City Council

May 7, 2018 The City Council of the City of Idaho Falls met in Special Meeting (Council Work Session), Monday, May 7, 2018, in the Council Chambers in the City Annex Building located at 680 Park Avenue in Idaho Falls, Idaho at 3:00 p.m. Call to Order and Roll Call: There were present: Mayor Rebecca L. Noah Casper Councilmember Thomas Hally Councilmember Shelly Smede Councilmember Jim Freeman Councilmember Jim Francis Councilmember John Radford (arrived at 3:05 p.m.) Absent: Councilmember Michelle Ziel-Dingman Also present: Brad Cramer, Community Development Services Director Cherise Frei, Senior Code Enforcement Officer Bryce Johnson, Police Chief Chris Fredericksen, Public Works Director Ryan Tew, Human Resources Director Michael Kirkham, Assistant City Attorney Kathy Hampton, City Clerk Mayor Casper called the meeting to order at 3:01 p.m. with the following: Calendar, Announcements and Reports: Mayor Casper distributed an invitation for the Eastside Soil Water Conservation District occurring in June. She also requested interest for Council participation for a July 4 parade entry. She expressed her appreciation to those Councilmembers who attended the Association of Idaho Cities (AIC) Spring District Meeting. Calendar items as follows: May 8, Arbor Day ceremony May 9, I-15/US-20 Community Kickoff Meeting May 10, Idaho Falls Power (IFP) Board Meeting; Maeck Tribute and Luncheon; Maeck Education Center Groundbreaking; and, City Council Meeting May 14, Pulse Point/Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Press Conference; and, community bike ride May 15, Election Day; and, Save-the-Date Officer Memorial May 15-16, Ready 4 Nuclear Conference May 17, 8B Emergency Operations Center (EOC) TTX After Action Meeting May 18, Municipal Employees Association (MEA) summer kick-off pancake breakfast May 18-19, Aviation Expo May 21, City Council Work Session May 21-24, Northwest Public Power Association (NWPPA) May 24, City Council Meeting May 25-28, Field of Honor May 28, Memorial Day, City offices closed Liaison Reports and Concerns: Councilmember Hally had no items to report. Councilmember Freeman had no items to report. 1  May 7, 2018 Councilmember Smede stated a special Library Board meeting was recently held, a counter offer was made to Bonneville County regarding the Library contract. Councilmember Francis stated a presentation will held for the Vietnam Memorial during the Memorial Day weekend events. Councilmember Radford had no items to report. Code Enforcement Orientation and Training: Director Cramer expressed his appreciation for the funding received in the previous year for additional code enforcement personnel. He reviewed the organization chart of the Code Enforcement staff, recognizing Ms. Frei as the Senior Code Enforcement Officer. Ms. Frei stated the most common code enforcement issue is debris, the second most common issue is vehicles. Code enforcement staff also inspects child care facilities. She indicated most complaints are handled within the Code Enforcement Division. Director Cramer reviewed the year to date activity by case type and, comparison of cases opened and inspections completed for the previous two (2) years. He stated each case may take multiple inspections before a case is considered closed and most cases are resolved before any ticket is actually issued. Director Cramer indicated an increase in resources has also resulted in an increase in work load. Director Cramer reviewed the implementation approach: create a minimum viable product (MVP); measure; learn; build; and, repeat the process. Code enforcement goals:  Efficiency – reform the current code enforcement process for quicker results. This has included changes to the abatement procedure as well as an additional Code Enforcement Clerk.  Simplicity – move towards a ‘one-stop-shop’ for code enforcement issues. Nuisance calls were previously referred to a variety of departments, Code Enforcement staff will now assign the nuisance to the appropriate department.  Effectiveness – make sure the right tools are in place to achieve compliance. TRAKiT software system allows for more work to be done in the field; updated codes and quicker path to compliance; two (2) full-time seasonal employees to help with minor violations and neighborhood cleanups; purchase of four (4) total dumpsters for neighborhood cleanups; coordination with other departments; and, moved Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)-funded officer to General Fund, allowing work in broader area of City and more evenly shared responsibilities. Director Cramer stated potential future needs include an additional full-time Code Enforcement Officer; a Building Inspector for property maintenance; and, rental regulation. Councilmember Radford believes rental regulation needs to be advocated. Director Cramer believes rental regulation will not be an easy topic to address. Brief general comments followed. Law Enforcement Orientation and Training: Chief Johnson stated the community has been growing for some time and certain problems will grow as well. He presented the following with general discussion throughout:  Drug problem statistics for the previous three (3) years, drug problems continue to increase. Chief Johnson indicated there is no longer IFPD staff specifically dedicated to drug cases. He believes the drug problem is a home-grown problem. Mayor Casper stated this specific topic has been discussed at AIC.  Mental illness statistics for the previous two (2) years, including suicide; overdose; and, psychiatric problems. Chief Johnson stated people are being transported region-wide for mental illness facilities as there is limited space in this community.  