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City of Jerome

City Council Regular Meeting

minutes meeting date 2026-07-07 · fetched 2026-09-17 · 32571 characters · official file · plain text

July 7, 2026 
 
This regular meeting of the Jerome City Council was called to order by Mayor Barber at 
5:30 p.m.  The meeting was also held by teleconference, conducted via Zoom, and was made 
available to all members of the public in a format that allowed all participants to hear the 
meeting, including all deliberations by members of the Council and other speakers addressing the 
council, whether in person or via virtual connection, and to comment if so desired, all of which 
was noted in the agenda, email, and notices at council chambers and on the city’s website. 
 
Present: Mayor Christopher Barber, Councilman Jason Peterson, Councilman Bryan 
Craig, Councilman Dale Ross, and Councilwoman Jeri Ahrens.   
 
Also present were staff members:  City Clerk Bernadette Coderniz, Legal Counsel Ted 
Larsen, Public Works Director Jon Caton, Building Official Kortnie Kent, Finance Director Ross 
Hyatt, Accounting and Budget Manager Lori McCrae, Planning and Zoning Manager Ida Clark, 
Human Resources Director Esmeralda Chavez, IS Director Carlos Hernandez, Fire Chief Mike 
Harrison, and Police Chief Duane Rubink.  City Administrator Mike Williams is excused. 
 
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: 
 
Mayor Barber led the audience in recitation of the pledge of allegiance. 
 
PUBLIC HEARING 1: 
This being the time and place published to consider a request for Annexation and Zoning 
to Residential 1, from EHM Engineers, Inc. representing Corey Barton for the property described 
as Pin Number RP08S17E088401A, SWSE, SESE (Except that part of N & E of the Gravity 
Ditch), SEC 8 T8 R17, more commonly known as the cultivated field on the north west corner of 
100 North and 200 East, Jerome, Idaho containing approximately 74.6 75.41 acres, the Chair 
called the public hearing open at 5:36 p.m. and briefly reviewed the procedures that will be 
followed.  
Staff Presentation: 
 
Ms. Clark spoke of application to annex approximately 75.41 acres into city limits and 
the public hearing held before the Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z) on May 12, 2026 to 
review the annexation request by a property owner.  The request coincides with Idaho Code 50-
222(f)(5)(a) which allows an annexation procedure to move forward with the property owner’s 
consent.  Ms. Clark showed a map to the Council and explained that is adjacent to city limits and 
surrounded by agricultural/farmed land and single-family homes.  The request includes an initial 
zoning of Residential-1; the R-1 zone allows for single-family homes, parks, recreation, quasi-
public uses, arts and entertainment by special use permits.  Ms. Clark stated the parcel is within 
the Area of Impact and identified on the map as “Area of Impact Agricultural Limited,” a map 
renegotiated and adopted in December 2025.  She further stated that the city’s Future Land Use 
Map designates the parcel as “Agricultural Transition” which is defined as current ag land that 
could be available for residential uses with extended utilities and land contiguous to City 
boundaries.  Utilities can be extended at the owner’s expense.  The P&Z recommended approval 
of the annexation and initial zoning to R-1 after hearing testimony opposing the request along 
with staff comments and concerns.  Ms. Clark stated the Council will have the option to approval 
the recommendation to annex and assigning initial zoning of R-1, to deny the request, or to 
approve the request with a development agreement (initiated upon annexation and zoning).  
Additionally, she stated a development agreement could require the conceptual plan, density,

greenspace or payment in lieu of, and a timeline for development.  Ms. Clark reviewed staff 
comments including concerns from the fire department pertaining to response time and routing; 
public works concerns pertaining to water system improvements that would be required as there 
would not be adequate water flow without upgrades; and sewer department concerns with sewer 
capacity.   
 
