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minutes meeting date 2026-02-12 · fetched 2026-09-17 · 23914 characters · read by OCR, check numbers against the source · official file · plain text
CITY OF | CITY OF POCATELLO, IDAHO Ue, ae, a ay CITY COUNCIL SO ae CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION FEBRUARY 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 and Ann Swanson. Council member Stacy Satterfield was excused. AGENDA ITEM NO: 2: AMERICAN FALLS FFA AG ISSUES TEAM PRESENTATION Representatives from the American Falls Future Farmers of America (FFA) Ag Issues Team were present to give a presentation on the rescission of the Roadless Rule established in 2001. Marc Beitia, American Falls High School FFA Ag Issues Advisor, introduced members of the FFA team. Following the presentation, Mayor Dahlquist and Council members thanked the students for the presentation and wished them luck in upcoming FFA competitions. AGENDA ITEM NO. 3: POCATELLO REGIONAL AIRPORT COMMISSION UPDATE Representatives from the Pocatello Regional Airport Commission were present to discuss the Commission’s goals and projects, as well as Council’s policies and expectations. Alan Evans, Airport Manager, and Molly Beseris, Commission Chair, gave an overview of the Commission's goals and priorities. Ms. Beseris reported that since the Commission's formation, members have focused on reviewing goals, refining priorities, and strengthening collaboration with City administration. The Commission currently includes aviation professionals, including two pilots, who provide valuable operational perspective. Key efforts include establishing an equitable and competitive rental rate structure for non-aviation airport property. Updated property appraisals are being used to determine fair market lease rates in compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements. Ms. Beseris stated the Commission is also working with the City Planning Department to update the Non-Aviation Airport Master Plan, which will guide future development and land-use decisions. She added that the Commission is coordinating with City administration to review and modernize City Code provisions related to the airport, many of which have not been updated since 1998. Proposed updates will align local code with current FAA standards and operational practices. Once finalized, recommendations will be presented to the Council. Mr. Evans acknowledged that the Commission is developing an Air Carrier Incentive Program to attract and retain airline service. The program, requested by the FAA, is still in development and will outline potential incentives such as waived landing fees, gate space, and other measures designed to reduce startup costs for airlines. No dedicated funding amount has been established yet. The final proposal will be presented to the CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 2 FEBRUARY 12, 2026 Council. Mr. Evans emphasized that the airport generates an estimated $148 million of economic impact to the region. In response to questions from Council, Ms. Beseris stated that Commission members did not participate in the CREST project and had limited information at the time it was announced. Airport staff later provided the Commission with a high-level overview. Mr. Evans outlined that FAA guidelines require periodic appraisals—generally every five years—to ensure lease rates reflect fair market value. Recent appraisals showed significantly increased land values, which initially limited interest from potential tenants. Adjustments have since been made to encourage development while remaining compliant with federal requirements. Mr. Evans reported that the City currently owns nine (9) aviation hangars, all of which are occupied. There is a waiting list for additional hangar space. No new hangars have been constructed in approximately 18 years; however, interest has increased and ten (10) privately built hangars have recently been developed, including four completed last year. Land previously occupied by the former speedway has been prepared for future hangar development, with capacity for approximately 35-38 hangars once infrastructure is completed. Mr. Evans confirmed that the airport sits on approximately 3,200 acres of City-owned property, and the airport maintains oversight of land use within that area. He confirmed that the current non-aviation master plan dates to 2012 and is in the process of being updated. The aviation master plan was completed recently using FAA funding. In response to questions from Council, Mr. Evans reported that a new FAA-funded control tower project is moving forward. Groundbreaking is anticipated in June 2026, with construction expected to take several years. After construction, an additional year will be required for staffing and operational readiness, with the tower projected to become operational around 2029-2030. Ms. Beseris discussed the importance of clarifying expectations regarding the Commission’s role in economic development activities at the airport. She expressed interest in continued collaboration with the Mayor and City Council to ensure alignment with the City’s priorities and the Commission’s authorizing ordinance. The Mayor and Council thanked the Commission and airport staff for their work and progress on long-standing issues. Councilmembers expressed interest in visiting the airport for a future tour to observe facilities and ongoing developments. AGENDA ITEM NO. 4: CITY ENTRYWAY AND ROADWAY LANDSCAPE REDESIGN PROPOSAL - PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES Planning and Development Services Staff members and representatives of The Land Group, consulting firm, were in attendance to present proposed concepts for new landscape designs for select city entryways and roadways. Council was asked to select preferred concepts to implement as opportunity allows. This project was made possible through a Western State Fire Manager’s Grant administered by the Idaho Department of Lands. