City of Pocatello | minutes | meeting 2026-09-10 | City Council Work Session Agenda (9:00 AM)
source: https://pocatello.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_09102026-1950

CITY OF CITY OF POCATELLO, IDAHO
CITY COUNCIL

CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION
SEPTEMBER 10, 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, Hayden Paulsen, Stacy Satterfield and Ann
Swanson. Council member Brent Nichols was excused.

AGENDA ITEM NO. 2:
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION UPDATE

Marty Viscarra, Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) Chair, reported on recent
accomplishments, including completion of a survey of approximately 200 buildings and
properties associated with the Certified Local Government program and efforts related to
determining eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. The Commission has also
continued design reviews within the local historic district and administered Certificates of
Appropriateness. HPC members are working with a consultant on projects supported by grant
funding, including efforts to update information associated with the Downtown National Register
District. Additional long-term projects under consideration include historic markers and plaques,
walking tours, educational materials and partnerships with local schools to incorporate Pocatello
history and historic preservation into educational programs. Mr. Viscarra discussed the
Commission's interest in preserving the City's broader municipal history, including stories and
historical information that are not necessarily associated with individual structures. He noted
that historical information is currently fragmented among various organizations and individuals
and expressed interest in developing a more coordinated effort to collect, preserve and share
that information.

Council members discussed the possibility of establishing a position dedicated to local history or
incorporating historical responsibilities into an existing City position. Potential partnerships with
Idaho State University (ISU) and the ISU Library were discussed.

Mr. Viscarra noted that such a position could involve research, reviewing historical records and
maps, documenting stories and interpreting historical information for public use.

Council Member Mangum suggested that Human Resources review potential job responsibilities
and associated compensation to determine whether such a position could be incorporated into
an existing position or created as a new position.

Mayor Dahlquist suggested exploring whether historical responsibilities could be combined with
an existing position.

Council members discussed the boundaries of the local historic district and the distinction
between the National Register of Historic Places and the local historic district.

Jim Anglesey, Long-range Planner, explained that properties being listed on the National Register
does not automatically place them within the City's local historic district and that Certificates of
Appropriateness apply to properties within the local district.

CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 2
SEPTEMBER 10, 2026

In response to a question from Council regarding the number of Certificates of Appropriateness
that have been denied, Mr. Anglesey indicated that very few have been denied and that the
Commission has worked to provide greater clarity regarding design standards and
appropriateness. In response to Council discussion regarding potential expansion of historic
district boundaries, Mr. Anglesey noted that approximately 200 properties are associated with
the National Register, while the boundaries of the local historic district do not align with the
National Register boundaries. Any expansion of the local district would require further
consideration of the applicable process and protections.

Council members discussed improvements to the historic district entrance sign near Center
Street and discussed the possibility of coordinating with downtown organizations and
establishing a mechanism for donations dedicated to historic plaques, signage or related
improvements.

Mr. Anglesey indicated that the project is not currently included in the City's budget but that
grant funding, partnerships, donations or other resources could potentially be pursued. Staff will
review the applicable ordinance and report back regarding available options.

AGENDA ITEM NO. _ 3:
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION UPDATE

Becky Babb, Planning Manager, and Rich Phillips, Planning and Zoning Commission Chair,
provided an update regarding the Commission's activities, applications, training and workload.
Mr. Phillips reported that the Planning and Zoning Commission processed approximately one and
one-half times the number of matters handled during the previous year. The Commission has
also participated in training regarding the City's zoning ordinance, its authority, public hearing
procedures and the types of applications and issues within its purview. Mr. Phillips discussed the
Commission's role in reviewing zoning applications, annexations, traffic and related studies and
ordinance matters. He noted that the Commission has also been involved in the ongoing review
and update of the City's zoning code.

Ms. Babb thanked the Commission members for their work and noted that the number of
contested agenda items has increased. She recognized that Commission members are volunteers
who are required to make difficult decisions based upon the City's ordinances and applicable
criteria. She also noted the Commission's continued efforts to improve its understanding of the
City's regulations and responsibilities.

Council members discussed annexation procedures and the Commission's role in reviewing
annexation requests.

Mr. Phillips explained that the Commission considers factors including public input, future land
use, the Comprehensive Plan and applicable zoning regulations before making a
recommendation or decision within its authority.