Cold Case Problems – Chief Johnson stated since 2008, Idaho Falls has ~600 cold cases of violent felonies against persons including murder; missing persons; rape and sexual assault; aggravated battery; and, robbery.  Gang problem – Chief Johnson stated there are approximately 583 gang members within the numerous gangs.  Daily problems in the City – growing traffic; domestic violence; driving under the influence (DUI); fraud; retail theft; sexual assault; child pornography; disturbances and fights; burglary; juvenile problems; and, personal responsibility. 2  May 7, 2018  Number of incoming calls and the average length of call to the 911 center, 2017 = 32,487 and 1:52, respectively. Chief Johnson stated the number of 911 calls increases on a yearly basis – more people equals more calls and more services.  Typical ‘Day in the Life’ at the Idaho Falls Police Department (IFPD), including day shift and night shift events. Chief Johnson stated briefings with other/additional officers can assist following specific events. Chief Johnson believes Idaho Falls is a great City. I-15/US-20 Connector Project Update: Mayor Casper stated this presentation is a preview to a community open house being held on May 9, 2018. Director Fredericksen concurred with Chief Johnson stating as the community grows, transportation is another issue that grows as well. He believes this particular project is the most trying transportation issue in our area. He is hopeful this project will solve current, short-term, and long-term issues. He then introduced and turned the presentation to Ryan Day, Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) Project Manager, Karen Hiatt, ITD Engineering Manager, Drew Meppen, ITD Assistant Project Manager, and, Kelly Hoopes, Horrocks Engineers Deputy Project Manager. Mr. Hoopes stated this process is important for the current and future generations. He presented the following with general discussion throughout: Phase A – a fact finding process identifying:  Traffic needs and basic models  Origin and destination study  VISSIM model – delays are one of the biggest concerns  Survey control, including existing alignments and boundaries  Hydrology/hydraulics for the Snake River  Environmental scan City personnel involvement and collaboration:  Chris Fredericksen – working group  Kent Fugal – hydrology/hydraulics  Darrel West (Bonneville Metropolitan Planning Organization (BMPO)) – traffic and socioeconomics Steps forward:  Public kickoff meeting – May 9, 2018  Community Working Group – TBA  Planning and Environmental Linkage (PEL) process overview Mr. Hoopes stated the PEL study is able to address concerns early on including other agency and public involvement. The goal of the community kickoff meeting is to explain the purpose of the study and to get ideas how to improve safety and mobility in this area. The six (6) interchanges, beginning at Broadway and extending to Lewisville Highway, are being studied for this project. Mr. Hoopes stated the PEL study explains the environmental resources such as wetlands and road improvements in coordination with an effective transportation system. One of the best sources of funding comes from the Federal government, which requires the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process. Mr. Hoopes stated the purpose of the PEL study is to identify and analyze improvements to address safety, congestion, mobility and travel time reliability for efficient movement of people, goods and services on I-15 and US-20 in or near Bonneville County and Idaho Falls. The PEL will study multi-modal connections and capacity improvements to I-15 and US-20. The PEL will also study potential new roadway linkages in order to address unsafe travel conditions on I-15 and US-20; reduce congestion; provide pedestrian and bicycle mobility within the I-15 and US-20 corridors; and, address future travel demand forecasts. Mr. Hoopes reviewed the project schedule for the next 18 months. Next step – Phase B Scope overview:  Public involvement  Alternative development  Alternative refinement  Pre-NEPA and agency collaboration 3  May 7, 2018 Mr. Hoopes reviewed levels of service, including flow conditions/delays. He also reviewed Existing Weekday Conditions and 2045 No-build Weekday Conditions graphs. He stated there are several ways to get and stay involved in the I-15/US-20 Connector study. He prefers the City to be involved as much as possible. Future phases:  Goal is to begin working the construction documents once the overall plan is in place  Construction has not yet been scheduled Ongoing updates:  BMPO Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) meetings  BMPO Policy Board meetings  County Commissioners meetings  City Council updates Director Fredericksen stated the PEL is the first time ITD has attempted this process in the State. He believes multiple projects will occur in this area and all economic impacts are being reviewed. He also believes the planning process is a good start for the long-term results. He stressed the public involvement. Brief general comments followed. Summer 2018 Public Works Construction Projects Update: Director Fredericksen stated 27 major construction projects are anticipated for the upcoming summer. $18.7M has currently been awarded for a number of these projects. Director Fredericksen believes the bids have been very competitive. He briefly reviewed each project with general discussion throughout: S. Boulevard and Elm Street Roundabout (the bulk of this project will be completed after July 