City Council
Regular MeetingIdaho Falls, ID · April 22, 2019
Minutes
April 22, 2019
The City Council of the City of Idaho Falls met in Special Meeting (Council Work Session), Monday, April 22, 2019,
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 John Radford
Councilmember Jim Francis
Councilmember Michelle Ziel-Dingman
Councilmember Jim Freeman
Councilmember Shelly Smede (arrived at 3:03 p.m.)
Also present:
Pamela Alexander, Municipal Services Director
Josh Roos, Treasurer
Mark Hagedorn, Controller
Megan Ricks, Accountant
Rick Cloutier, Airport Director
Ryan Tew, Human Resources Director
Brad Cramer, Community Development Services Director
Dana Briggs, Economic Development Coordinator
Joel Tisdale, Police Lieutenant
Randy Fife, City Attorney
Kathy Hampton, City Clerk
Mayor Casper called the meeting to order at 3:01 p.m.
Mayor Casper stated an item, an appeal for a Child Care Worker license, was inadvertently omitted from the agenda.
As an appeal must be heard within a certain amount of time it was moved by Councilmember Francis, seconded by
Councilmember Radford, to add an item to the agenda – Hearing for a Child Care Worker License Denial Appeal.
The Good Faith reason is the applicant was given written notice of the scheduled hearing occurring at the conclusion
of today’s Work Session although the item was inadvertently omitted from the agenda. The delay of the appeal may
cause difficulty for the applicant and the Child Care facility. The associated Action Item is to approve or deny the
appeal. Roll call as follows: Aye – Councilmembers Freeman, Radford, Francis, Dingman, Hally. Nay – none. Motion
carried.
Due to the number of attendees for the Airport agenda item, it was also moved by Councilmember Dingman, seconded
by Councilmember Radford, to move the agenda item, Leasing Policy Review from the Idaho Falls Airport, to the
second item following the Municipal Services presentation. Roll call as follows: Aye – Councilmembers Freeman,
Francis, Hally, Radford, Dingman. Abstain – Councilmember Smede. Nay – none. Motion carried.
Quarterly Finance Presentation:
Director Alexander noted this second quarter financial review will include budget to actual overview; expenditure
overview; and, investment overview. The following was presented with general discussion throughout:
Fiscal Year 2018/19 Budget to Actual Revenue Reporting:
Total Revenues and Reserves:
2018/19 Budget = $196,790,793
Year to Date = $93,547,776
Percentage Received = 47.54%
Year-End Forecast = $174,677,476
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Fiscal Year 2018/19 Budget to Actual Expenditures:
2018/19 Budget = $206,598,558
Year to Date = $71,375,809
Percentage Expended = 35%
Year-End Forecast = $174,677,476
The on-going expense for Wages/Benefits is at 47%.
10-Year Historical Actual Revenue to Expenditures (March – September):
Mr. Hagedorn stated there is typically more revenue than expenditures half way through the year due to construction
costs, outdoor projects, etc. The expenditures are then accelerated the second half of the year.
Fiscal Year 2018/19 General Fund Budget to Actual Revenue Reporting:
2018/19 Budget = $46,790,933
Year to Date = $25,360,283
Percentage Expended = 54.20%
Year-End Forecast = $61,695,150
Mr. Hagedorn stated Miscellaneous, including unscheduled, unplanned, one-time transactions, can be difficult to
predict and typically occur the later part of the year. Taxes and Franchises fees are received in January and July.
Fiscal Year 2018/19 General Fund Budget to Actual Expenditures:
2018/19 Budget = $46,299,339
Year to Date = $20,501,922
Percentage Expended = 44%
Year-End Forecast = $46,553,041
Mr. Hagedorn stated the City is expecting to be over-budget on salaries and wages. This is being driven by the Idaho
Falls Fire Department (IFFD), which is approximately 6% higher than expected this time of year. Mr. Hagedorn noted
the IFFD is currently working on this issue.
10-year Historical General Fund Actual Revenue to Expenditures:
Mr. Hagedorn stated more revenues are expected in March than expenditures which should break even by the end of
the year. He noted there is carryover from the IFFD due to the fire season. He also noted Bonneville County went
through a software integration, therefore their payments were delayed. That project has been completed.
Mr. Roos stated the current banking relationships have changed in the previous quarter as the City previously utilized
four (4) banks with 18 accounts, this has been condensed to two (2) banks with 10 accounts. He indicated this change
has helped with the internal processes (eliminating hand written checks and physical bank deposits) and has created
high interest sweep accounts and Money Market Accounts. He believes this has been a smooth transition and is
working well.
Treasurer’s Report (break down of different City funds):
Mr. Roos stated General Fund fluctuates throughout the year. The Finance and Investment Committee has
recommended the General Fund balance stay no lower than $8M. The Recreation and Golf Fund balances generally
increase during the summer months. The Fire Capital Fund was established to record and report the payback of Fire
Station 1. The Zoo Capital Improvement Fund is in the final stages of the Maeck Education Center project. There is
recommendation by Finance to transfer $900,000 from the Ambulance Fund to the General Fund to true-up for wild
land fire expenditures.
Treasurers Report (investment reconciliation):
Broken into two (2) sections – investment institutions and types of securities within the institutions. Total for month
of March = $107M.