Council members discussed public notification and communication regarding Planning and
Zoning matters. Council Members expressed concern that residents sometimes become aware
of development proposals only after a matter directly affects their neighborhood.

CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 3
SEPTEMBER 10, 2026

Ms. Babb explained that the City follows the statutory notification requirements and has
implemented additional notification measures where appropriate. She noted that preliminary
plats, for example, receive additional notification even though such matters are not required by
state law to receive the same public hearing notification. Planning and Zoning agendas are also
available through the City's notification system, allowing residents to receive email or text
notifications when agendas are posted.

Council members discussed whether additional communication methods, including
neighborhood associations and other outreach tools, could improve public awareness.

Ms. Babb indicated that information is also forwarded to the Public Information Officer for
additional public communication when appropriate. She emphasized that the City has a robust
notification process and that residents may subscribe to Planning and Zoning notifications to
receive information directly.

Council members recognized the importance of public education regarding City processes, zoning
regulations and the role of the Planning and Zoning Commission.

AGENDAITEMNO. 4:
WPC COLLECTIONS SYSTEM MASTER PLAN UPDATE

Levi Adams, Water Pollution Control Superintendent, and Brad Mercure, P.E., of Consor, provided
an update on the Water Pollution Control (WPC) Collection System Master Plan. Mr. Mercure
reviewed the purpose and scope of the plan, which evaluates the City's wastewater collection
system, existing conditions and capacity, anticipated growth and improvements needed over the
next 20 years. The plan updates the City's previous collection system plan and subsequent
amendments associated with Northgate development. Mr. Mercure reported that the collection
system currently serves approximately 60,000 people and includes approximately 250 miles of
pipeline and multiple wastewater lift stations. The plan evaluated current capacity and system
conditions and projected future growth patterns.

Mr. Adams reported that the collection system is generally in good condition and that no
significant capacity deficiencies were identified in the City's gravity mains. Growth is expected
to be the primary driver for future capacity improvements. Two lift stations were identified as
having capacity constraints: the McKinley Lift Station, with a projected future constraint and the
Indian Hills Lift Station, which is currently being improved.

Council members discussed future growth projections, including development in the Northgate
area, potential infill development, the Johnny Creek area and potential future service areas.

Mr. Adams explained that the Northgate area represents a significant concentrated area of
anticipated growth and that existing infrastructure has been designed with additional capacity in
several areas.

In response to Council discussion regarding potential wastewater service through the City of
Chubbuck, Mr. Adams explained that several options have been evaluated for providing future
service to the Northgate area, including routing through existing infrastructure and potential
coordination with Chubbuck. He indicated that the technical aspects could be addressed through

CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 4
SEPTEMBER 10, 2026

appropriate infrastructure and flow monitoring, while an agreement between the two cities
would be necessary to address the operational and financial aspects.

Council members discussed the potential timing of future Northgate improvements and agreed
that early coordination with Chubbuck would be beneficial.

Mr. Adams noted that the City's existing Memorandum of Understanding with Chubbuck is
scheduled for consideration in the future.

Mr. Mercure reviewed potential collection system improvements, including improvements to the
Indian Hills force main and lift station, the McKinley Lift Station, future gravity main
improvements and eventual lift station replacements. Additional recommendations include
continued CCTV inspections, annual pipeline rehabilitation funding, permanent influent flow
monitoring and periodic updates to the Collection System Master Plan. The estimated cost of
recommended collection system improvements was presented at approximately $49.25 million
during the first 10 years and approximately $25 million during the following 10 years, with
additional projects identified for implementation prior to 2045.

Council members discussed the relationship between future development at the Pocatello
Regional Airport and wastewater system capacity.

Mr. Adams indicated that the existing system has capacity for current anticipated airport
development, although significant industrial development would require evaluation of the
associated wastewater flows and infrastructure needs.

Council members discussed the potential extension of sewer service to the Johnny Creek area
and the possibility of providing residents with a limited period to connect to the system before
requiring individual property owners to bear the full connection costs.

Mr. Adams noted that City ordinance generally requires properties within 300 feet of a sewer
system to connect, subject to applicable provisions and potential waivers.

