Sentinel Media records · public agendas and minutes, text only, refreshed nightly from each body's own site · not a newspaper
minutes meeting date 2026-09-14 · fetched 2026-10-13 · 33700 characters · official file · plain text
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 1 of 11
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, September 14, 2026
POWER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Meeting Minutes
Commission Chambers
543 Bannock Ave.
American Falls, ID 83211
www.powercounty.gov
Monday, September 14, 2026, 9:00 a.m.
I. CALL TO ORDER
The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session Monday, September 14, 2026, and
called the meeting to order at the hour of 9:00 am, in the Commission Chambers of the Power
County Courthouse.
II. COMMISSIONERS/STAFF
PRESENT:
Commissioner Chris Fehringer, Chair
Commissioner Kryst Krein
Commissioner Jason Povey
ABSENT:
None
STAFF:
Mariano Villa, Deputy Clerk
Brock Bischoff, Legal Counsel
OTHER PARTIES PRESENT:
Laura Porath
Jeff Rankin
Anthony Simerlink
Kim Piper
Kasey Kendall
Deanna Curry
Kami Chandler
Dough Ruff
Jenny Ruff
Stace Gearhart
Emily Tew
Becki W
III. AGENDA
A. NOTICES/REPORTS
1. Public Comment: No public comment was given.
2. Elected Officials/Department Head Meeting:
Prosecutor's Office:
•
Prosecutor Bischoff inquired about converting the commissioner's office’s into private
meeting spaces for attorneys and defendants, citing a significant lack of privacy in the
current common area near the courtroom. The Commissioner’s agreed that the first
two commissioners offices would be converted for attorney use.
•
Asked about the timeline for moving the postage machine and mailboxes, noting access
issues to the clerk's office. Commissioners state that as of right now, the plan was to
place the postage machine in the vacant public defender’s office. Assessor Porath
offered space in her department for the postage machine.
•
Inquired about plans for the Old Public Defender's Office and clearing election storage
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 2 of 11
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, September 14, 2026
from their back office. Commissioner Povey states that the plan is to move the election
equipment in the vacant backroom of the public defender’s office and possible
courthouse security and early voting in the adjacent office. Prosecutor Bischoff
encouraged for a decision to be made sooner rather than later.
Ambulance / Emergency Management:
•
Director Chandler states that the new ambulance was received and wrapped but getting
it fully in service is estimated at 3–6 months, pending equipment purchases and state
inspection.
•
A monitor costs $45,000 and a gurney costs $60,000.
•
A grant of $185,000 was received; the county fronted $100,000.
•
State inspections on existing ambulances are scheduled in the upcoming weeks.
•
Grant funding for emergency management is opening up; approval will come to the
board at the next meeting.
•
"Ready, Set, Go" evacuation program is being explored, with potential overlap with the
county alert app already approved.
Sheriff:
•
Sheriff Kendall states that two detention center employees have transitioned from
dispatch to patrol. Is currently working on hiring materials for dispatch.
•
Jail population remains around 24–25.
•
Working on end-of-year grant closeouts (marine control, ITD).
•
Discussed potentially reintroducing skills programming in the jail, possibly 2 days a
week with a certified instructor and a part-time jail tech.
•
Juvenile community service (trash pickup, etc.) was also discussed as a component.
•
Sheriff Kendall agreed with the Commissioners regarding converting the vacant front
office at the old public defender’s office into a security room.
Treasurer ‘s Office
•
Working with Systems Design on ongoing VA access issues for about a month and a half,
potentially holding up VA claims. Treasurer Curry further states that email changes have
caused delays.
•
She is also calculating commercial landfill fees at a new proposed rate.
•
Prosecutor Bischoff has been assisting with a public administrator case.
Building & Planning:
•
Building Administrator Kim Piper states that building permits are coming in steadily,
with many trying to get foundations done before winter.
•
Weed control winterization needs attention — equipment needs to be serviced and
chemicals ordered. Commissioner’s asked Ms. Piper to inquire with the new weed
contractor to see if he can perform winterization services on the equipment.