Market Review:
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The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) announced in March they will maintain the federal funds rate in a
target range of 2.25% to 2.5%, it is speculated there will not be a rate increase (as previously expected) until 2020.
The Yield Curve has become inverted between the one (1) and five (5) year mark.
Current Investments – Investment portfolio = $105,445,848.88. This includes agencies; CD’s; Corporate Bonds;
Treasury; Money Market; and, Commercial Paper. Mr. Roos noted no more than 50% of investments should be in
one (1) type of security. He stated the City is now in compliance with the investment policy.
Investments Date of Maturity (0-48 Months = $105,445,848.88)
Mr. Roos stated the City wants to have a steady cash flow of money coming in in order to fund projects.
Investment Overview:
Clearwater Analytics is continuing with the dashboard and reporting. Mr. Roos anticipates presentation of the
dashboard at the next quarterly presentation. Next Finance and Investment Committee will be held April 25, 2019.
Director Alexander believes presentations at the committee meetings have been beneficial. Several Councilmembers
expressed their appreciation to the finance team and the improved system.
General Fund Management:
• General fund departments should manage within their approved budget and any overages should be
communicated to City Council
• Importance of general fund departments bringing 2018/19 budgeted items before City Council by
July/August 2019
• Any new unbudgeted project(s) with ongoing costs to the general fund should be prioritized against budgeted
projects and analyzed against revenue
Mr. Hagedorn stated Municipal Services Department is monitoring IFFD forecasted overages; Ambulance Fund cash;
change in methodology for inter-fund transfers for 2019/20 budget; and, available General Fund cash and
encumbrance carryover. He reviewed the 10-year comparison for the Ambulance Fund, stating the cash balance
decrease began in 2014. He believes the wild land fire expenses need to be segregated from the Ambulance Fund. It
was noted the third-party collection service began in 2014-2015. There have been many factors/issues with the
increased revenues and expenses within the Ambulance Fund. Mayor Casper stated a future IFFD presentation will
occur to address these issues. General comments followed.
Leasing Policy Review:
Director Cloutier indicated most Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) leases are not currently in compliance with the
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) policy, guidelines, or best practices. Therefore, IDA staff is attempting to
bring the leases back into conformances to meet grant assurances and guidelines and to ensure IDA has revenue that
cover actual costs of lease rates and fair market values. Director Cloutier stated the FAA requires the leases maintain
control of land and future needs of the airport. He also stated the FAA does not allow continued long-term renewal
of leases and, considers anything over fifty (50) years a permanent transfer of property. He indicated many existing
hangars do not meet the needs of the flying community and many hangars are not being used for aircraft storage.
Airport hangars are to be used for aeronautical uses only with the exception of incidental non-aeronautical uses
provided an aeronautical use is involved. Many hangars do not meet code and are in unserviceable conditions. The
FAA requires the airport to be a self-sustaining enterprise (no tax dollars are taken from the City or County), provide
adequate control of land parcels, and, ensure suitable hangar facilities are available. Director Cloutier stated the idea
behind the leases is to allow the airport to control the use of land better than has been done in the past. He briefly
discussed a reversion clause which will allow the airport to charge tenants a fee, in addition to lease rates, to ensure
adequate long-term funding. Many of the current hangars have been allowed to extend leases and many do not have
a clause to determine what happens at the end of the lease. Director Cloutier stated, per discussion with Mr. Fife, that
when a lease ends with no future terms, the tenant will need to move the property or it becomes ownership of the
airport. He stated a change is needed in order to control revenue and to ensure hangars are being used properly. He
indicated there are numerous commercial and non-commercial leases including the industrial complex adjacent to the
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airport. If the commercial business is providing a service to the airport they are allowed different lease rates. Director
Cloutier stated the non-negotiable proposal of the leases is to bring the airport into compliance with the FAA, allow
a revisionary clause or apply an additional fee, and, that inspection reports take place prior to a lease renewal to
ensure the buildings are up to code. He indicated current leases will not be modified but renewal leases will be
required to meet the FAA guidelines. Mr. Fife clarified the reversion clauses. He believes there has not been a
standardized method for leases. He stated previously a transfer included consent of the City, often with no changes,
so there was no standardization and also no quality control from the landlord side. He believes there is a more
proactive approach. Mr. Fife indicated leases can be negotiable according to FAA guidelines. He also indicated he
would move to adopt a standardized lease, with very few changes to each lease, to qualify for FAA standards. Director
Cloutier stated there are approximately 200 leases. He indicated several leases will be expiring in the next few years
and he would prefer to make adjustments to said leases, including a 30-day notice of inspection, to bring those leases
into compliance. Councilmember Francis questioned the timeframe of the FAA standards. Director Cloutier indicated
leases are typically twenty (20) years with an automatic ten (10) year extension for up to fifty (50) years. He noted
the FAA guidance is thirty (30) years with some exceptions depending upon the investment. Mayor Casper questioned
compliance practices to this point. Director Cloutier stated requirements have been consistent for the past few years,
with a few changes. He stated IDA has been out of compliance for the past twenty (20) years but has not been
reprimanded as the FAA region is large and things slip through the cracks. IDA is due for their compliance inspection
this year so these changes are now necessary. It was noted compliance inspections occur every 10-15 years.
