City of Pocatello | minutes | meeting 2025-12-18 | Regular City Council Meeting Agenda (6:00 PM)
source: https://pocatello.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_12182025-1836

CITY OF CITY OF POCATELLO, IDAHO

CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
DECEMBER 18, 2025

AGENDAITEMNO. _ 1: ROLL CALL AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

The Regular City Council meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Mayor Brian Blad.
Council members present were Dakota Bates, Rick Cheatum, Linda Leeuwrik, Corey
Mangum, Brent Nichols, and Hayden Paulsen.

Mayor Blad led the audience in the pledge of allegiance.

AGENDAITEMNO. 2: INVOCATION

The invocation was offered by Tamilyn Carson, Buddhist representative.
Mayor Blad announced Agenda Item No. 10 had been pulled from the agenda.
AGENDAITEMNO. — 3: CONSENT AGENDA

Council was asked to consider the following business items:

(a) MINUTES
Waive the oral reading of the minutes and approve the minutes from the
following meetings: Work Session meetings of October 9 and November 13,
2025; and Clarification and Regular City Council meetings of October 16,
November 6, November 20 and December 4, 2025.

(b) MATERIAL CLAIMS
Approve the Material Claims for the period of December 1-15, 2025 in the
amount of $2,585,822.03.

(c) |TREASURER’S REPORT
Approve the Treasurer’s Report for October 2025 showing cash and
investments as of October 31, 2025 in the amount of $ 107,887,287.

(d) GOLF ADVISORY COMMITTEE APPOINTMENT
Confirm the Mayor’s appointment of Anthony Ranalla to serve as a member of
the Golf Advisory Committee, replacing John McCloskey. Anthony’s term will
begin December 19, 2025 and will expire October 22, 2027.

(e) HUMAN RELATIONS ADVISORY COMMITTEE APPOINTMENT
Confirm the Mayor’s appointment of Eduardo Celis to serve as a member of
the Human Relations Advisory Committee, filling a long-term vacancy.
Eduardo’s term will begin December 19, 2025 and will expire October 20, 2027.

(f) PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD REAPPOINTMENTS
Confirm the Mayor’s reappointments of Ed Gygli and Alexis Jorgenson to
continue serving as members of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.
Both terms will begin January 5, 2026 and expire January 5, 2028.

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(g) | COUNCIL DECISION - REZONE OF 203 WARREN AVENUE
Adopt the Council’s decision approving the request from Brandi Dyer to amend
the zoning designation of 203 Warren Avenue from Residential Medium
Density Single-Family (RMS) to Residential Commercial Professional (RCP).

(h) AMENDMENT TO CIVIL SERVICE RULES - FIRE
Approve proposed amendments to the Pocatello Fire Department Civil Service
Rules.

(i) 2025 ANNUAL ROAD AND STREET FINANCIAL REPORT
Approve the 2025 Road and Street Financial Report. The report accounts for
the City’s use of state highway user dollars during the past fiscal year to the
Idaho State Controller as required by law.

A motion was made by Ms. Leeuwrik, seconded by Mr. Cheatum, to approve the items on
the Consent Agenda.

In response to questions from Council, Tom Kirkman, Public Works Director, explained
the deferred maintenance figure in the City’s annual road report, noting it is a statewide
tracking tool based on data from the City’s five-year road survey. He stated the figure
represents a “fix-all” scenario in which adding approximately $2.6 million annually over
five years, totaling $13 million, would bring all City roads to an excellent condition. Mr.
Kirkman noted this is an unrealistic goal given local climate conditions but is used as a
benchmark to track roadway conditions and guide funding decisions.

Ms. Leeuwrik’s motion was voted upon at this time. Upon roll call, those voting in favor
were Leeuwrik, Cheatum, Bates, Mangum, Nichols, and Paulsen.

AGENDAITEMNO. 4: PROCLAMATIONS
Mayor Blad announced there were no proclamations.
AGENDAITEMNO. _ 5: CALENDAR REVIEW

Mayor Blad reminded Council members the January Work Session has been canceled;
due to the New Year holiday, City Council meetings scheduled for January 1, 2026 had
been canceled, and Special City Council meetings have been scheduled for January 8,
2026, including a Council Clarification meeting at 5:30 p.m. followed by a Special City
Council meeting at 6:00 p.m.