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 3 FEBRUARY 12, 2026 Jim Anglesey, Long-Range Senior Planner, introduced Maggie Clark, representing The Land Group, consultant. Ms. Clark presented proposed landscape redesign concepts for city entryways and roadway corridors. The project is funded through a Western State Fire Manager’s Grant administered by the Idaho Department of Lands. Council was asked to review the concepts and provide direction on preferred designs and implementation priorities. She introduced the project team, which includes specialists in landscape architecture, irrigation design, fire mitigation, and revegetation. Ms. Clark outlined the project’s primary goals which are to improve public health and safety through Firewise landscaping practices; protect city land and water resources; increase ecological resilience and drought tolerance; and develop a long-term implementation and maintenance strategy. She explained that proposed designs emphasize native and drought-tolerant plants, reduced turf grass, and landscaping that lowers fire risk while maintaining ecological benefits. Plant selections include drought-resistant grasses, perennials, and shrubs designed to minimize irrigation needs and long-term maintenance. Ms. Clark outlined multiple conceptual designs for the following key areas: Pocatello Creek Interchange; Clark Street Interchange; Oak Street and Yellowstone Avenue intersection; City Hall waterwise garden; landscaped islands on 4th and Sth Avenue; Center Street underpass; and South 5th Avenue entryway sign area. She stated that in several locations, two design options were presented, with the preferred alternative identified by staff. These concepts focus on naturalized planting patterns, ornamental grasses, and strategic shrub groupings to reduce irrigation demand and mowing. Council discussed long-term maintenance implications with Parks and Recreation staff. In response to Council questions, Anne Butler, Parks and Recreation Director, noted that while traditional Kentucky bluegrass lawns are simple to maintain through mowing and irrigation, they require more water and weekly maintenance. Native and drought- tolerant landscapes require more specialized care initially but may reduce irrigation needs once they are established. She noted that establishment of native plantings typically requires one to three (1-3) years of supplemental irrigation and maintenance before they evolve into lower-maintenance systems. Mr. Anglesey reported that the grant provides $257,400 total project funding. Approximately $128,000 available for implementation, primarily at the Pocatello Creek Interchange and $17,400 allocated for Parks and Recreation installation labor. He explained that the grant funding requires implementation at the Pocatello Creek interchange but allows the design plans to guide improvements elsewhere as funding becomes available. Irrigation upgrades are not included in the current grant funding. Ms. Butler emphasized the Parks and Recreation Department faces staffing limitations and must balance maintenance of large landscaped areas with other park responsibilities. Council discussed the need to ensure new designs remain manageable with available resources and potential installation of additional “Pocatello” entryway signage. Mr. Anglesey indicated the grant does not cover signage, and any new signs would require coordination with the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) due to highway clear zone and safety regulations. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 4 FEBRUARY 12, 2026 Council members expressed interest in a phased implementation strategy that prioritizes improvements with the greatest visual impact and manageable maintenance requirements. Mayor Dahlquist summarized Council consensus and provided direction to staff: Utilize grant funds to implement landscape improvements at the Pocatello Creek Interchange, focusing initially on perimeter planting areas; explore improvements on the west side of the Clark Street interchange and along the Union Pacific fence line on Pocatello Avenue, where smaller projects may provide significant visual improvement; and future phases which may be incorporated into long-term budget planning and implemented as funding becomes available. Council also indicated support for using third-party contractors for installation at the Pocatello Creek project, consistent with grant requirements. Council members emphasized the importance of improving community entryways and creating along-term roadmap for beautification efforts across the city. Staff members were asked to continue refining cost estimates and maintenance considerations as future phases are developed. Mayor Dahlquist acknowledged recent cleanup efforts by the Sanitation Department and Parks and Recreation staff members to improve the appearance of nearby areas. Mayor Dahlquist called a recess at 10:57 a.m. Mayor Dahlquist reconvened the meeting at 11:08 a.m. AGENDA ITEM NO. 5: CREST DEVELOPMENT PROJECT UPDATE - PORTNEUF VALLEY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION Portneuf Valley Development Corporation (PVD) representatives were present to update the Council on the CREST Development and detail next steps including participation with the City of Pocatello. MiaCate Kennedy I, Portneuf Valley Development Corporation (PVD) Executive Director, provided an update on the proposed CREST Development Project at the Pocatello Regional Airport and outlined potential next steps and the City’s potential role in the project. She explained that the CREST project is a conceptual master plan intended to guide long-term development of city-owned airport property. The concept includes potential components such as sports and recreation facilities, hotels, convention space, and complementary commercial development. Ms. Kennedy stated the project has progressed through early development stages, including completion of a feasibility and market analysis study, which was funded by PVD. The analysis suggests opportunities related to the growing youth sports and sports tourism industry, which is experiencing significant regional growth. Ms. Kennedy explained the role of PVD is to facilitate economic development projects across Bannock County and surrounding jurisdictions. She emphasized that PVD does not own the CREST project or the airport property, but instead coordinates stakeholders, developers, and potential investors. Ms. Kennedy noted that due to non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) with potential private partners, some recruitment discussions and business outreach efforts cannot be publicly disclosed. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 5 FEBRUARY 12, 2026 She indicated several private developers and investors have expressed interest but are awaiting additional project information and financial projections before making commitments. Ms. Kennedy indicated the next step would typically involve creating a professional marketing and investment prospectus (“marketing book”) outlining the following: development opportunities; infrastructure considerations; potential incentives; available land and development parcels; and economic projections. This document would be used to recruit developers and investors for specific project components. Council members discussed infrastructure requirements associated with the project, including water, sewer, electrical capacity, road improvements and impacts on wastewater treatment capacity. In response to Council questions, Ms. Kennedy noted that additional analysis is anticipated to evaluate infrastructure needs across the airport property. She explained that because the land is owned by the City, the City would likely play a key partnership role in the project, while private developers would fund and construct individual components. Brent McLane, Planning and Development Services Director, indicated the City is seeking grant funding in the amount of $750,000 to conduct broader planning and infrastructure studies related to the airport and surrounding development opportunities. Councilmembers expressed an interest in clarification regarding project ownership and the City’s potential financial responsibilities. They shared concerns that previous development projects in the community generated public expectations but did not ultimately deliver as planned. They emphasized the importance of clear communication, financial transparency, and realistic timelines before committing additional resources. Council discussed the feasibility study and associated timelines and requested clearer cost estimates and financial projections before considering additional funding for project marketing or development activities. They discussed the importance of understanding how public funds would be used and how risks would be managed. Ms. Kennedy acknowledged the proposed timelines are aggressive and dependent on funding, partnerships, and market conditions, and noted that projects of this scale typically develop over many years. Councilmembers indicated interest in further evaluating the project but requested additional information before making funding decisions. Specifically, Council asked for the following: a clearer project roadmap outlining development phases; estimated costs associated with the next steps; details regarding the proposed marketing and investment prospectus; and additional clarification on public versus private financial responsibilities. Councilmembers emphasized that while members are interested in the long-term potential of the project, they want to ensure that future investments are carefully evaluated and aligned with community priorities. Ms. Kennedy acknowledged Council’s concerns and indicated she would work to provide additional information and improve communication regarding the project’s progress and potential next steps. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 6 FEBRUARY 12, 2026 Mayor Dahlquist added that further discussion and education on the project will likely occur in future Council meetings. AGENDA ITEM NO. 6: PROPOSED UTILITY BILLING CODE UPDATES - UTILITY BILLING Cindy Robbins, Utility Billing Director, was present to discuss proposed changes to City Code Title 13 for procedure clarification and updates. Ms. Robbins presented proposed updates to City Code Title 13 to clarify procedures related to utility account deposits. She explained that in 2015, City Council reviewed deposit policies and considered using credit reports to determine deposit requirements. Council approved a flat $150 deposit for all new utility accounts. Ms. Robbins explained that the deposit remains on the account until it is finalized and the credit amount is applied to the final bill. She noted that although the ordinance still references credit checks as a potential method of determining deposits, the City has not used credit reporting since adopting the flat-rate system. She recommended removing the outdated language from the ordinance to reflect current practice. Ms. Robbins reported the deposit policy has significantly reduced the amount of unpaid accounts sent to collections. Prior to the policy change, the City averaged approximately $62,000 annually in collections, compared to about $24,000 in the past year. Council discussion included the following topics: the total amount currently held in utility deposits, approximately $300,000, which is retained on accounts until service is closed; and whether deposits accrue interest. Staff later explained the funds remain on the City’s balance sheet until returned or applied to final balances. The previous practice of refunding deposits after one year of on-time payments ended in 2016, because the City often still experienced unpaid balances when accounts closed. Ms. Robbins discussed customer assistance programs and emphasized the City provides approximately $12,000 annually to the Southeastern Idaho Community Action Agency (SEICAA) to assist residents who fall behind on