Councilmember Francis questioned future lease agreements. Mr. Fife stated he prefers a template for lease agreements
although specific changes could be negotiated. Director Cloutier agreed as long as it falls within compliance. He
noted he wanted to address the Council with the information prior to disseminating the information to the public.
Councilmember Radford believes there is a vibrant general aviation community, he also believes the airline
community needs to be heard for balance with the FAA guidelines. Director Cloutier stated fair market value needs
to be considered for the aviation community, the City, as well as IDA, and should be phased in. Following general
discussion, there was consensus of the Council for Director Cloutier to proceed with a template lease agreement
conforming to the FAA guidelines. Mayor Casper recommended the public contact the elected officials and Director
Cloutier with any comments.
Acceptance and/or Receipt of Minutes:
There were no minutes to accept.
Calendars, Announcements and Reports:
April 23, Fire Chief Dave Hanneman Public Retirement Reception; and, Association of Idaho Cities (AIC) Spring
District Workshop
April 25, Idaho Falls Power (IFP) Board Meeting; and, City Council Meeting
April 26, Idaho Humanities Council (IHC) Distinguished Humanities Lecture
April 27, Worker’s Memorial Day Dedication; and, Earth Day
Liaison Reports and Concerns:
Councilmember Hally had no items to report.
Councilmember Smede had no items to report.
Councilmember Freeman stated the Idaho Falls Police Department (IFPD) School Resource Officer (SRO) will be
performing park patrol this upcoming summer; there are four (4) new officers being sworn in on April 30; and, Coffee
with a Cop will be held April 26. He also stated Public Works is currently performing remediation on the recharging
site near Sandy Downs; and, a construction update will occur at Budget Watch.
Councilmember Francis stated the first shipment of 40 tons of glass was shipped on April 18 for recycling; Clean and
Green will be held May 3-13, which includes hazardous waste disposal with Bonneville County; Rosehill Cemetery
clean-up will be held May 4; the Senior Citizens Center delivered 5506 meals for the Meals on Wheels program in
March, this amount substantially increases each month/quarter; and, upcoming Human Resources Leadership
Academy dates were reviewed.
Councilmember Radford stated RECreateIF survey forms are available online and, the IFP Board survey will be
reviewed at the April 25 IFP Board Meeting.
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Councilmember Dingman had no items to report.
Discussion of Targhee Regional Public Transportation Authority (TRPTA) Status and Funding:
Mayor Casper stated, per a recently-held emergency meeting, the TRPTA Board has voted to dissolve TRPTA due
to financial insolvency. However, TRPTA has requested the City consider releasing the quarterly payment, in the
amount $35,000, to help satisfy some obligations during the wind-down period, including payroll. Unfortunately,
TRPTA does not have a timeline for the wind-down period. Councilmember Dingman stated the TRPTA attorney is
researching the legal process regarding the dissolution. She believes the request for the City payment will be matched
by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) funds, for a total of $105,000, to assist with significant liabilities.
Councilmember Radford questioned the TRPTA assets. Councilmember Dingman stated upon the sale of the facility,
90% of the funds will be returned to FTA with TRPTA keeping 10%, any vehicle sold for $5000 or more will require
85% of the profit returned to FTA, TRPTA will keep any amount of vehicles sold for less than $5000. She also stated
the board is hopeful to dissolve TRPTA in an orderly fashion, the timeframe could be in approximately 90 days in a
phased-approached. Mayor Casper indicated the FTA fund match is not guaranteed. She reminded the Council of the
previous request from TRPTA for in-kind services. This request prompted additional discussion regarding FTA
sanctions and withholding the City payment pending those sanctions. Mayor Casper stated TRPTA has not been, and
may not be, cleared from those sanctions. She also stated separate discussions will need to occur regarding future
transportation needs for citizens. General discussion followed regarding the City funding, public transportation
service and rates, the FTA match and sanctions, the TRPTA sanctions, PERSI (Public Employee Retirement System
of Idaho) and payroll payments, and, TRPTA liabilities. Mayor Casper recommended a plan from the TRPTA Board
be received prior to releasing City funds (taxpayer dollars). Following additional comments, the Council will request
whether or not the donation would elicit a match donation from FTA; an assurance that any donated funds be utilized
for TRPTA services and not the TRPTA debt; how the $35,000 would be spent; a plan for dissolution; and, a statement
of TRPTA assets and liabilities. Councilmember Smede expressed her appreciation to Councilmember Dingman as
a TRPTA board member, realizing the difficulty of this result.
City Employee Wages and Benefits Discussion, Part 1:
Mayor Casper stated additional Human Resources (HR) discussions will occur in upcoming Council Work Sessions.
Director Tew reviewed the following research data and projected increase with general discussion throughout:
Inflation-
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Consumer Price Index (CPI) Actual: March 2018 to March 2019 (U.S.) – 1.9%;
Actual: March 2018 to March 2019 (West) – 2.4%
The Livingston Survey - Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, CPI projected 2019 – 2.3%; CPI projected 2020 –
2.2%
Idaho Division of Financial Management Forecast, CPI projected 2019 – 2.5%
Director Tew clarified this is projection only and not his suggestion for City adoption as there are additional budgetary
factors and concerns to consider.