Mayor Blad announced the Marshall Public Library has shortened service hours in

December from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., will be closed December 24 and 25 for the
Christmas holiday, and regular hours will return on January 2; City offices will be closed
December 25 for the Christmas holiday and January 1 for the New Year’s Day holiday,
with garbage and recycling pickup delayed by one day; the Community Recreation
Center will be closed December 24 and 25 and December 31 and January 1 for the
holidays; December 26 through 31, a special sanitation pickup will occur for Christmas
overflow, with bags or boxes of extra holiday wrapping collected on the same day as
regularly scheduled pickup; December 26 through January 10, Christmas tree collection
sites will be available at City Hall, Rainey Park on South Arthur, and the Sister City Park

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entrance on Pocatello Creek Road, with trees chipped and used in landscaping projects
and all strings, wires, and other objects are required to be removed to avoid damaging
City equipment; City Creek Recreation Area gates will be closed to motorized access until
approximately May 15, 2026; and residents were reminded to keep sidewalks clear of
snow and ice and not to place snow in the street when clearing sidewalks and driveways,
as it creates a driving hazard.

AGENDAITEMNO. 6: ACCEPTANCE - CANVASS VOTES FOR 2025 GENERAL
ELECTION AND SPECIAL ELECTION

Council was asked to accept the Canvass Election Results for the City of Pocatello
General Election held on November 4, 2025 and Pocatello Mayoral Runoff Election held
on December 2, 2025. Bannock County Commissioners, serving as Board of Canvassers
of Election, have provided signed abstracts of all votes cast within Pocatello City limits.

A motion was made by Ms. Leeuwrik, seconded by Mr. Paulsen, to accept the Canvass
Election Results for the City of Pocatello General Election held on November 4, 2025 and
Pocatello Mayoral Runoff Election held on December 2, 2025. Upon roll call, those voting
in favor were Leeuwrik, Paulsen, Bates, Cheatum, Mangum, and Nichols.

AGENDAITEMNO. 7: TAXICAB LICENSE DENIAL APPEAL - PALMER

James Palmer was present to appeal the denial of his taxicab business and employee
license, which was denied by the Pocatello Police Department.

James Palmer, Pocatello resident, addressed Council regarding the denial of his permit
application, stating that he takes responsibility for his criminal history and has taken steps
toward rehabilitation, including anger management, therapy, and _ prescribed
medication. He explained that he operates a taxi service in Twin Falls that supports public
safety by reducing DUI incidents, assisting individuals in dangerous situations,
occasionally administering Narcan for overdoses, and providing transportation to
treatment and medical services. Mr. Palmer acknowledged the risk involved and asked
Council to consider conditional trust based on his actions, noting that while he is
accountable for his past, he is not defined by it.

In response to questions from Council, Mr. Palmer stated that Twin Falls does not require
a city license and that his taxi company has been licensed through the State of Idaho since
2023, which requires liability insurance and standard business registration. He explained
that he currently has four employees, would initially operate alone in Pocatello before
hiring staff, and that the Pocatello operation would be an extension of his Twin Falls
business, which operates from 8:00 a.m. to.2:00 a.m. and is overseen by a long-term
manager. Mr. Palmer confirmed that he is.a Pocatello resident, that the business was
started after his 2023 conviction, and that he has approximately five months remaining
on probation. He noted that state licensing does not inquire about criminal history and
acknowledged a probation violation related to a charge that was later dismissed, during
which he served approximately four months in jail.

Licensing Enforcement Officer Mallarie Bascom explained that James Palmer’s taxi
license application was denied per City Code 5.56.050(E), which requires applicants to
have no felony convictions or convictions involving moral turpitude, violence, or

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controlled substances. She summarized Mr. Palmer’s criminal history, noting his 2008
felony conviction for accessory to harboring a wanted felon, his 2009 felony convictions
for controlled substance delivery and marijuana conspiracy, and his 2023 conviction for
aggravated assault, along with the corresponding probation terms, including the current
probation set to end in May 2026. Ms. Bascom confirmed that Mr. Palmer disclosed all
convictions on his application and noted his probation violation was dismissed. She
explained that Twin Falls no longer requires city licensing for taxis and clarified that the
State of Idaho does not license taxi drivers, instead only regulates transportation network
companies such as rideshares, and that registering with the Secretary of State is the only
requirement when a city does not require a taxi license.

In response to questions from Council, Ms. Bascom explained that the business and
employee taxi licenses are considered separately, noting that while an individual may be
ineligible for an employee license if their driver’s license is suspended, they could still hold
the business license if all other requirements are met. She clarified that the City Code
does not explicitly separate disqualifying factors for the two licenses.

City Attorney, Jared Johnson, confirmed that felony convictions and other disqualifying
factors apply to both the business and employee licenses.

Ms. Bascom also noted that Pocatello currently has only one taxi business, with other
transportation companies operating as rideshares or providing medical transport only,
without engaging in general taxi services such as bar district operations.

Mayor Blad and Council Member Mangum emphasized the Council’s responsibility to
balance public safety with evaluating an applicant’s character and the potential for
second chances.