utility bills. SEICAA administers the funds without charging administrative fees and works with customers to prevent service disconnections. In response to questions from Council, Ms. Robbins explained that the utility ordinance requires monthly payments and limits the City’s ability to extend long-term credit. Staff work with customers when possible but must ultimately enforce payment requirements to maintain the enterprise utility system. Mayor Dahlquist announced that no formal action would be taken at that time and that the proposed code cleanup would return to Council for consideration at a future Regular Council meeting. AGENDA ITEM NO. 7: GRANT POLICIES AND PROCEDURES MANUAL PROPOSED REVISIONS - GRANTS/FINANCE DEPARTMENT CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 7 FEBRUARY 12, 2026 Grants Division staff members and Finance Department staff members were in attendance to present proposed changes and seek Council feedback regarding proposed changes to the City’s adopted Grant Policy and Procedures Manual. Council feedback will be incorporated and final policy revisions will be presented for adoption at a future Regular City Council meeting pending Legal Department review. Christine Howe, Grants Manager, gave an overview of the current Grant Policy and Procedures manual and explained the purpose of the updates is to reflect current internal practices and improve clarity and consistency in grant administration. She added that due to organizational changes and evolving administrative practices, adoption of an updated policy ensures compliance with state and federal regulations. Ms. Howe described the following key policy changes: Expanded definition of “grant” to include special purpose or restricted funds not previously categorized as entitlement, formula, or competitive grants; added clarification regarding grant funding sources; and standardized terminology for “grant” and “project” throughout the document. Ms. Howe emphasized the simplified policy language also incorporates references to the City of Pocatello Conflict of Interest Policy and applicable Idaho State code and federal regulations. Ms. Howe detailed proposed changes regarding roles and responsibilities which would shift grants functions from the Finance Department to the Grants Division. Functions include application preparation and submission; grant administrative requirements, such as executing contracts, filing reports, submitting and processing reimbursements and maintaining grant files; grant compliance requirements; and audit requirements. She articulated that the proposed policy manual outlines Finance Department responsibilities which include the following: accounting record maintenance; monitoring budgets, processing requested budget changes through amendments, account lines and project codes; tracking assets; reviewing expenditures; and auditing, reporting and grant closeout. Ms. Howe emphasized proposed policy updates clarified requirements for Legal Department review prior to submission to City Council for final approval. She added that the policy also details reinforced responsibilities to Department heads to coordinate with the Grants Division during application development to ensure sufficient staffing, budget and resources for project implementation, if a grant is awarded. Council discussed the proposed changes and provided feedback on governance and approval authority, clarity of departmental responsibilities and administrative efficiency and compliance. Council members thanked Ms. Howe and the Finance Department staff for their attention to the proposed policy and procedures. Mayor Dahlquist stated that staff members will prepare the policy based on Council feedback and Council will consider adoption at a future Regular City Council meeting. AGENDA ITEM NO. 8: PROPOSED REPEAL OF CITY CODE - FIRE PREVENTION AND SAFETY REGULATIONS 15.12.1440 “DAYCARE OPERATIONS” AND 15.12.145 “CHILDREN GROUP TREATMENT CENTER OPERATIONS” - FIRE DEPARTMENT Fire Department staff members were in attendance to discuss the proposed repeal of the following: a) City Code 15.12.140 “Daycare Operations” to align with Idaho Code; and b) City Code 15.12.145 “Children Group Treatment Center Operations” to align with CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 8 FEBRUARY 12, 2026 International Fire Code. Final action will be presented to the Council at a future Regular City Council meeting. Dean Bullock, Assistant Fire Chief, gave an overview of a proposal to repeal two sections of City Code to align with state law and national fire standards. He explained that the Idaho House Bill 243 established statewide standards for fire protection requirements for daycare facilities and limits local jurisdictions from adopting regulations more stringent than the International Fire Code. Mr. Bullock explained that because portions of the City’s current ordinance exceed the allowable standards, staff recommended repealing City Code 15.12.140 - Daycare Operations and City Code 15.12.1445 - Children Group Treatment Center Operations. He emphasized that the Fire Department will continue inspecting daycare facilities under the standards of the International Fire Code, but the City must remove local provisions that are more restrictive than state law. Council members discussed the impact of the legislation and confirmed that inspections and enforcement will still occur under applicable fire code standards. Mayor Dahlquist announced that final action on the proposed ordinance changes would be brought back to the Council for consideration at a future Regular City Council meeting. AGENDA ITEM 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. Mayor Dahlquist announced that in the interest of time, Agenda Item No. 9 would not be addressed at this time. AGENDA ITEM NO. 10: ADJOURN There being no further business, Mayor Dahlquist adjourned the meeting at 12:56 p.m. APPROVED: MARK DAHLQUIS®, MAYOR ATTEST AND PREPARED BY:
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