Mayor Barber asked for clarification on the development agreement, and Ms. Clark stated 
it would be an agreement between the City and the developer.  Requirements would include: 
density information, a proposed timeline, and any other items the Council wishes to address 
within the agreement.  Council would also have the option of assigning a zone other than R-1 if 
the terms of the development agreement were not met.  Additionally, Ms. Clark clarified that the 
development agreement would be included in a motion prior to approval.  Councilman Craig 
spoke about the two concerns from the water and wastewater departments, and Ms. Clark stated 
that significant offsite improvements would be required to allow additional residential uses to 
come into the City.  Mr. Larsen stated that the engineer’s comment in the staff report referenced 
water pressure, and Ms. Clark stated that water flow and pressure were concerns of staff.  
Additionally, Ms. Clark stated a water model would be required by the developer as well.  Upon 
inquiry by Councilmen Ross and Craig, Ms. Clark stated improvements to the existing water 
system would be required along with additional improvements within the subdivision, all at the 
developer’s expense.  Upon inquiry by Councilwoman Ahrens regarding concerns of the fire 
department, Chief Harrison stated the response time to the area would be approximately ten 
minutes, plus several hydrants would need to be installed for a residential subdivision.  He 
further stated that plans for a fire station on the north side of town will eventually be needed to 
serve residents.   
Applicant Testimony: 
 
Dave Thibault appeared on behalf of Corey Barton and the request for annexation.  He 
stated water and sewer models were completed for the adjacent Becker Subdivision and that no 
offsite additional water improvements were required for that subdivision.  However, there were 
issues with sewer requiring offsite improvements for Becker that would also alleviate concerns 
for a new residential subdivision as the flow would run through the same sewer line.  Mr. 
Thibault spoke of the annexation process and the parcel as being within the city’s Area of Impact 
for many years.  The Comprehensive Plan supports the annexation and rezone to R-1, and 
municipal services are available.  Mr. Thibault stated the need for a booster station would not be 
known until the preliminary plat phase when the water and sewer models would be conducted for 
the parcel in question.  He further stated the annexation should be contemplating whether or not 
the parcel should be within City limits regardless of the availability of City services, adequate 
access, and zoning compatibility.   Mr. Thibault addressed the fire department's concerns, noting 
that finding solutions for the geographic limitations and speeding issues remains a challenge.  He 
stated the improvements will be completed per City standards (i.e. satisfactory road widths and 
sections, distribution and placement of fire hydrants, etc.).  He found these statements to be 
beyond the scope of an initial annexation approval.  Mr. Thibault noted the parcel has irrigation 
water shares that will stay and reside with the parcel; a pressurized irrigation pumping station 
will be installed if the parcel should be developed into a subdivision with water distributed back 
to the individual lots.  He also spoke of growth and fair disclosure with the airport overlay; they 
have been duly notified of the request and Mr. Thibault did not believe there were any density 
restrictions associated with the overlay.

Mayor Barber reminded the Council of the request to approve the annexation and initial 
zoning but to limit questions pertaining to the residential development.  Mr. Thibault stated the 
parcel owner does not object to a development agreement although a preliminary plat is not yet 
developed.   
 
There was no testimony in favor nor neutral to the request.  Testimony in opposition was 
as follows: 
 
Rebecca Peterson appeared before the Council and provided written testimony for the 
Council to review.  She stated the annexation was inappropriate and requested a delay in the 
decision by Council or deny the request for the following reasons:  
• Lack of adequate noticing as roads were closed and notification box had fallen over 
• Notices did not provide an opportunity to submit written comment 
• Residents were not properly notified 
• Application to annex should be separate from zoning request 
• No plan for development provided with the request for the public’s review 
• Developing farmland does not promote or protect agriculture 
• City and County Comprehensive Plans include statements for protection and 
preservation of farm ground 
• There are other properties already zoned residential impact for future housing (Ms. 
Peterson cited city and county figures for available lots) 
• Zoning other than ag-limited is a non-conforming use when adjacent to the 15.6 acres 
utilized as part of a Nutrient Management Plan 
• The permitted Livestock Confinement Operation (LCO) is approximately ¼ mile 
north of the annexation northern boundary, and setbacks are requested to match the 
setbacks of their LCO 
• Options for the Council to consider 
• Nuisances including loose animals that destroy nearby livestock  
• Concerns about enforcement to surface water  
• House Bill 626 regarding developmental impact fees and how they should be passed 
on to the developer and not taxpayers (bill died in committee) 
• An ordinance in place that already restricts housing development to specific zones 
 