A motion was made by Mr. Mangum, seconded by Mr. Bates, to overturn the decision of
the Police Department and approve the taxicab business and employee license for James
Palmer. Upon roll call, those voting in favor were Mangum, Bates, and Paulsen. Those
voting in opposition were Cheatum, Leeuwrik, and Nichols.

Due to a tie in voting, Mayor Blad was required to cast the deciding vote. Mayor Blad
voted in opposition. The motion failed.

AGENDAITEMNO. _ 8: PUBLIC HEARING - PROPOSED FISCAL YEAR 2026
DECEMBER BUDGET AMENDMENTS

This time was set aside for the Council to hear comments from the public regarding
proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Budget amendments.

Mayor Blad opened the public hearing.

Chantelle Macy, Budget Manager, provided an overview of the proposed Fiscal Year
2026 budget amendments, which adjust the current budget to reflect awarded grants,
previously approved projects, and timing changes. The amendments increase the budget
by approximately $8.1 million to $169 million, covering water and sewer infrastructure,
public transit, trail projects, and parks and golf capital projects. She emphasized that no

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new programs or tax increases are included and that the amendments ensure an
accurate budget for the incoming Mayor and Council.

Mayor Blad announced that no written correspondence had been received.

In response to questions from Council, Ms. Macy clarified that the proposed budget
amendments will not raise taxes. She explained that the amendments authorize the use
of newly awarded funds, incorporate adjustments since adoption of the FY26 budget,
and formally complete all previously approved projects prior to the transition in
leadership.

Nikki Taysom, Pocatello resident, spoke in opposition to the budget amendments, stating
that the revenue and expenses compared to the original budget were not clearly
explained and that she opposes some of the projects included.

Ms. Macy explained that budget amendments are necessary each year to reflect
unanticipated grants, newly identified funding sources, operational changes, or Council-
approved projects that arise after the original FY26 budget was adopted. She
emphasized that even when funding or project direction has already been approved, it
must be formally authorized through the budget amendment process, and noted that all
projects, expenses, and approvals are outlined in the amendment package.

There being no further comments, Mayor Blad closed the public hearing and announced
an ordinance had been prepared for Council consideration under Agenda Item No. 26(b).

AGENDAITEMNO. 9: PUBLIC HEARING ~ EXCHANGE OF REAL PROPERTY -
2.62 ACRES LOCATED WEST OF THE POCATELLO
REGIONAL AIRPORT

This time was set aside for the Council to hear comments from the public regarding an
exchange of real property located west of the Pocatello Regional Airport and east of
Truckerville Road. The 2.62 acre parcel of City-owned property was declared
underutilized and as surplus at the November 20, 2025 Regular City Council meeting.
Council was asked to approve a real property exchange agreement with T-Ville AG,
represented by Marty Fehringer, (mailing address: 2059 Truckerville Road, Pocatello, ID
84305) outlining terms and conditions related to the exchange of approximately 2.62
acres of City-owned property for approximately 1.51 acres of T-Ville AG property
pursuant to Idaho Code §50-1403(2) and authorize the Mayor’s signature on all pertinent
documents, subject to Legal Department review.

Mayor Blad opened the public hearing.
Council members announced there had been no ex parte communication.

Tom Kirkman, Public Works Director, presented a proposed property exchange between
the City of Pocatello and T-Ville AG, involving 1.51 acres of industrial land for 2.62 acres
of City-owned land west of the airport and east of Truckerville Road. He noted the
proposal was published December 3, 2025 and the City property was declared surplus by
the Council at the Regular City Council meeting November 20, 2025. In response to
questions from Council, he clarified that the City’s agricultural parcel will remain zoned

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agricultural, the parcel being acquired will remain zoned industrial, and the exchange
provides additional west-side access to the airport.

Mayor Blad announced no written comments had been received.

Nikki Taysom, Pocatello resident, spoke in opposition to the property exchange, raised
questions about the value difference between the parcels and expressed concern that the
T-Ville property lies outside city limits.

Mr. Kirkman explained that the industrial access gained on the west side of the airport is
more than adequate to justify the acreage difference in the exchange, and confirmed
that the value of the access outweighs the value of the land being exchanged.

A motion was made by Mr. Mangum, seconded by Ms. Leeuwrik, to approve a real
property exchange agreement with T-Ville AG, represented by Marty Fehringer,
outlining terms and conditions related to the exchange of approximately 2.62 acres of
City-owned property for approximately 1.51 acres of T-Ville AG property pursuant to
Idaho Code §50-1403(2) and authorize the Mayor’s signature on all pertinent documents,
subject to Legal Department review. Upon roll call, those voting in favor were Mangum,
Leeuwrik, Bates, Cheatum, Nichols, and Paulsen.

