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minutes meeting date 2026-09-08 · fetched 2026-10-13 · 15679 characters · official file · plain text
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 1 of 4
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Tuesday, September 8, 2026
POWER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Meeting Minutes
Commission Chambers
543 Bannock Ave.
American Falls, ID 83211
www.powercounty.gov
Tuesday, September 8, 2026, 9:00 a.m.
I. CALL TO ORDER
The Board of County Commissioners met in special session Tuesday, September 8, 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:
Sharee Sprague, Clerk
Mariano Villa, Deputy Clerk
Brock Bischoff, Legal Counsel
OTHER PARTIES PRESENT:
Jeff Rankin
Kim Piper
Brock Bischoff
Ryan Grayson
Macie Evans
Kasey Kendall
Kami Chandler
Deanna Curry
Laura Porath
III. AGENDA
A. NOTICES/REPORTS
1. Personnel: Discussion was held regarding the upcoming employee picnic with potential dates
discussed. It was agreed the date would be Thursday the 17th between 11:30 am – 12:00 pm.
2. Building & Grounds: The following updates were provided;
•
Public Defenders Office: Clerk Sprague reports that the although furniture/office
supplies have been moved to the new location, they are still trying to set-up internet
connection and other IT systems from the State. Connectivity is expected by the end
of the week.
•
Election Equipment: With the now vacant Public Defenders office, Clerk Sprague
requested that any scheduling for removing items from the Prosecutor’s office be
arranged until after she returns from vacation.
Vehicle Claim: A vehicle repair bill was discussed regarding the extension office truck. Clerk
Sprague noted that the repair bill from Andreson’s repair came out to $75.15 over the
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
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REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Tuesday, September 8, 2026
deductible. Following discussion, the board agreed that filing an insurance claim was not
worthwhile for such a small amount and opted to pay the overage.
3. Board Updates: Commissioner Povey provided an update on the annex building contract and
planned demolition timeline, noting that a correction was sent on Friday changing references to
"annex" throughout pages 1 and 4 of the documents, which requires re-signatures. Prosecutor
Bischoff indicated that if the change is limited to a word substitution, re-signing via e-signature
should be sufficient without placing it back on the full agenda. Once the corrected document is
executed, Granite Peak will assist in drafting the RFP, with demolition expected to begin at the
end of October and finish by November.
4. Commissioners Business as Needed: Clerk Sprague provided an update on the upcoming
Liberty Bell visit scheduled for September 16th from 8:30 to 10:30 AM in front of the
courthouse. Clerk Sprague informed the Commissioners of the road closure in front of the
courthouse that will extend to the Prosecutor’s office with coordination with the city is
underway. Tammy Ramsey was referred to as a point of contact.
B. MOTIONS:
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. Resolution 2026-11 Adopt FY27 Budget: Chairman Fehringer opened the meeting for
Resolution 2026-11 to adopt the FY2027 Budget at 9:01 am and roll call of attendance is as
follows;
•
Commissioner Fehringer
•
Commissioner Povey
•
Commissioner Krein
•
Prosecutor Brock Bischoff
•
Clerk Sharee Sprague
•
Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa
•
Jeff Rankin
•
Kim Piper
•
Ryan Grayson
•
Macie Evans
•
Kami Chandler
•
Kasey Kendall
•
Laura Porath
•
Deanna Curry
Clerk Sprague noted that the budget was republished in the Idaho State Journal and posted to
the county website on August 28. Adjustments were made to achieve the 4% target, including
reallocating insurance funds from departments she contacted. The largest adjustment was a
$10,000 reduction from the ambulance district's capital budget, as noted by Chief Chandler.
A shortfall of approximately $338.78 was identified but is expected to be covered through
underspending in the PERSI, workers' compensation, and Social Security budget lines when
positions are not fully staffed. Clerk Sprague further noted that a budget correction could be
made toward the end of the fiscal year if needed. Following discussion, a motion to approve
Resolution 2026-11, with corrections, was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by
Commissioner Fehringer. Following audible call of the Board, Commissioners Povey and
Fehringer voted in favor of the motion and Commissioner Krien voted against the motion.
Motion carried by majority vote. Commissioner Krein stated that he wanted the following
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
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REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Tuesday, September 8, 2026
reasons on the record for his dissenting vote. Commissioner Krein expressed concern about the
impact of the tax levy rate on taxpayers and what he viewed as unnecessary spending. He noted
that livable income increases had not been included for some employees and stated that the
county clerk's raise of more than 10% in the previous year had created a pay imbalance.
Commissioner Krein concluded by expressing his willingness to work with the other
commissioners to address these concerns moving forward.
The resolution will be attached to the approved meeting minutes as exhibit A.
