Sentinel Media records · public agendas and minutes, text only, refreshed nightly from each body's own site · not a newspaper
minutes meeting date 2025-10-09 · fetched 2026-09-17 · 17407 characters · read by OCR, check numbers against the source · official file · plain text
CITY OF . CITY OF POCATELLO, IDAHO CITY COUNCIL CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION OCTOBER 9, 2025 inn ttt AGENDAITEM NO. 1: ROLL CALL Mayor Brian Blad called the City Council Work Session to order at 9:00 a.m. Council members present were Dakota Bates, Rick Cheatum, Linda Leeuwrik, Brent Nichols and Hayden Paulsen. Council member Corey Mangum was excused. — AGENDAITEM NO. 2: HOUSING ALLIANCE AND COMMUNITY PARTNERS: Representatives from the Housing Alliance and Community Partners (HACP) were present to discuss the group’s goals and projects, as well as Council’s policies and expectations. Jared Mangum, HACP Executive Director, and Caralee Phillips, Deputy Director, provided an update on HACP’s organizational goals, funding status, capital improvements, and upcoming development projects. Mr. Mangum reported that anticipated federal funding for the fiscal year ended in a shortfall, prompting HACP to work with HUD’s shortfall division and reduce voucher payments from 110% to 97% of the Fair Market Rate to stabilize finances. HUD subsequently provided $413,000, and current funding is expected to remain stable through June 2026. Multiple voucher categories were reviewed, including Mainstream, FYI/Youth, and Veterans, with the reminder that some types cannot be blended or transferred. At one point all voucher categories were impacted by the funding shortfall. Mr. Mangum reported that HACP currently has 136 available vouchers out of 752. Although voucher use is generally limited to Pocatello, federal guidelines often assign jurisdiction by county, and the exact geographic boundary is being reviewed. Mr. Mangum described HACP’s participation in Region 5 coalition events, including the Homeless Stand Down, and noted that the agency recently received national recognition for innovation at the 805 North Main project. In response to deferred maintenance needs, rental rates have been increased, two roof replacements have been completed, and a third is underway. HACP is participating in Idaho Power energy programs and received a $28,000 rebate for LED upgrades at Portneuf Towers. The agency has enhanced security and reduced external contractor costs through expanded internal maintenance efforts. Mr. Mangum added that HACP is partnering with Optimal Health and Eden Health to provide mobile health services, fall-prevention programs, and monthly wellness checks at housing facilities. They continue to host community-building activities such as fun runs, carnivals, and game nights. Development updates included analysis of the Triangle Property for housing development. Planned units include narrow-footprint, two- to three-story housing units, with up to four bedroomsin each unit. The redevelopment project at 805 North Main is progressing, with an adjacent lot purchased. He emphasized that the project plans for approximately forty (40) units with rent near $600 per month and space anticipated for a small bistro and nonprofit offices. Private donors have already contributed $250,000 to the project. Construction phases are expected to yield rentable units within three to four months, with significant progress in six months and possible full completion within a year. HACP currently owns approximately 500 units—unusual for a housing authority—and seeks to expand to more than 600 units. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 2 OCTOBER 9, 2025 The Council discussed voucher mobility, geographic jurisdiction, future development priorities, interagency coordination, and long-term maintenance standards. AGENDAITEM NO: 3: POCATELLO ARTS COUNCIL UPDATE: Representatives from the Pocatello Arts Council were present to discuss the Committee’s goals and projects, as well as Council's policies and expectations. Dale Spencer, Pocatello Arts Council Chair, presented the Arts Council’s recent activities. The Council continued its annual support for the Empty Bowls fundraiser, which raised $2,000 for the Idaho Foodbank in partnership with Jim Dandy Brewing. The 337 annual “Shakespeare in the Park” event was sponsored by the Arts Council and drew approximately 1,000 attendees. The Arts Council donated a tree with handmade ornaments to the Festival of Trees. The first “Golden Pumpkin” award was presented to local residents in recognition of outdoor Halloween decorations. Local artists continue to be featured during monthly Art Walk events, and grants were awarded to artists and arts-related programs. Council branding was also updated. Mayor Blad thanked Arts Council members and commended the success of Shakespeare in the Park and the Council’s ongoing community impact. AGENDAITEM NO. 4: POLICE UNION QUARTERLY UPDATE: Representatives from the Pocatello Police Union were present to give the Council an update of their activities. Police Union Vice President Dane Eborn presented the quarterly Police Union update, highlighting continued community engagement efforts such as Color with a Cop, Head Start presentations, department tours, internet safety classes, drone demonstrations, Touch-a-Truck, Pay It Forward activities, back-to-school events, child safety seat checks, and the Special Olympics Torch Run. Numerous charitable actions were also reported, including recent assistance to a visiting citizen who needed help with hotel and transportation expenses to visit her terminally ill mother. Mr. Eborn addressed recruitment and retention, noting nationwide staffing shortages and emphasized the strengths of Pocatello’s department and its supportive environment. The union has 89 active members, representing the ranks of sergeant and below, evidence technicians, and records staff, while excluding command staff. Positive collaboration with Human Resources staff members and