•
A $20,000 chemical line item was discussed; concern raised about buying and storing
chemicals over winter for a new hire.
•
A contract with a new weed contractor is scheduled on the agenda.
Building & Grounds:
•
Maintenance Director, Chet Taylor, informed the group that an old X-ray machine
(security machine) moved to the shop was flagged as potential surplus. Sheriff Kendall
noted that the machine is owned our right by the county, but any potential new owner
would have to get it online again. Discussions about entities would possibly want to
purchase the machine were held.
•
Furnace at the EMS building — question raised about city vs. county responsibility;
Tracy was expected to discuss this later in the morning.
•
A 4-H building office was set up for commissioners' use; keys and chair requests were
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 3 of 11
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, September 14, 2026
discussed.
•
An elevator inspection was needed; fire chief's involvement required.
Assessor’s Office:
•
Assessor Porath states that an employee departure led to a shared employee ad being
placed for the Assessor’s office and Planning & Zoning.
•
Homeowner cancellation list started — only 2 so far; scheduling for October/November.
•
Clarification of the date and time for employee picnic was discussed. It was decided it
would be on Thursday the 17th from 11am-12:30 pm. Assessor Porath stated that she
would also like to do a years of service recognition as there are employes who have
worked for the county for 20+ years.
•
Assessor Porath notified and invited the Commission to a tour that is going to be held at
Lamb Weston at 1pm.
Landfill:
•
Director Jeff Rankin states that things are running smoothly. They were able to retain an
employee and is working with engineers and water representatives for landfill closure.
Extension Office:
•
Extension office agent, Anthony Simerlink states that the Fair sold about 113 animals;
fair went well with more community involvement.
•
Wrapped up at the Eastern Idaho State Fair; several youths participated with strong
results.
•
The department is also busy providing consultations and home visits.
IT Department:
•
Vendor review of M2 Automation (access control/cameras), FirstNet (35 phone lines
being audited), and 5 printer vendors.
•
Recommendation to route all IT-related requests through IT as facilitators.
•
Web certificate updated from co.power.id.us to powercounty.gov.
Commissioner’s
•
Commissioner Krein states that he is working with Northwest Renewables, the Data
Center Coalition (Google, Amazon), and state legislators. Data centers could
significantly reduce property taxes — one data center could lower taxes by a quarter to
a third. A town hall on data centers is being organized in a few months to educate the
community and receive feedback. Priority is the County. Regarding water usage for data
centers, Commissioner Krein states that they use a closed loop system which would
keep water usage down. Commissioner Krein thanked everyone for their hard work and
encouraged the group to reach out if they have any questions.
•
Commissioner Povey states that he is working with SICOG on the demolition of the
annex building and thanked the group for their hard work.
•
Regarding data centers, Commissioner Fehringer reported that discussions with
neighboring counties indicate data centers remain a controversial topic, though there is
potential to build on work already underway elsewhere. He encouraged an open-
minded approach, emphasizing potential financial advantages such as lower property
taxes, reduced power bills, and revenue to offset landfill costs and budget constraints.
3. Proximity Presentation: Becki and Emily presented Proximity, a communications and outreach
platform designed to supplement existing alert systems rather than replace them. The platform
features contact management, segmented messaging via text and email, AI-assisted surveys,
event tracking, and engagement analytics.
During the discussion, it was noted that the county currently reaches its approximately 8,000
residents primarily via its website and social media, alongside a recently approved Sheriff's app
and the consideration of Ready Set Go for emergency alerts. The board raised concerns about
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 4 of 11
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, September 14, 2026
avoiding multiple overlapping systems that could send conflicting information and suggested
involving IT for further evaluation. In response, Proximity clarified that their goal is to
complement existing tools rather than duplicate them, citing a 98% text deliverability rate. The
board requested a formal proposal detailing how Proximity would integrate with the county's
current setup.
4. Airport Update: Commissioner Fehringer reported to the Commission regarding compensating
for mowing services at the fairgrounds while Dallen Ward was unable to do so due to back
surgery. The work totaled just over $1,000 at $30 per hour. By consensus the Board agreed the
workers should be compensated but noted that prior approval should have been obtained.
