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CITY OF CITY OF POCATELLO, IDAHO CITY COUNCIL CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION MAY 14, 2026 AGENDA ITEM NO. 1: ROLL CALL Mayor Mark Dahlquist called the City Council Work Session to order at 9:00 a.m. Council members present were Dakota Bates, Corey Mangum, Brent Nichols, Hayden Paulsen, Stacy Satterfield and Ann Swanson. AGENDA ITEM NO. 2: GOLF ADVISORY COMMITTEE UPDATE Anne Butler, Parks and Recreation Director, DJ Mills, Golf Advisory Committee representative and Greg Allbright, Fore Golf representative, provided an update on the Golf Advisory Committee's activities, accomplishments and future priorities. Mr. Mills reviewed operational improvements completed during the past year, including software upgrades at Riverside Golf Course and the successful completion of an Urban Forestry Grant project that resulted in the removal of approximately 30 trees. He explained that while shade is appreciated by golfers, excessive tree coverage negatively impacts turf health and overall course conditions. Tree removal was completed to improve course playability and long- term turf management. He also discussed challenges associated with operating Riverside Golf Course while construction of the new clubhouse is underway and noted staff continues to utilize temporary facilities until the project is completed. Mr. Allbright presented golf participation and operational statistics, reporting continued growth in rounds played, revenues and pass sales. He stated that approximately 84,000 rounds of golf had been played and that sales had increased by approximately 13 percent over the past two years, while rounds played increased approximately 10 percent. A record 969 season passes were sold and league participation continued to be strong across men's, women's, couples', senior, high school and Idaho State University programs. Mr. Allbright also highlighted several successful customer service initiatives, including expanded pass options, online tee-time reservations through GolfNow, improved marketing efforts and the ability to collect pre-payment information reducing the number of no-show reservations. Junior golf participation continues to grow through reduced-fee programs and the Youth on Course initiative, supported in part by Bank of America. Approximately 3,000 junior rounds were played in 2024, with participation remaining strong. Looking ahead, Mr. Allbright discussed several long-term capital needs, including replacement of aging irrigation infrastructure, sprinkler systems, asphalt and future forestry management. He emphasized the importance of establishing dedicated funding for future capital improvements to preserve the City's golf facilities. Council Member Bates asked about the age and remaining life expectancy of the irrigation system at Highland Golf Course and anticipated replacement costs. Mr. Allbright explained that the system was installed during the 1980s and has significantly exceeded its typical 20- to 25-year life expectancy through extensive maintenance measures. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 2 MAY 14, 2026 Ms. Butler stated that approximately $76,000 in golf capital improvement fees had been collected during the previous year and noted that additional golf revenues are transferred into the Recreation Fund. Ms. Butler advised that staff could obtain updated irrigation system cost estimates for Council's future consideration. Mr. Allbright added that replacement costs vary depending upon project scope, noting recent irrigation replacement projects at comparable facilities have ranged into the millions of dollars. In response to Council questions regarding recent tree removal efforts, Mr. Allbright explained that many trees removed had either died from pine beetle infestation or had been planted too closely together. While some trees contributed positively to course design, selective removal improved overall course health and future replanting would be evaluated where appropriate. Council expressed appreciation for the Committee's continued work and recognized the importance of planning for future golf course infrastructure investments. AGENDA ITEM NO. 3: PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE UPDATE Anne Butler, Parks and Recreation Director, and Tonya Wilkes, Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee Chair, were present to discuss the Committee’s goals and projects, as well as Council’s policies and expectations. Ms. Wilkes reviewed the Advisory Committee's structure, noting the Board meets six times annually and continues to experience strong participation and engagement. She also noted there is currently one vacancy representing the Golf Advisory Committee. Ms. Butler highlighted numerous accomplishments completed during the past year, including continued replacement of aging playground equipment, partnerships with neighborhood associations and local schools and collaborative improvements to tennis court facilities. She also discussed the success of new recreational programming, including skateboard camps and hosting the state lacrosse tournament, which brought additional visitors and economic activity to the community. Additional updates included