2019-2020 Potential Budget Impact-
Increase % General Fund Whole - City
0.5 $126,456 $212,896
1.0 $252, 907 $425,793
1.5 $379,359 $638,689
2.0 $505,814 $851,587
2.5 $632,265 $1,064,480
Director Tew noted the Whole - City includes the General Fund and the Enterprise Funds. Mayor Casper stated the
current path of an increase each year is an unsustainable path and a decrease of services or personnel may need to
occur. Director Alexander concurred. Mayor Casper believes this is a tough balancing act. Councilmember Francis
indicated if employees are held on health insurance costs, the City is picking up the inflation cost. He believes this is
part of the inflation adjustment element that needs to be considered. Councilmember Radford stated previous
discussions have occurred regarding fees covering the cost of services, he believes this is the cost of doing business
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and taxes should reflect this although there is the statutory limitation on any tax increase. Director Tew stated the
base these increase amounts were calculated on includes the step increases and longevity pay. He indicated step
increases could be removed although he would advise against it. He clarified if step increases were removed the
savings would be approximately $300,000, however, it is a deferred cost and this amount would need to be caught
up at a later point. Councilmember Francis questioned the amount of step increase cost with no inflation increase.
Director Tew stated the amount is approximately $316,000. Ms. Ricks believes the Potential Budget Impact amounts
include the annual wage base pay, longevity, and, the step increase. Director Tew stated he will request this
clarification from the Controller for future discussion. General discussion followed regarding longevity pay, levy
amounts, market value, and, future benefits discussions. It was noted the inflation increase amount in the previous
year was 2.5%.
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG): Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER)
Process Review:
Director Cramer stated the CAPER process occurs once a year and the Public Hearing has been scheduled for the
April 25, 2019, Council Meeting. There are no funding requests for the CAPER process.
Annexation Principles Review:
Director Cramer stated the Statement of Annexation Principles have been reformatted, including the requested
changes, following the April 8 Council Work Session discussion. He believes the revised document would be helpful
to include with public meetings. He indicated this document could be adopted by resolution of the Council. Mayor
Casper questioned the document as best practices. Director Cramer believes this statement could be successfully used
in most cases. He stated most properties using a utility service understand the process. For the properties that do not
have a utility service this statement would help to clarify the process of property selection. Councilmember Smede
requested “annexation agreement without utilities” be included in the Category B bullet points. Brief discussion
followed regarding the definition and inclusion of fringe. Mayor Casper concurred with the adoption by resolution.
Economic Development Incentive Program Overview:
Ms. Briggs stated Title 1, Chapter 16, was approved March 8, 2012. She reviewed 1-16-2, Eligibility Requirements
and Criteria including initiation of building permit timeframe; creation of number of positions; hourly wage; benefits;
new capital investment; and, waiver amounts. She also reviewed 1-16-3, Available Incentives including, expedited
permitting process and waiver of fees. Director Cramer stated the Building Division salary and benefits are typically
covered by permit fees, any fee waiver would generally be a large-scale project. He indicated in a good year fees
received may not be a large impact or burden to the General Fund. He also indicated there is a cap on fee waivers so
the taxpayer is not paying waived fees for a business. Ms. Briggs believes the Council (at the time this ordinance was
approved) addressed the balance of qualification and ensuring a quality company could qualify. She indicated this
ordinance may need to be reevaluated to address future businesses. Ms. Briggs reviewed 1-16-4: Application
Procedures; 1-16-5: Evaluation, and, 1-16-6: Incentive Agreement including the adoption of a resolution for a
particular applicant. She stated there are also incentives offered at varying levels and varying entities for small
businesses including Idaho Falls Business Assistance Corporation (IFBAC), CDBG, Idaho Falls Redevelopment
Agency (IFRA), and, Small Business Administration at the Local, State, and National levels. Ms. Briggs noted there
are not many cities that offer a similar large-business incentive. She indicated there is limited assistance from the
State level, therefore, these incentives must be provided by the municipalities. She believes there is a place for this
incentive within the community. Director Cramer clarified the Council has the flexibility to approve or not approve
a resolution on an individual basis. Brief discussion followed regarding housing, unemployment, the tax base, the
Insurance Service Office (ISO) rating, and fee waivers. Director Cramer clarified this is not a tax waiver, these are
one-time fees.
Hearing for a Child Care Worker License Appeal:
Mayor Casper opened the appeal hearing. Lt. Tisdale stated Ms. Trevizo submitted application for a Child Care
Worker Certification (CCWC) license on March 21, 2019. He also stated, per the application process, Captain Bill
Squires reviewed the background check and it was determined Ms. Trevizo was accused and arrested for domestic
battery on January 1, 2019. Ms. Trevizo was able to plead down the charge to disturbing the peace. It was noted Ms.
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Trevizo admitted to committing the battery, therefore, Capt. Squires denied the application. Ms. Trevizo stated she
did receive the charge and she is not proud of the charge. She reviewed the events of the specific evening. She stated
after multiple court appearances, the charge was reduced. Ms. Trevizo stated she now has a son and she could take
her son to the daycare where employed. She indicated she has currently been working at Eastern Idaho Community
Action Partnership (EICAP) in Blackfoot as a license is not required in the City of Blackfoot although she would
prefer to work in the City of Idaho Falls. Councilmember Dingman noted Ms. Trevizo’s charge does not relate to the
self-declaration statements on the CCWC application. Mr. Fife stated the application was denied based on 6-3-8(A)
admitting to conduct constituting a violation of criminal law for any misdemeanor involving violence.