Dean Bingham appeared before the Council and expressed the following concerns: 
• Posted notice appeared to be illegal where the road was closed and inaccessible 
• The fact that Corey Barton does not live in Jerome and therefore not concerned about 
the local community 
• Concerns for a water shortage and adding a residential development to the problem 
• Water pressure concerns and the need for a water model prior to a decision by 
Council 
• A different drainage system for the effluent water system instead of the irrigation 
canal 
• An easement to his ag property and the Right to Farm Act which protects ag from 
nuisance complaints (dust, big trucks, etc.) 
• The need for sufficient roads to handle ag equipment 
• Approximately 3.5 million acres of farmland in Idaho lost to cities, homesites and 
developed lands

• Other areas in the City that could be developed 
 
Councilman Craig inquired about tabling the issue due to the noticing concerns, and Mr. 
Larsen stated that notice was provided in redundancy (published, posted and mailed to nearby 
property owners).  He further stated he was not aware of any precedent that has determined the 
issue if closed roads surrounding the property creates a defect in notice.  Mr. Larsen encouraged 
the Council to finish listening to all testimony and then discuss whether or not to leave the public 
hearing open and set another date.  Mayor Barber announced that the meeting would continue 
with additional testimony in opposition to the request. 
 
Trent Staples appeared before the Council and stated the following: 
• In agreement with the neighbors and testimony already provided 
• More information is needed 
• Concerned about the impact to traffic, water and sewer concerns and canal water 
runoff that could impact a new nearby subdivision 
• The concern about the lack of sufficient notice 
 
Sandy Pittock appeared before the Council to oppose the annexation request and 
expressed the following concerns: 
• Speeding along 200 E Road as traffic is diverted to avoid Tiger Drive 
• The condition of 200 E Road in winter months 
• Complaints from neighbors (i.e. flies, odors, irrigation water on the road, etc.) 
• More information needed on the proposed development before the annexation is 
approved 
• Crop dusting and traffic flow 
 
James Lafeen appeared to oppose the annexation request for the following: 
• Will be affected by the new development with increased traffic and water usage 
• He supports farmers and water rights 
• Feels continuation of the City will move further and push farmers out 
• Concerns about losing crops and livestock affected by noise, light and traffic 
• Farm equipment upsetting those in a new residential subdivision 
• Crop dusting issues with new residents 
• Irrigation water concerns (going to the city instead of farmers) and drought concerns 
• The need to review more information  
 
Jim Kay appeared and stated he is opposed to the annexation and rezoning request, citing 
the following: 
• Concerns about water usage and the loss of farmland 
• Idaho hopefully staying an agriculture state 
• Losing water and becoming dependent on outside resources 
• Loss of farms results in dependence on corporations and outside employers 
• Concerns about vehicles speeding on 200 E Road and increasing traffic 
• Ample properties zoned for residential development 
• Wants more information on the proposed subdivision 
Rebuttal:

Mr. Thibault addressed the concerns brought forth to the Council.  He stated Corey 
Barton owns the property and wants it developed; additionally, the property resides within the 
impact area.  He further stated the property in question has been planned for annexation into city 
limits for decades.  He provided statistics pertaining to acreage in Jerome County farmland, 
range land, irrigated land, and municipal cities.  Mr. Thibault could not address the traffic 
concerns as the roads discussed are arterial one-mile roads built to the highway district standards; 
developments typically widen arterial roads (i.e. 16th avenue E) to increase capacity and extend 
the level of service.  He spoke of water rights and stated those concerns were not applicable to 
the annexation request.  Additionally, the developer has no right to change the rate of water 
currently being used on the property.  Mr. Thibault stated notification was completed by City of 
Jerome and Idaho Statutes by posting the notice onsite and sending out mailings.  Regarding 
sewer capacity, water utilization and traffic concerns, Mr. Thibault stated those issues could be 
discussed at a preliminary plat or final plat hearing.  Additional requirements could also be 
placed upon the developer at that time.  The developers build roads to the standards of the 
jurisdictions in which they work, roads that should be sufficient to support the project.  Mr. 
Thibault spoke of the wide collector street in the Becker Subdivision to accommodate the 
easement held by Mr. Bingham.  Designs of a subdivision are implemented upon approval 
through the process per City code, and Mr. Thibault reiterated that the first step in the process is 
annexation.  Additionally, he stated the applicant has no issue with entering into a development 
agreement if requested. 
 