4); 17th Street Overlay and 17th Street Medians (mid-companion Federal Aid projects); Anderson Street Water Line Replacements (and repaving); 25th Street Improvements (road reconstruction); Well 1 Improvements (Boulevard and 10th Street); Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) Primary Upgrades (estimated to be completed in Spring 2019); Sewer Rehabilitation Phases I (completed) and II; Sewer Spot Repairs (almost completed); Eastside Greenbelt Path (adjacent to US-20 and, Broadway to Pancheri widening); Iona Street Pathway to Riverside Drive Sidewalk (grant funding); Pinecrest Sidewalk and Path (grant funding); Science Center Drive and Iona Street Sidewalk (and curb); Yellowstone Sidewalk Connection (working with Urban Renewal District); Bel-Aire Concrete Improvements (CDBG funding); Water Line 8th and 9th Streets (from Holmes Avenue to Higbee Street); Water Line 18th and 19th Streets (abandoning the alley water line); Street Overlays (currently out for bid); Street Seal Coats (to those street overlays in the previous year and, will allow three-lane transition on S. Boulevard); S. Boulevard Storm Line Improvements; Well 18 Improvements (York Road); Northgate Water Line Spot Repairs (in advance of ITD overlays); Water Meter Replacements (to bring into compliance with the Idaho Department of Water Resources (IDWR)); Mel Erickson Sunnyside Park Paving (currently a gravel parking lot); Ernest Drive Water Line (required for City purchase of property); three (3) High-Intensity Activated crossWalK (HAWK) Signals (S. Boulevard, 9th and Bower Streets, Royal and Garfield Streets); Thermoplastic (following seal coating); and, Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) on Boulevard at 9th Street and Birch Street (Federal Aid Project). Director Fredericksen stated ITD intends to overlay Yellowstone Highway in between York Road and Sunnyside Road, Northgate Mile in between Lomax and the Idaho canal, and, Holmes Avenue from Northgate Mile north to US-20 this upcoming summer. Bonneville County construction is currently occurring on Lincoln Road between Hitt and Ammon Roads. Wages and Benefits Discussion, Part II: Mayor Casper stated this particular discussion will include any inflation increase. She indicated a lot of work has been put into the pay scale for City employees to ensure the rates are appropriate. She prefers to keep the pay scale up-to-date to maintain the workforce, although wages need to be appropriate for the market conditions. Director Tew stated the City provides compensation for regular wages; longevity pay; vacation; sick leave; holiday pay; overtime and comp time; shift differential; and, call out and stand by pay. He reviewed research data and projected increase as follows: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Consumer Price Index (CPI) actual: March 2017 to March 2018 – 2.4% The Livingston Survey - Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, CPI projected 2018 – 2.2%; CPI projected 2019 – 2% Idaho Division of Financial Management Forecast, CPI projected 2018 – 1.9%; CPI projected 2019 – 2.1% 4  May 7, 2018 2018 Federal Employee Pay raise issued by President Trump – 1.9% Director Tew believes a 2% inflation adjustment would be adequate for the upcoming year. He stated 1% = $296,000, this does not include Power and Fire union employees. Mayor Casper prefers the funding source be identified, possibilities could include growth, new tax dollars, reserves, or one-time monies from previous non-completed projects. Councilmember Hally stated he is in favor of a 2% maximum increase. Councilmember Radford concurred. Director Tew reiterated this increase is for a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), not a wage inflation. Councilmember Radford believes wage discussion will need to occur at a future time. Councilmember Freeman believes, as a former City employee, the 2% increase may make up ground from previous benefit increases. Mayor Casper believes any benefit discussion and wage increase discussion needs to be separated. Councilmember Francis stated he is in favor of 2%. Councilmember Smede concurred. It was then moved by Councilmember Freeman, seconded by Councilmember Smede, to adjourn the meeting at 5:41 p.m. and move into Executive Session. The Executive Session is being called pursuant to the provisions of Idaho Code Section 74-206(1)(j) to consider labor contract matters authorized under Idaho Code Section 74-206(1)(a) and (b). The Executive Session will be held in the City Annex Conference Room, at the conclusion of the Executive Session the Council will not reconvene into Regular Work Session. Roll call as follows: Aye – Councilmember Smede, Francis, Freeman, Hally, Radford. Nay – none. Motion carried. The City Council of the City of Idaho Falls met in Special Meeting (Executive Session), Monday, May 7, 2018, in the City Annex Conference Room in the City Annex Building located at 680 Park Avenue in Idaho Falls, Idaho at 5:46 p.m. There were present: Mayor Rebecca L. Noah Casper Councilmember John B. Radford Councilmember Jim Freeman Councilmember Jim Francis Councilmember Shelly Smede Councilmember Thomas Hally Also present: Pamela Alexander, Municipal Services Director Ryan Tew, Human Resources Director Michael Kirkham, Assistant City Attorney This Executive Session was called pursuant to the provisions of Idaho Code Section 74-206(1)(j) to consider labor contract matters authorized under Idaho Code Section 74-206(1)(a) and (b). There being no further business, the Executive Session adjourned at 5:56 p.m. s/ Kathy Hampton s/ Rebecca L. Noah Casper CITY CLERK MAYOR 5