Councilmember Radford questioned if 6-3-8(A) is read prior to signing the application. Ms. Hampton indicated 6-3-
8(A) is not read, the applicant reads and initials the self-declaration statement as applicable and signs the application.
Mayor Casper closed the appeal hearing. Councilmember Hally stated he errs on the side of the child. Councilmember
Smede indicated since this was a recent incident, she believes more time is needed to heal and grow. Councilmember
Radford supports the appeal as he indicated there was no violence against a child. Councilmember Francis believes
6-3-8 applies but he is also concerned for the recent timeframe of the incident. Councilmember Freeman believes
EICAP has good control and they would see any potential issue. It was then moved by Councilmember Radford,
seconded by Councilmember Dingman, to sustain the Child Care Worker License Appeal. Roll call as follows: Aye
– Councilmembers Dingman, Freeman, Radford. Nay – Councilmembers Francis, Hally, Smede. There being a tie,
Mayor Casper voted nay. Appeal denied. Mayor Casper encouraged Ms. Trevizo to re-apply for the CCWC after a
track record in Blackfoot, possibly in six (6) months.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 6:55 p.m.
s/ Kathy Hampton s/ Rebecca L. Noah Casper
CITY CLERK MAYOR
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Agenda
Approved
Idaho Falls Sister City Youth Meeting-Minutes
April 3, 2019
Attendees:
Kylie Eaton Carolina Jensen Jorge Paron
Aurora Mahoney Alazandre Jensen Nathan Peck
Anna St. Michel Abby Gallegos Nicholas Cebull
Whitney St. Michel Aidan Gallegos Melinda Cebull
Charlotte Combs Jo Gallegos Stephanie VanAusdeln
Laura Combs Sam Hawker Rebecca Smith
Heather Medema Lori Kidwell Kendra Peck
Charlie Medema Gabe Padron Aaron Doyle
Abel Doyle Kaia Sperl David Eaton
Katie Eaton
Approval of minutes:
March 11, 2019 meeting minutes was motioned by Lori Kidwell and seconded by Kendra
Peck.
Reminder:
Idaho Falls Sister City Youth will meet April 15, May 1 and May 15, 2019 at 7:00 in the library.
Treasurer Report:
The Treasurer’s Report was given by Lori. March shows $4,118.90 and increase of
$1,215.00..
Friendship Garden Clean up
Judy Seydel contacted David Eaton and asked for a date the Youth group could help with
clean-up and the application of linseed oil to the bamboo posts. The group agreed to May 4, at
3:00 pm weather permitting.
Bylaws:
The group agreed to wait until the next meeting to approve the Bylaws. Bylaws will be
emailed to the group and voted on next meeting.
Cultural Event:
Janet Youngblood’s Taiko Drumming group will be one of many groups performing at Idaho
State University on April 13, 2019 beginning at 5:30 PM. Dinner is included in the price-$7.00
for students and $9.00 for adults for tickets ordered before the event. Please contact David
Eaton or Katie Eaton if you wish to order tickets from Janet Youngblood. Cost of tickets at the
door the day of the event will be slightly higher in cost.
Fundraisers:
Garage Sale is scheduled for May 18, 2019. Kendra volunteered to have her garage be
used for storage of items for garage sale as well as for the garage sale.
The Cherry Blossom Festival is schedule at the Snow Eagle April 25. Janet Youngblood’s
Tokoi Drumming students agreed to perform at the Snow Eagle at 5:30 PM.
Jorge Padron agreed to contact Mr.Clarke Kido to get Koi fish banner and hang it up for the
Cherry Blossom event.
Lori Kidwell sent a sign up sheet around to ask for volunteers to sit at the ticket table during
the Cherry Blossom Festival at Snow Eagle. Lori also asked if students would send her pictures
of Cherry Blossoms.
Lori sent a paper around for student wanting to take tickets for presale. She asked each
person to help her track tickets by writing the range of numbers on the tickets (beginning
number and ending number). She stated that each purchased ticket have the name and phone
number of the person you are selling the ticket to. Every ticket entry needs to be placed in the
appropriate box (corresponding to the basket/prize of interest) before the drawing which will
take place at around 8:30 pm at Snow Eagle. Lori passed out a form to each student so they
can keep track of customers wishes for the basket they desire. She stated that winning ticket
will be delivered by the person who sold the ticket unless of course the winner is present at the
drawing. Points are awarded based on money turned in from ticket sales (1 point for each $80).
Ticket pricing is 1 ticket for $1, 6 tickets for $5, or a wingspan (nominally 40 tickets) for $20.
The wingspan is a really good deal, so you may find you need a lot of tickets to earn as many
points as you can.
At the next meeting the adults will finalize plans for the Cherry Blossom.
Koi Pond:
Discussion on planning will be at the next meeting.
Student Exchange:
Discussion on planning will be at the next meeting. Kendra and Whitney will meet with all
students to create plans for the summer student exchange. The meeting with students will be in
a room separate from the adults.