3. Resolution 2026-12 A Resolution to Reserve Foregone Taxes for Abatement District: Chairman
Fehringer opened the meeting for Resolution 2026-12 to reserve foregone taxes for abatement
district at 9:16 am and roll call of attendance is as follows;
•
Commissioner Fehringer
•
Commissioner Povey
•
Commissioner Krein
•
Prosecutor Brock Bischoff
•
Clerk Sharee Sprague
•
Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa
•
Jeff Rankin
•
Kim Piper
•
Ryan Grayson
•
Macie Evans
•
Kami Chandler
•
Kasey Kendall
•
Laura Porath
•
Deanna Curry
A motion to approve Resolution 2026-12, with corrections, was presented by Commissioner
Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the Board, the motion
unanimously carried
The resolution will be attached to the approved meeting minutes as exhibit B.
4. Prosecutor’s Office Update: Prosecutor Bischoff submitted a salary approval form to increase
the budgeted salary for the Chief Deputy Prosecutor position from $100,000 to $112,000 to
secure a qualified candidate. He reported that the candidate possesses 20 years of prosecutorial
experience, familiarity with local judges and software, and civil experience, making them
capable of stepping in immediately. Although the candidate declined the initial $100,000 offer,
they indicated they would accept $112,000. Prosecutor Bischoff also disclosed that he had been
approached about positions elsewhere over the weekend, illustrating regional staffing
difficulties for prosecutor roles. In response, Commissioner Fehringer raised fairness concerns
regarding other employees who were denied salary adjustments for increased duties, while
highlighting the budget impact of a 25% increase and total recent office raises reaching
$32,000. Commissioner Krein referenced prior discussions acknowledging that $110,000+ might
be required and that the board had expressed a willingness to pay more for the right candidate.
Clerk Sprague clarified that the FY27 budget line is set at $100,000, meaning a budget
correction resolution will be required to authorize the additional $12,000. Commissioner Povey
was in favor due to long processes in hiring and difficulty filling positions. Following discussion,
a motion to approve the salary approval request from the Prosecutor’s office and raise the chief
deputy line from $100,000.00 -$112,000.00 annually, was presented by Commissioner Povey
with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the Board, Commissioners Povey
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
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REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Tuesday, September 8, 2026
and Krein voted in favor of the motion and Commissioner Fehringer voted against the motion
due to concerns stated. Motion carried by majority vote.
V. ASSESSMENTS/CONCLUSIONS:
1. Next Meeting: The next regular session for the board to meet is slated for February 7, 2022
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 9:26 am.
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.
lnstrument * 22UTT
POt\rER COU TY_ tDAltO
9{-2024 10:51:28 AM t'lo. of P.gr3: 2
Rcco.ded tor : POUTER COt t\aTY COMiIISSKTNERS
SHAREESPRAGUE
Fce:o.m
Eronleb Rccorder t cprny r-
POWER COUNTY RESOLUTION NO. 2026-II
ARESOLUTION TO ADOPT BUDGET
(Power County Budget for all County Funds for FY2027)
WHEREAS, the proposed budget for each office, agency, service or institution of the counff is
rvithin the limits set by ldaho Code g 63-802, and
WHEREAS. Idaho Code $ 3 1-3 106 directs the board o1'county commissioners to flx the annual
salaries ofthe countl,officers as ofand from October l for the next ensuing l,ear, and
WHEREAS. on August 5,2026, in accordance with thc ldaho Code $ 31-1604, the Board of
Poner Counq, Commissioners convened to consider proposed appropriations. agreed upon a
tentative budget and directed the County Clerk to cause a notice to be published on August 12,
2026 setting forth anticipated revenue, property taxes, and proposed expenditures. and also
giving notice olthe public hearing on August 24,2026, at 12:00 pm; and
WHEREAS, on August 24,2026 the County Clerk reported that the DEQ Compliance
Agreement requires $525,000.00 be budgeted for construct at the Power County landfill and
recommended the budget be continued. the budget republished and the hearing continued to
September 8,2026;and
WHEREAS, on August 24,2026. in accordance rvith the Idaho Code $ 3l-1604, the Board of
Porver Counq' Commissioners continued the public hearing and directed the Counq,Clerk to
cause an amended notice to be published on August 26,2026 setting forth anticipated revenue,
property taxes. and proposed expenditures, and also giving notice of the public hearing on
September 8.2026. at 9:00 am; and
WHEREAS, Idaho Code $ 3 I - 1605 requires the adoption of said budget by resolution upon the
conclusion ol such hearing.
NOW THER-EFORE, on motion duly made, seconded and unanimously carried:
BE IT RESOLVED by the Board olPou'er Countl, Commissioners that the Budget tbr fiscal
year 2027 be adopted, totaling $19,953,820.33 in expenditures as reflected fbr each Oftce and
department as attached.
