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minutes meeting date 2026-03-12 · fetched 2026-09-17 · 23416 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 MARCH 12, 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: ANIMAL SHELTER ADVISORY BOARD UPDATE Representatives from the Animal Shelter Advisory Board were in attendance to discuss the Board’s goals and projects, as well as Council’s policies and expectations. Arlen Walker, Animal Shelter Advisory Board Chair, stated that enforcement of City Code related to animals was removed from the board’s purview, narrowing their scope to matters pertaining to the Animal Shelter and animal welfare. He explained that meetings are now held quarterly with a diverse group of members, including dog trainers, groomers, veterinarians, and citizens. Mr. Walker noted a brief summer hiatus during the transition to a new Shelter Director, but meetings have resumed and have been productive. He added that the Board is working to update animal-related ordinances to reflect current practices and State law, with a focus on increasing owner accountability. He highlighted community concerns about dogs off-leash on walking paths and noted the Shelter is facing increased demand due to economic conditions and a rise in homeless animals. In response to questions from Council, Liam Hughes, Animal Services Director, stated that the Board is exploring outsourcing dog licensing to DocuPet, which would manage online and in-person licensing, collect fees, and remit revenue to the City. He explained that the company’s revenue comes from the optional sale of premium items, not pet owner information, and there is no annual fee for the service. Because Pocatello may be the first municipality i in Idaho to use the system, DocuPet has offered to waive setup fees which would normally amount to approximately $5,000. Mr. Hughes added that the Shelter is near full capacity, with 80% of animals received from the public and 20% reserved for strays or seized animals. AGENDA ITEM NO. 3: POCATELLO DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (PDA) UPDATE Brent McLane, Pocatello Development Authority (PDA) Executive Director, was present to discuss the PDA’s goals and projects, as well as Council’s policies and expectations. He stated that he was presenting this information of behalf of David Villareal, PDA Chair, who was unable to attend. Mr. McLane gave a brief overview of the current taxing increment financing (TIF) districts throughout the city. He noted that the Naval Ordnance Plant (NOP) District is operating well, with building improvements completed and retail growth anticipated. He explained that the North Portneuf District, which contains the former Hoku site, has undergone extensive cleanup and is planning a rail overpass project to connect to Highway 30, CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 2 MARCH 12, 2026 alleviating traffic on Kraft Road. Funding for construction is not currently available, but design and grant opportunities are being pursued. Mr. McLane stated that the Pocatello Airport District, scheduled to close in 2033, is considering a master plan for non-aviation land to guide infrastructure and site upgrades, though current funds are limited. He described the Northgate District as the best-performing district, with government reimbursements for infrastructure nearly complete and additional funds expected to be generated in the coming year. He noted that private residential development, including over 300 townhomes and single-family units, is planned east of the clinic, maintaining the community’s walkable vision. The South 5th Avenue District is new and currently generating minimal funds, with residential, commercial, and industrial development planned over the coming years. Work has commenced to create a downtown district on the west side surrounding the Monarch building. In response to questions from Council, Mr. McLane provided a brief overview of TIF districts, explaining that property taxes create a baseline for government entities, and any increment above that baseline is directed to the PDA for redevelopment projects regulated by State statute, typically for public infrastructure and improvements. He added that funds are managed under the same rules as City finances, tracked separately by district, and can accrue interest to support growth. He added that the intent is to reinvest in areas that wouldn’t grow without that investment. Mr. McLane stated that reimbursement timelines vary by project and other factors. Once reimbursement is complete the district is closed, with funds available for expenditure up to one year and any excess funds collected returned to the taxing entities. Mr. McLane confirmed that beautification projects, such as the Northgate roundabout, are identified in district plans and can be funded through reimbursable PDA or City funds. He also clarified that the South 5th Avenue District spans a large area with a mix of residential, commercial, industrial, and mixed-use zoning, with development phased over the coming years. AGENDA ITEM NO. 4: FUTURE USE OF CITY-OWNED PROPERTY AT 429 WASHINGTON AKA OLD ALAMEDA FIREHOUSE - PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES Planning and Development Services staff members were in attendance to receive Council direction regarding the future use of City-owned land adjacent to and including the old Alameda firehouse located at 429 Washington Avenue. Jim Anglesey, Long Range Planner, provided an overview of the Old Alameda Firehouse and the surrounding property, which encompasses approximately one acre. He noted that the property has experienced significant water damage and currently contains hazardous materials, including asbestos, mold, and lead-based paint, and is currently vacant. He explained that the Historic Preservation Commission, in accordance