Payment will not be processed through Mr. Ward’s timecard; instead, the workers will complete
independent contractor paperwork and be paid. Going forward, any final rate will be
determined and need to be approved by the Board. Line to be paid will be under 01-17-678-00
contract line under airport miscellaneous.
5. Building & Grounds: The board discussed upcoming plans regarding Dr. Williams' office. In
response to Commissioner Povey’s inquiry, Commissioner Fehringer noted that a representative
needs to present their plans and expectations directly to the board. It was agreed that they will
need to be placed on a future meeting agenda to discuss this.
6. Board Updates: The following board updates were held;
Full-Time Position – Fairgrounds:
•
The board discussed options for filling the full-time fairgrounds position, noting that
the Fair Board requested involvement in the hiring process and was asked to draft
roles and responsibilities, including weekend and after-hours coverage. To address
budget constraints that prevent funding two separate full-time positions, the board
agreed to combine fairgrounds management with weed control into a single role.
Commissioner Krein offered to service and flush the spraying equipment before winter
using his license in the interim. As a next step, the board directed staff to contact the
fair board representative to draft a job description requiring a spraying license, aiming
to post the combined position. The board expressed optimism that a single hire can
manage both areas effectively.
Health Board Update:
•
Commissioner Fehringer states that other counties have passes resolutions to support
reducing access to Kratom, a substance that produces effects similar to heroin when
consumed.
•
Kratom is currently sold at convenience stores and gas stations; the goal is to pass a
statewide limit on its sale.
•
Fremont County was also looking at passing a similar resolution, and the board
expressed interest in joining.
•
A question was raised about DUI implications, noting there is no blood test for Kratom
— enforcement relies on field sobriety and observations.
•
Commissioner Fehringer agreed to reach out to a Fremont County Commissioner for
more information and to ask for Fremont County's draft resolution.
SICOG/Annex Building Update:
•
Commissioner Povey states that the annex building update was reviewed; nearly all
parties had approved the updated plan except the EPA.
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 5 of 11
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, September 14, 2026
•
The EPA indicated they would review it and send it back with two minor changes
expected.
•
A board meeting with them was scheduled for the following week.
Museum Board Update:
•
Commissioner Krein states that a JAWS Tech representative came in and presented a
preliminary model with a more detailed version to follow before final payment.
•
The museum board discussed selling bricks as a fundraiser, pending a check on lead
content.
•
JAWS Tech could also create small figurines placed on top of bricks with a plaque, which
could be sold individually.
•
An old wooden water line section (approximately 6 feet long) with original joints and
curb stops was offered by Commissioner Fehringer to the museum as a historical
display piece.
Planning & Zoning
•
Commissioner Krein states that the previous planning & zoning meeting went very well
and was happy with how it was conducted
•
It was agreed that the Commissioners would attend the November 4th planning &
zoning meeting.
7. Commissioner’s Business As Needed: A discussion was held regarding keys for the
Commissioner’s Chambers and if it was possible to duplicate one for additional access.
8. RFP Discussion Mosquito: The clerk’s office reported that they had received proposals and have
those scheduled to be addressed on 9/28/26.
9. RFP Discussion IT: The clerk’s office reported that they had received proposals and have those
scheduled to be addressed on 9/28/26.
10. Landfill Update: Landfill Director Jeff Rankin presented several operational and contract
updates, relaying details submitted by contracted project manager and engineer Stephen
Freiburger. First, regarding the solid waste closure plan, a 322-page rough draft was received on
September 10 with key pages printed for review. Mr. Freiburger noted necessary wording
changes prior to submission to the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (IDEQ). Due to
the tight review window before the initial September 15 target, prosecutor review was delayed,
and IDEQ was notified of an extended submission date of September 28 to allow landfill closure
legal counsel Nate Cuoio to complete a formal review.
Regarding water sampling, a five-year, $160,000 proposed contract with Valley ($30,000
annually for quarterly well sampling) raised procedural and compatibility concerns, as long-term
contracts typically require an RFP and annual renewal structures. To maintain administrative
alignment and ensure data consistency, Tetra Tech—previously used with IDEQ—was
recommended to conduct the upcoming fall and spring sampling cycles rather than onboarding
a new vendor mid-process. Additionally, the county is exploring a cost-saving measure to have
its own Level 4 licensed water and wastewater staff collect the samples internally. The City
conducts the samples and it was stated that the board will reach out to see if this can be done.
Board action was deferred to the September 28 meeting, pending legal review of the closure
plan, Tetra Tech pricing, and confirmation on whether city staff can legally perform the
sampling.
B. MOTIONS:
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 6 of 11
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, September 14, 2026
1. Agenda: A motion to approve the special agenda for Tuesday, September 8, 2026, was
presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call
of the Board, motion unanimously carried.
2. Museum Building Update: Tracy Harmison from Harmison Heating and Cooling presented an
HVAC assessment for the museum building, which currently operates on three separate units
serving distinct sections—two for the museum side and one for the drug court area.
Consolidating the system into a single unit was estimated at roughly $4,000–$5,000 for
engineering, $5,000 for ductwork fabrication (excluding labor), and $20,000–$22,000 for a
replacement unit plus $1,200 shipping from Texas, making consolidation comparable in cost to
maintaining three separate systems. Alternatively, replacing all three individual units was bid at
$40,000, while replacing just one unit would cost approximately $14,000 with a 3–5-week lead
time. The board agreed to let the one failing unit—whose compressor is still partially functional
but degrades in high heat—run as is and attempt to cool the building with the remaining two
operational units. No immediate action was taken on the museum HVAC system, as repairs for
the EMS building and clinic were prioritized. Consequently, a motion to approve $1,465.90 to
repair the clinic furnace (replacing a bad inducer assembly and scrap collector box) and
$5,534.62 for a new EMS building furnace and approve the 65% upfront cost, as written in the
estimate, to be paid out of the building maintenance line was presented by Commissioner Krein
with a second by Commissioner Povey. Following audible call of the board, the motion
unanimously carried.
3. Cancellation of Taxes: Treasurer Deanna Curry presented a cancellation of taxes for the listed
parcels. Treasurer Curry explained that the taxes were paid on Monday, June 22. Because the
original due date fell on a Saturday, the payment was considered timely but was not backdated
on receipt. She recommended canceling the warrant of distraint and late fee, as they should not
have been issued. A motion to cancel taxes the total amount of $46.66 as reported by
Treasurer Curry was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein.
Following an audible call of the board, motion unanimously carried cancelling taxes on the
following parcels;
Parcel No.
Reason for Cancellation
Cancelled
Amount
MHZ0376-
02
As Per Treasurer
$20.98
RPA0083-
00
As Per Treasurer
$25.68
TOTAL TAXES CANCELLED
$46.66
4. Ecoplexus CUP Letter: Building Administrator Kim Piper presented a letter from Ecoplexus, a
battery storage facility applicant, requiring commissioner signatures for final approval before
construction can begin. The letter incorporates all conditions set by both Planning and Zoning
and the board, though a typo in "Falls" was noted for correction. The project is estimated to
generate nearly a million dollars in county tax revenue—offering significant tax relief for
residents—with valuations based on assessed value and a standard 3% annual increase. The
commissioners signed the approval letter, with full contract discussions to follow once
Ecoplexus satisfies all conditions and is ready to start building. Following discussion, a motion to
sign the Ecoplexus CUP letter was presented by Commissioner Krein with a second by
Commissioner Povey. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried.
5. Ruff Time Subdivision Approval: Building Administrator Kim Piper states that the subdivision
was approved by the Planning & Zoning board and is now submitted for approval by the county
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 7 of 11
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, September 14, 2026
Commissioners. Following discussion, a motion to approve the submitted Ruff Time Subdivision
was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible
call of the board the motion unanimously carried.
