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City Council Meeting

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City Council Meeting
Minutes

680 Park Avenue
Idaho Falls, ID
Thursday, May 21, 2026
6:30 PM
City Council Chambers

1. Mayor Burtenshaw Called the meeting to Order at 6:32 PM
Present:
Mayor Lisa Burtenshaw

Council President Jim Francis
Councilor Michelle Ziel-Dingman

Councilor Kirk Larsen
Councilor Brandon Lee

Councilor John Radford

Absent:
Councilor Jim Freeman

Also present:
Lisa Farris, Grants Administrator

Chris Canfield, Interim PW Director
Pam Alexander, Municipal Services Director
Lee Washburn, City Horticulturist
Wade Sanner, CDS Director

Brad Cramer, Prospective Planning
Darin Jones, Human Resources Director

Zack Jones, City Attorney
Jasmine Marroquin, Deputy City Clerk

2. Pledge of Allegiance
Margaret Wimborne led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance.

3. Public Comment

o Richard Thomas (Idaho Falls Resident)
•
Sidewalk obstructions and pedestrian safety
o
Argued that overgrown trees, bushes, and illegally parked vehicles frequently
block sidewalks, forcing pedestrians into the street.
o
Used a hypothetical example of a young family with a stroller being forced into
traffic because sidewalks are impassable.
•
Property owner responsibilities
o
Noted that City code requires property owners to keep sidewalks clear of
vegetation.
o
Believed most residents are unaware of this responsibility and would comply if
informed.
•
Enforcement concerns
o
Argued that the current complaint-driven enforcement system is ineffective.
o
Suggested the City should take a more proactive approach to educating
property owners.
•
City compliance: Claimed the City of Idaho Falls is itself a significant violator of the
sidewalk-clearance ordinance, citing conditions along the Greenbelt.

City Council Meeting
Minutes

680 Park Avenue
Idaho Falls, ID
•
Liability concerns
o
Warned that sidewalk obstructions could eventually lead to pedestrian injuries
and costly litigation against the City.
o
Encouraged the City to improve communication and enforcement before a
serious accident occurs.

o Kiery Wilson (Idaho Falls Resident)
1. Willows Place Development Process
•
Initially attempted to comment on the proposed mediation agreement related to the
Willows Place development.
•
Expressed concern that nearby homeowners had not been included in mediation
discussions.
•
Was informed by City Attorney Jones that comments on the matter would need to
wait until a future public hearing on the Planned Unit Development (PUD), as the
mediation agreement itself was not subject to public testimony that evening.
2. Gateway to Kelly Canyon Snow Park
•
Criticized the City's handling of the Gateway to Kelly Canyon Snow Park project.
•
Said he had followed the project from construction through its closure and believed
the public had received little information about problems with the facility.
•
Use of taxpayer funds
o
Questioned how taxpayer money had been spent on the project.
o
Requested greater transparency regarding project costs, decisions, and
outcomes.
•
Project management concerns
o
Referenced reports involving a project participant who was later
investigated for embezzlement.
o
Claimed agreements associated with the project allowed other parties to
avoid responsibilities while the City continued paying for repairs and
improvements.
•
Accountability
o
Expressed concern that private partners were not being held responsible for
obligations related to landscaping, maintenance, and other project
commitments.
o
Asked the City Council to publicly explain what occurred, what mistakes
were made, and how similar issues would be prevented in future projects.
•
Public communication: Requested a public discussion and greater disclosure
about the project's history, closure, financial impacts, and lessons learned.

4. Consent Agenda

A. Office of the City Clerk
1. 26-192
April 2026 Licensing through the Office of the City Clerk
a. 55 New Business Licenses
b. 34 Renewed Business Licenses
c. 20 Contractor Licenses

City Council Meeting
Minutes

680 Park Avenue
Idaho Falls, ID
Motion: Approve, accept, or receive all items on the Consent Agenda according to the
recommendations presented.
o
Moved by: Councilor Dingman
o
Second: Councilor Larsen
o
Vote: Aye: Francis, Dingman, Larsen, Lee, Radford. Nay: none.
o
Motion carries.

5. Regular Agenda

A. Office of the Mayor
1. 26-194
Appointment of the City Clerk

Presentation/Discussion (Mayor Burtenshaw): The Mayor recommended Linda
Lundquist for the position, noting that she currently serves as an executive assistant at
Idaho Falls Power and previously worked in the Idaho Falls City Clerk's office. The
speaker highlights that many Council members have worked with her before, praised
her qualifications and interview performance, and expressed confidence in her ability to
be a strong City leader. There was emphasize on her vision for improving the Clerk's
office and contributing as part of the City's leadership team.

Motion: Confirm the appointment of Linda Lundquist as the Idaho Falls City Clerk.
o
Moved by: Councilor Francis
o
Second: Councilor Dingman
o
Vote: Aye: Francis, Dingman, Larsen, Lee, Radford. Nay: none.
o
Motion carries.