AGENDAITEMNO. 10: SHORT PLAT APPLICATION - CREEKSIDE DIVISION 3

As announced earlier, Agenda Item No. 10 to approve a short plat application by Iron
Eagle, LLC, represented by Sunrise Engineering (mailing address: 600 East Oak Street,
Pocatello, ID 83201) to subdivide 8.08 acres (more or less) into three (3) lots was pulled
from the agenda.

AGENDAITEMNO. | TI: RURAL GRANT 5311 AND 5339 FORMULA GRANT
APPLICATIONS - PUBLIC TRANSIT

Council was asked to approve the following grant applications for Rural 5311 and 5339
grants and if awarded, authorize the Mayor’s signature on all pertinent documents and
authorize the Pocatello Regional Transit Director to execute the grants and any
necessary amendments, subject to award confirmation, Legal Department review and
budget amendments. No City funds are used for the rural program.

(a) 5311 - OPERATING FUNDING
5311 - Two-year operating funding in the amount of $2,528,798.00. The
Federal share is $1,760,001.44 with a required local match of $768,796.56;
and

(b) 5339 - CAPITAL FUNDING
5339 - Capital funding in the amount of $802,000.00 for the purchase of
four (4) buses. The Federal share is $681,700.00 with a required local
match of $120,300.00.

A motion was made by Ms. Leeuwrik, seconded by Mr. Mangum, to approve the grant
applications as outlined in Agenda Item No. 11(a) and 11(b) for Rural 5311 and 5339 grants
and if awarded, authorize the Mayor’s signature on all pertinent documents and

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authorize the Public Transit Director to execute the grants and any necessary
amendments, subject to award confirmation, Legal Department review and budget
amendments. Upon roll call, those voting in favor were Leeuwrik, Mangum, Bates,
Cheatum, Nichols, and Paulsen.

AGENDAITEMNO. 12: IDAHO STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE
CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVERNMENT GRANT

Council was asked to authorize submission of the FY2026 Certified Local Government
Grant application to the Idaho State Historic Preservation Office. This year’s application
is in the amount of $20,000 with a cash match of $15,000 and an in-kind match of
$5,000 in Administration/General Support. The proposed project for this year includes a
reconnaissance level survey of 330 properties within the Historic University
Neighborhood to determine the area’s eligibility of being included on the National
Register of Historic Places. The Council was asked to authorize submission of the grant
and if awarded, authorize acceptance of the grant and authorize the Mayor’s signature
on all pertinent documents, subject to Legal Department review.

A motion was made by Mr. Mangum, seconded by Mr. Cheatum, to authorize submission
of the FY2026 Certified Local Government Grant application to the Idaho State Historic
Preservation Office and if awarded, authorize acceptance of the grant and authorize the
Mayor’s signature on all pertinent documents, subject to Legal Department review. Upon
roll call, those voting in favor were Mangum, Cheatum, Bates, Leeuwrik, Nichols, and
Paulsen.

In response to questions from Council, Jim Anglesey, Long Range Planner, explained that
the designation provides no direct monetary benefit but promotes pride in the city and
neighborhood. He noted that without the designation, historic grants for residential,
commercial, or civic properties would not be available. He clarified that the designation
is purely honorary, does not generally hinder property owners from making
improvements to homes or yards, though use of federal funds may require additional
standards.

AGENDAITEMNO. 13: IDAHO GOVERNOR’S OFFICE OF ENERGY AND
MINERAL RESOURCES FIXR PROGRAM GRANT
APPLICATIONS

Council was asked to approve the grant applications for the FIXR Program for the LED
Lighting Upgrades in the amount of $100,000.00 and the City Hall and Police
Department weatherization upgrades in the amount of $99,500.00 and if awarded,
authorize acceptance of the grant and authorize the Mayor’s signature on all pertinent
documents, subject to Legal Department review. The grant is a reimbursement-based
grant and there is no required match.

A motion was made by Mr. Mangum, seconded by Mr. Cheatum, to approve the grant
applications for the FIXR Program for the LED Lighting Upgrades in the amount of
$100,000.00 and the City Hall and Police Department weatherization upgrades in the
amount of $99,500.00 and if awarded, authorize acceptance of the grant and authorize
the Mayor’s signature on all pertinent documents, subject to Legal Department review.

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Upon roll call, those voting in favor were Mangum, Cheatum, Bates, Leeuwrik, Nichols,
and Paulsen.

AGENDAITEMNO. 14: LOCAL HIGHWAY TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE COUNCIL
~ 2026 TAP GRANT APPLICATION AND RESOLUTION -
SOUTH 5TH AVENUE PEDESTRIAN IMPROVEMENTS
PROJECT

Council was asked to adopt a Resolution and approve a grant application for the Local
Highway Technical Assistance Council - 2026 TAP Grant Application for the South 5th
Avenue Pedestrian Improvements Project and, if awarded, authorize acceptance of the
grant and authorize the Mayor’s signature on all pertinent documents, subject to Legal
Department review. The total project cost is $538,600.00, and requires a 7.34% local
match.