with its duties regarding City-owned historic properties, provided recommendations for the site. A consultant conducted a Section 106 review, concluding that the firehouse is eligible for nomination as an historic property. Environmental reviews have also identified hazardous materials that need to be addressed. Council discussed the following topics related to the property: the building’s severe damage and high repair costs, including concerns about financial feasibility; potential uses such as a neighborhood gathering place or community center; considerations of City ownership versus sale; limited availability of grants and tax credits for restoration; CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 3 MARCH 12, 2026 progressing with the preliminary plat; leases with subdivided property lines for existing tenants; estimated costs for asbestos abatement and full renovation; recommendations to remediate hazardous materials, subdivide the property, and sell at public auction; preservation of the flagpole and historic commemoration; potential conversion to green space and associated maintenance; and a phased approach of completing remediation before determining further actions. In response to questions from Council, Jared Johnson, City Attorney, stated that this property is a City asset listed on the City insurance policy and subject to the same liability as any other City property. If aclaim were submitted related to this property, it would be evaluated to determine if the City is liable or not. In response to questions from Council, Brent McLane, Planning and Development Services Director, clarified that testing to confirm the presence of asbestos has been completed and an estimate for removal provided. He added that this estimate may need to be updated to reflect current costs. He clarified further that lead abatement would not be necessary if the building were to be demolished. Council directed staff to proceed with obtaining an updated estimate for asbestos removal and identify the fund that would be used to pay those costs. AGENDA ITEM NO. 5: PORTNEUF RIVER VISION STATUS Planning and Development Services staff members were in attendance to provide an update and discuss the status of the Portneuf River Vision, current projects, and receive Council feedback. Becky Babb, Planning Manager, introduced the Portneuf River Vision document created in 2016 in collaboration with multiple agencies. Jim Anglesey, Long Range Planner, pointed out that the Portneuf River Vision document has been foundational for long range planning and has prompted the creation of other City plans. He explained that the river is viewed as an asset and gave an overview of revitalization goals focused on environmental, recreational, and economic opportunities that may increase community pride, connectivity, and quality of life. Mr. Anglesey pointed out that flood mitigation efforts, such as the concrete channel, have affected the health of the river, and many projects focus on restoring the health of the riparian corridor. He clarified that while removal of the whole concrete channel is not an option, modification or removal of concrete at points to provide access remains a possibility in the long-term, approximately 25-50 years in the future. In response to a question from Council, Mr. Anglesey outlined the following as environmental concerns with the concrete channel: higher water temperatures due to slowed movement and straightened banks, high levels of E. coli, and high sedimentation. He added that many of the projects within the vision are aimed at improving these issues, as well as enhancing access and recreation, and community engagement. Ms. Babb reported that the river and trails have garnered the most feedback from the public when input has been sought for City plans. She cited the numerous organizations involved in the implementation of the Vision and gave an overview of the projects implemented since its adoption, funded largely through grants. Ms. Babb outlined, by CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION | 4 MARCH 12, 2026 City department, the remaining responsibilities and projects that are currently contractually obligated, and reviewed details of the following projects, including the WaterSMART Cooperative Watershed Management Grant, the Oxbow Restoration Project, and the Centennial Rainey Park Project. In response to a question from Council, Justin Armstrong, Water Superintendent, stated that a distribution well in the Hildreth Road area would not be impacted by the Oxbow Restoration Project and associated improvements. In response to a question from Council, Tom Kirkman, Public Works Director, stated that the Oxbow Restoration Project would provide significant benefit to water quality, particularly in the problematic Marsh Creek area, as it would address sedimentation that contributes to turbidity. He referenced issues with erosion due to grazing and mounting sedimentation that results from the levee slowing water flow. Mr. Kirkman added that the City has little authority to require surrounding landowners to participate in efforts to improve water quality and minimize erosion. He stated that the Oxbow Project is situated on City-owned land. In response to questions from Council, Ms. Babb confirmed that within the Centennial Rainey Park Project, the levee wall height would not change as the City is not allowed to increase risk. She clarified that funding has been secured for construction to commence this year on the Rainey levee setback portion of the project which would move the levee, create a wetland area, and add a stormwater pond. In response to a question from Council, Anne Butler, Parks and Recreation Director, described the insufficient parking for Centennial Park that affects neighboring homes. She stated that the addition of asphalt for a parking area would be