B. Public Works
1. 26-145
Microtransit Professional Services Agreement Renewal with Idaho Falls
Downtowner, LLC

Presentation/Discussion (Interim Director Canfield): Public Works presented a
proposed agreement between the City of Idaho Falls and Idaho Falls Downtowner, LLC,
to continue providing on-demand microtransit services through the Greater Idaho Falls
Transit (GIFT) system.

•
This is a renewal of an existing arrangement with the same service provider.
•
The new agreement includes flexibility to add transportation services for additional
events, if needed, and provisions allowing the City to review and approve staffing
changes made by the contractor.
•
The contract amount is not to exceed $1,580,002.92.
•
Funding spans portions of the current and next budget years and is expected to be
reimbursed through Federal Transit Administration (FTA) funds.

City Council Meeting
Minutes

680 Park Avenue
Idaho Falls, ID
•
During Council discussion, questions were raised about the ownership change of
Downtowner. Staff explained that although the company was purchased, the
agreement remains valid and appropriately structured.
•
Another Council member clarified whether the contract was for one year. Staff
explained that it is essentially an annual contract, but the funding and
reimbursements are spread across multiple fiscal years, covering the remainder of
the current budget year and part of the next.

Motion: Approve the Professional Service Agreement between the City of Idaho Falls
and Idaho Falls Downtowner, LLC, and give authorization for the Mayor and City Clerk to
execute the necessary documents
o
Moved by: Councilor Larsen
o
Second: Councilor Dingman
o
Vote: Aye: Francis, Dingman, Larsen, Lee, Radford. Nay: none.
o
Motion carries.

C. Municipal Services
1. 26-183
Resolution - Disposal of Surplus Property Policy

Presentation/Discussion (Director Alexander): Municipal Services presented a
resolution to update the City's surplus property disposal procedures. The proposed
amendment revises language that has not been updated since 2015 and modernizes
the City's process for handling surplus assets.
A key change is the addition of provisions addressing retired police canine
service dogs. Because service dogs are considered City assets, staff identified a need
for clear procedures governing their disposition upon retirement.
The update was developed collaboratively between Municipal Services and the
City Attorney's Office. Municipal Services brought the item forward because it oversees
the management and disposal of surplus City property.

Motion: Approve the resolution adopting the City of Idaho Falls surplus policy and
provide that this resolution be effective upon its passage and approval and authorize
the Mayor and City Clerk to sign the necessary documents
o Moved by: Councilor Dingman
o Second: Councilor Radford
o Vote: Aye: Francis, Dingman, Larsen, Lee, Radford. Nay: none.
o Motion carries.

D. Human Resources

1. 26-173
Ordinance Amendment to Title 2, Chapter 1, Section 3 of the City Code -
Duties of the Library Board

City Council Meeting
Minutes

680 Park Avenue
Idaho Falls, ID
Presentation/Discussion (Director Jones): The Council considered an ordinance
amending City code to comply with a new state law, House Bill 715, recently passed by
the Idaho Legislature and signed by the governor.
The legislation requires that the hiring or firing of a library director receive
approval from a majority of the City Council. Previously, those decisions were primarily
the responsibility of the library board. The proposed ordinance updates City code to
reflect this new state mandate.

During discussion:
•
A Council member asked whether the law affects current library directors. Staff
indicated that existing directors do not require retroactive approval, but future hiring
or firing actions would be subject to the new requirements.
•
Another Council member clarified that under the previous system, the Mayor and
Council appointed the library board, while the board independently hired and
supervised the library director. The new law adds a City Council approval role to
those personnel decisions.
•
One Council member strongly opposed the change, arguing that it introduces
political influence into library administration and could be used to pressure library
directors over book selection and free speech issues. They stated that libraries have
traditionally been insulated from political control through independent library
boards.
•
In response, it was noted that the law does not give the City Council unilateral
authority to hire or fire a library director. Any action must still originate with and be
approved by the library board, meaning both the library board and City Council must
agree. It was argued that this could provide additional protections because two
bodies must approve any hiring or termination.
•
Council members acknowledged that the change represents a significant shift from
the traditional separation between library governance and elected officials, but also
emphasized the City's obligation to comply with state law.
The ordinance was presented as a necessary update to align City code with the new
state requirements.

Motion 1: Approve the Ordinance amending Title 2, Chapter 1, Section 3, of the City
Code to provide that the Library Director is hired and terminated by the Library Board
with the approval of the City Council, under a suspension of the rules requiring three
complete and separate readings; and request it be read by title and published by
summary.
o Moved by: Councilor Radford
o Second: Councilor Dingman

City Council Meeting
Minutes

680 Park Avenue
Idaho Falls, ID
o Vote: Aye: Francis, Dingman, Larsen, Lee, Radford. Nay: none.
o Motion carries.

ORDINANCE TITLE READ: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF IDAHO FALLS, IDAHO, A
MUNICIPAL CORPORATION OF THE STATE OF IDAHO, AMENDING TITLE 2, CHAPTER 1,
SECTION 3 TO PROVIDE THAT THE LIBRARY DIRECTOR IS HIRED AND TERMINATED BY
THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES WITH THE APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL; CODIFICATION;
PUBLICATION BY SUMMARY; AND ESTABLISHING EFFECTIVE DATE.