6. BLM Contract Approval: Building Administrator Kim Piper presented a contract reassignment
for BLM weed spraying grant work after original contractor Randy Kaiser declined due to health
issues. Aaron Hull of Whole Weed Control, a former Oneida County weed superintendent with a
crew of around five, was identified through the BLM contact as a replacement to complete the
work in an estimated three to five days. The county will supply the chemical, and Mr. Hull has
been informed of the grant's chemical quantity limit. Aside from updating the contractor’s
name, all other contract terms remain unchanged. She also states that she will talk to Clerk
Sprague regarding the chemicals and the line they will come out of. Discussions were also held
on whether to purchase chemicals now or carry the budget over to next year. Concern was
raised that storing chemicals over the winter could cause them to spoil if they freeze, prompting
a suggestion to contact a chemical representative about a prepaid delivery option to avoid
storage issues. Additionally, equipment winterization for the weed truck and side-by-side was
noted as straightforward, requiring only a rinse and drain. Following discussion, a motion to
approve the contract for the BLM weed spraying contract with Hull weed control was presented
by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the
board, the motion unanimously carried.
7. Juvenile Pass-Through Funds Agreement: Stace Gearhart, District 6 Liaison for the Idaho
Department of Juvenile Corrections, presented an updated Memorandum of Understanding
that consolidates two previous biannual MOUs into a single agreement. The updated MOU
includes a new requirement for cyber liability insurance, which was verified through ICRMP and
confirmed to cover the county. Under the agreement, $12,733 based on the youth population
aged 10 to 17 is allocated for sex and substance abuse funding from a statewide shared pot. The
payment process has also been centralized so the county no longer pays providers directly;
instead, county Probation staff will screen youth and monitor providers, with no transactions
recorded on the county's books. Following discussion, a motion to approve the Juvenile Pass-
Through Funds Recipient Agreement with the Idaho Department of Juvenile Correction in the
amount of $12,733 was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner
Krein. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried.
8. Sheriff’s Office Update: Sheriff Kasey Kendall presented several items regarding law
enforcement equipment, staffing, and infrastructure. First, Sheriff Kendall requested two
additional Motorola body cameras to supplement the seven existing units, noting that a new
patrol deputy was currently using an incompatible Axon system. While individual cameras cost
$775, cloud storage, insurance, and a three-year refresh cycle brought the total request to
$10,860.40. Following discussion, a motion to purchase the two body cameras, funded through
the Sheriff's IT budget, was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner
Krein. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried.
Regarding employee leave, Payroll Clerk Lissette Aguirre provided a list of staff exceeding
maximum comp and vacation carryover limits, largely driven by chronic understaffing. Sheriff
Kendall proposed utilizing roughly $37,233 in unused salary funds from the vacant Chief Deputy
line to pay down the excess hours, which is estimated to cost around $32,000 to bring balances
back to maximum limits. The board tabled the request to review actual figures and past
minutes, while encouraging employees to take time off in the interim.
Sheriff Kendall outlined an upcoming 700 MHz radio system upgrade requiring an MPLS router
conversion at Table Mountain by September 2027 for ongoing compatibility. Day Wireless
provided a revised estimate of $65,000–$67,000—down from an initial $120,000—to cover
routers, installation, and five years of maintenance. Because this cost is typically split among
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 8 of 11
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, September 14, 2026
seven partner entities, the board will await a formal quote, initiate cost-sharing outreach, and
place the item on a future agenda. Additionally, a Comms Coach training tool ($2,900/year)
funded by the E911 budget will be slated for a future meeting, and three decommissioned
patrol vehicles were reported ready for surplus listing.
