area. Community leaders from a variety of backgrounds will be invited to share insight and participate in the discussion. The public also will be invited to attend. You can expect a detailed announcement very soon. Idaho Falls Power. One of the greatest assets we enjoy is having a publicly-owned local power provider in our city. This means low-cost, independently-generated power is available for Idaho Falls residents and businesses. And these low rates represent a tremendous advantage for all of us.  In 2016 IFP completed a necessary rebuild of the Old Lower Plant that was paid in full with funds that were carefully saved over a long period of time specifically for this project.  IFP completed the removal of sediment at the Upper Bulb Turbine Plant. I was able to go out and see that impressive project mid-way through; re-routing a segment of the Snake River was a huge undertaking. The resulting unimpeded flow of water has greatly increased generation output at the facility.  Through its involvement with Utah Associated Municipal Power Systems, Idaho Falls continues to investigate the potential for siting a Small Modular Reactor designed by NuScale at the INL site. Just today, NuScale formally submitted a 12,000 page application to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. If this project comes to fruition, Idaho Falls will be the first community in the world to offer this new, safer nuclear technology.  In 2016, IFP presented the City Council with options for expanding the City’s dark fiber optic network. And in 2017 the City Council will, in turn, reach out to citizens as it determines next steps for Idaho Falls fiber.  This year we will also roll out enhanced customer services—including more electric vehicle charging. Public Works. Without a doubt, the work of the city that most impacts our daily life comes through the Public Works Department which manages streets, water, wastewater, drainage, sanitation, snow removal, mapping and engineering.  Road Construction. In 2016 Public Works coordinated improvements to the roadways, waterlines, and drainage on Holmes Avenue and Grandview Avenue. In 2017 we will see construction of a roundabout at Boulevard and Elm Street which studies have indicated will greatly improve both safety and efficiency.  Intersections. Also in 2017 we expect reconstruction of the 17th Street and Hitt Road intersection. This project has been sorely needed for many years, and I’m sure I’m not the only one eagerly awaiting its completion. I wish to express gratitude to Director Fredericksen and Councilmen Hally and Radford for their work in negotiating the terms of this project. And I thank city officials in Ammon for once again 4  January 12, 2017 agreeing to work cooperatively to improve our shared space along Hitt Road. Projects like this are proof that everyone benefits when we come together and collaborate in the Spirit of Community.  Safety. In late 2016 Public Works completed a 17th Street Safety Audit that will guide future safety improvements along the 17th street corridor.  Wastewater. In 2016 our city’s Waste Water Treatment Plant won a 1st place Engineering Excellence Award. And in 2017 we plan to make additional improvements to the primary treatment process. 2017 Opportunities and Challenges This overview of city-level successes demonstrates how overwhelmingly effective we can be as a community when we work together to address the day-to-day goals of city management. There is also important work to be done when it comes to planning for future community goals. In that, 2017 comes with more opportunities and challenges for Idaho Falls. Resiliency. One of those challenges is resiliency. Water is one of our most valuable and precious natural resources. In Idaho Falls our quality of life is made possible in large part by the Eastern Snake Plain Aquifer. But our access to the aquifer is not infinite. Our consumption is limited by law, and also by the environmental knowledge that we ought not use more aquifer water than can be naturally replenished each season. We must therefore use the aquifer sustainably. As our city grows, and agriculture and industry expand their presence, eastern Idaho water rights issues become increasingly complex. Idaho Falls is working with Pocatello and other Idaho cities to communicate city interests as the state’s newly-created ESPA Ground Water Management Area is organized. In addition, at the recent Association of Idaho Cities Municipal Water Summit, Director Fredericksen and I were appointed to a statewide water resource group to promote the water needs of municipalities across the state. With that as background, I am proud to report that the city has made great strides in conserving and preserving access to our precious groundwater resources. Water conservation and recycling efforts were a priority in 2016 and will continue as such for the coming year.  