the most costly portion of the proposed improvements but also the critical component for hosting events at this park. In response to a question from Council, Christine Howe, Grants Manager, stated that the cost estimate for the addition of asphalt submitted in 2023 was approximately $1.2 million. She estimated that current costs would be closer to $2 million, and an updated estimate could be secured. In response to a question from Council, Ms. Babb confirmed that it could be less expensive for Street Services to install asphalt, but federal requirements attached to grant funds for this project may not allow for that. Ms. Howe clarified that a general fund source or private donation may be necessary to facilitate Street Services installing asphalt as their funds are restricted as well. Ms. Babb referenced the following needs and asked for Council direction regarding: updating the Portneuf River Vision Plan, which is 10 years old; maintenance and management of developed river assets; communication about and funding for projects using a phased approach; and the selection of community partners. The Council members discussed providing accurate information to the public regarding the concrete channel and river-related projects and how projects fit within the City’s Comprehensive Plan. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 5 MARCH 12, 2026 Mayor Dahlquist called a recess at 10:49 a.m. Mayor Dahlquist reconvened the meeting at 10:58 a.m. AGENDA ITEM NO. 6: CITY-INITIATED TEXT AMENDMENTS TO TITLE 17: ZONING REGULATIONS Planning and Development Services staff members were in attendance to discuss proposed updates to Pocatello City Code Title 17: Zoning Regulations. Jim Anglesey, Long Range Planner, explained that the proposed amendments are part of periodic updates brought forward once or twice per year to address inconsistencies, improve functionality, align with state code, and provide additional flexibility within the zoning ordinance. He outlined revisions to use classifications, clarifying that a group home would allow up to 15 unrelated individuals receiving care within a residential setting, while residential care facilities would apply to 16 or more individuals and typically include larger-scale operations such as assisted living. He stated that unrelated individuals living together without receiving care would not qualify as a group home. He noted that updates to the district use table are intended to correct errors and inconsistencies, with definitions and keys included in the full code. He explained that proposed changes to child care regulations reflect recent updates to state oversight and remove outdated references. He described clarifications to land use regulations to better reflect that high- density residential uses are permitted in certain commercial zones through a conditional use permit. He reviewed proposed changes to off-street parking standards, including expanding waivers within the downtown area and extending the 10 percent administrative adjustment to parking requirements, primarily benefiting larger developments. He discussed updates to home occupation regulations, noting increased remote work and proposing to allow one on-site assistant, simplify hours of operation, remove the “by appointment only” requirement, and permit limited client visits, while focusing regulation on higher-impact uses. He further stated that certain uses, such as massage therapy and counseling, would be categorized under broader defined use groups, that automotive repair would not be permitted in residential areas, and that staff would consider aligning hours of operation with those associated with nuisance regulations. He concluded that, if supported by Council, the amendments would proceed through the public hearing process beginning with the Planning and Zoning Commission. In response to questions from Council, Becky Babb, Planning Manager, explained that enforcement of home occupation regulations is primarily complaint-driven or identified through visible indicators such as signage or site activity. She stated that the process involves notification, a compliance period, continued follow-up, and potential legal involvement if necessary. She noted that enforcement can be resource-intensive and difficult to distinguish between personal and business activities, and that the proposed amendments would reduce enforcement burdens by narrowing the scope of regulated activities and focusing on uses with clear neighborhood impacts. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 6 MARCH 12, 2026 AGENDA ITEM NO. 7: LOCAL IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT (LID) PROCESS, PROCEDURES AND REQUIREMENTS Staff members from the Public Works Department were in attendance to discuss the statutory process and procedures associated with establishment of a Local Improvement District (LID) under Idaho Code. Tom Kirkman, Public Works Director, and Brian Trammell, Deputy City Attorney, gave an overview of the statutory process and requirements for establishing an LID, emphasizing that it is a highly procedural process under Idaho Code that requires careful adherence to avoid errors. He explained that LIDs are used to complete localized infrastructure improvements such as water, sewer, or roadway projects, with costs assessed to benefiting property owners over time, and noted that a petition requiring signatures from at least 60 percent of resident property owners or two-thirds of non- resident owners obligates the City Council to take action. Mr. Kirkman stated that upon receipt of a valid petition, Council must consider a resolution of intent to create the LID, which initiates the process and leads to notification of affected property owners and a public hearing, where written protests must be filed and considered, and only protestors are required to be heard. He clarified