9. Consenting Agenda: The following items were discussed under the consenting agenda;
Approval of Past Meeting Minutes – Commissioner Fehringer expressed concern that the August
28th minutes implied a unilateral decision had been made regarding county-owned water
rights. He clarified that he only directed the inquiring party to contact water legal counsel,
Parsons. Commissioner Krein stated that he was bypassed by the clerk in the process and found
that inappropriate. Prosecutor Bischoff emphasized that Board-related decisions, including
directing expenditures from legal budget line items, should be made collectively by the full
Board rather than by individual commissioners. The Board discussed establishing clearer
protocols for time-sensitive legal matters, including a possible pre-authorized threshold of up to
$2,500 for the chairman to act when necessary or to have an individual liaison as Commissioner
Povey is with the IT department. The Board agreed to amend the minutes by removing language
regarding the any implication of an individual commissioner’s decision. The amended language
will state: “Commissioner Krein raised concerns about legal fees being incurred.” The Board will
also work toward establishing clearer protocols for individual commissioner authority on time-
sensitive matters. The minutes were tabled for corrections.
Claims: Discussions were held for claims. Deputy Auditor Cathy Miles provided clarification to
Commissioner Krein’s questions regarding a purchased desk at the PNZ building and a corrected
fuel charge that was supposed to be taken out of separate line. The approved claims report is as
follows;
FUND
Paid
0001 GENERAL FUND (CURRENT EXPENSE)
$ 47,594.16
0002 SICK BANK COMPENSATION
$ 5,786.17
0004 POWER COUNTY AMBULANCE DIST.
$ 28,257.33
0005 POWER COUNTY ABABTEMENT DIST.
$ 16,060.00
0006 DISTRICT COURT
$ 1,307.54
0008 JUSTICE FUND
$ 42,986.44
0009 DRUG COURT
$ 1,750.08
0010 ENHANCED 911 SERVICES
$ 952.99
0011 HEALTH DISTRICT
$ 787.11
0015 ELECTIONS
$ 100.85
0020 REVALUATION
$ 13,346.91
0023 SOLID WASTE (LANDFILL)
$ 5,171.85
0024 TORT
$ 8,716.17
0027 WEEDS
$ 187.33
0038 WATERWAYS
$ 2,321.90
0039 MUSEUM
$ 366.34
0050 PAYMENT IN LIEU OF TAXES
$ 24,728.00
Total Amount Paid
$ 200,421.17
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 9 of 11
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, September 14, 2026
Certificate of Residency College Tuition Assistance Applications – The following applications
were discussed and approved;
Applicant Name
Accredited College
Term Covered
Jayda Chavez
College of Southern
Idaho
2026 Fall Semester
Kimber Kunz
College of Southern
Idaho
2026 Fall Semester
Levy Certification - Clerk Sprague requested that the Board grant an extension for the 2026
levy certifications, as authorized by Idaho Code §§ 63-803(3) and 63-808(2), allowing the
Clerk/Auditor’s Office through September 28, 2026, to complete the levy process. The
extension is necessary to allow time for receipt of certified property values, completion of levy
calculations, and resolution of any discrepancies.
Following discussion, a motion to approve the consenting agenda as submitted with the
exception of the past meeting minutes, was presented by Commissioner Krein with a second
by Commissioner Povey. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried.
10. Personnel: The following personnel updates were submitted by the payroll clerk;
Payroll Clerk Lissette Aguirre reports that Nicole Farley has resigned from the Power County
Ambulance Dist.. Ms. Aguirre advises that the employee is eligible for separation benefits as
follows;
•
0 hours of Compensation pay for a total of $0
•
0 of Vacation pay for a total of $0
•
Regular hours worked during the last payroll for a total of $540
•
Employee is eligible for (0) month(s)COBRA Insurance Coverage through the County
Payroll Clerk Lissette Aguirre reports that Kayla Inskeep has resigned from the Power County
Assessors Office. Ms. Aguirre advises that the employee is eligible for separation benefits as
follows;
•
1.25 hours of Compensation pay for a total of $30.84
•
5.87 hours of Vacation pay for a total of $144.81
•
57.5 hours worked during the last payroll for a total of $1,418.53
•
7 hours of sick leave used for a total of $172.69
•
2 hours of doctor’s time leave used for a total of $49.34
•
7 hours of paid holiday for a total of $172.69
•
Employee is eligible for (0) month(s)COBRA Insurance Coverage through the County
Payroll Clerk Lissette Aguirre reports that Rebecca Titterington has resigned from the Sheriff's
Office . Ms. Aguirre advises that the employee is eligible for separation benefits as follows;
•
16 hours of Compensation pay for a total of $360.00
•
172.48 hours of Vacation pay for a total of $1,048.95
•
46.62 hours worked during the last payroll for a total of $1,063.13
•
Employee is eligible for (1) month(s)COBRA Insurance Coverage through the County
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 10 of 11
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, September 14, 2026
A motion to approve the payout for Kayla Inskeep was presented by Commissioner Povey with a
second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously
carried.