Our zoo has traditionally used large quantities of water. We have more than 330 animals that need continuous access to water. Last year, the zoo announced a plan to reduce water use by 2.4 million gallons/month—and we did.  At Ryder Park we added a pump station that will reduce groundwater consumption by more than 2 million gallons/month by pulling water directly from the Snake River into the fishing ponds. This is much healthier for the fish and for our city’s water supply.  Projects to convert all of our golf courses to surface water irrigation are also underway. We have initiated irrigation audits at Pinecrest Golf Course and Sand Creek Golf Course to provide key data, and we have also carefully adjusted watering schedules.  This past summer, the City Council authorized the reclassification of water and wastewater rates to more closely align consumer costs with the actual services rendered.  We also have begun installing water meters on major non-residential users. The data from these meters is invaluable in ensuring that our water rates are as accurate as possible.  We are also assessing the possibilities for recharging other city water to help replenish the aquifer. Wherever possible, we are subsidizing and leveraging city dollars with public and private grants that will make city water use more efficient. Education. Our city’s education system is another precious resource. Though the City of Idaho Falls does not manage our community’s K-12 schools, we do work closely with officials in District 91. I am confident that the Superintendent and Trustees are committed to providing a 21st century education to our children and youth. And everyone benefits from this. 5  January 12, 2017 Higher Education is another powerful vehicle for societal change and a key component in Idaho Falls’ city-wide economic development. I am very pleased about the quality of research done by the Citizen Study Committee that Mayor Kirkham, Commissioner Radford and I appointed almost a year ago to study whether or not a Community College would be a good fit for us. Ten local residents came together to examine the issue. In August, they unanimously recommended we move forward with an initiative to pursue a Community College. I believe a community college would have a meaningful and positive impact on the region’s job market. Local employers constantly tell us their biggest need is for a local, sustained pool of highly skilled, trained and educated individuals—what we call the talent pipeline. A community college will certainly help existing businesses such as INL, Premier Technology, EIRMC (Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center) and other employers in the area that need these skilled workers by infusing our city and region with talent which could in turn promote new business growth. According to the Study Committee’s research, the capacity of the existing EITC (Eastern Idaho Technical College) campus can affordably support many times more students than it is currently serving. And as the Governor pointed out in his State of the State address on Monday, a community college here would have the significant advantage of not having to start from scratch because we already have the EITC campus to build from. This means much, much lower start-up costs. Over the next few months, Bonneville County residents will continue to discuss the benefits and costs of transitioning EITC to a community college. And everyone who votes on this issue is going to have to determine whether or not these benefits justify the costs. I believe they do. Growth and Development. When it comes to economic development, I am pleased to report that many new businesses began construction or opened their doors in Idaho Falls in 2016. Also this past year, Idaho Falls joined with Eastern Idaho and also the State’s Department of Commerce in broad marketing efforts. Idaho Falls has much to offer—low-cost power; open space; good access to resources; viable transportation options, etc., and it is our job to make sure others know it. As a result, we hosted several out-of-state businesses and site selectors who expressed interest in relocating to our area. As many of you know, the Naval Reactor Facility will be constructing a $1.6 billion facility—quite a substantial investment for our region. The long-term nature of work at this facility ensures that the NRF’s mission will continue to be a strong feature of the Idaho Falls economic landscape for years to come. And make no mistake, our city benefits greatly from the talented NRF workforce. Also in his State of the State Address on Monday, the Governor mentioned INL’s expansion plans. If the legislature approves, we could see two new buildings on University Boulevard which will house more highly- skilled employees in high-paying jobs. These new employees would need homes, places to shop, places to renew their training, places to educate their children and so on. Construction of these facilities would precipitate a wonderful cycle of growth and prosperity in Idaho Falls. Special Events and Tourism. In 2017 Idaho Falls residents will have many opportunities to come together with tourists and visitors in the year ahead.  