Ms. Clark spoke regarding the notification concerns.  She stated Idaho Code requires that 
the notice be published in the local newspaper, be noticed on the property, and that mailings be 
sent out.  Ms. Clark stated 200 E was closed so visibility was not as accessible.  Signage was 
placed and blown over by wind, then after placed back the sign was run down by a vehicle.  Ms. 
Clark stated Idaho Code also requires that notices be mailed to every property owner within a 
300-foot radius, and staff made a special effort to send notices to properties within a 1,000-foot 
radius to capture additional property owners.  She further stated she was not aware of the 
requirement that notices be sent out again when the road is closed. 
There being no testimony to be heard, the Chair declared the public hearing closed at 
6:34 p.m. 
 
ANNEXATION REQUEST: 
 
Councilman Ross moved to draft a resolution adopting the ordinance of the Mayor and 
City of Jerome to annex 75.41 acres of real property and assign initial zoning as Residential 1.  
The motion did not receive a second and therefore failed. 
 
Extensive discussion ensued and topics included:  extending services for fire protection; 
the eventual annexation and development with more information pertaining to fire, water and 
sewer; lesser concerns about design and the proposed irrigation system considering the city’s 
growth; the potential negotiations of a development agreement and including it in a new motion 
if desired; whether or not tax revenue generated from a new subdivision would cover fire and 
police protection; concerns about residents in a new subdivision where fire services may be 
delayed; appreciating the comments received during the public hearing; uncertainty with 
extending the city boundaries without more information; the Area of Impact agreement between 
the city and county and the likelihood of annexation in the future; the importance of agriculture 
and how ag and municipalities can work together; the property owner’s rights to request

annexation; and, the need to table the issue for further discussion.  Mr. Larsen stated the original 
motion needs to be withdrawn if a new motion is to be stated with the inclusion of engaging in 
negotiations with the developer on a development agreement.   
 
Councilman Ross withdrew the original motion.  Second to the motion was made by 
Councilman Craig. AYES:  Councilman Ross, Councilman Peterson, Councilman Craig, and 
Councilwoman Ahrens.  NAYS: None.  Councilman Ross moved to table the discussion until 
staff engages in negotiations with the developer.  Second to the motion was made by Councilman 
Craig.  After consideration, the motion passed by the following vote:  AYES:  Councilman Ross, 
Councilman Peterson, and Councilman Craig.  NAYS:  Councilwoman Ahrens. 
 
Mayor Barber thanked those who appeared and gave testimony.  He stated they were 
welcome to reach out to him directly or contact Ms. Clark with questions.     
 
PUBLIC HEARING 2: 
 
This being the time and place published to consider a request Centurion Engineers, Inc 
for a Final Plat, on the property described as follows:  Parcel 1: Parcel ID Number 
RPJ13702340020A, Tax 2 of A-234 Inside acreage (NE-18-16), more commonly known as the 
bare property on the southwest corner of North Birch and 10th Avenue West in Jerome, Idaho; 
AND Parcel 2 and 3: Parcel ID Numbers RPJ13702320090A and RPJ13702320100A Tax 9 
&10 Blk 232 Jerome Townsite (NE 13-8-16), more commonly known as 328 8th Ave West, 
Jerome, Idaho, the Chair called the public hearing open at 6:45 p.m. and briefly reviewed the 
procedures that will be followed.  
Staff Presentation: 
 