E. Parks & Recreation

1. 26-191
Ordinance Amending Title 8, Chapter 9, Forestry

Presentation/Discussion (Horticulturist Washburn): The City Council reviewed a
proposed ordinance updating the City's forestry regulations. The amendments would
modernize and clarify existing rules by:
•
Updating ordinance formatting.
•
Creating tree classifications.
•
Establishing clearance requirements around traffic signs, safety infrastructure, and
other public facilities.
•
Expanding the grounds for revoking private tree service licenses.

City Horticulturist Washburn, who has served in the role for about seven years,
explained that the City can require the removal of diseased or hazardous private trees
through nuisance abatement procedures, particularly when pests or diseases could
spread to other trees or threaten the City's urban forest. He also acknowledged that
some trees can pose significant fire hazards. Mayor Burtenshaw expressed support for
the update, noting concerns about diseased trees and wildfire risks.
Council Member John Radford spoke passionately about the value of urban
forestry, emphasizing that:
•
Trees are essential for air quality and public health.
•
Studies show cities receive approximately three dollars in benefits for every dollar
invested in trees.
•
Trees help extend pavement life by providing shade and reducing UV damage.
•
Trees improve stormwater management.
•
Neighborhoods with street trees tend to have significantly lower asthma rates.

Councilor Radford also highlighted Idaho Falls' long history of tree planting and
beautification efforts, including the work of the Village Improvement Society, which
purchased and planted many of the City's early trees, and landscape architect Russ
Freeman, who helped preserve trees that now line the Greenbelt. He noted that the

City Council Meeting
Minutes

680 Park Avenue
Idaho Falls, ID
Snake River Valley originally had very few trees, making continued stewardship
important.
Council members remarked that the ordinance's consideration during Arbor
Day week was especially fitting, even if coincidental. Overall, the discussion reflected
strong support for protecting and investing in Idaho Falls' urban forest.

Motion: Approve the ordinance amending Title 8, Chapter 9 of the City Code, under a
suspension of the rules requiring three complete and separate readings, request that it
be read by title, and published by summary.
o Moved by: Councilor Radford
o Second: Councilor Lee
o Vote: Aye: Francis, Dingman, Larsen, Lee, Radford. Nay: none.
o Motion carries.

ORDINANCE TITLE READ: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF IDAHO FALLS, IDAHO, A
MUNICIPAL CORPORATION OF THE STATE OF IDAHO; AMENDING TITLE 8, CHAPTER 9
OF THE CITY CODE TO PROVIDE FOR THE REMOVAL OF VEGETATION OBSTRUCTING
TRAFFIC SIGNS, DECLARE PRIVATE TREES IN VIOLATION OF THIS CHAPTER AS A
PUBLIC NUISANCE, AMEND REGULATIONS FOR TREES AND OTHER VEGETATION,
ADOPT THE 2017 EDITIONS OF ANSI 300 AND ANSI 133, REQUIRE PERMISSION TO
PLANT STREET TREES, CLARIFY CERTAIN CODE PROVISIONS BY REPLACING
REFERENCES TO URBAN FORESTER AND COMMUNITY FORESTER TO CITY FORESTER,
PROVIDE AN ADDITIONAL BASIS TO REVOKE PRIVATE TREE SERVICE COMPANY
LICENSES, PROVIDE STANDARDIZED DEFINITIONS FOR TREES BY HEIGHT, AND
MAKING OTHER CHANGES, PUBLICATION BY SUMMARY, AND ESTABLISHING
EFFECTIVE DATE.

F. Community Development Services
1. 26-175
Final Plat and Reasoned Statement of Relevant Criteria and Standards,
Houston Heights, Division No. 1

Presentation/Discussion (Director Sanner): Final plat for Houston Heights Division
No. 1 (PLT 25-016), located east of Saturn Avenue and Houston Street. Before
discussing the plat, staff explained that under Idaho’s Local Land Use Planning Act
(LLUPA), a final plat that complies with City code must be approved, which is why final
plat items often move quickly through the process.
Key details of the plat include:
•
The property is a 0.157-acre lot zoned R-2.
•
An existing duplex was originally built as a single property, but it was constructed
with a firewall extending through the roof and has separate utilities for each unit.

City Council Meeting
Minutes

680 Park Avenue
Idaho Falls, ID
•
The applicant is requesting to divide the property down the center of the duplex,
creating separate lots for each unit.
•
Staff confirmed the subdivision meets all zoning and subdivision requirements.
•
The Planning Commission reviewed the application on August 5, 2025.
•
No public comments were received during the public hearing.
•
The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval to the City
Council.

Motion 1: Approve the Final Plat for Houston Heights, Division No. 1 and give
authorization for the Mayor, City Engineer, and City Clerk to sign said Final Plat
o Moved by: Councilor Lee
o Second: Councilor Francis
o Vote: Aye: Francis, Dingman, Larsen, Lee, Radford. Nay: none.
o Motion carries.