City staff members on CBA- related matters was acknowledged. Council discussed membership eligibility, interagency cooperation, recruitment challenges, and the department's strong reputation. AGENDAITEM NO. 53 FIRE UNION QUARTERLY UPDATE: Representatives from the Pocatello Fire Union were present to give the Council an update of their activities. Brian Christiansen provided the Fire Union update, noting that the CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 3 OCTOBER 9, 2025 union represents line-duty personnel and maintains 100% membership for all active firefighters. The annual October breast cancer awareness campaign raised approximately $5,000 for the local cancer center. A new tractor-drawn aerial apparatus arrived on September 30, and training is underway prior to deployment. Mr. Christiansen reported that fire prevention efforts continue through Community Relations Officer Kim Stouse. Several crews were deployed to Nevada and California for wildland fire support, generating experience and revenue. He reported that Pocatello crews consistently receive positive performance feedback. Additional activities included the Fill the Boot fundraiser for Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) and participation in the Seattle Stair Climb to support leukemia and lymphoma research. Council members acknowledged the department's service and national reputation. AGENDAITEM NO. 6: PROPOSED PERSONNEL POLICY HANDBOOK UPDATES - HUMAN RESOURCES AND IT DEPARTMENTS Human Resources and Information Technologies (IT) staff members were in attendance to present proposed changes to existing policies of the Personnel Policy Handbook. Policy adoptions will be considered by the Council at a future Regular City Council meeting. Chris Sorensen, Chief Information Officer, presented proposed updates to the Personnel Policy Handbook, including revisions regarding employee use of artificial intelligence to clarify appropriate use and accountability. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) requirements were also reviewed, with mandatory MFA for security-sensitive positions such as law enforcement, finance, and other confidential data users. Mr. Sorensen reported that some systems only support authenticator apps through personal devices, and the proposed policy would require employees to use their personal devices for MFA when necessary. In response to a question from Council, Jared Johnson, City Attorney, clarified that using personal devices for MFA does not make those devices subject to public records disclosure under current state interpretations. Council members discussed employee concerns and statutory considerations. AGENDAITEM NO. 7: TENNIS COURT SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY - PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT Parks and Recreation Department staff members and School District 25 representatives were present to discuss the potential construction of new tennis courts at Highland High School. The proposal includes creating shared courts that would serve the School District during the high school season and be available as public City of Pocatello courts during the summer and fall. Anne Butler, Parks and Recreation Director, introduced Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 representatives Tonya Wilkes, Director of Student Services and Athletics, and CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 4 OCTOBER 9, 2025 John Balls, Director of Business. Ms. Butler presented a proposal for the City to contribute $500,000 toward the construction of six to eight new tennis courts at Highland High School as part of broader campus improvements. She explained that the existing courts were destroyed in the Highland High School fire, and reconstruction aligns with the planned redesign of the parking lot and entrance. Ms. Butler explained that the estimated project costs range from $500,000 to $1.4 million depending on grading and site considerations. In return for the City’s contribution, long-term public access and reservation rights would be secured through an updated Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), mirroring public access practices at Pocatello High School facilities. School scheduling would occur during the academic year, public reservations would be available through the district’s Facilitron system, and City recreation programs would primarily occur during the summer. Ms. Butler emphasized that Raymond Park tennis courts are in deteriorated condition and are not ADA accessible; removal is expected. She noted that the proposed contribution would create a “win-win” situation for the school district and the general public as a way to share construction and maintenance costs for a valuable community feature. Council members discussed public access, reservation consistency, long-term maintenance responsibilities, site options, budget impacts, coordination with ISU regarding future court development, and noise considerations. Council members expressed general support for contributing $500,000, pending a formal agreement. Mayor Blad called a recess at 10:35 a.m. Mayor Blad reconvened the meeting 10:41 a.m. AGENDAITEM NO. 8: BACKGROUND CHECK VENDOR CHANGE - HUMAN RESOURCES Abby Newell, Human Resources Generalist, and Heather Buchanan, Human Resources Director, were in attendance to introduce proposed changes to vendor services to provide the City’s employee background checks. Ms. Newell reviewed the current background check process and referenced issues and inconsistencies found with the services provided by the current service provider. She emphasized the importance of receiving the most accurate and up-to-date information from a service provider. Ms. Newell described service options through three (3) companies, emphasizing that Human Resources staff members have recommended the use of Verified First. She confirmed that Verified First integrates with the applicant tracking system, meets all necessary requirements, and is also an economical option. In response to a question from Council, Ms. Newell confirmed that Verified First charges for services per use, rather than through a flat fee contract. Council members directed HR staff to prepare a Memorandum of Understanding with Verified First for services and that the item would be considered by the Council at a future Regular City Council meeting. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 5 OCTOBER 9, 2025 AGENDAITEM NO. 9: COUNCIL ADVISORY BOARD UPDATES: This time was set aside for the Mayor and Council members to give an update regarding recent advisory board activities. Council Member Paulsen reported that there were no new Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) updates. Southeast Idaho Community Action Agency (SEICAA) completed its audit, and a Community Needs Assessment, receiving more than 600 respondents, is now available. Beginning January 1, the Senior Activity Center will assume responsibility for preparing meals for the Meals on Wheels program. A new home under construction is progressing in the Alpine Crossing development in Chubbuck. The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board heard a proposal for a community garden, which will be presented to the Council at the November Work Session. Parks and Recreation Department activities include tree trimming and planting of 200 new trees, bathroom construction at Optimist Skate Park and increased revenue through Parks and Recreation programs. Council Member Bates reported that the Pocatello Arts Council discussed the Glen Allen project and a downtown murdl initiative. The Council discussed recognition of the Golden Pumpkin Awards for fall yard decorating. Mr. Bates reported on Library Board activities, noting discussion of the $45 non-resident card fee. He reported that there are only four or five individuals currently holding such cards and noted that Idaho Falls charges $100 for a non-resident library card. The Library Board discussed increased participation in the Summer Reading Program and a babysitting clinic that reaches capacity each time it is offered. Mr. Bates stated the Southeast Idaho Council of Governments (SICOG) meeting was held in Montpelier, and is an opportunity for smaller communities to share challenges and solutions, with SICOG exploring ways to better support them through grant opportunities. Mayor Blad provided an update on the Mayor's Youth Advisory Council (MYAC) school- year schedule and invited Council members to join a trail cleanup at City Creek the following Monday. He also discussed the development of the Tri-Share Childcare Program, highlighted in the Mayor’s newsletter, which divides childcare costs among public funds, employers, and employees. Pocatello, Bannock County, and McCammon are participating, with three to four area companies committed to participate in the program. The initiative aims to improve workforce participation, reduce employer training costs and could potentially serve as a statewide model. Council Member Nichols reported that none of his assigned boards met this month, as most meet quarterly. Council member Leeuwrik reported that the Investment and Audit Committee meets later this month and that a vacancy created by a recent resignation had been filled, with an appointment forthcoming for Council confirmation. She reported she was unable to attend the Historic Downtown Business District meeting. She noted that Bannock Transportation Planning Organization (BTPO) reviewed two major transportation planning documents and approved Transportation Improvement Program updates, CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 6 OCTOBER 9, 2025 including $1 million for the Center Street underpass. BTPO also approved contracting for a travel demand model and demographic study. Ms. Leeuwrik reported on Pocatello Development Authority (PDA) activities, noting progress on a new Urban Renewal Area (URA) on South 5th Avenue with an estimated tax increment of $52.4 million and compliance with valuation limits. The Northgate URA continues to generate strong increment returns. The Monarch Building continues to be evaluated, with a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) anticipated to be issued soon. Council member Cheatum provided additional information regarding the BTPO consultant work and a possible agency rebranding to better reflect the regional service area. He also discussed Airport Commission deliberations on whether the Commission should remain involved in non-FAA activities. He then provided an extensive update on the Senior Activity Center, noting recent theft incidents which have prompted consideration of video surveillance installation. Beginning November 3, the Senior Center will begin preparing meals for Meals on Wheels participants and will be hiring additional kitchen staff to accomplish the additional workload. The Area Agency on Aging contract has shifted to Idaho Falls, raising concerns about local impacts. In September, 1,273 congregate meals were served and 1,941 Meals on Wheels meals were delivered, representing more than 40 percent growth this year. The Senior Center has registered 47 new patrons this month, and restored Easter Seals funding which will support staffing needs. Senior Games was a great success and will return to Pocatello again next summer. Planning for seasonal programs are underway, and the Senior Center intends to apply for $7,500 in CDBG funding for FY 2026. Bannock County has restored some financial support, though overall the Center continues to face financial challenges despite strong participation. In response to a question from Council Member Leeuwrik, Mr. Cheatum noted that donations received for meal programs remain minimal. AGENDAITEM NO. 10: ADJOURN There being no further business, Mayor Blad adjourned the meeting at 11:26 a.m. APPROVED: BRIAN’C. BLAD, MAYOR ATTEST AND PREPARED BY:
Text is extracted by machine from the official file linked on each page; the official file is the record. Sentinel Media, LLC.