Ms. Clark spoke of the Planned Unit Development (PUD) subdivision located off 10th 
Avenue W and N Birch and stated several hearings have been held regarding this property.  She 
showed a map of the parcels in question for the Council’s review and stated the final PUD plan 
was approved in January 2026, and this evening’s approval was for the subdivision final plat.  
Ms. Clark stated the development acreage is 3.68 with common space of 22.6% (eight lots are 
for open space and landscapes).  There are 28 units including an existing home; 27 units will be 
new with 12 as townhomes and the remaining 15 as single-family homes.  Reduced lot sizes and 
setbacks are allowed with PUD’s and Ms. Clark stated the lots will range from 2,475 square feet 
to 2,772 square feet for the townhomes.  Square footage for the single-family units will range 
from 4,525-4,750.  The design of the development was described and Ms. Clark noted that the 
private drive would be maintained by the Homeowner’s Association.  Curb, gutter and sidewalk 
will be added on N. Birch, and access points will be replaced with sidewalks.  Upon inquiry by 
Mayor Barber, Ms. Clark stated there will be no access to the subdivision from 10th Avenue.  
Additionally, the PUD will be private and roads will be self-maintained.  Sewer improvements 
along 8th Avenue will be covered by the developer, and pressurized irrigation will be installed to 
water landscaping.  Ms. Clark stated transfer of the water shares will be finalized by August 10th.  
Upon inquiry by Mayor Barber, Ms. Clark stated water meters will be owned by the city.  She 
explained the street widths and private maintenance while the water and sewer lines will still be 
owned and maintained by the city.  Upon inquiry by Councilman Craig, Chief Harrison stated 
there are no issues with access for fire services.  Mayor Barber confirmed that snow removal 
services will not be provided by city staff. 
Applicant:

David Crawford with Centurion Engineers appeared via Zoom on behalf of the applicant 
and spoke of private roadways and common drives that will be the sole responsibility of the 
HOA to own, operate and maintain.  Underground infrastructure i.e. sewer and water will still be 
owned by the city, and Mr. Crawford stated all storm drains will be onsite.  Accommodations 
were made for fire access on the common drive.    
There was no testimony in favor, neutral, nor in opposition to the request.  There being 
no testimony to be heard, the Chair declared the public hearing closed at 6:56 p.m. 
 
ELLIE’S LANDING FINAL PLAT: 
 
 
Councilman Craig moved to approve the final plat for Ellie’s Landing Planned Unit 
Development Subdivision conditionally upon approved construction plans  Second to the motion 
was made by Councilman Ross.  After consideration, the motion passed unanimously by the 
following vote:  AYES:  Councilman Ross, Councilman Peterson, Councilman Craig, and 
Councilwoman Ahrens. NAYS: None.   
 
PUBLIC HEARING 3: 
 
This being the time and place published to consider an Ordinance of the Mayor and 
City Council of Jerome, Idaho, amending Jerome Municipal Code Section 17.14.010 amending 
Section Item B addressing the siting of single-family and multi-family manufactured homes; 
and providing for an effective date, the Chair called the public hearing open at 6:59 p.m. and 
briefly reviewed the procedures that will be followed.  
Staff Presentation: 
 
Ms. Clark spoke of language within the Jerome Municipal Code that conflicts with new 
Idaho Code that was recently updated.  House Bill 800 was adopted to amend Idaho Code 39-
4105 and 67-6509A to expand the definition of manufactured homes to include multi-dwelling 
unit manufactured homes built to HUD standards, and to require local governments to permit 
single-dwelling unit manufactured homes on any lot allowing single-family dwellings, and multi-
dwelling units where multifamily dwellings are allowed  She further stated that HB800 reduced 
the minimum size requirements for manufactured homes, allowing single section homes of at 
least 400 square feet and multi-sectioned homes of at least 800 square feet.  The homes must be 
placed on a foundation with the front door facing the street.  The law is retroactive to July 1, 
2026.  Ms. Clark stated a public hearing was held before the P&Z on June 9, 2026, and in a 
majority vote the recommendation was to approve the ordinance as presented. 
There was no testimony in favor, neutral, nor in opposition to the request.  There being 
no testimony to be heard, the Chair declared the public hearing closed at 7:02 p.m. 
 
ORDINANCE 1254, BILL 739 TITLE 17 AMENDMENTS, INTRODUCTION: 
 
Councilman Craig sponsored the bill. 
 
Councilman Ross moved to suspend the rules pertaining to the reading of the bill on three 
separate occasions and have the clerk read once by title only to constitute the three readings.  
Second to the motion was made by Councilman Peterson.  After consideration, the motion 
passed unanimously by the following vote:  AYES:  Councilman Ross, Councilman Peterson, 
Councilwoman Ahrens, and Councilman Craig.  NAYS: None.