A motion was made by Ms. Leeuwrik, seconded by Mr. Cheatum, to adopt a Resolution
(2025-45) and approve a grant application for the Local Highway Technical Assistance
Council - 2026 TAP Grant Application for the South 5th Avenue Pedestrian
Improvements Project and, if awarded, authorize acceptance of the grant and authorize
the Mayor’s signature on all pertinent documents, subject to Legal Department review.

In response to questions from Council, Mariela Mejia, Project Manager, explained that the
grant covers both design and construction of sidewalk, curb, and gutter on the west side
of South 5 Avenue. She noted that a separate grant has already been secured for the
east side, and that design and construction for the west side are planned for 2029 and
2030.

Ms. Leeuwrik’s motion was voted upon at this time. Upon roll call, those voting in favor
were Leeuwrik, Cheatum, Bates, Mangum, Nichols, and Paulsen.

AGENDAITEMNO. 15: BIDACCEPTANCE AND CONTRACT FOR HILINE ROAD
IMPROVEMENT PHASE 1- EL RANCHO INTERSECTION
AND SIGNAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT

Council was asked to approve the following requests regarding the Hiline Road
Improvement Phase 1 - El Rancho Intersection and Signal Improvement project:

(a) BID ACCEPTANCE - KNIFE RIVER CORPORATION
Accept the low responsive bid received on November 5, 2025, from Knife
River Corporation, in the amount of $1,433,303.00, and if accepted

(b) AGREEMENT- KNIFE RIVER CORPORATION
Authorize an agreement between the City of Pocatello and Knife River
Corporation, in the amount of $1,433,303.00 for the Hiline Road
Improvement Phase 1 - El Rancho Intersection and Signal Improvement
project, and authorize the Mayor’s signature on all pertinent documents,
subject to Legal Department review.

The project consists of constructing a traffic signal with dedicated turn lanes to replace
the existing all-way stop at the El Rancho Boulevard intersection. Hiline Road will be

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widened approaching the intersection to accommodate the additional lanes, and storm
drainage facilities will be installed. Sidewalk, curb and gutter, and pedestrian ramps will
be replaced in the area to improve ADA compliance. The City was awarded and has
received $2,000,000.00 in state funding from the Idaho Transportation Department.
This project is ready to proceed with the construction phase, and it is fully funded by the
grant, with no matching funds required for this project.

A motion was made by Mr. Nichols, seconded by Ms. Leeuwrik, to approve the requests
as outlined in Agenda Item No. 15(a) and 15(b) regarding the Hiline Road Improvement
Phase 1 - El Rancho Intersection and Signal Improvement project and authorize the
Mayor’s signature on all pertinent documents, subject to Legal Department review. Upon
roll call, those voting in favor were Nichols, Leeuwrik, Bates, Cheatum, Mangum, and
Paulsen.

AGENDAITEMNO. 16: AIR QUALITY PERMIT EVALUATION AGREEMENT -
TRINITY CONSULTANTS - WATER POLLUTION
CONTROL

Council was asked to approve an agreement authorizing the Water Pollution Control
Department to engage Trinity Consultants to perform the professional engineering
services necessary to determine whether the treatment plant requires an air quality
permit, as directed by the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Air Quality
Division and authorize the Mayor’s signature on all pertinent documents, subject to Legal
Department review.

A motion was made by Mr. Mangum, seconded by Mr. Cheatum, to approve an
agreement authorizing the Water Pollution Control Department to engage Trinity
Consultants to perform the professional engineering services necessary to determine
whether the treatment plant requires an air quality permit, as directed by the Idaho
Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Air Quality Division and authorize the
Mayor’s signature on all pertinent documents, subject to Legal Department review. Upon
roll call, those voting in favor were Mangum, Cheatum, Bates, Leeuwrik, Nichols, and
Paulsen.

AGENDAITEMNO. 17; MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING -
POCATELLO/CHUBBUCK SCHOOL DISTRICT #25

Council was asked to approve a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City
of Pocatello and Pocatello/Chubbuck School District #25 outlining obligations and
responsibilities regarding City and School District facilities and authorize the Mayor’s
signature on all pertinent documents, subject to Legal Department review.

A motion was made by Mr. Mangum, seconded by Mr. Paulsen, to approve a
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City of Pocatello and
Pocatello/Chubbuck School District #25 outlining obligations and responsibilities
regarding City and School District facilities and authorize the Mayor’s signature on alll
pertinent documents, subject to Legal Department review.