POWER COI]NTY R.ESOLUTION NO. 2026.TI
Page I of2
WHEREAS, the entire Porver County budget r.vas presented to the public on September 8,2026,
and the Board of County Commissioners considered public input from parties present at said
hearing; and
EX. A
BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Porver County Commissioners that the Elected Officials of
said county shall have salaries set fbrth for the Fiscal Year 2027 as follorvs:
o
Commission Chair
$
r
Commissioner Chris Fehringer
S
o
Commissioner Jason Povey
$
o
Commissioner Kryst Krein
$
o
Clerk Sharee Sprague
S
o
Assessor Laura Porath
$
.
Treasurer Deanna Curry
$
o
Sheriff Kasey Kendall
$
o
Prosecuting Attorney Brock Bischoff $
o
Coroner Mark Rose
$
3,000.00
40.560.00
40.560.00
40,560.00
89,440.00
83,200.00
83,200.00
91,520.00
120.000.00
20,800.00
BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Power County Commissioners that such Fiscal Year 2027
Budget impact to the taxpayer is not more than the published budget and does not exceed
estimated revenues to accrue to any fund during the ensuing fiscal year lrom sources other than
taxation together rvith any balances and plus revenues to be derived from taxation for such
ensuing fiscal year, rvithin the limitations imposed by chapter 8 of title 63, Idaho Code. rvith the
understanding that all contingency funds contained therein be designated as follows:
e First, as a general reserve appropriation under IC 31-1605 and the BOCC shalI have the
right to make an appropriation ofthese funds in the event ofany unforeseen contingency
arising, rvhich could not reasonably have been foreseen at the time of making the budget.
and rvhich shall require the expenditure of money not provided for in the budget; and
r Second, as an accumulated fund balance sufficient to achieve or maintain the operations
ofPower County on a cash basis as provided by IC 31-1605(a)
Approved and Ado
September, 2026.
pted by the Board of Power County
issioners on this 8th day of
Fehringer, Chairman
Attested this q
NPovey,
()
lssl0ner
Sharee Sprague,
erk
L
POWER COUNTY RESOLUTION NO. 2026-11
Kryst lGein, Commissioner
Page 2 of2
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lnstrumert# 22UTA
POUTER COt trtTY. tDAlto
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Rccorded to. : POUUER COUI{TY CofffnqStOffmS
SIIAREE SPRAG{rE
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Erotlicio Rccorder
POWER COTINTY RESOLUTION NO. 2026-12
A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS FOR THE POWER
COUNTY ABATEMENT DISTRICT, POWER COUNTY, IDAHO, RESERVING
THE FORGONE AMOUNT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2027 FOR POTENTIAL USE IN
SUBSEQUENT YEARS AS DESCRIBED IN IDAHO CODE $63-802, et al.
WHEREAS, Idaho Code $3 I -8 I I empowers the Abatement District commissioners to
lely property taxes; and,
WHEREAS, Idaho Code $3 1 - 1605 requires the Abatement District commissioners of
each county to pass an annual budget; and.
WHEREAS, Idaho Code $63-802 sets limitations on taxing district budget requests on
the amount ofproperty tax revenues that can be used to fund programs and services; and,
WHEREAS, Idaho Code 963-802(1)(a) allows each taxing district to increase properry
tax budget amounts by a maximum of 3%, plus an amount calculated based on 90o/o of
the value of both new construction and annexation based on a preliminary lely rate added
during the previous calendar year, plus an amount for forgone taxes; and,
WHEREAS, Idaho Code $63-802(lX0 requires that the taxing district adopt an annual
resolution to reserve additional forgone amount in order to utilize that amount in
subsequent years; and,
WHEREAS, the Power County Abatement District has met the notice and hearing
requirements in Idaho Code 963-802(l)(Q to reserve the current year's increase in the
forgone amount; and.
WHEREAS, the Power County Abatement District intends to reserve six thousand seven
hundred eighty-two dollars ($6,782) of its current year's increase in allowable forgone
amount.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
FOR THE POWER COUNTY ABATEMENT DISTzuCT, that six thousand seven
hundred eighty-two dollars ($6,782) ofthe current year's allowable increase in its
POWER COUNTY RESOLUTION NO. 2026-12
Page I of2
Ex. B
forgone amount is reserved and included in the Power County Abatement District's total
forgone balance for potential use in subsequent years.
Approved and Adopted by the Power County Abatement District Board of
Commissioners on this 8th day of September,2026.
Chris Fe
on Po
,CO
Kryst Krein, Commissioner
Attested this
Sharee Sprague,
erk
POWER COUNTY RISOLUTION NO. 2026.12
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