Motion 2: Approve the Reasoned Statement of Relevant Criteria and Standards for the
Final Plat for Houston Heights, Division No. 1 and give authorization for the Mayor to
execute the necessary documents
o Moved by: Councilor Lee
o Second: Councilor Francis
o Vote: Aye: Francis, Dingman, Larsen, Lee, Radford. Nay: none.
o Motion carries.

2. 26-176
Final Plat and Reasoned Statement of Relevant Criteria and Standards,
Hodson Addition, Second Amended

Presentation/Discussion (Director Sanner): Community Development Services
presented the Hodson Edition, Second Amended (PLT 25-035), a final plat for property
located mid-block on Woodruff Avenue, just south of the Yellowstone
Highway/Woodruff intersection.
•
The 1.03-acre property is zoned Highway Commercial.
•
The applicant is proposing to split off the front portion of the property and formally
establish an access easement along the southeast corner.
•
The easement will provide access to the newly created rear lot as well as the
adjacent property to the south, ensuring all subdivided lots have legal access.
•
An existing industrial building is located on the property.
•
The Planning Commission reviewed the plat on February 3, 2026.
•
No public comments were received during the public hearing.
•
The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval to the City
Council.

City Council Meeting
Minutes

680 Park Avenue
Idaho Falls, ID
•
Staff indicated the plat complies with applicable requirements and offered to
answer Council questions.

Motion 1: Approve the Final Plat for Hodson Addition, Second Amended and give
authorization for the Mayor, City Engineer, and City Clerk to sign said Final Plat
o Moved by: Councilor Lee
o Second: Councilor Francis
o Vote: Aye: Francis, Dingman, Larsen, Lee, Radford. Nay: none.
o Motion carries.

Motion 2: Approve the Reasoned Statement of Relevant Criteria and Standards for the
Final Plat for Hodson Addition, Second Amended and give authorization for the Mayor to
execute the necessary documents.
o Moved by: Councilor Lee
o Second: Councilor Francis
o Vote: Aye: Francis, Dingman, Larsen, Lee, Radford. Nay: none.
o Motion carries.

3. 26-177
Final Plat, Development Agreement, and Reasoned Statement of Relevant
Criteria and Standards, Recycle Road Commercial Park.

Presentation/Discussion (Director Sanner): Community Development Services
presented the Recycle Road Commercial Park Final Plat (PLT 26-001), a single-lot
subdivision located on Recycle Road near the Highway 20 interchange, adjacent to the
new Maverik and Bish’s RV developments.
•
The subdivision consists of 7.263 acres and is zoned Highway Commercial (HC).
•
Although the lot configuration remains essentially unchanged, the plat is needed to
formally establish:
o
A street dedication along the property frontage.
o
Several utility easements around the perimeter of the property.
•
The property is currently vacant.
•
The Planning Commission reviewed the plat on March 3, 2026.
•
No public comments were received during the hearing.
•
The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval to the City
Council.

Motion 1: Approve the Development Agreement for the Final Plat for Recycle Road
Commercial Park and give authorization for the Mayor and City Clerk to sign said
agreement.
o Moved by: Councilor Lee

City Council Meeting
Minutes

680 Park Avenue
Idaho Falls, ID
o Second: Councilor Francis
o Vote: Aye: Francis, Dingman, Larsen, Lee, Radford. Nay: none.
o Motion carries.

Motion 2: Approve the Final Plat for Recycle Road Commercial Park and give
authorization for the Mayor, City Engineer, and City Clerk to sign said Final Plat.
o Moved by: Councilor Lee
o Second: Councilor Francis
o Vote: Aye: Francis, Dingman, Larsen, Lee, Radford. Nay: none.
o Motion carries.

Motion 3: Approve the Reasoned Statement of Relevant Criteria and Standards for the
Final Plat for Recycle Road Commercial Park and give authorization for the Mayor to
execute the necessary documents.
o Moved by: Councilor Lee
o Second: Councilor Francis
o Vote: Aye: Francis, Dingman, Larsen, Lee, Radford. Nay: none.
o Motion carries.

4. 26-178
Final Plat and Reasoned Statement of Relevant Criteria and Standards,
Stillwater Apartments.

Presentation/Discussion (Director Sanner):
•
Council asked why this project had a development agreement, unlike other plats;
staff explained it was tied to access and dedication requirements, particularly
related to utilities and property dedication.
•
The Stillwater Apartments site is a 2.5-acre parcel located between Science Center
Drive and Highway 20, with primary access from Anderson Street.
•
The project previously received a variance in February 2026 due to limited usable
frontage access despite extensive street frontage.
•
The plat formalizes access and utility easements, confirming the agreed-upon
access arrangement:
o
Primary access and fire access are both via Anderson Street.
o
Easements are established across the site to allow proper access and
subdivision compliance.
•
The property is currently vacant and zoned R-3.
•
The Planning Commission reviewed it on April 7, 2026, received no public
comments, and issued a unanimous positive recommendation.