The newly-remodeled LDS Temple on Riverside Drive will hold an open House for several weeks in April and May before it is to be dedicated on June 4th. A few hundred thousand visitors are anticipated for this event.  Independence Day. Idaho Falls is the place to be on the Fourth of July. The fireworks show on the river sponsored by Melaleuca for the past 24 years has been a big part of that. But even as Melaleuca officials are examining logistics associated with relocating the show, they also have assured us they will keep the 6  January 12, 2017 Melaleuca Freedom Celebration right here in the City of Idaho Falls. And they remain committed to their longstanding tradition of providing the largest fireworks show west of the Mississippi River. For the 25 th anniversary of the show this coming year, Melaleuca is planning a more spectacular show than ever. It is actively seeking a city venue that will allow it to grow the fireworks display without compromising our need for public safety. Planning a world-class fireworks show involves a lot of variables, so Melaleuca is working closely with the City of Idaho Falls to identify the ideal location and they expect to have a decision on the site in the next couple of weeks. It is always a challenge for any community to accommodate extremely large crowds, but Idaho Falls will rise to the occasion, though it could take a few years to adjust to a new location.  The 2017 Extreme Blue Thunder Air Show will take place on July 22-23. We expect the 2017 show to be even more enjoyable and profitable than the knock-out show in 2010. Planning is currently underway.  Idaho’s oldest rodeo, the War Bonnet Roundup, is the first weekend of August. You can expect it to be bigger and better.  And perhaps the biggest event of the year, the once-in-a-lifetime Total Solar Eclipse on August 21st promises to attract as many as a half-million visitors to eastern Idaho. We have begun working with the other cities and counties in our region to coordinate emergency planning and response. This event has the potential to be a huge economic boon to local businesses and entrepreneurs. The city’s goal is to support all of this terrific economic activity by ensuring that traffic, water, sanitation, public safety and emergency medical care are delivered safely and efficiently. I’m also confident that citizens will complement these efforts by welcoming the solar tourists with some old-fashioned hospitality. Look for more information at eieclipse.com. Our city is prepared to meet these events with optimism and confidence. Conclusion As the saying goes, “we are stronger together.” Particularly at the local level, where citizens have the awesome ability to come together easily and do great things. At no other level of government can the average citizen be quite so efficacious, so impactful, as with local government. As 2016 has definitively proven, when we come together in a spirit of community, we accomplish much. And 2017 calls for no less. Idaho Falls is such an exciting place to be these days. We are growing. We are prospering and doing so while still managing our public resources responsibly and maintaining those core values that made me want to raise my family here. As we move forward into 2017, I encourage all citizens to come together to become more involved in our policy- and budget-making processes. The City Council and I meet in this chamber several times a month. Join us! For those who can’t be here in the room, we livestream all meetings and post the feed to our city webpage. I always welcome citizen participation and input. I will close with a simple but true statement. The state of our city is strong. Our future is bright. And I could not be more proud to serve you all and to be a part of this great community. Thank you. Presentation of Years of Service Pin Awards: Years of Service Employee Name Department Twenty (20) Cherise Frei Community Development Services Twenty (20) John Tenerowicz Fire Twenty (20) Rich Brown Fire 7  January 12, 2017 Twenty (20) Scott Grimmett Fire Twenty (20) Barbara Sanderson Municipal Services/Controller’s Office Twenty (20) Bruce Dilley Municipal Services/Equipment Maintenance Twenty (20) Richard Lainhart Police Twenty (20) Malin Reynolds Police Twenty-five (25) Randy Westergard Electric Twenty-five (25) Kent Stommel Electric Twenty-five (25) Lisa Bush Municipal Services/Controller’s Office Twenty-five (25) Joseph Hansen Parks and Recreation Twenty-five (25) Rhonda Newman Parks and Recreation/Aquatic Center Twenty-five (25) Lynn Billman Police Twenty-five (25) Richard Rogers Police Twenty-five (25) Jimmy Rowberry Public Works/Streets Thirty (30) Kelly Shaw Electric Thirty (30) Julie Lacey Fire Thirty (30) Chandra Witt Municipal Services/General Services Thirty (30) Brent Martin Parks and Recreation Thirty (30) Don Frongner Parks and Recreation/Pinecrest Golf Course Thirty (30) John Graham Parks and Recreation/Sand Creek Golf Course Thirty (30) Mike McCarthy Public Works/Streets Thirty (30) Darrin Lords Public Works/Wastewater Treatment Plant Thirty (30) Rusty Gerdes Public Works/Water Thirty-five (35) Van Ashton Electric Thirty-five (35) Jeffrey Pratt Police Council Administration: Mayor Casper announced the Council President typically serves for a two-year timeframe, therefore Thomas Hally will serve another year as the Council President. Mayor Casper stated Council liaison assignments will remain the same for the upcoming year with only one (1) Councilmember serving per department with an additional Councilmember serving in a back-up position. Brief recess followed. Public Comment: Mayor Casper requested any public comment not related to items on the agenda. No one appeared. Consent Agenda: Office of the Mayor requested appointments/reappointments to City Boards, Committees and Commissions as follows: Rick McMullen – Traffic Safety Committee Reappointment Ben Burke – Traffic Safety Committee Reappointment Ralph Frost – Traffic Safety Committee Reappointment Nolan Taylor – Traffic Safety Committee Reappointment Christopher Harvey – Idaho Falls Redevelopment Agency New Appointment Idaho Falls Power requested approval of Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) Exhibit A, Revision No. 4. 8  January 12, 2017 Idaho Falls Power requested approval to ratify power transactions with Shell Energy. Public Works requested approval of bid award – Alley Sewer between 7th Street and 8th Street from Lee Avenue to Holmes Avenue. Public Works requested approval of bid award – Willowbrook and Iona Street Water Line Replacements. Public Works requested approval of bid award – Holmes Avenue and Elva Street Water Line Replacement. The City Clerk requested approval of Treasurer’s Report for the month of November, 2016. The City Clerk requested approval of minutes from the December 5, 2016 Council Work Session; December 8, 2016 Council Meeting; December 12, 2016 Council Work Session, and, December 15, 2016 Special Council Meeting. The City Clerk requested approval of license applications, including a Beer License for The Alibi, all carrying the required approvals. It was moved by Councilmember Marohn, seconded by Councilmember Radford, to approve all items on the Consent Agenda according to the recommendations presented. Roll call as follows: Aye – Councilmembers Smith, Hally, Dingman, Radford, Ehardt, Marohn. Nay – none. Motion carried. Regular Agenda: Public Works Subject: Idaho Transportation Department State/Local Agreement (Construction) – 9th Street; SE Bonneville to St. Clair Road Project For consideration is a State/Local Construction Agreement with the Idaho Transportation Department and accompanying Resolution with respect to the 9th Street; SE Bonneville to St. Clair Road Project. This agreement requires City financial contribution towards the entire project with a match rate of 7.34% for an estimated total of $14,166.20. It was moved by Councilmember Ehardt, seconded by Councilmember Dingman, to adopt the resolution, approve the agreement, and give authorization for the Mayor and City Clerk to sign the necessary documents. Roll call as follows: Aye – Councilmembers Hally, Marohn, Radford, Dingman, Smith, Ehardt. Nay – none. Motion carried. RESOLUTION 2017-01 WHEREAS, the Idaho Transportation Department, hereafter called the STATE, has submitted an Agreement stating obligations of the STATE and the CITY OF IDAHO FALLS, hereafter called the CITY, for construction of 9th St; Bonneville to St Clair Rd Pedestrian Crossings. Mayor Casper expressed her appreciation to the Councilmembers for their service and their willingness to serve another year as a team. She also expressed additional congratulations to those City employees for their years of service to the community. There being no further business, it was moved by Councilmember Marohn, seconded by Councilmember Radford, to adjourn the meeting at 8:45 p.m. s/ Kathy Hampton s/ Rebecca L. Noah Casper CITY CLERK MAYOR 9