In response to questions from Council, Anne Butler, Parks and Recreation Director,
provided an overview of a proposed master agreement discussed at the October Work

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Session. She explained that it combines multiple memoranda of understanding spanning
25-30 years between the City of Pocatello and School District 25, which had become
difficult to manage as staff changed. The master document consolidates information and
includes a table which outlines ownership, maintenance responsibilities, and usage.

Mr. Mangum’s motion was voted upon at this time. Upon roll call, those voting in favor
were Mangum, Paulsen, Bates, Cheatum, Leeuwrik, and Nichols.

AGENDAITEMNO. 18: PIGGYBACK BID ACCEPTANCE AND PURCHASE OF
GANG MOWER

Council was asked to approve piggybacking of Toro’s Sourcewell Contract #112624-TTC
via Turf Equipment and Irrigation, Inc. for the purchase of one (1) new Toro
Groundsmaster 5900 gang mower in the amount of $135,182.39 and authorize the
Mayor’s signature on all pertinent documents, subject to Legal Department review. Funds
for the purchase have been allocated in fund 078 as amended in the FY2026 budget.

A motion was made by Mr. Mangum, seconded by Mr. Bates, to approve piggybacking of
Toro’s Sourcewell Contract #112624-TTC via Turf Equipment and Irrigation, Inc. for the
purchase of one (1) new Toro Groundsmaster 5900 gang mower in the amount of
$135,182.39 and authorize the Mayor’s signature on all pertinent documents, subject to
Legal Department review. Funds for the purchase have been allocated in fund 078 as
amended in the FY2026 budget. Upon roll call, those voting in favor were Mangum, Bates,
Cheatum, Leeuwrik, Nichols, and Paulsen.

AGENDAITEMNO. 19: PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
AMENDMENT NO. 1- THE LAND GROUP

Council was asked to approve Amendment No. 1 to the Agreement between the City of
Pocatello and the Land Group for the Pocatello Creek Interchange landscaping redesign.
The Amendment will increase the contract sum from $106,775.00 to $112,486.25 and
account for a change in scope to complete GIS services and authorize the Mayor’s
signature on all pertinent documents, subject to Legal Department review. Funding for
this amendment is available from the FY23 Western States Fire Managers Grant.

A motion was made by Mr. Mangum, seconded by Mr. Cheatum, to approve Amendment
No. 1 to the Agreement between the City of Pocatello and the Land Group for the
Pocatello Creek Interchange landscaping redesign, increasing the contract sum from
$106,775.00 to $112,486.25, and account for a change in scope to complete GIS services
and authorize the Mayor’s signature on all pertinent documents, subject to Legal
Department review. Upon roll call, those voting in favor were Mangum, Cheatum, Bates,
Leeuwrik, Nichols, and Paulsen.

AGENDAITEMNO. 20: ADDITIONAL SERVICE REQUEST NO. 5 FOR
CENTENNIAL-RAINEY LEVEE SETBACK PROJECT -
HARMONY DESIGN AND ENGINEERING

Council was asked to approve Additional Service Request No. 5 for the contract between
Harmony Design and Engineering and the City of Pocatello for the Centennial-Rainey
Levee Setback project in the amount of $38,343.00 and authorize the Mayor’s signature

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on all pertinent documents, subject to Legal Department review. The additional service
request is to complete the design of the Centennial-Rainey Park project. This work is
funded by a Bureau of Reclamation Watersmart Grant and ARPA grant match.

A motion was made by Mr. Mangum, seconded by Mr. Paulsen, to approve Additional
Service Request No. 5 for the contract between Harmony Design and Engineering and
the City of Pocatello for the Centennial-Rainey Levee Setback project in the amount of
$38,343.00 and authorize the Mayor’s signature on all pertinent documents, subject to
Legal Department review. Upon roll call, those voting in favor were Mangum, Paulsen,
Bates, Cheatum, Leeuwrik, and Nichols.

AGENDAITEMNO. 21: 2026WATER DEPARTMENT MATERIALS BID

Council was asked to consider bids received on December 2, 2025, for materials used by
the Water Department for capital improvement projects, routine maintenance, and to
replenish materials inventory. The bid was separated into twelve (12) separate lots in an
effort to guarantee the lowest price for the City. Staff requested that Council award each
lot to the lowest responsive bidder as follows:

(a) CORE & MAIN LP
Core & Main LP - Lots One, Two, Six, and Eight - $105,270.52;

(b) SILVER CREEK SUPPLY
Silver Creek Supply - Lots Three and Five - $98,790.00;

(c) FERGUSON WATERWORKS
Ferguson Waterworks - Lots Four, Seven, Nine, Ten, and Eleven - $135,865.54;

(d) ZENNER USA
Zenner USA - Lot Twelve - $73,825.10.