Mayor Dahlquist expressed support for exploring options that would encourage connection of
Johnny Creek properties to the new sewer system and directed staff to bring the matter back to
Council with potential options for consideration.

In response to Council discussion regarding funding for the Collection System Master Plan
recommendations, Mr. Adams explained that the City could continue making incremental
wastewater rate increases to fund capital improvements and maintain the system. Larger
projects could require additional financing, such as bonds or loans.

Council members emphasized the importance of maintaining proactive rehabilitation and
replacement programs to extend the useful life of the collection system.

Mr. Mercure reported that the existing collection system is generally in good condition and that
future improvements are primarily driven by anticipated growth rather than widespread

deficiencies.

CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 5
SEPTEMBER 10, 2026

AGENDAITEM NO. _ 5:
PROPOSED SEPTEMBER FISCAL YEAR 2026 BUDGET AMENDMENTS

Chantelle Macy, Budget Manager, presented the proposed final Fiscal Year 2026 budget
amendments. Ms. Macy explained that the proposed amendments are intended to adjust the
budget for changes in revenues and operational needs while maintaining Council approval of the
City's budget authority. Seven amendments had been posted for consideration, which was fewer
than the previous year. A public hearing and adoption of the amendments were scheduled to be
held at the September 17, 2026 Regular City Council meeting.

Council members discussed an approximately $480,000 increase in Fleet Services expenditures.

Tom Kirkman, Public Works Director and Teresa Caudill, Fleet Manager, provided additional
information regarding the increase. Mr. Kirkman stated a significant portion of the increase is
related to police vehicle upfitting, including approximately $300,000 associated with outfitting
four police vehicles over two years.

Ms. Caudill explained that Fleet Services has experienced increased utilization of its parts
purchasing operation. City departments are purchasing a broader range of supplies and parts
through the City's centralized purchasing arrangement, resulting in costs being charged through
Fleet Services and then allocated to the appropriate departments.

Council members discussed whether the centralized purchasing arrangement should continue to
include non-fleet-related purchases and whether another City purchasing mechanism would be
more appropriate.

Mr. Kirkman indicated that the centralized arrangement can provide cost and efficiency benefits
but agreed that the increased use and associated costs warrant further review.

Ms. Caudill indicated that the matter would be discussed in greater detail during a future Work
Session.

Mayor Dahlquist thanked staff for the information and noted that the Council would continue its
discussion regarding Fleet Services and the associated purchasing practices at a future Work
Session.

Mayor Dahlquist called a recess at 10:35 a.m.
Mayor Dahlquist reconvened the meeting at 10:44 a.m.

AGENDAITEMNO. 6:
429 WASHINGTON AVENUE PROJECT UPDATE AND NEXT STEPS

Christine Howe, Grants Manager, and Brent McLane, Planning and Development Services
Director, provided an update regarding the City's property at 429 Washington Avenue and
discussed potential next steps for the property. Ms. Howe reported that the asbestos abatement
contract had been completed and that environmental and hazardous material mitigation work
had been performed.

CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 6
SEPTEMBER 10, 2026

Council members discussed potential future uses and disposition of the property, expressing
interest in evaluating whether the property could be retained, at least in part, as a community
facility that would preserve its historical connection to the Alameda neighborhood. The
possibility of retaining the original portion of the building while removing a later addition was
discussed.

Mr. McLane explained that the building has undergone numerous renovations and that retaining
portions of the original structure could present significant structural, environmental, building-
code, parking and accessibility challenges. Although major environmental hazards had been
addressed, lead paint and other issues remain.

Council members discussed the property's suitability as a community gathering space and the
potential cost of rehabilitating the building compared with its value and potential benefit to the
City. Several Council members expressed concern that significant City investment would be
required to make the building usable and that other City priorities may provide greater public
benefit.

Mr. McLane explained that the building was originally designed as a residential structure and
does not contain a large assembly space. Converting the property for public assembly use would
create additional building, egress, parking and other code requirements.

Council members discussed retaining historical elements, particularly the existing flagpole. The
adjacent property and the potential to incorporate the flagpole into City-owned property
associated with Bright Tomorrows were discussed. The possibility of selling or leasing the
property was considered. Discussion followed regarding the potential for a facade easement or
other mechanism to preserve architectural characteristics.