that while Council is obligated to act on a valid petition, it retains discretion following the public hearing to approve, modify, or deny the LID based on findings such as whether the project is in the best interest of the City and financially feasible. He further explained that, if approved, the project becomes a City project, requiring design, bidding, and construction oversight, as well as interim financing, typically through short term warrants, followed by long term bonding to recover costs through property assessments. Mr. Kirkman outlined that, after construction, assessment rolls are prepared and presented at a second public hearing, after which Council may revise and adopt the assessments by ordinance, with costs allocated to property owners as liens payable either in full or over time, commonly up to 30 years with interest, and collected with property taxes. He added that the City is generally not legally obligated to repair private infrastructure beyond the service meter, even in annexed areas, and noted that while some legacy private systems exist within public rights of way, current practice is to avoid such arrangements. Mr. Kirkman also stated that detailed project specific considerations, including public benefit, financial impacts, and City capacity, would be addressed during the public hearing process, and referenced prior LID examples in Pocatello and other Idaho cities, emphasizing the importance of following each procedural step carefully to ensure compliance. AGENDA ITEM NO. 8: COUNCIL ADVISORY BOARD UPDATES This time was set aside for the Mayor and Council members to give an update regarding recent advisory board activities. Mr. Nichols reported that the Pocatello Development Authority (PDA) selected a demolition contractor for the Monarch building following the request for qualifications process. In response to a question from Council, Brent McLane, PDA Executive Director, stated that PDA is currently coordinating the scope of work with the contractor which will CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 7 MARCH 12, 2026 identify a projected timeline for the Monarch building project, which will take several weeks to complete. Efforts will be made to coordinate with the Center Street project to minimize disruption to underpass traffic and surrounding businesses. Mr. Bates reported that the Bannock Transportation Planning Organization is conducting an assessment of the condition of trails and Greenway areas in anticipation of collaboration with the City of Chubbuck and Bannock County regarding maintenance. He noted that neither the Community Development Block Grant Advisory Committee nor the Southeast Idaho Council of Governments (SICOG) regular boards have met recently, but added that the SICOG Executive Board has met and is organizing a committee to improve audit compliance and timeliness. Ms. Swanson stated that she did not attend the Investment and Audit Committee quarterly meeting held in January and Housing Alliance and Community Partnerships will meet next week. She noted that the Pocatello Arts Council has cancelled meetings recently due to a lack of quorum, but is making preparations to host the annual Empty Bowls event to benefit The Idaho Foodbank. Ms. Satterfield referenced her service on the Historic Downtown Pocatello Board, noting that the Board will host the annual BrewFest event on Saturday. She also reported that the Golf Advisory Committee, in coordination with the Parks and Recreation Committee, has arranged alternate parking accommodations for golfers at Riverside Golf Course during the construction of the new clubhouse. Mr. Mangum stated that programs that will assist with the budgeting process and management of investments were reviewed at the Investment and Audit Committee meeting. He reported that Neighborworks is seeking a director, wrapping up several projects, and reaching out to the community regarding the housing crisis. Mr. Mangum explained that the Pocatello Regional Airport Commission is reviewing policies, procedures, and codes to remove redundancies and make improvements. Mr. Paulsen announced that the Senior Activity Center is hosting a bingo event on Saturday and acar show June 13. In February, the Center served 1,765 meals, which is an increase of 100 over last February. The partnership with Meals on Wheels has been successful following the change of food preparation to the Center, with a decrease in cost and an increase in nutritive value of meals. Mr. Paulsen reported that the Human Relations Advisory Committee (HRAC) has expressed opinions to the Mayor and Council about legislation that may be considered discriminatory. He added that the Committee is interested in adding a public comment portion to their meetings that would allow individuals to express grievances. Mr. Paulsen stated that HRAC has selected Elmer Martinez and Lena Contor to be recognized with the Committee’s annual award in May at an event in Caldwell Park. He closed by referencing the housing project led by Southeast Idaho Community Action Agency which is commencing phase three. Mayor Dahlquist announced a reception on April 16 at 11:00 a.m. hosted by Portneuf Valley Development for SME Steel, which is moving into the building near the airport formerly occupied by the Peterson Steel Corporation and is expected to create approximately 80 jobs. He reminded those in attendance of the city-wide clean up Saturday, May 2 hosted by the Pocatello Chubbuck Chamber of Commerce. He added that breakfast is provided to volunteers between 8:30 and 10:00 a.m. at Caldwell Park. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 8 MARCH 12, 2026 AGENDA ITEM NO. oa: ADJOURN There being no further business, Mayor Dahlquist adjourned the meeting at 11:53 a.m. APPROVED: Wat. Qt MARK DAHLQUIST, MAYOR ATTESTED BY:
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