cemetery improvements, implementation of a new platting process, facility rebranding, updated signage, ongoing tree maintenance and continued improvements to the City's Greenway Trail system. Ms. Butler acknowledged the ongoing challenge of recruiting and retaining seasonal employees necessary to maintain City parks and facilities. In response to a question regarding Halliwell Park improvements, Ms. Butler reported that staff has _prioritized-addressing several safety-related issues, including repairs to dugout ceilings and railings. Once those items are completed, attention will shift toward replacement of the aging concession and score booth facility. She noted staff is actively pursuing corporate sponsorship opportunities to assist with funding of the project. Mayor Dahlquist asked about the condition of the pickleball courts at Ross Park, specifically surface imperfections that had been observed following resurfacing. Ms. Butler explained the courts are outdoor facilities subject to weather and environmental conditions. She stated the contractor had inspected the courts and identified minor separation around several concrete posts. Staff has implemented recommended repairs to prevent CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 3 MAY 14, 2026 moisture intrusion and the overall court surface remains in excellent condition with several years of expected service life remaining. She also noted the courts continue to receive heavy use and positive public feedback. Ms. Butler reported that the City's Urban Forestry Grant has significantly improved tree maintenance efforts throughout the community. She stated the grant has allowed for funding dedicated to tree crews that have substantially reduced deferred maintenance needs. She expressed appreciation to Grants Manager Christine Howe for her assistance in securing the funding. Council thanked the Advisory Committee for its continued service and recognized the significant improvements made throughout the City's parks and recreation system. AGENDA ITEM NO. 4: POCATELLO AMERICA2509 AD HOC COMMITTEE UPDATE Rick Cheatum, representing the Pocatello America250 Ad Hoc Committee, provided an update regarding community preparations for the America's 250th Anniversary celebration and the planned July 3, 2026 Time Capsule Dedication event. Mr. Cheatum reviewed the history of Idaho's America250 initiative, explaining that the Legislature appropriated funding to support anniversary celebrations throughout the state and appointed ambassadors to promote local events. He highlighted the State Treasurer's creative statewide campaign, including the "Revolutionary Spuds" characters that travel throughout Idaho promoting America250 activities. Mr. Cheatum explained that the Pocatello committee intends to preserve a snapshot of the community through a 50-year time capsule to be opened on July 3, 2076. He noted that advances in technology have created new opportunities to preserve both physical and digital historical records while recognizing the challenges associated with long-term preservation of physical materials. He reported the Committee plans to house the time capsule at the Marshall Public Library rather than burying it underground in order to better preserve its contents. The July 3 community celebration will include food vendors, downtown activities and community participation beginning at 5:00 p.m. at the Marshall Public Library. Mr. Cheatum shared an original song titled Pocatello, the Gate City, written by Michael Thiel with assistance from artificial intelligence. He stated the song would be shared with the Idaho State Treasurer's Office and discussed additional committee projects, including a children's coloring contest and community photography efforts documenting modern-day Pocatello. In response to Council questions regarding the anticipated contents of the time capsule, Mr. Cheatum explained that contributions will include commemorative publications, historical artifacts, items from the Riverside Golf Clubhouse, materials representing downtown businesses, video documentation of the community and submissions from local organizations and residents. He-encouraged-community-members-to-submit_ideas_and historical items through staff liaison Wendy Prather as the Committee continues to determine the final size and contents of the capsule. Mr. Cheatum discussed plans to include digital preservation instructions and secure storage methods to ensure future generations can access archived information. In response to questions from Council, Mr. Cheatum explained that while the statewide JustServe250 initiative aims to promote and highlight acts of service in Idaho while celebrating America's 250th anniversary, the Committee's focus remains on preserving Pocatello's local history and organizing the City's community celebration. He reported that statewide participation has exceeded 200,000 individuals and is expected to surpass 250,000 participants. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 4 MAY 14, 2026 Council expressed appreciation to the Committee for its efforts to preserve Pocatello's history and commemorate the nation's 250th anniversary. AGENDA ITEM NO. 5: PROPOSED JUNE FISCAL YEAR 2026 BUDGET AMENDMENTS Rich Morgan, Chief Financial Officer, was in attendance to present to Council detailed information on proposed Fiscal Year 2026 June Budget amendments for the public hearing to be held June 4, 2026. Mr. Morgan explained that budget amendments are necessary to provide legal spending authority for revenues received after adoption of the annual budget, including grants, donations and other unforeseen revenues. He noted that while funds may have been received by the City, the budget must be amended before those monies can be expended in accordance with Idaho law. Following the public hearing, Council will consider adoption of an ordinance approving the amendments. Mr. Morgan reviewed several of the more significant amendments, including the proposed early payoff of the Water Department bond to reduce future interest costs, expenditure of recently awarded Fire Department grant funding, library grant funding for landscaping improvements and other departmental adjustments. He advised Council that staff was available to answer questions regarding any of the proposed amendments. In response to Council questions regarding the source of the additional revenues reflected in the amendments, Mr. Morgan explained that several amendments represent grant awards and donations that were not anticipated when the original budget was adopted. He further noted that the amendments simply provide spending authority for those restricted funds. Council Member Nichols inquired about the Golf Capital Improvements amendment. Mr. Morgan explained that additional funding is needed because construction bids for the Riverside Golf Course Clubhouse exceeded initial estimates. The amendment reflects the actual project costs and transfers available capital funds to complete the project. Council Member Bates asked about the proposed use of Water Department reserves to retire outstanding bond debt and requested information regarding the remaining reserve balance. Mr. Morgan reported that approximately $2.7 million will remain in the fund following the payoff. In response to questions from Council regarding expenditures associated with the Crest Development project, Mayor Dahlquist explained that the project involves work completed on City-owned property for the City's benefit. He acknowledged earlier communication challenges but stated the project scope had since been clarified and coordinated with staff. Mayor Dahlquist noted approximately $6,000 in additional expenses are anticipated and can be accommodated within the Mayor's Office budget without requiring another budget amendment. Mayor Dahlquist expressed appreciation for the opportunity to retire the Water Department bond early, noting the City will realize long-term interest savings. He also recognized Public Works staff for their efforts on the current water tank project and commented on the impressive pace of construction. He acknowledged the information presented and noted the proposed amendments will return for formal consideration during the June 4, 2026, Regular City Council meeting. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 5 MAY 14, 2026 AGENDA ITEM NO. 6: SEASONAL EMPLOYEE PAY STRUCTURE Anne Butler, Parks and Recreation Department Director, and Jay Seedall, Human Resources Department Director, were present to discuss the seasonal pay structure for the Parks and Recreation Department and seek Council guidance to address ongoing challenges. Ms. Butler presented information regarding seasonal employee recruitment and retention challenges within the Parks and Recreation Department and requested Council guidance regarding potential changes to the seasonal pay structure. She explained that the presentation focused primarily on seasonal Parks and Cemetery employees responsible for maintaining the City's parks, green spaces, cemeteries, athletic fields and other recreational amenities. She emphasized that maintaining the City's appearance and recreational facilities depends heavily upon seasonal staffing, particularly during the spring and fall. Mr. Seedall reviewed the current seasonal budget structure, employment rules and staffing limitations created by Public Employee Retirement System of Idaho (PERSI) eligibility and Affordable Care Act requirements. He explained that while employees may work up to eight (8) months under PERSI rules, Affordable Care Act requirements generally limit seasonal employment to six (6) months before additional benefit obligations apply. Ms. Butler reported that the Department's greatest staffing challenges occur during April, May, and September, when irrigation systems must be activated, parks prepared for public use, restrooms opened, mowing begins, athletic fields are maintained and special events are scheduled. She noted that while staffing levels improve after schools are out, during June and July, the Department consistently struggles to recruit sufficient employees early in the season, resulting in delayed mowing schedules and increased public complaints. Ms. Butler reviewed the various duties performed by seasonal employees, including mowing, weed control, flower planting, irrigation assistance, general maintenance and cemetery upkeep. She explained that full-time employees frequently assume seasonal responsibilities when