City Council Meeting
Minutes

680 Park Avenue
Idaho Falls, ID
Council members also emphasized that final plats are thoroughly reviewed by multiple
departments (including fire, engineering, and surveying) before reaching approval,
underscoring the formal vetting process required before Council action.

Motion 1: Approve the Final Plat for Stillwater Apartments and give authorization for the
Mayor, City Engineer, and City Clerk to sign said Final Plat
o Moved by: Councilor Lee
o Second: Councilor Francis
o Vote: Aye: Francis, Dingman, Larsen, Lee, Radford. Nay: none.
o Motion carries.

Motion 2: Approve the Reasoned Statement of Relevant Criteria and Standards for the
Final Plat for Stillwater Apartments and give authorization for the Mayor to execute the
necessary documents.
o Moved by: Councilor Lee
o Second: Councilor Francis
o Vote: Aye: Francis, Dingman, Larsen, Lee, Radford. Nay: none.
o Motion carries.

5. 26-187
Approve Proposed Mediation Agreement for Willows Place Townhomes
Planned Unit Development

Presentation/Discussion (Attorney Jones): The City Council discussed approval of a
proposed mediation agreement for the Willows Place Townhomes Planned Unit
Development (PUD), following prior denial and reconsideration of the project.
•
Two Council members abstained from voting due to prior involvement in mediation,
consistent with quasi-judicial ex parte rules.
•
The project previously had its PUD request denied by Council in January 2026, with
denial upheld after reconsideration in April. The applicant was then invited to enter
mediation, as allowed by City code.
•
A mediation session was held with a neutral mediator, resulting in a non-binding
agreement outlining proposed changes.
•
Tonight’s vote was only to approve the mediation agreement, not the PUD itself. A
revised PUD must still come back later for a full public hearing and final decision.
Key changes in the mediation agreement:
•
Unit reduction: from 14 units down to 12, addressing density concerns.
•
Playground relocation: moved to a more accessible location and designated as a
publicly available amenity with signage.
•
Parking reduction: decreased by 10 stalls.

City Council Meeting
Minutes

680 Park Avenue
Idaho Falls, ID
•
Improved landscaping: increased from about 48% to 57% of the site.
•
Driveway/access adjustments: expanded driveway space to improve safety and fire
access (from ~20 ft to ~25 ft clearance).
•
Better neighborhood connectivity and access improvements were included.
Council discussion included:
•
Concerns about housing supply vs. reduced unit count, with some members
questioning whether reducing units was appropriate.
•
Clarification that the mediation agreement is not final approval, but a framework for
a revised PUD that will return later for a full public hearing.
•
The agreement is intended to set direction for the revised proposal, which will be
resubmitted for full review and public input.
The item concluded with Council preparing for a vote on whether to ratify the mediation
agreement, acknowledging that a separate, more formal PUD hearing will follow later.

Motion: Approve Proposed Mediation Agreement between the City of Idaho Falls and
Willows Place Townhomes Planned Unit Development (PUD).
o Moved by: Councilor Larsen
o Second: Councilor Dingman
o Vote: Aye: Dingman, Larsen, Radford. Nay: none. Abstain: Lee, Francis
o Motion carries.

6. 26-193
Public Hearing of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Draft PY
2026-2030 Five Year Consolidated Plan and Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing
Choice presented by Brad Cramer, Perspective Planning & Consulting. Public Hearing
of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Draft PY 2026 CDBG Annual
Action Plan by Lisa Farris.

Presentation/Discussion (Administrator Farris, Mr. Cramer): The City held a public
hearing on the 2026 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Annual Action Plan
and related consolidated planning documents, including a new 2026–2030 five-year
consolidated plan and a fair housing analysis.

Brad Cramer, from Prospective Planning and Consulting, presented the plan, explaining
that:
•
CDBG funds come from HUD and must primarily benefit low- to moderate-income
residents, address blight, or meet urgent community needs.
•
The five-year plan is based on extensive data analysis and public input, including
surveys, stakeholder interviews, and focus groups.
•
Community feedback identified key issues such as:
o
Housing affordability and supply shortages

City Council Meeting
Minutes

680 Park Avenue
Idaho Falls, ID
o
Rising homelessness and mental health needs
o
Need for transportation access, infrastructure, and supportive services
o
Challenges related to housing stability and discrimination (especially tied to
mental health and income barriers)
Key priorities in the plan include:
•
Expanding and rehabilitating affordable housing
•
Supporting homeless services and shelter capacity
•
Investing in public infrastructure and accessibility improvements
•
Providing assistance with fees and barriers to housing
•
Studying possible slum/blight designation areas
•
Exploring a Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy Area (NRSA) to give the City more
flexibility in how CDBG funds are used
•
Encouraging broader strategies like density bonuses, impact fee waivers, and
housing partnerships
The consultant also noted CDBG constraints:
•
Strict HUD eligibility rules
•
Required measurable outcomes
•
Limited funding (about $400,000+ annually locally)

2026 funding requests presented: Multiple community organizations requested CDBG
support, including:
•
Legal aid for domestic violence and housing issues
•
Behavioral health and crisis services
•
GED and education support programs
•
Childcare assistance for working families
•
Salvation Army rental and utility assistance
•
Soup kitchen training support
•
Downtown improvements (facades, safety, infrastructure)
•
YMCA conversion of racquetball courts into a youth play space
•
Rescue Mission security and IT upgrades
•
Senior Center Meals on Wheels supplies

Public comment and Council discussion
•
Council members acknowledged the high level of need across the community and
strong participation from nonprofits.
•
One Council member highlighted concern about income-based housing barriers
and “credit discrimination” issues.
•
Another emphasized interest in exploring NRSA designation to better target
revitalization efforts.