Banner:
Students are asked to create a design for a banner and bring it with next to the next
meeting. Abby Gallegos. Aurora Mahoney, and Sam Hawker were interested in sending ideas
to Jorge Padron.
Some suggestions for the banner included:
Idaho Falls Sister City Youth Group
Community Cultural Experience
Idaho Falls/Tokai Mura
Open to area youth ages 12 to 18
Web address
Student Activities
Newsletter:
The newsletter is nearly complete. Two students need to submit their paragraphs to Kendra
before it can be finalized and on the webpage.
Logo:
Students are asked to create a design for a logo and bring it to the next meeting.
T-shirt Design:
Students are asked to create a design for a logo and bring it to the next meeting.
Game:
Students were divided into two teams and challenged each other on Japanese alphabet
sound/letter correspondence, words and phrases.
Rebecca Smith motioned to that the meeting be adjourned and seconded by Charlie
Medema.
Statement of Annexation Principles
In an effort to provide efficient and equitable tax and fee supported services, encourage orderly growth,
and thoughtfully and carefully expand the tax base of the City, the principles espoused in this document
are intended to provide guidance when considering annexation. These principles represent the general
practice of the City and do not bind City leaders from exercising annexation authority granted by Idaho
statutes. Typically, a departure from these principles would most commonly occur as a response to an
unusual circumstance or need.
General Principles
When considering land use and growth, the City of Idaho Falls will prefer annexation policies that:
• Encourage Core Development. When possible, the city prefers to support development closer to
the City’s core where infrastructure such as roads and utilities already exists. This will help to
avoid urban sprawl.
• Strengthen the Tax Base. The city recognizes the value of maintaining the efficient and cost-
effective provision of both tax and fee-supported services.
• Balance Property Rights with Growth. Individual property rights must be protected while at the
same time ensuring the City is able to continue to grow.
• Provide Public Services and Amenities that Enhance Quality of Life. The Community derives
value and strength from a robust Parks and Recreation system, a highly rated Fire Department,
excellent Police protection, a wonderful Library, well-maintained streets and neighborhoods,
and a commitment to providing a high quality of life at an affordable tax rate.
• Support the Comprehensive Plan. The City’s Comprehensive Plan is carefully developed to
capture best practice planning principles coupled with careful implementation of public input.
The resultant document outlines principles and policies designed to guide growth in a healthy,
sustainable manner..
City-Initiated Annexation
The City strongly believes there is value in being annexed. The City of Idaho Falls proudly offers
excellent tax and fee supported services and utilities. All residents, both City and County, benefit
from a strong Idaho Falls. Residents in the County close to the City’s core benefit from being close to
City limits and should bear an equal burden in the provision of those benefits. As was argued in a
court case in Baltimore in 1918, “Those who locate near the city limits are bound to know that the
time may come when the legislature will extend the limits and take them in. No principle of right or
justice or fairness places in their hands the power to stop the progress and development of the city,
especially in view of the fact that a large majority of them have located near the city for the purpose
of getting benefit of transacting business or securing employment…in the city” (emphasis added).
At times, the City may exercise its authority to annex prior to the request of the property owner. When
considering these city-initiated annexations, the City will strive to:
• Focus on properties that receive a City-operated utility. Many such properties agreed to
annexation at a future date as a condition of receiving the utility service. However, in cases
where the utility was connected prior to 2008, Idaho Code considers the connection to be
consent to annexation. Idaho Falls will consider utility connections just as valid as written
agreements in terms of consent to annexation.
• For properties that do not receive a City-operated utility, focus on properties that are enclaved,
i.e. completely surrounded, by existing City limits and which clearly benefit from their proximity
to City limits and tax-supported services that support and enhance surrounding City
neighborhoods.
• Avoid annexing properties on the fringe of the City except in response to unusual circumstances
or needs.
• Educate property owners of these principles and annexation law to provide predictability and
avoid undue concern over potential annexation.
The following sections specify how the City intends to exercise annexation authority within the bounds
of the Idaho Code Section 50-222 [citation] in conjunction with the principles outlined above:
Category A
The City of Idaho Falls exercises its legal annexation authority for all Category A annexations.
Procedures:
1. For annexation in which, “all private landowners have consented to annexation”:
• No public hearing will be required
• The application will be considered by the Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z) for its
recommendation
• The application will then be considered by the Council for final decision, passage of the
annexation ordinance, and adoption of a reasoned statement of relevant criteria and
standards
2. For annexation of “any residential enclaved lands of less than one hundred (100) privately-
owned parcels, irrespective of surface area, which are surrounded on all sides by land within a
city or which are bounded on all sides by lands within a city and by the boundary of the city’s
area of impact”:
• City staff will hold a neighborhood meeting prior to the advertisement of the proposed
annexation
• A public hearing will be held before the P&Z for its recommendation
• A public hearing will be held before the Council for final decision, passage of the annexation
ordinance, and adoption of a reasoned statement of relevant criteria and standards
Category B
The same procedure will apply for annexations which “contain less than one hundred (100) separate
private ownerships and platted lots of record and where not all such landowners have consented to
annexation,” as well as annexations where “the subject lands contain more than one hundred (100)
separate private ownerships and platted lots of record and where landowners owning more than fifty
percent (50) of the area of the subject private lands have consented to annexation prior to the
commencement of the annexation process.” These principles do not apply to lands subject to Idaho
Code 50-222(5)(b)(v)(c) which exempts land of “five (5) acres or greater, actively devoted to agriculture,
as defined in section 63-604(1), Idaho Code, regardless of whether it is surrounded or bounded on all
sides by lands within a city” from city-initiated annexations.