adequate staffing cannot be secured, reducing their ability to complete other departmental priorities. To address these challenges, the Department has implemented several operational changes, including increased reliance on volunteers, outsourcing restroom cleaning services, automation of park access systems, expanded recruitment efforts and evaluation of temporary staffing agencies. Staff also discussed the possibility of outsourcing additional maintenance functions such as chemical application, irrigation or mowing where financially feasible. Ms. Butler presented historical staffing comparisons demonstrating that while the City's park system has grown significantly over the past several decades, full-time staffing levels have remained relatively unchanged. She also reviewed wage comparisons showing the City's seasonal pay rates are substantially lower than those offered by neighboring agencies and private employers, making recruitment increasingly difficult. Council Member Mangum observed that neighboring jurisdictions maintain fewer park facilities and recreational amenities than the City of Pocatello, resulting in significantly different staffing demands. Ms. Butler presented several options for adjusting the seasonal pay scale. She explained that Ross Park Aquatic Center positions, particularly lifeguards, remain relatively competitive due to CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 6 MAY 14, 2026 positive workplace culture and high employee retention. However, labor-intensive positions such as mowing and cemetery maintenance continue to experience severe recruitment shortages. Staff recommended a substantial wage adjustment for seasonal labor positions while minimizing impacts to positions that are already competitively compensated. In response to a question from Council regarding the possibility of Parks and Recreation positions to be separated from recreation positions for compensation purposes, Ms. Butler stated that Human Resources could evaluate separate classifications if directed by Council. Council Member Nichols asked what level of increase would effectively improve recruitment. Ms. Butler responded that a significant increase, potentially as much as twenty-five percent for certain labor positions, may be necessary to attract qualified applicants willing to perform physically demanding outdoor work. | In response to a question from Council regarding legislative changes to Affordable Care Act requirements to improve recruitment, Mr. Seedall indicated Affordable Care Act limitations have contributed to staffing challenges but agreed that wage competitiveness remains the primary obstacle. Council Member Bates suggested staff issue Requests for Qualifications (RFQs) to evaluate outsourcing options for mowing, irrigation and other specialized maintenance functions. Ms. Butler agreed that obtaining pricing for individual services would allow Council to compare outsourcing costs with maintaining an in-house workforce. Council Member Swanson commended staff for presenting several potential solutions and asked if a comprehensive inventory exists of City-owned properties requiring maintenance. Ms. Butler explained that many parcels originate from subdivision dedications, rights-of-way and other City ownership interests that extend beyond the Parks and Recreation Department. Mayor Dahlquist agreed the City should undertake a collaborative review of all City-owned properties to better understand maintenance responsibilities and determine whether certain parcels should continue to be maintained. He asked what short-term options remain available for the current season. Ms. Butler reported staffing levels have improved as schools approach summer break but remain below operational needs. She indicated that seasonal hiring continues aggressively but mowing frequencies have already been reduced in several locations due to staffing shortages. Council Member Satterfield observed that many young workers can earn comparable or higher wages performing less physically demanding work indoors and questioned if higher wages would improve recruitment. Mr. Seedall noted that extending seasonal employment beyond six months would create additional benefit costs that must also be budgeted. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 7 MAY 14, 2026 Mayor Dahlquist concluded the discussion by emphasizing the importance of maintaining the City's appearance and encouraged staff to continue evaluating both immediate and long-term staffing solutions for inclusion in the Fiscal Year 2027 budget. Mayor Dahlquist called a recess at 10:26 a.m. Mayor Dahlquist reconvened the meeting at 10:38 a.m. AGENDA ITEM NO. 7: PROPOSED CHANGES TO CITY CODE REGARDING ANIMAL LICENSING — ANIMAL CONTROL Animal Services Manager Liam Hughes was in attendance to present information and seek feedback from the Council regarding the following proposed changes to animal licensing ordinances: a) Year-round animal licensing; b) Ordinance enforcement in the field and remove enforcement from the Animal Shelter; and c) Establishment of an Animal Welfare Fund through licensure fees received. Mr. Hughes explained that the current annual licensing cycle creates administrative inefficiencies and proposed transitioning