Funds are available in the Water Department's Fiscal Year 2026 budget.

A motion was made by Mr. Nichols, seconded by Ms. Leeuwrik, to award each lot to the
lowest responsive bidder as outlined in Agenda Item No. 21(a) through 21(d) from bids
received on December 2, 2025, for materials used by the Water Department for capital
improvement projects, routine maintenance, and to replenish materials inventory and
authorize the Mayor’s signature on all pertinent documents, subject to Legal Department
review. Upon roll call, those voting in favor were Nichols, Leeuwrik, Bates, Cheatum,
Mangum, and Paulsen.

AGENDAITEMNO. 22: WILLIAMSEN-GODWIN PUP TRAILER PURCHASE -
WATER DEPARTMENT

Council was asked to approve the purchase of one (1) Williamsen-Godwin tri-axle dump
pup trailer via Reading Truck Equipment LLC in the amount of $70,395.40 and authorize
the Mayor’s signature on all pertinent documents, subject to Legal Department review.

A motion was made by Ms. Leeuwrik, seconded by Mr. Mangum, to approve the purchase
of one (1) Williamsen-Godwin tri-axle dump pup trailer via Reading Truck Equipment LLC

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DECEMBER 18, 2025

in the amount of $70,395.40 and authorize the Mayor’s signature on all pertinent
documents, subject to Legal Department review. Upon roll call, those voting in favor were
Leeuwrik, Mangum, Bates, Cheatum, Nichols, and Paulsen.

AGENDAITEMNO. 23: COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT
AMENDMENT MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING -
FIRE UNION

Council was asked to approve a Memorandum of Understanding amending the Collective
Bargaining Agreement for the International Association of Firefighters Pocatello
Firefighters Local #187, entered into September 19, 2024, amending Article 21, Section B
and authorize the Mayor’s signature on all pertinent documents, subject to Legal
Department review.

A motion was made by Ms. Leeuwrik, seconded by Mr. Mangum, to approve a
Memorandum of Understanding amending the Collective Bargaining Agreement for the
International Association of Firefighters Pocatello Firefighters Local #187, entered into
September 19, 2024, amending Article 21, Section B and authorize the Mayor’s signature
on all pertinent documents, subject to Legal Department review. Upon roll call, those
voting in favor were Leeuwrik, Mangum, Bates, Cheatum, Nichols, and Paulsen.

AGENDAITEMNO. 24: REALLOCATION OF STATE AND LOCAL FISCAL
RECOVERY FUNDS (SLFRF) AUTHORIZED UNDER THE
AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT OF 2021

Council was asked to reallocate $100,090 in State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds
(SLFRF) authorized under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) to reimburse
Fund 70 for the design costs incurred under a contract with Keller Engineering for the
Hiline and El Rancho Boulevard traffic signalization project. The City will allocate the
remaining $117,770 in SLFRF ARPA funds to the Keller Engineering Construction
Engineering and Inspections (CE&I) services for the Hiline project and authorize the
Mayor’s signature on all pertinent documents, subject to Legal Department review.

A motion was made by Ms. Leeuwrik, seconded by Mr. Mangum, to reallocate $100,090
in State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) authorized under the American Rescue
Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) to reimburse Fund 70 for the design costs incurred under a
contract with Keller Engineering for the Hiline and El Rancho Boulevard traffic
signalization project and that the City will allocate the remaining $117,770 in SLFRF ARPA
funds to the Keller Engineering Construction Engineering and Inspections (CES!) services
for the Hiline project and authorize the Mayor’s signature on all pertinent documents,
subject to Legal Department review. Upon roll call, those voting in favor were Leeuwrik,
Mangum, Bates, Cheatum, Nichols, and Paulsen.

AGENDAITEMNO. 25: FINANCIAL POLICY UPDATE - INVESTMENT POLICY

Council was asked to adopt an updated Investment Policy and adopt a resolution, as
recommended and approved by the Investment and Audit Committee to align with best
practices and GFOA standards, and authorize the Mayor’s signature on all pertinent
documents, subject to Legal Department review.

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DECEMBER 18, 2025

In response to questions from Council, Bonny Schroeder, Finance Controller, explained
that the item was not brought forward at a Work Session because it was first reviewed
and approved by the Investment and Audit Committee, allowing it to move directly to a
Council vote. She stated the update was necessary because the existing investment policy
was adopted in 2017 and no longer reflects current statutory authority or best practices,
and noted that the City’s contract with Clearwater Advisors cannot be initiated until the
updated investment policy and accompanying resolution are adopted.