City Council Meeting
Minutes

680 Park Avenue
Idaho Falls, ID
•
Support was expressed for continuing to evaluate how CDBG rules might better
align with community needs.

Process timeline
•
Public hearing remains open until June 22
•
Council work session: July 6
•
Funding resolution: July 9
•
Final plan submission to HUD: before August 16
The hearing was left open for continued public comment.

7. 26-179
Legislative Public Hearing for the Annexation and Initial Zoning of I&M,
Industrial and Manufacturing - Annexation and Initial Zoning Ordinances and
Reasoned Statements of Relevant Criteria and Standards for approximately 10.7
acres in the NE ¼ of Section 8, Township 2 North, Range 38 East

Presentation/Discussion (Director Sanner): The item was a legislative public hearing
regarding an annexation and initial zoning request. However, the applicant recently
requested that the item be tabled due to unresolved questions related to the
annexation and a future site plan, following meetings with City staff.
The request to table was submitted in writing the same day (by 4:30 p.m.), and
staff confirmed that tabling to a specific date—June 4th—would serve as adequate
public notice.

Motion: Table the public hearing to June 4, 2026.
o Moved by: Councilor Lee
o Second: Councilor Francis
o Vote: Aye: Francis, Dingman, Larsen, Lee, Radford. Nay: none.
o Motion carries.

8. 26-180
Legislative Public Hearing for the Annexation and Initial Zoning of R1,
Single Dwelling Residential with the Controlled Development Airport Overlay Zone
- Annexation and Initial Zoning Ordinances and Reasoned Statements of Relevant
Criteria and Standards for approximately 3.677 acres in the SE ¼ of Section 27, and
the SW ¼ of Section 26, Township 2 North, Range 37 East.

Presentation/Discussion (Director Sanner): The City Council held a public hearing on
a request to annex 3.677 acres on Bellin Road and zone the property R-1 (single-family
residential).
•
Applicant Dan Bronson, representing his parents, said the annexation was
requested primarily to obtain City water service because the property currently
relies on a shared well that has experienced problems.

City Council Meeting
Minutes

680 Park Avenue
Idaho Falls, ID
•
Director Sander explained that:
o
The property is located north of Sunnyside Road near the I-15 interchange.
o
The annexation includes both the property and adjacent right-of-way along
Bellin Road.
o
Nearby City properties are zoned LC (Limited Commercial), while
neighboring county properties are zoned agricultural and large-lot
residential.
o
Although adjacent to LC zoning, staff found that R-1 zoning better aligns
with the area's suburban growth pattern and future land-use plans.
o
Staff determined the request would not constitute spot zoning because
residential development is expected to continue northward.
•
The property is located within the airport controlled-development overlay, but there
are no additional restrictions on residential uses under that overlay.
•
The Planning Commission reviewed the request on February 3, 2026, and:
o
Heard comments from a neighboring property owner regarding the shared
well situation.
o
Received no opposition to the annexation.
o
Voted unanimously to recommend approval.
•
Council members asked why the annexation included a portion of Bellin Road south
of the property but not farther north.
o
Staff explained that annexations commonly include adjacent rights-of-way
and believed the configuration was intended to connect with existing City-
owned property and right-of-way.
•
A Council member asked whether the annexation could pressure the neighboring
property to annex.
o
Staff responded that while a City-initiated annexation could theoretically
occur in the future because the parcel would become surrounded by City
boundaries, no such action is currently being considered.
•
No members of the public spoke in favor of or against the request.

Motion 1: Approve the Ordinance annexing approximately 3.677 acres in the SE ¼ of
Section 27, and the SW ¼ of Section 26, Township 2 North, Range 37 East; assign a
Comprehensive Plan Designation of “Suburban;” and under a suspension of the rules
requiring three complete and separate readings, request that it be read by title and
published by summary
o Moved by: Councilor Lee
o Second: Councilor Francis
o Vote: Aye: Francis, Dingman, Larsen, Lee, Radford. Nay: none.
o Motion carries.

City Council Meeting
Minutes

680 Park Avenue
Idaho Falls, ID
ORDINANCE TITLE READ: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF IDAHO FALLS, IDAHO, A
MUNICIPAL CORPORATION OF THE STATE OF IDAHO; PROVIDING FOR THE
ANNEXATION OF APPROXIMATELY 3.677 ACRES DESCRIBED IN EXHIBIT A OF THIS
ORDINANCE, AMENDING THE LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF THE CITY WITH THE
APPROPRIATE COUNTY AND STATE AUTHORITIES; AND PROVIDING SEVERABILITY,
PUBLICATION BY SUMMARY, AND ESTABLISHING EFFECTIVE DATE.