to a rolling one-year licensing period based upon the date of issuance. He stated this approach would distribute renewals throughout the year and improve customer service. Mr. Hughes also recommended shifting licensing enforcement from shelter personnel to Animal Services officers in the field. He explained that current shelter staff have limited enforcement authority and primarily assess administrative fees when unlicensed animals are impounded. Under the proposed changes, Animal Services officers would have authority to educate owners, encourage voluntary compliance, issue warnings and, when necessary, issue civil infractions for continued noncompliance. Council members discussed the City's current animal licensing compliance rate, which staff estimated at approximately eight percent. Council Member Mangum asked how enforcement would occur in practice and whether officers would actively search for unlicensed animals. Code Enforcement Supervisor Tori Eldredge explained that enforcement would remain complaint-driven or occur during routine animal control contacts rather than through proactive neighborhood inspections. Officers would first encourage compliance by providing owners an opportunity to obtain a license before issuing citations if necessary. Mr. Hughes stated the Department's primary goal is education and voluntary compliance rather than punitive enforcement. He noted that licensing improves the Department's ability to quickly reunite lost pets with their owners and encourages responsible pet ownership. In response to questions from Council regarding if the proposed changes would have a financial impact, Mr. Hughes stated that increased compliance should generate additional licensing revenue while also supporting improved animal welfare services. Council Member Nichols expressed concern regarding the low compliance rate and asked how Pocatello compares with other communities. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 8 MAY 14, 2026 Mr. Hughes explained that states with statewide licensing and consistent enforcement often achieve significantly higher compliance rates through education and coordinated enforcement efforts. Council discussed opportunities to improve the value of licensing through public education, incentives and enhanced community programs. In response to a question from Council regarding the importance of animal licensing, Mr. Hughes explained that while licensing historically focused on rabies control and ownership verification, it now primarily serves as a means of identifying pets, encouraging vaccinations, promoting responsible ownership and facilitating the prompt return of lost animals to their families. He also suggested that future Animal Welfare Fund revenues could support vaccination clinics, microchipping programs and other preventative animal health initiatives. Mayor Dahlquist added that the proposed ordinance amendments primarily align the City's code with existing operational practices while improving enforcement efficiency and encouraging higher compliance through education. Council expressed general support for moving forward with the proposed ordinance revisions. AGENDA ITEM NO. 8: DOCUPET ONLINE PET LICENSING PROPOSAL — ANIMAL SERVICES Liam Hughes, Animal Services Manager, was present to discuss the use of DocuPet, an online licensing service for pet licensing designed to simplify licensing, improve compliance and enhance lost pet recovery efforts. Mr. Hughes explained that DocuPet provides online licensing, customized pet tags, automated renewal reminders, integrated payment processing and a centralized database linking pet licenses with microchip information. The system would allow residents to easily purchase and renew licenses online while improving the Department's ability to identify and return lost pets. He explained that the City would become the first municipality in Idaho to utilize the DocuPet system and, as a result, the company has offered to waive its standard implementation fee. Ongoing costs to the City would primarily consist of postage and applicable payment processing fees, while DocuPet generates revenue through optional specialty tag sales. In response to a question from Council regarding licensing for residents without internet access, Mr. Hughes explained that residents would continue to have the option of purchasing licenses in person at the Animal Shelter or other designated City locations, with staff utilizing the DocuPet system to process applications on their behalf. Mr. Hughes added that implementation costs would be minimal because the standard startup fee has been waived, with the City's primary expenses limited to postage and credit card processing fees. Mr. Hughes explained that under the proposed ordinance changes, licensing revenues would be directed toward an Animal Welfare Fund to support services benefiting animals throughout the community, including vaccination clinics, microchipping initiatives and other public education programs. Council expressed support to proceed with the process necessary to initiate the DocuPet system as a means of improving customer service, increasing licensing compliance and enhancing animal welfare services throughout the community. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 9 MAY 14, 2026 AGENDA ITEM NO. 9: POCATELLO HOUSING PLAN UPDATE — PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES Planning and Development Services staff members were in attendance to present and discuss a draft of the Pocatello Housing Plan and receive feedback from the Council regarding the Plan. Mr. Anglesey explained that the Housing Plan is an implementation component of the City's Comprehensive Plan 2040 and is intended to support the community's long-term vision by identifying current housing conditions, future needs and strategies to address housing challenges over the next decade. He noted that the majority of the technical analysis was completed by Stantec and that the plan builds upon previous housing studies presented to the Council. Mr. Anglesey reviewed key findings of the plan, including economic and demographic trends, housing market conditions, housing inventory, vacancy rates and an affordable housing gap analysis. Mr. Anglesey reported that Pocatello has one of the oldest housing stocks in Idaho, with much of the City's housing constructed during the post-World War Il era. He noted that the analysis identifies a significant shortage of affordable housing and confirms continued demand for additional housing units across multiple housing types. In response to questions from Council, Mr. Anglesey responded that implementation plans are generally intended to guide decision-making for approximately ten years, although the supporting data will continue to be updated as conditions change. He explained that the current document expands upon the previous presentations by providing more detailed analysis and recommendations, but no significant changes in the underlying data had occurred. Mr. Anglesey reported that approximately 291 responses were received, providing a sample that is close to being statistically valid. Mr. Anglesey stated that survey responses indicated a strong preference for homeownership and acknowledged that short-term rentals can reduce ownership opportunities. Mr. McLane added that, while short-term rentals are not currently a significant issue in Pocatello compared to other communities, the conversion of single-family homes into rental properties has had a greater impact on homeownership opportunities. In response to a question from Council regarding the affordability of newly constructed housing units, Mr. McLane explained that most new rental units exceed traditional affordability thresholds and noted that increasing the overall housing supply is necessary to help stabilize housing costs over time. Council Member Bates asked why housing development has not kept pace with growing demand. Mr. Anglesey explained that development has been limited by available land, construction capacity and rising development costs. Mr. McLane added that Pocatello's topography presents unique challenges compared to communities with large areas of flat, developable land, resulting in higher infrastructure and development costs. He also noted that many individuals employed in Pocatello are choosing to live in surrounding communities where housing is more readily available. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 10 MAY 14, 2026 Council discussed changing demographic trends, including increasing numbers of single-person households and the community's growing retiree population, both of which contribute to increased housing demand. In response to a question from Council regarding how they could best support implementation of the Housing Plan, Mr. McLane recommended evaluating zoning and development regulations to encourage a broader range of housing types, streamlining development processes and exploring incentives that would encourage workforce and affordable housing development. He also emphasized the importance of working collaboratively with Idaho State University to expand student housing opportunities, thereby reducing pressure on the City's residential housing market. Council Member Mangum asked if housing voucher programs administered by the Housing Authority had been considered in the analysis. Mr. McLane confirmed that staff worked closely with the Housing Authority during development of the plan and noted that while voucher programs assist with affordability, the community continues to face a shortage of available housing units and participating landlords. Mr. McLane emphasized that the City cannot directly control housing prices but can create an environment that encourages a wider variety of housing options through thoughtful zoning, development regulations and partnerships with the private sector. Council thanked staff for the comprehensive analysis and expressed support for continuing work on implementation strategies. AGENDA ITEM NO. 10: POCATELLO URBAN FOREST PLAN — PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES Jim Anglesey, Long Range Planner, presented the draft Pocatello Urban Forest Plan and requested Council feedback prior to completion of the document. Mr. Anglesey explained that the City's existing Urban Forest Plan dates to 1995 and that the accompanying Portneuf Valley Tree Guide had not been comprehensively updated since 2012. As part of the planning effort, staff completed an updated tree