The clerk read Bill No. 739 by title only; the ordinance in full is as follows: 
ORDINANCE NO. 1254 
BILL NO. 739 
AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF JEROME, IDAHO, 
AMENDING JEROME MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 17.14.010, AMENDING 
SECTION ITEM B ADDRESSING THE SITING OF SINGLE-FAMILY AND MULTI-
FAMILY MANUFACTURED HOMES; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE 
DATE. 
WHEREAS, the Idaho Legislature enacted House Bill (HB) 800 in 2026, amending Idaho Code 
§ 39-4105 and § 67-6509A to expand the definition of manufactured homes to include multi-
dwelling unit manufactured homes built to HUD standards, and to require local governments to 
permit single-dwelling unit manufactured homes on any lot allowing single-family dwellings, 
and multi-dwelling units where multifamily dwellings are allowed; and 
WHEREAS, HB 800 reduces minimum size requirements for manufactured homes, allowing 
single-section homes of at least 400 square feet and multi-sectional homes of at least 800 square 
feet; and 
WHEREAS, Title 17 of the Jerome Municipal Code must be amended to conform with these 
state mandates to avoid conflict with Idaho Code Title 67, Chapter 65; and 
WHEREAS, the Planning & Zoning Commission held a public hearing on June 9, 2026, and 
recommended approval for the changes.  
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF 
JEROME, IDAHO, as follows: 
Section 1: 17.14.010: Official Schedule of District Regulations be amended as follows: 
A.   Churches presently existing in any residential zone may be allowed to expand structures by 
special use permit in accordance with the procedures set forth elsewhere in this title for the 
processing of applications for such permits. 
B.   A manufactured home consisting of a single dwelling unit may be sited on lots where single-
family dwellings are allowed. A multi-dwelling unit manufactured home may be sited only in 
areas where multi-family dwellings are allowed. All manufactured homes located within any 
zoning district of the city must meet applicable City of Jerome Municipal Code for single-family 
or multi-family dwellings and Idaho Code 67-6509A, including the following: 
   1.   Manufactured homes may be either single sectional or multisectional and shall be at least 
four hundred (400) square feet for a single section or eight hundred (800) square feet for 
multisectional.  
   2.   Manufactured home must be placed on an excavated and backfilled foundation and must 
have an enclosed perimeter. 
   3.   Manufactured home shall have a pitched roof not less than three feet (3') in height for each 
twelve feet (12') in width.

5.   Mobile homes rehabilitated in accordance with the provisions of Idaho Code 44-2501 et 
seq.,shall be regarded as manufactured homes for the purpose of this title and the schedule of 
uses in this section. 
   6.   Manufactured homes or rehabilitated mobile homes under Idaho Code 44-2501 meeting all 
the requirements of this title may be placed in manufactured home park as defined in code. 
   7.   A mobile home not rehabilitated in accordance with Idaho Code 44-2501 et seq., shall not 
be placed within any zoning district of the city.  
Section 2: Severability. If any section, subsection, or provision is declared invalid, the 
remainder shall remain in full force. 
Section 3: Effective Date. This ordinance shall take effect on July 1st, 2026. 
PASSED BY THE COUNCIL this 7th day of July 2026. 
SIGNED BY THE MAYOR this 7th day of July 2026. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CITY OF JEROME, IDAHO  
By: 
/s/ Christopher J. Barber 
 
 
Christopher J. Barber, Mayor 
ATTEST: 
/s/ Bernadette Coderniz 
   
Bernadette Coderniz, City Clerk 
 
Councilman Ross moved to adopt Bill No. 739, Ordinance No. 1254  Second to the 
motion was made by Councilman Peterson.  After consideration, the motion passed unanimously 
by the following vote:  AYES:  Councilman Ross, Councilman Peterson, Councilwoman Ahrens, 
and Councilman Craig.  NAYS: None.   
 
CONSENT CALENDAR: 
 
Those items contained in the consent calendar are as follows: 
1. Approve the minutes of the June 16, 2026 regular meeting  
Councilman Ross made the motion to approve the consent calendar as presented..  
Second to the motion was made by Councilman Peterson.  After consideration, the motion 
passed unanimously by the following vote:  AYES:  Councilman Ross, Councilman Peterson, 
Councilwoman Ahrens, and Councilman Craig.  NAYS: None. 
 