A motion was made by Mr. Mangum, seconded by Mr. Paulsen, to adopt a resolution
(2025-46) and adopt an updated Investment Policy, as recommended and approved by
the Investment and Audit Committee to align with best practices and GFOA standards,
and authorize the Mayor’s signature on all pertinent documents, subject to Legal
Department review. Upon roll call, those voting in favor were Mangum, Paulsen,
Leeuwrik, and Nichols. Those voting in opposition were Bates and Cheatum. The motion
passed.

AGENDAITEMNO. 26: ORDINANCES
Council was asked to consider the following ordinances:

(a) FISCAL YEAR 2026 APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE AMENDMENT
An ordinance approving an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2026
Appropriation Ordinance increasing the total Fiscal Year expenditures by
$8,105,358 to account for additional revenue, including grant funds received
by the City and to use previously unappropriated cash balances for
unanticipated expenses incurred by the City.

A motion was made by Mr. Cheatum, seconded by Mr. Mangum, that the ordinance,
Agenda Item No. 26(a) be read only by title and placed on final passage for publication,
and that the whole ordinance be submitted for publication. Upon roll call, those voting in
favor were Cheatum, Mangum, Bates, Leeuwrik, Nichols, and Paulsen.

Jared Johnson, City Attorney, read the ordinance by title.

Mayor Blad declared the final reading of the ordinance approving an amendment to the
Fiscal Year 2026 Appropriation Ordinance increasing the total Fiscal Year expenditures
by $8,105,358 to account for additional revenue, including grant funds received by the
City and to use previously unappropriated cash balances for unanticipated expenses
incurred by the City. Mayor Blad asked, “Shall the ordinance pass?” Upon roll call, those
voting in favor were Bates, Cheatum, Leeuwrik, Mangum, Nichols, and Paulsen. Mayor
Blad declared the ordinance passed, that it be numbered 3170 and that the whole
ordinance be submitted to the Idaho State Journal for publication.

(b) AMENDING POCATELLO MUNICIPAL CODE - “ELECTION” .
An ordinance amending Pocatello Municipal Code Chapter 2.04.020
“Election” to eliminate the majority requirement and runoff process for the
office of mayor.

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DECEMBER 18, 2025

A motion was made by Mr. Cheatum, seconded by Mr. Mangum, that the ordinance,
Agenda Item No. 26(b) be read only by title and placed on final passage for publication,
and that only the ordinance summary sheet be submitted for publication.

Mr. Cheatum stated that, based on conversations with Secretary of State Phil McGrane
and his own research, second place candidates rarely win runoff elections, estimating
first place candidates prevail about 96 percent of the time statewide. He expressed
concern over the $60,000 to $70,000 cost of special elections and the increased
divisiveness of runoff campaigns, stating taxpayer funds could be better used elsewhere.

Council Member Paulsen added that Boise has held four runoff elections in 90 years, and
in only one of those instances did the candidate who initially finished second go on to win
the runoff.

Mr. Cheatum’s motion was voted upon at this time. Upon roll call, those voting in favor
were Cheatum, Mangum, Bates, Leeuwrik, Nichols, and Paulsen.

Jared Johnson, City Attorney, read the ordinance by title.

Mayor Blad declared the final reading of the ordinance amending Pocatello Municipal
Code Chapter 2.04.020 “Election” to eliminate the majority requirement and runoff
process for the office of mayor. Mayor Blad asked, “Shall the ordinance pass?” Upon roll
call, those voting in favor were Bates, Cheatum, Leeuwrik, Mangum, Nichols, and Paulsen.
Mayor Blad declared the ordinance and summary sheet passed, that it be numbered 3171
and that only the ordinance summary sheet be submitted to the Idaho State Journal for
publication.

AGENDAITEMNO. 27: ITEMS FROM THE AUDIENCE

Nikki Taysom, Pocatello resident, read multiple passages from the Constitution of the
United States. She expressed concerns about national and local security.

AGENDAITEMNO. 28: STATE OF THECITY

This time was set aside for the Annual State of the City report. A recorded report from
Mayor Blad, highlighting special projects over the past year, was viewed.

Mayor Blad thanked Marlise Irby, Public Information Officer, for preparing the State of
the City video and noted the City’s extensive number of projects. He expressed
appreciation to City employees, stating they care deeply about the community and work
daily to improve the quality of life for Pocatello residents, and asked that gratitude be
shared with all departments. Mayor Blad stated the City is in the strongest financial
position it has ever been, expressed optimism for the future, and voiced confidence that
the future Mayor and Council will continue moving the community forward. He also
thanked the Council for their time and service.

AGENDAITEMNO. 29: ADJOURN

There being no further business, Mayor Blad adjourned the meeting at 7:33. p.m.

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DECEMBER 18, 2025

APPROVED BY:

BRIAN C. BLAD, MAYOR

ATTESTED BY:

PREPARED BY:

.

AUBRIANA T. RESENDES, DEPUTY CITY CLERK