guide that identifies recommended tree species suitable for the Portneuf Valley and provides guidance for residents, developers, nurseries and arborists. Mr. Anglesey reported that consultants completed a comprehensive inventory of City-maintained trees located in parks, downtown areas and other public spaces. The inventory evaluated existing tree species, overall health, maintenance needs, funding levels, policies and long-term management practices. He reviewed the plan's goals and implementation strategies, which focus on improving tree management, updating policies and standards, increasing species diversity, strengthening maintenance practices and enhancing community education regarding appropriate tree selection. In response to a question from Council regarding the ways Council could best support implementation of the Urban Forest Plan, Mr. Anglesey explained that the City's greatest challenge continues to be deferred tree maintenance caused by limited staffing and funding. He noted that the Parks and Recreation Department currently manages the City's urban forest but lacks sufficient resources to address all maintenance needs. He recommended continued investment in tree maintenance, review of applicable City ordinances and long-term funding strategies to support implementation of the plan. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION | 11 MAY 14, 2026 Mr. Anglesey stated that printed copies of the updated tree guide would be distributed to local nurseries and arborists and a digital version with a QR code would be made available for residents and developers. He explained that the guide identifies tree species that perform well in the Portneuf Valley while also identifying species that should be avoided because of maintenance concerns or poor adaptability. Council expressed appreciation for the updated planning effort and recognized the importance of maintaining and expanding the City's urban forest. AGENDA ITEM NO. 11: SAFE STREETS AND ROADS FOR ALL (SS4A) IMPLEMENTATION GRANT APPLICATION Christine Howe, Grants Manager, was in attendance to present a proposal for the US Department of Transportation (DOT) Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Implementation Grant. The proposed project includes the renovation and upgrades to the City facility at 911 North 7th Avenue to expand Police Department operations. Ms. Howe explained that the grant represents a unique funding opportunity to renovate and expand the City's public safety facility located at 911 North 7th Avenue. The proposed project would primarily address long-term Police Department and Dispatch operational needs while supporting goals identified in the City's Safe Streets and Roads for All Action Plan. She noted that the grant would fund up to 80 percent of eligible project costs, with the City responsible for the required 20 percent local match. Ms. Howe reviewed the proposed five-year project schedule, including planning, permitting, engineering, construction and project closeout phases. She explained that the project would improve dispatch operations, expand available workspace, modernize building systems and better position the facility to meet future staffing needs. Ms. Howe emphasized that Police Department representatives have described the operational challenges associated with the current facility, noting that dispatch workstations do not meet national space recommendations and that existing facilities have become increasingly inadequate to support modern public safety operations. Staff also referenced a 2018 feasibility study projecting future staffing needs and indicated that those projections remain valid. In response to questions from Council, Ms. Howe explained that project design alternatives, including possible relocation of other City departments, would be evaluated during the engineering phase and could include both renovations and building additions while allowing City operations to continue. She added that long-term overall space requirements is approximately 74,500 square feet, compared to the approximately 22,500 square feet currently available. Ms. Howe explained that improvements would need to maintain a direct relationship to the overall project scope and public safety operations. Council discussed the City's required matching contribution and potential funding sources. Chief Financial Officer Rich Morgan explained that the City's General Fund reserves would likely be the primary source of matching funds and acknowledged that the required local match represents a significant financial commitment for the City. In response to questions from Council, Ms. Howe clarified that previous grant match funds have generally been reserved for substantially smaller projects and would not fully address the City's required contribution for this project. Ms. Howe stated that while future partnerships with other CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION | 12 MAY 14, 2026 funding partners, such as Bannock County or the City of Chubbuck remain possible, those discussions are not sufficiently developed to be included in the current application and any joint participation would require separate agreements. Ms. Howe explained that amendments may be possible under certain