Motion 2: Approve the Reasoned Statement of Relevant Criteria and Standards for the
annexation of approximately 3.677 acres in the SE ¼ of Section 27, and the SW ¼ of
Section 26, Township 2 North, Range 37 East and give authorization for the Mayor to
execute the necessary documents
o Moved by: Councilor Lee
o Second: Councilor Francis
o Vote: Aye: Francis, Dingman, Larsen, Lee, Radford. Nay: none.
o Motion carries.

Motion 3: Approve the Ordinance establishing the initial zoning for R1, Single Dwelling
Residential with the Controlled Development Airport Overlay Zone as shown in the
Ordinance exhibits under a suspension of the rules requiring three complete and
separate readings; and request that it be read by title and published by summary; that
the City limits documents be amended to include the area annexed herewith; and that
the City Planner be instructed to reflect said annexation, amendment to the
Comprehensive Plan, and initial zoning on the Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Maps
located in the Planning office
o Moved by: Councilor Lee
o Second: Councilor Francis
o Vote: Aye: Francis, Dingman, Larsen, Lee, Radford. Nay: none.
o Motion carries.

ORDINANCE TITLE READ: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF IDAHO FALLS, IDAHO, A
MUNICIPAL CORPORATION OF THE STATE OF IDAHO; PROVIDING FOR THE INITIAL
ZONING OF APPROXIMATELY 3.677 ACRES DESCRIBED IN EXHIBIT A OF THIS
ORDINANCE AS R1 SINGLE DWELLING RESIDENTIAL AND CONTROLLED
DEVELOPMENT AIRPORT OVERLAY ZONE AND PROVIDING SEVERABILITY,
PUBLICATION BY SUMMARY, AND ESTABLISHING EFFECTIVE DATE.

Motion 4: Approve the Reasoned Statement of Relevant Criteria and Standards for the
initial zoning of R1, Single Dwelling Residential with the Controlled Development Airport
Overlay Zone and give authorization for the Mayor to execute the necessary documents
o Moved by: Councilor Lee
o Second: Councilor Francis

City Council Meeting
Minutes

680 Park Avenue
Idaho Falls, ID
o Vote: Aye: Francis, Dingman, Larsen, Lee, Radford. Nay: none.
o Motion carries.

9. 26-181
Quasi-Judicial Public Hearing - Planned Unit Development (PUD) and
Reasoned Statement of Relevant Criteria and Standards, Creekside Townhomes.

Presentation/Discussion (Director Sanner): The Council held a quasi-judicial public
hearing on the proposed Creekside Townhomes Planned Unit Development (PUD).
•
Wyatt Jenkins of Connect Engineering presented the project on behalf of the developer.

Project Overview
•
The development would include 143 townhome units on approximately 13.4 acres.
•
The project is located near Recycle Road and Willow Creek.
•
The applicant described the project as providing a more affordable homeownership
option for younger families.
•
The development is planned in 12 phases and is intended to consist of individually
owned units within an HOA-managed community.
Requested Variances.
The developer requested three variances:
•
Allowing lots to front on private streets.
•
Reducing the rear setback along the western property line from 25 feet to 10 feet.
•
Reducing the landscape buffer along private streets to 10 feet.
Amenities and Open Space
•
The PUD ordinance requires three amenities; the project proposes four:
o
Two pickleball courts.
o
A playground.
o
A gazebo.
o
A paved walking path along Willow Creek.
•
The development provides approximately 39.7% open space, exceeding the required
25%.
•
Most amenities would be completed during Phase 1.
Willow Creek and Irrigation Issues
•
Significant discussion focused on Willow Creek and a nearby irrigation ditch.
•
The applicant clarified:
o
The irrigation ditch would be buried underground.
o
Willow Creek itself would remain open and natural, with culverts only at
crossing locations.
o
The project team is coordinating with the Army Corps of Engineers, irrigation
districts, archaeologists, and downstream water users.

City Council Meeting
Minutes

680 Park Avenue
Idaho Falls, ID
•
The developer said the goal is to preserve the creek corridor and maintain public
enjoyment of the area.
Public Access Concerns
•
Council Member Francis asked how Willow Creek would remain accessible to the
public.
•
The developer stated:
o
No fences are planned along the creek corridor.
o
Sidewalk connections would allow public access.
o
Future trail extensions along the creek could be added.
o
The developer would support a condition requiring the corridor to remain open
to the public.
•
Staff noted that such a condition could be formally added to the approval findings.