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE: 
Representative Mike Pohanka appeared before the Council to provide updates on this 
year’s legislative session.  He stated there were a total of 817 bills, resolutions and proclamations 
introduced in the session.  350 of those bills became law.  He spoke of the following: 
• HB562 requires that insurance companies must give a 60-day notice for 
cancellations. 
• HB570 cites those driving over 20 miles per hour in construction and school 
zones as reckless (many testified in favor of this bill including Road Works 
Ahead and a school principal from Nampa).

• HB585 referencing data centers, water system must be a closed loop system. 
• HB911 also referencing data centers and electric loads, requirements are in place 
to protect current rate payors. 
• Senate Concurrent Resolutions 116 through 119 support water districts 
throughout the state of Idaho and ensure securing ongoing $30 million for water 
projects.  With growth and water shortages, the legislature will be considering 
water storage alternatives. 
• HB864 regarding kratom also known as ‘gas station heroin.’  Rep. Pohanka 
introduced the bill and noted he was surprised by the level of opposition it faced.  
The bill went through committee but moved no further.  Many testified in favor of 
the bill including those who had lost loved ones.  Rep. Pohanka stated the City of 
Kellogg and the City of Idaho Falls have banned the sale of kratom.  There was 
brief discussion regarding kratom: the chemicals in kratom; encouraging Jerome 
and other cities to ban the sale as well; varieties of the kratom sold (powder, pills, 
etc.); examinations by the Federal Drug Administration; kratom as a dependent 
drug similar to an opioid affecting receptors in the brain; affects from using 
kratom including elevated heart rates, cardiac arrest, renal failure and liver 
toxicity; a store near the high school in Twin Falls that advertises kratom for sale; 
opposition to the bill being heavily funded and lobbying by retail establishments 
in favor of sales; problems in Ada County with kratom usage; and, known usage 
in Jerome, predominantly by those on probation or treatment court, and sold in 
vape stores. 
Representative Pohanka stated he represents this district and is available for questions or 
comments pertaining to the bill.   
 
PUFF AND STUFF SMOKE SHOP BEER AND WINE LICENSE: 
 
Ms. Coderniz stated Mr. Faruk Fred Abdullah applied for the beer and wine license for 
his smoke shop located at 1038 S. Lincoln.  He provided the state license for 2026 and 2027 and 
county license for 2027, and has paid all fees.  The initial license will be for July only, and then 
automatically renewed August 1st through July 31, 2027.  The license will not be issued until the 
fire department has verified the inspection was passed successfully and the 2026 county license 
has been verified. 
Councilman Ross made the motion to approve the application from Faruhk Fred 
Abdullah dba Puff and Stuff Smoke Shop for a beer and wine license at 1038 S. Lincoln for off-
premises consumption  Second to the motion was made by Councilman Peterson.  After 
consideration, the motion passed unanimously by the following vote:  AYES:  Councilman Ross, 
Councilman Peterson, Councilwoman Ahrens, and Councilman Craig.  NAYS: None. 
 
COUNCIL REPORTS: 
 
Councilman Craig thanked staff for their efforts at Freedom Fest including admin staff, 
the fire department, and the police department who made themselves available in the park to visit 
with attendees.  He also inquired of Mr. Caton about the delay issues at the cemetery; no 
information is known at this time.   
 
Mayor Barber thanked the Community Spirit Committee for their efforts with Freedom 
Fest.  He also stated that Joe Mama’s would not be having the burnout event at the car show.

DEPARTMENT REPORTS: 
 
Ms. Coderniz spoke of the recent application submitted by Jason Capps to hold the Dyno 
Day event at ICCU Park in August.  The action item was tabled until more information would be 
known about construction along Main Street, and the applicant chose to withdraw his application. 
 
ADJOURNMENT: 
 
There being nothing further to discuss, Mayor Barber adjourned this July 7, 2026 regular 
meeting of the Jerome City Council at 7:25 p.m. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
By: 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Christopher Barber, Mayor 
Attest: 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Bernadette Coderniz, City Clerk

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