circumstances; however, the City would still be expected to achieve the primary objectives identified in the original grant application. She advised that failure to complete the project after executing a grant agreement could place the City in violation of the agreement and require repayment of grant funds. Ms. Howe reported that grant awards are expected in late 2026, with grant agreements anticipated during 2027, providing additional time for project planning and financial evaluation before construction begins. Council discussed the long-term financial implications of the project, potential alternative facility options, future funding mechanisms and the rarity of an opportunity of this magnitude. Ms. Howe characterized the grant as a unique funding opportunity that may not become available again. Following discussion, Mayor Dahlquist expressed support for submitting the grant application while continuing to evaluate project scope, funding strategies and long-term facility planning as additional information becomes available. AGENDA ITEM NO. 12: NEIGHBORWORKS POCATELLO LOW-INCOME HOUSING TAX CREDIT (LIHTC) PROPOSAL Grants Manager Christine Howe and NeighborWorks Pocatello Executive Director Shawna Engen presented a proposal for a Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) development partnership utilizing City-owned property to increase affordable housing opportunities. Ms. Howe explained that NeighborWorks Pocatello is pursuing LIHTC funding and requested Council consideration of a long-term ground lease on a City-owned parcel rather than a property donation, which is not permitted under current funding requirements. She stated that the proposed lease would demonstrate community participation, strengthen the funding application and reduce project acquisition costs. Ms. Engen outlined the proposed two-phase development, which includes construction of approximately 24 affordable senior housing units followed by development of additional community land trust housing for low- to moderate-income homeownership opportunities. She noted that the proposal directly addresses findings contained in the recently completed Housing Plan identifying a shortage of approximately 667 affordable senior housing units within the community. Ms. Howe reported that staff reviewed conceptual site plans for a City-owned parcel near Foothill Boulevard, explaining that the project would require a future zoning change to allow higher- density residential development. The proposed development would utilize a design similar to NeighborWorks' successful South 5th Avenue housing project. Responding to a question from Council, Ms. Engen explained that the project would utilize a 99- year ground lease with NeighborWorks serving as the nonprofit partner in a limited partnership that allows private investors to utilize federal tax credits while NeighborWorks retains long-term ownership interests and first right of refusal at the conclusion of the tax credit compliance period. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 13 MAY 14, 2026 She explained that although ownership structures may evolve, affordability restrictions remain in place for at least 30 years and NeighborWorks intends to maintain long-term affordable housing through continued partnerships or future acquisitions. Council members discussed property taxation associated with the development. Ms. Howe explained that while the City would retain ownership of the land through the ground lease, the privately-owned improvements would remain subject to property taxation. She stated that the primary City contribution would be the long-term ground lease, while NeighborWorks and its development partners would remain responsible for construction, management, maintenance and operation of the development. Council Member Mangum commented that the proposal aligns well with the Housing Plan and represents a positive step toward addressing the community's affordable housing needs. Council Member Bates expressed support for developing the City-owned parcel and stated that utilizing underdeveloped property for affordable housing would provide long-term community benefits. Mayor Dahlquist, speaking from his experience with affordable housing tax credit developments, stated that the City's participation would strengthen NeighborWorks' competitiveness for state tax credit awards while helping address the documented shortage of affordable housing. He described the proposal as a mutually beneficial opportunity that advances the City's housing goals while generating future tax revenue. Following discussion, Council expressed general support allowing staff to continue evaluating the proposal and proceed with the necessary planning, zoning and development review processes before returning the project for future Council consideration. AGENDA ITEM NO. 13: COUNCIL ADVISORY BOARD UPDATES Mayor Dahlquist announced that Council Advisory Board updates would not be heard at this time. AGENDA ITEM NO. 14: ADJOURN There being no further business, Mayor Dahlquist adjourned the meeting at 1:01 p.m. APPROVED: - MARK DAHLQUIST, MAYOR CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 14 MAY 14, 2026 PREPARED AND ATTESTED BY:
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