Category B annexations will be considered when:
• The land is completely enclaved by City boundaries, but not subject to 50-222(5)(b)(v)(c) as
noted above; OR
• The property has at least one (1) utility connection (regardless of an annexation agreement for
the property); OR
• The parcel is less than 5 acres and:
o Is contiguous by more than merely touching corners AND
o Includes a primary structure and a primary use that is not agricultural AND
o Has immediate access to a utility service
Procedures:
• City staff will prepare an annexation plan prior to advertising the annexation and send it to
property owners within the annexation boundaries
• Staff will hold a neighborhood meeting prior to advertisement of the proposed annexation
• A public hearing will be held by P&Z for its recommendation
• A public hearing will be held by the Council for the final decision, passage of the annexation
ordinance, and adoption of a reasoned statement of relevant criteria and standards
Category C
The City does not intend to exercise its annexation authority for category C annexations
Road Rights-of-way
Generally the City will not annex a County right-of-way until annexation has occurred on both sides of
the right-of-way. The City recognizes that there may be times when it is appropriate to annex the
County right-of-way prior to the City having annexed property on both sides of the right-of-way. In
these cases City Public Works staff will work with County Public Works staff to determine the
appropriate limits for annexing right-of-way.
CHAPTER 16
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INCENTIVE PROGRAM
SECTION:
1-16-1: Purpose
1-16-2: Eligibility Requirements and Criteria
1-16-3: Available Incentives
1-16-4: Application Procedures
1-16-5: Evaluation
1-16-6: Incentive Agreement
1-16-7: Discontinuance of Incentives
1-16-1: PURPOSE:
(A) The City is committed to the promotion of quality development in all parts
of the City and to improving the quality of life for its citizens. In order to help meet these goals,
the City will consider providing incentives for the retention and/or expansion of existing
businesses located within the City and to encourage the establishment of new targeted businesses
within the City. It is the policy of the City that such incentives will be provided in accordance
with the procedures and criteria outlined in this Chapter. However, nothing in this policy shall
imply or suggest, by implication or otherwise, that the City is under any obligation to provide
any incentive to any applicant; and all such decisions and actions shall be at the sole discretion of
the City Council. All applicants for economic development incentives will be considered on an
individual basis.
(B) It is the intent of the City to offer economic development incentives on an
individual basis so that the total package of incentives, if any, may be designed specifically for
each project which is proposed. This approach will allow the City the flexibility necessary to
satisfy the unique needs and concerns of each applicant and the needs and concerns of the City
and its citizens.
1-16-2: ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS AND CRITERIA:
(A) The following are the minimum requirements that must be satisfied for
any application for economic development incentives to be considered:
(1) Any request for incentives shall be initiated at least sixty days prior
to applying for a building permit for construction of the proposed
project.
(2) The applicant must create one hundred or more new full-time
equivalent positions working at a business located within the City.
For the purposes of this section, "full-time employee" means an
employee who is expected in normal course of employment to
provide at least two thousand eighty (2,080) hours of compensated
TITLE 1, CHAPTER 16 – ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INCENTIVE PROGRAM 1
hours during any consecutive twelve month period. "Full-time
equivalent" is any combination of seasonal or part-time employees
whose compensated hours during a consecutive twelve month
period equals two thousand eighty (2,080) hours.
(3) The average hourly wage paid to employees shall be at least twice
the federal minimum wage or $15 per hour, whichever is greater.
(4) The firm seeking assistance shall provide medical, dental and
vacation benefits to full-time employees.
(5) The applicant shall provide new capital investment equal to or in
excess of $5.0 million if the applicant will establish a new business
in the City and equal to or in excess of $2.0 million if the applicant
will expand a business in the City or use a building which has been
vacant for at least two years. For purposes of this section, "capital
improvements" means property improvements that will enhance
the assessed valuation of the land and buildings on the property.
(6) Any waivers provided under Section 1-16-3(B) shall not exceed
$5,000 per full-time equivalent employee.
(7) Any waivers provided under Section1-16-3(B) or other assistance
provided by the City shall not exceed the amount of estimated City
taxes to be levied on the capital improvements within the seven (7)
calendar years after receipt of the Certificate of Occupation.
(8) Any waivers provided under Section 1-16-3(B) or other assistance
provided by the City shall not exceed five (5) percent of the
estimated assessed valuation of the land and buildings at the time
of issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy.
(B) Nothing herein shall imply or suggest that the City is obligated to offer
incentives to any person, organization, joint venture, partnership, association or corporation.
(C) The City reserves the right to review and change the incentive program at
any time, except that where an incentive agreement has been duly executed, the incentive
agreement shall supersede.
1-16-3: AVAILABLE INCENTIVES: The City offers a variety of incentives and
assistance options for qualifying businesses. The specific type of incentive or assistance will
depend upon the needs of the business as well as the benefits created by the proposed business.