Staff Report
•
Planning staff explained:
o
The property was annexed into the City in 2021.
o
It is zoned Limited Commercial (LC), with residential development governed by
R-3A standards.
o
The proposed density is 10.8 units per acre, well below the maximum allowed
35 units per acre.
o
The internal streets would remain private.
o
The project received a unanimous recommendation for approval from the
Planning Commission.
•
Staff noted that Planning Commission discussions focused heavily on preserving
Willow Creek and enhancing amenities, leading to the addition of the creek trail and
gazebo.
Public Testimony
•
No members of the public spoke for or against the project.
Council Discussion
•
Council members generally praised the project for:
o
Preserving and incorporating Willow Creek as an amenity.
o
Providing significant open space.
o
Offering affordable homeownership opportunities.
o
Creatively using the PUD process to protect natural features.
•
Some concerns were raised about:
o
The long-term burden on homeowners' associations to maintain private streets
and infrastructure.
o
The tendency of PUDs to create inward-focused developments that function like
separate communities.

City Council Meeting
Minutes

680 Park Avenue
Idaho Falls, ID
•
Despite those concerns, Council members expressed support for the project's design
and its effort to balance housing needs, open space preservation, and recreational
amenities.

Motion 1: Approve the Planned Unit Development (PUD) for Creekside Townhomes as
presented
o Moved by: Councilor Lee
o Second: Councilor Francis
o Vote: Aye: Francis, Dingman, Larsen, Lee, Radford. Nay: none.
o Motion carries.

Motion 2: Approve the Reasoned Statement of Relevant Criteria and Standards for the
Planned Unit Development for Creekside Townhomes with the condition that the Willow
Creek corridor remain open to the public and the trail to the gazebo is paved and give
authorization for the Mayor to execute the necessary documents.
o Moved by: Councilor Lee
o Second: Councilor Francis
o Vote: Aye: Francis, Dingman, Larsen, Lee, Radford. Nay: none.
o Motion carries.

6. Announcements
•
Before adjournment, Mayor Burtenshaw provided an update related to the Jefferson Avenue
sidewalk and curb-and-gutter discussion.
o
She noted that Public Works staff are developing a new notification letter intended
to provide residents with clearer information when infrastructure projects are
planned.
o
The Mayor emphasized that such projects are typically planned well in advance and
that the City expects to engage with affected property owners early in the process.
•
She indicated that future discussions may come before the City Council regarding:
o
The curb-and-gutter program.
o
The sidewalk program.
o
Possible ways to assist property owners with project costs.
•
The Mayor noted that previous legal advice had cautioned against the City acting as the
financial backer for private sidewalk improvements, but she acknowledged that future
Council policy decisions could revisit how assistance is provided.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 9:11 PM.

/s/ Jasmine Marroquin______________

/s/ Lisa Burtenshaw
_____________
Jasmine Marroquin, Deputy City Clerk

Lisa Burtenshaw, Mayor

Program Year (PY) 2026 Activity/Project Description Requested

CDBG Applicant

Amount

2026 Allocation $414,143

Public Service Activities 15% max of allocation eee ee
Idaho Legal Aid Legal Aid/victims of domestic violence (Idaho Falls office). $24,000.00

Behavioral Health Crisis (N Holmes) - Case management/treatment for mental $30,000.00
health/substance abuse clients (ages 18/older). oan
DVSAC - GED program testing vouchers.

Assault Ctr.

United Way ALICE Child $30,000.00

Salvation Army

Assistance with affordable daycare expenses for working families
that don’t meet the threshold for state financial assistance.
Rental ($7,500) and Utility Assistance ($3,700.00) for LMI
individuals/families. Salary for one FTE ($938.00). Indirect cost for
support service/occupancy ($1,812.00).

One PTE to provide intake/case management services of LMI

Emergency Shelter clients for (17) pay periods (June to December).

Nest Pregnancy Care Cir Prenatal care with ultrasound/results for LMI clients at the $20,800.00
center. Support for (1) ultrasound/month at $400 each, totaling a
$20,800/year.

Support for training of volunteers. $13,000.00

ae a
IFDDC/Idaho Falls Continue the Facade Improvement Program in Downtown Idaho | $50,000.00

Falls CT 9712 (Signs, awnings, facades).

Must allocate 70% or more as direct benefit towwadl

Highland Park Sidewalk Improvement Project - assist LMI with

Public Works Div. Curb, Gutter, Sidewalk in Subdivision within CT 9712.

Parking Lot/Warehouse LED Lighting Upgrade Project - retrofit $5,940.00
existing light fixtures with energy efficient LED bulbs.

YMCA Transform existing indoor racquetball courts into an indoor play

ee structure for ages 2-12.

Idaho Falls Rescue Mission

IF Sr. Center Reusable/disposable trays to serve/deliver meals to seniors and

disabled low- and moderate-income individuals.

Administration 20% max of allocation ($414,143.00)

CDS/Administration of Administer the CDBG Program with (1) FT employee in CDS. $82,828.60
Program
Po Total Amount of Applications (includes Administration) $627,854.04

Draft 2026 CDBG Annual Action Plan

$14,000.00

$100,000.00

Replace existing security cameras with a new internal/external $12,500.00

security camera system.

$24,199.84

Text is extracted by machine from the official file linked on each page; the official file is the record. Sentinel Media, LLC.