A motion to approve the payout for Rebecca Titterington was presented by Commissioner
Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the board, the motion
unanimously carried.
11. Cooperative Educational Services Agreement: A motion to approve the Cooperative Education
Services agreement was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner
Krein. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried.
C. POINTS OF ORDER:
1. Idaho Department of Commerce Economic Development Agreement: Prosecutor Bischoff
flagged legal concerns regarding a Department of Commerce grant agreement, which requires a
$22,750 local match—contributed by Power County ($5,000), Valleywide Ag ($15,750), the City
of American Falls ($2,000), the City of Aberdeen ($2,000), Simplot ($2,000), FMC ($1,000), and
Direct Communications ($1,000)—to secure $35,000 in state funding. For the past 19 years,
Kristen Jensen has submitted all required reports, financials, and work plans directly to the state
through a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Great Rift Business Development Organization, with the county
providing no office space, equipment, or benefits. Prosecutor Bischoff pointed out that the
proposed agreement officially places all supervisory, reporting, workspace, and benefit
obligations on the county as the signing grantee. He cautioned that signing an agreement
without the intention or ability to fulfill those terms is problematic and could jeopardize the
county's eligibility for future grants. To resolve the issue, he proposed contacting the
Department of Commerce to request an addendum or revised language accurately reflecting
current operations, offering to draft a written list of concerns for Kristen to present to her
supervisors. If the department approves the requested modifications, the agreement can move
forward.
2. Ada County Pathology Services Agreement: Prosecutor Bischoff raised concerns regarding the
Ada County Pathology Service Agreement, noting a significant lack of prior communication with
Coroner Mark Rose and stressing the need for proper legal and administrative processes. The
agreement arrived already signed by the coroner without prior discussion or review. While most
of the agreement was acceptable despite a different format, one substantial language change
was flagged for board review. Due to these unresolved questions, it was decided to table this
item. The board agreed to contact Coroner Mark to attend a meeting or send representation,
with Prosecutor Bischoff requesting that going forward, anyone seeking board signatures must
actively participate in the process and appear in person to address questions. The item will be
placed on a future agenda once the coroner is contacted.
IV. EXECUTIVE SESSION:
1.
Executive Personnel Session I.C. 74-206(1)(b) 3:06 pm: A motion to enter into executive
session to consider personnel actions pursuant to Idaho Code 74-206(1)(b) was presented by
Commissioner Krein with a second by Commissioner Povey. Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa
conducted roll call on the motion;
•
Commissioner Povey, AYE
•
Commissioner Krein, AYE
•
Commissioner Fehringer, AYE
Following roll call of the Board, motion unanimously carried. Upon conclusion of discussion,
Commissioner Fehringer declared the meeting open at 11:44 am.
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 11 of 11
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, September 14, 2026
V. ASSESSMENTS/CONCLUSIONS:
1. Next Meeting: The next regular session for the board to meet is slated for October 13, 2026.
2. Adjourn: Having no further business to come before the Board, a motion to adjourn was
presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call
of the Board, motion carried and the meeting was adjourned at 12:32 pm.
The foregoing minutes were approved by the Board of County Commissioners during the Regular
Board Meeting held September 28, 2026.
ATTEST:
MARIANO VILLA, Deputy Clerk
__________________________________
COMMISSIONER FEHRINGER, Chairman
Mariano Villa Jr.
Text is extracted by machine from the official file linked on each page; the official file is the record. Sentinel Media, LLC.