Ms. Howe explained that various options for disposition would need to be reviewed with the
Legal Department, including whether restrictions or preservation requirements could be included
in a sale or whether such requirements would be more appropriately addressed through a lease
or other agreement. Legal review would be necessary to determine what restrictions could
appropriately be placed on the property.

Marjanna Hulet, representing the Alameda Neighborhood Association, provided comments
regarding the neighborhood's interest in retaining the building as a historic resource and
potential community meeting space. She noted that the building is the last remaining structure
associated with the original Alameda village and that the neighborhood has a need for smaller
meeting spaces for community organizations, clubs, educational programs and other activities.

Council members discussed the potential costs and responsibilities associated with leasing the
property. The experience with the Senior Center and other City-owned facilities was discussed,
including the need to identify responsibility for maintenance, scheduling, utilities and building
operations. Council members generally agreed that additional information regarding the
potential disposition options would be useful. The options discussed included selling the
property as-is with appropriate preservation-related stipulations, leasing the property or
pursuing other disposition alternatives. Demolition was discussed but was not identified as the
preferred option at this time. Council members expressed a preference to explore sale of the
property with appropriate protections rather than continue indefinitely with the property in its
current condition. Staff was directed to work with the Legal Department, the Alameda

CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 7
SEPTEMBER 10, 2026

Neighborhood Association and the Historic Preservation Commission to identify potential
stipulations and preservation considerations. Staff will also gather additional community input
and return with information regarding potential disposition options, associated costs,
preservation of the facade and flagpole and any applicable legal requirements.

AGENDAITEMNO. 7:
FORE GOLF CONTRACT WAIVER REQUEST

Greg Allbright and Jerold Myler, Fore Golf, presented a request concerning the operating expense
provisions of the City's golf concession agreement. Mr. Allbright provided background on the
City's relationship with Fore Golf and explained that the golf operations have been managed
through a long-term concession agreement. The agreement was renegotiated beginning with
the 2019 golf season to establish a market-based revenue arrangement while maintaining City
revenue and allowing Fore Golf to operate and maintain the golf courses. Mr. Allbright reported
that operating expenses have increased significantly due to labor, supplies, maintenance,
irrigation system repairs and other costs. He noted that milder weather has resulted in earlier
course openings and extended operating periods. Mr. Allbright requested that the City consider
modifying the agreement's Consumer Price Index (CPI)-based operating expense limitation. The
request was presented as a response to extraordinary circumstances and increased costs
affecting golf operations.

Anne Butler, Parks and Recreation Director, reviewed the financial provisions of the agreement
and explained the current operating expense limits and the impact of the requested change. She
discussed the financial implications for both Fore Golf and the City, including the effect on the
City's share of golf revenues and the City's ability to fund future capital improvements.

Council members discussed whether the agreement should be amended to provide additional
flexibility for extraordinary circumstances, whether a percentage adjustment should be added to
the CPI calculation or expenses associated with operating outside the normal March-through-
October season should receive separate consideration. The possibility of extending the operating
season provision was discussed.

Ms. Butler suggested that if the golf courses operate for more than a specified number of days
outside the contractual season, the agreement could provide an additional operating allowance
based on the actual extended operating period.

Council members discussed the increased costs associated with opening the courses during
February and other periods outside the traditional golf season. They discussed the City's long-
term interest in maintaining the golf facilities and the need to preserve funds for major capital
projects, particularly the aging irrigation system.

Mr. Allbright reported that significant expenditures have been incurred for irrigation system
repairs and that the irrigation infrastructure is approaching the end of its useful life. He explained
that opening the golf courses earlier than the typical season beginning in March requires
additional labor, maintenance, supplies and other expenses, but also generates additional
revenue.

CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 8
SEPTEMBER 10, 2026

Council members discussed several potential approaches, including:
e Maintaining the existing agreement without modification;
e Increasing the allowable operating expense adjustment above the current CP! limitation;
e Providing additional allowances for operations outside the contractual March-through-
October season; and
e Addressing extraordinary circumstances through a targeted amendment while
maintaining the remaining terms of the existing agreement.

City Attorney Jared Johnson advised the Council that the agreement contains provisions allowing
renegotiation under extraordinary circumstances. He cautioned against routinely reopening the
agreement and noted that any modification should be based upon circumstances that meet the
contractual standard and should be structured to apply for the remainder of the agreement.