Incentives available for qualifying businesses are:
(A) Expedited Permitting Process. The City may expedite the permitting
process required for business location or expansion.
TITLE 1, CHAPTER 16 – ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INCENTIVE PROGRAM 2
(B) Waiver of Fees. The City may waive all or part of the following fees
associated with the establishment of a new businesses: road and bridge fees, storm drainage
fees, land use application and plan review fees, and building permit fees. Such fees shall not be
waived with respect to any fee for which the services of an outside consultant are necessary to
review the application or construction documents or for any other purpose necessary to facilitate
the issuance of the associated permit.
1-16-4: APPLICATION PROCEDURES: Any person, organization, joint venture,
partnership, association, or corporation desiring that the City consider providing economic
development incentives shall submit an application containing, as a minimum, the following
information:
(A) The applicant's name, name of business entity, principal place of business,
mailing address, telephone number, fax number, website address and contact information of an
officer or employee of the applicant who is responsible for completing the application.
(B) A complete legal description of the property along with a plat showing the
precise location of the project.
(C) A brief description of the proposed improvements or expansion, including
but not limited to the project's estimated cost of construction, fixtures, landscaping and site
improvements; the type of business operation proposed, the number and type of jobs created and
the anticipated wage or salary of each job position; description of benefits available to
employees; the expected source of labor to fill such jobs, the projected date of the
commencement of business operations; expected duration of business location based on history
of company operations.
(D) A brief description of the type of incentives requested.
(E) A current financial statement of the applicant, if currently in business, or a
prospective financial statement, if a startup business.
(F) A proposed business plan for the contemplated business.
(G) Such other information as required or requested by the City.
1-16-5: EVALUATION:
(A) Each request for incentives will be evaluated by City staff on an individual
basis taking into consideration the following factors:
(1) Revenue benefit to the City.
(2) Number and quality of jobs created.
(3) Strength of public benefit to the City.
TITLE 1, CHAPTER 16 – ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INCENTIVE PROGRAM 3
(4) Ability of the project to spur additional economic development in
the City.
(5) Impact of the proposed development on existing businesses within
the City.
(6) Level of applicant's creditworthiness and financial strength.
(7) Applicant's willingness to construct public facilities and
infrastructure, including but not limited to parks, pathways, library
space, police station space, emergency services space, bus stops,
public parking, public open space, and public recreation facilities.
(B) City staff will provide a written recommendation of full, partial or no
incentive to the City Council based upon review of the application and the criteria set forth in
this Chapter.
(C) The City Council may adopt the recommendation of City staff or
otherwise approve economic development incentives based upon its review of the application
and the criteria set forth in this Chapter.
1-16-6: INCENTIVE AGREEMENT:
(A) If the City Council determines in its sole discretion that it is in the best
interest of the City to grant incentives to a particular applicant, a resolution shall be adopted
approving the terms and conditions of the incentive agreement with the applicant. The incentive
agreement will enumerate the types of incentives to be provided and the conditions applicable to
such incentives, if any.
(B) All such incentive agreements must, at a minimum, be in writing and
include:
(1) A description of each of the types of incentives to be provided.
(2) The commencement date of the incentives and the duration of the
incentives.
(3) A legal description of the property indicating its location.
(4) Detailed information regarding the type, number, location and cost
of planned improvements.
(5) A method by which the business receiving incentives will certify in
writing to the City that the business is in compliance with the
incentive agreement and provide the City with documentation to
substantiate the level of value, including but not necessarily limited
to, annual company financial reports, state and/or federal
employment reports, and Bonneville County tax appraisal
statements.
TITLE 1, CHAPTER 16 – ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INCENTIVE PROGRAM 4
(6) A method for the City to recover all waived fees and costs which
are lost as a result of the agreement if the applicant(s) fail(s) to
perform its obligations under the agreement.
(7) A provision requiring the applicant to keep good and accurate
financial records sufficient to demonstrate applicant's performance
of the terms and conditions of the agreement and a provision
allowing the City to inspect such records upon reasonable advance
notice during normal business hours. Such provision shall also
require the applicant to provide copies of such records to the City
at the applicant's expense, upon written request of the City.
(8) Such other provisions as the City Council shall deem appropriate.
(C) The incentive agreement shall be nontransferable. Businesses entering
into an incentive agreement shall promptly disclose to the City, in writing, any transfer of
ownership of the business, any sale or transfer of shares in the business which results in a change
of control of the business or any bulk sale of more than seventy five percent of the assets of the
business.
(D) A provision requiring repayment of all incentives in the event the
application contains any misstatement or misrepresentation of material fact, together with
interest at a rate of twelve percent per annum from the date each of said fees would have
otherwise become due, together with a penalty in the amount of five percent of the total amount
of the fees waived.
(E) A provision requiring payment by the applicant of the City's reasonable
attorneys' fees and costs, in the event legal action is required to enforce any of the terms of such
incentive agreement.
1-16-7: DISCONTINUANCE OF INCENTIVES: Changing economic conditions and
availability of funds may cause the City Council to modify, amend, or discontinue the economic
development incentive program at any time. Should the incentives program be discontinued, the
City Council will honor any incentive agreement to which it committed before the
discontinuance of the incentive program.
TITLE 1, CHAPTER 16 – ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INCENTIVE PROGRAM 5
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