Council members discussed the extraordinary weather conditions and extended operating
season as potential factors supporting a limited modification. They emphasized the importance
of maintaining a fair agreement for both the City and Fore Golf while protecting the City's
ownership interests and future capital needs. Council members expressed general support for
addressing costs associated with an extended operating season rather than broadly eliminating
the existing operating expense limitation. They directed staff to develop options for a contract
amendment addressing extended-season operations and associated allowable expenses.
Discussion was held regarding responsibility for irrigation system repairs, including replacement
of sprinkler heads and larger system components.

Ms. Butler and Mr. Allbright outlined the distinction between routine maintenance and capital
improvements under the existing agreement and Ms. Butler indicated further review would take
place regarding the appropriate allocation of these costs.

Mayor Dahlquist called a recess at 12:31 p.m.
Mayor Dahlquist reconvened the meeting at 12:40 p.m.

AGENDA ITEM NO. 8:
DATA CENTER DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS

Brent McLane, Planning and Development Services Director, and Becky Babb, Planning Manager,
presented information regarding potential regulations for data center development within the
City. Ms. Babb explained that the purpose of the discussion was to obtain Council direction
regarding whether the City should proceed with developing regulations addressing data centers.
She stated that staff has been researching regulations adopted by other communities and
participating in discussions with the County's data center task force, private-sector engineers and
other stakeholders. Ms. Babb emphasized that data center technology is evolving rapidly and
that the City does not currently possess all of the technical expertise necessary to develop
comprehensive regulations internally. She recommended considering a qualified technical
consultant who could assist with technical analysis, code development and public outreach.

Council members discussed potential issues associated with data centers, including water
consumption, electrical demand, noise, emissions, cooling systems, carbon impacts and other
environmental considerations.

CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 9
SEPTEMBER 10, 2026

Mr. McLane noted that several aspects of data center operations are already regulated by other
agencies, including Idaho Power, the Public Utilities Commission and the Idaho Department of
Environmental Quality (DEQ).

Julie Burry, representing DEQ, provided information regarding potential wastewater, hazardous
waste, air quality and underground storage tank considerations.

Council members discussed the need to distinguish between matters already regulated by state
or federal agencies and matters that could appropriately be addressed through local zoning and
development regulations.

Ms. Babb explained that potential local regulations could address issues such as appropriate
locations, noise, site design, review procedures and the types of technology or infrastructure that
may be appropriate within the City. She noted that the City's current code does not provide a
specific development review mechanism for data centers.

Council members discussed the importance of obtaining technical expertise from multiple
sources, including private industry, academic institutions, public agencies and planning
professionals. A robust public engagement process was identified as an important component
of any future regulatory development. The possibility of working with Stanford University on a
deliberative public engagement process was discussed.

Mr. McLane noted that such a program could provide valuable community outreach but may not
address the City's need for technical code-writing expertise. The use of a consultant through a
Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process was also discussed.

Council members discussed the potential cost of obtaining professional assistance and whether
existing reserves could be used to fund the work and if a temporary moratorium would be
appropriate.

Mr. McLane noted that the existing professional services budget was primarily allocated to the
Title 17 rewrite and that additional funding allocation may be necessary. He explained that a
moratorium would have a limited duration and would not itself resolve the City's need to
establish an appropriate regulatory framework.

Council members discussed the possibility of community benefit agreements or other
development-related provisions that could provide measurable benefits to the City and
instructed staff to review applicable Idaho law and identify what provisions could legally be
included in local regulations. Council members requested that they be provided an opportunity
to review the proposed RFQ before it is issued and provided direction to proceed with
development of an RFQ to obtain qualified professional assistance with technical analysis,
regulatory development and public engagement related to data centers.

AGENDA ITEM NO. _ 9:
COUNCIL ADVISORY BOARD UPDATES

Mayor Dahlquist announced that in the interest of time, Agenda Item No. 9 would not be
addressed.

CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 10

SEPTEMBER 10, 2026

AGENDA ITEM NO. 10:
ADJOURN

There being no further business, Mayor Dahlquist adjourned the meeting at 1:13 p.m.

APPROVED:

MARK DAHLQUIST, MAYOR

PREPARED AND ATTESTED BY: