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minutes meeting date 2026-07-09 · fetched 2026-10-18 · 29142 characters · read by OCR, check numbers against the source · official file · plain text
CITY OF CITY OF POCATELLO, IDAHO CITY COUNCIL CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION JULY 9, 2026 a TO OOo AGENDA ITEM NO. 1: ROLL CALL Mayor Mark Dahlquist called the City Council Work Session to order at 9:01 a.m. Council members present were Dakota Bates, Corey Mangum, Brent Nichols, Hayden Paulsen and Stacy Satterfield. Council member Ann Swanson was excused. AGENDA ITEMNO. 2: POCATELLO IWAMIZAWA SISTER CITIES FOUNDATION UPDATE Joan Sayer and Jodie McHugh, representatives of the Pocatello Iwamizawa Sister Cities Foundation, provided an update on the City's sister-city relationship with lwamizawa, Japan. Ms. Sayer reported that the Idaho State University Museum is working with the Sister Cities Foundation on a display featuring Japanese items and materials associated with the sister city relationship. The Marshall Public Library has also been asked to develop a Japanese-themed display featuring items from Iwamizawa. Ms. Sayer reported that 10 Pocatello students are currently participating in the student exchange program in Japan. The students are expected to return on July 14. The exchange provides students with opportunities to experience Japanese culture and language and to visit local schools. Students are generally high school age, between 14 and 18 years old. The next student delegation from Iwamizawa is scheduled to arrive in Pocatello on July 28 and remain through August 10. The delegation will tour City Hall on the morning of July 29, and Council members were invited to be present to welcome the students. The schedule also includes visits to Lava Hot Springs, Yellowstone National Park, a horse-drawn carriage ride through Inkom, a wagon ride and a Dutch oven dinner. A barbecue is planned for July 29 at Joan Sayer's residence. Ms. McHugh explained that the student exchange application process for the 2027 delegation will begin in September, with student selections anticipated in November. Selected students will prepare for the exchange trip in 2027. She also discussed the adult exchange program, which occurs approximately every five years. The representatives encouraged the Mayor or a Council member to participate in a future adult delegation. The adult exchange generally lasts approximately one week, compared to the longer student exchange. Ms. Sayer emphasized that the relationship has continued for 41 years and provides an opportunity to develop international friendships and cultural understanding. She noted that the exchange experience can have a lasting effect on students, with some former participants returning to Japan or teaching English there. Ms. Sayer noted that former exchange participants are encouraged to maintain relationships with one another and with their host families. Several past participants have remained connected to the program and have returned to visit. Council Member Mangum commended the Foundation for its work in promoting inclusion, diversity, cultural understanding and acceptance among young people. Council members thanked the Foundation representatives for the update and their continued work maintaining the City's relationship with lwamizawa. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 2 JULY 9, 2026 AGENDA ITEM NO. © 3: CITY-INITIATED TEXT AMENDMENTS TO TITLE 17: ZONING REGULATIONS Planning Manager Becky Babb and Long-Range Planner Jim Anglesey presented proposed amendments to Title 17, Zoning Regulations, in response to recent state legislation affecting local zoning regulations. Ms. Babb explained that several bills passed by the Idaho Legislature require amendments to the City's zoning ordinance. The changes must be incorporated into the City's regulations by February. She presented the proposed amendments to the Council for initial discussion and feedback. Manufactured Homes — House Bill 800 Ms. Babb reviewed changes related to manufactured homes under House Bill 800. The legislation expands the definition of manufactured homes and establishes requirements for their placement and development. She explained the distinction between a single-section and multi-section manufactured home and discussed the City's current definitions and requirements. Under the proposed amendments, the City would update its definitions to correspond with the state's definitions. Council members discussed manufactured tiny homes and the potential for smaller manufactured homes, including homes as small as approximately 400 square feet, provided they meet applicable foundation and other development requirements. They also discussed how manufactured homes could be incorporated into multifamily zoning districts and how the changes could affect the type and size of manufactured housing that may be developed. Accessory Dwelling Units — Senate Bill 1354 Mr. Anglesey reviewed Senate Bill 1354, concerning accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The legislation provides for one attached or one detached ADU per single-family residential property and prohibits local governments from requiring off-street parking for an ADU. He explained that the proposed City regulations would increase the maximum ADU size from the current 750 square feet to 1,000 square feet. The state legislation also removes the City's ability to require owner occupancy and limits the City's ability to regulate other aspects of ADUs. Council members discussed the removal of the existing owner-occupancy requirement and the potential effect on short-term rentals and other rental uses. They also discussed bedroom limitations, parking requirements, height restrictions and the ability of homeowners associations to impose separate deed restrictions. Ms. Babb explained that the changes are required by state law and that certain concerns regarding short-term rentals would need to be addressed at the state level. She noted that the proposed height provision would allow an ADU to be the same height of the primary residence or 20 feet, whichever is greater. Starter Home Subdivisions — Senate Bill 1352 Mr. Anglesey reviewed Senate Bill 1352, concerning starter home subdivisions. The legislation establishes a process for smaller-lot residential development and requires starter home subdivisions to be permitted in applicable zoning districts. The discussion included requirements concerning acreage, lot size, setbacks and housing types. The proposed standards include the following: CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 3 JULY 9, 2026 A minimum subdivision area of four (4) acres in applicable lower-density areas, A minimum subdivision area of two (2) acres in certain higher-density residential districts; A minimum lot size of 1,500 square feet; Front and rear setbacks of 15 feet or the setback required by the applicable zoning district, whichever is less; e Five-foot side setbacks in applicable circumstances; and e Standards for detached homes, attached townhomes and cottage court developments. Mr. Anglesey explained that the state requirements could result in very small homes being constructed on relatively small lots. He presented examples and photographs illustrating the potential scale and configuration of starter home and cottage court developments. Council members discussed the potential relationship between lot size, setbacks, building size, and common open space. They expressed concern about the potential for small-lot developments to be located immediately adjacent to established residential estate neighborhoods. Discussion focused on whether the City's regulations could encourage these types of developments to locate in higher-density areas while minimizing impacts on lower- density residential areas. Ms. Babb explained that the state legislation limits the City's ability to impose more restrictive requirements once a development meets the statutory standards. However, the City can establish standards and incentives within the authority available to it to guide development toward appropriate areas. Council members discussed cottage court developments, which would arrange smaller homes around a shared common area. Ms. Babb explained that the proposed regulations could provide developers with an alternative to conventional small-lot development while maintaining common open space. Council members discussed whether open space requirements should be adjusted based upon the underlying zoning district. Several members indicated that open space remains an important quality of life consideration, while also recognizing that requirements may need to be structured to encourage appropriate development in higher-density areas. Ms. Babb explained that a zoning code rewrite is also anticipated, with a consultant expected to assist staff in reviewing broader zoning issues. She indicated that the state-required amendments could be incorporated into that larger process where appropriate. Council members requested additional information concerning the amount of land within the City's various residential zoning districts, including the amount of Residential Estate property potentially affected by the new legislation. Staff agreed to prepare additional mapping and acreage information and to account for areas where development may be constrained by slope. Council members discussed the possibility of providing pre-approved or "canned" house plans for smaller homes and accessory dwelling units. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 4 JULY 9, 2026 Mr. Anglesey noted that providing standardized plans, including plans for detached garages with small apartments, could offer residents and developers a streamlined option while ensuring compliance with City standards. He explained that the applicable state provisions concerning starter home subdivisions and ADUs apply only to cities with populations exceeding 10,000 and that the legislation contains specific provisions concerning applicability. Ms. Babb indicated that the process would require approximately two months once the public hearing process begins, with potential consideration for approval in the October-November timeframe. Council members requested that staff continue evaluating the amendments and return with additional information and options. They directed staff to continue working with the City's zoning consultant and to provide additional information regarding the potential impacts on Residential Estate areas and higher-density zoning districts. AGENDAITEMNO. 4: CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS — PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES Christine Howe, Grants Manager, Becky Babb, Planning Manager and Chantelle Macy, Budget Manager, presented information regarding the City's proposed Request for Proposals (RFP) for development of a Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). Ms. Howe explained that a comprehensive, City-wide CIP would provide a structured process for identifying, prioritizing, funding and scheduling major capital projects. The plan would support grant applications, long-term financial planning, debt management, budgeting and coordination among departments. Ms. Howe explained the distinction between operating expenditures and capital expenditures and reviewed the relationship between a CIP and other City planning documents, including the Comprehensive Plan, departmental plans, rate studies and Council priorities. The proposed CIP would identify major capital needs and establish a three- to five-year outlook for projects and funding requirements. She noted that several departments already maintain individual capital plans or rate studies, but the City does not currently have a centralized process for bringing this information together. Ms. Babb reviewed the history of the City's efforts to obtain a consultant. An RFP was initially issued in March 2025 but did not receive any responses. Feedback received from potential consultants indicated that some firms could not complete both the City's capital improvement planning work and its investment strategy. An investment policy has since been adopted, allowing the City to reissue the RFP focused on the capital improvement plan. A revised RFP was presented to the Council on September 11, 2025, with direction to complete the City's financial policies before proceeding. Staff now recommends reissuing the RFP. Deferred Maintenance Ms. Howe emphasized that the proposed RFP would include an evaluation of deferred maintenance. The Council has previously expressed concern regarding the City's deferred maintenance needs and the difficulty of determining the cost and funding requirements associated with those needs. She explained that a consultant could provide independent cost projections and develop strategies for addressing deferred maintenance over time. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 5 JULY 9, 2026 Council Member Nichols suggested including an inventory of City-owned properties and an assessment of their condition. Ms. Babb indicated that an asset inventory could be included in the scope of work. The City has information maintained by individual departments, the County and GIS, but a more formal centralized review would provide a comprehensive asset management tool. Council members discussed the possibility of developing project sheets for individual deferred- maintenance projects showing estimated costs, priority, potential funding sources and whether a project could be phased over multiple years. Ms. Howe presented examples of CIPs used by other communities, including a plan that provides a five-year overview of capital needs, identifies funding sources and includes progressively more detailed project information. Council members emphasized the importance of establishing clear criteria for prioritizing projects. Ms. Howe discussed potential criteria including: Legal mandates; Public health and safety; Roadways and safety infrastructure; Asset preservation; Environmental impacts; and Strategic City goals. She explained that these criteria could be incorporated into the City's policies and used as part of the annual CIP update. Council members discussed the CIP as a "living document" that would be updated annually as costs change, priorities shift, grant opportunities arise and emergencies or other circumstances affect project priorities. Cost and Funding Ms. Babb stated that staff estimated development of the initial CIP could cost approximately $150,000, depending on the scope of the consultant's work. Completion of the initial plan was anticipated to take approximately 12 months. Council members discussed potential funding sources and whether the consultant's scope could include review of City leases and leased properties. Ms. Macy indicated that the project is not currently included in a department's budget and that funding would likely need to come from General Fund reserves. Ms. Howe explained that a comprehensive lease review was not necessarily typical for a CIP but that the scope could be expanded to include a review of the City's lease records if desired. Mayor Dahlquist reported that staff is already working with GIS to develop information regarding City-owned properties and properties leased by the City and is also exploring commercial real estate information and the status of various City leases. Ms. Macy explained that OpenGov could provide a useful platform for maintaining and presenting the CIP once the initial information is consolidated. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 6 JULY 9, 2026 Council members expressed support for moving forward with the RFP and viewed the development of a CIP as an investment in the City's long-term financial and infrastructure management. They generally agreed that staff should proceed with reissuing the RFP and develop the scope necessary to obtain proposals for the City's first comprehensive, City-wide Capital Improvement Plan. Mayor Dahlquist called a recess at 10:40 a.m. Mayor Dahlquist reconvened the meeting at 10:55 a.m. AGENDA ITEM NO. _ 5: 2026 MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES AND GOALS UPDATE Mayor Dahlquist provided an update on the progress of the 2026 Mayor and City Council Priorities and Goals. He explained that the Council identified 11 priorities and 25 specific goals and that the priorities had been ranked to establish an order to address them. He recommended reviewing progress on the priorities on a quarterly basis. Economic Development Mayor Dahlquist reported that the City continues to work with the Portneuf Valley Development Corporation (PVDC) on economic development efforts. PVDC has hired a new economic development director, and the City continues to participate through an advisory committee. He discussed ongoing economic development opportunities involving Idaho State University and the Idaho National Laboratory and stated that additional resources may be needed for strategic development and property-related initiatives. The City currently provides approximately $85,000 annually to PVDC. Mayor Dahlquist noted that the proposed budget could increase the City's contribution to approximately $95,000, while Chubbuck has indicated it may increase its contribution from $15,000 to $30,000. Additional private-sector funding is also being pursued. Sidewalk Improvements Mayor Dahlquist reported that approximately $375,000 has been identified for sidewalk repairs, including repairs to sidewalks with lifting or other deficiencies in the downtown area. A significant portion of the funding came from a federal transportation grant, supplemented by funds made available through funds not utilized by Idaho Falls and reallocated to the City of Pocatello. Crews are also nearing completion of bulb-outs and traffic-control improvements on Main Street as part of traffic-calming efforts. Water and Street Department work has included improvements to ADA-accessible corners. He noted that progress has been made but that sidewalk maintenance remains an ongoing need. Deputy Public Works Director Mayor Dahlquist identified filling the Deputy Public Works Director position as another priority. Staff is currently covering some duties temporarily, but filling the position would provide additional engineering and operational capacity. He noted the difficulty in recruiting engineers and indicated that outsourcing or other recruitment options may need to be considered. City Entrances Mayor Dahlquist reported progress on improvements to City entrances, including the area near the new Visitor’s Center and the intersection of 4th and 5th Avenues. Clark Street was identified as a significant priority. Staff is exploring grant opportunities, including a potential Ifft CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 7 JULY 9, 2026 Foundation grant and is working with the property group to develop complete project cost estimates. He discussed the possibility of reallocating approximately $89,000 currently identified for the Pocatello Creek Interchange Project toward the Clark Street project, subject to appropriate considerations. The project is also being developed to incorporate an Idaho State University theme. South City Infrastructure Efforts continue to work with a federal lobbyist and congressional delegation to pursue funding for south City infrastructure. Mayor Dahlquist reported that current prospects for federal appropriations are uncertain and that the City currently has funds for project planning but not sufficient funding for project completion. Airport Development Mayor Dahlquist reported that the Idaho Transportation Department is considering a study related to a transload facility at the airport. He discussed changes to commercial air service. The airport currently has two flights, with service expected to transition to a morning departure and evening return. While this provides a more convenient schedule, it reduces the number of flights. Mayor Dahlquist discussed the City's participation in the RESTORE coalition, which is working on issues affecting smaller airports, including international fee structures. The coalition may assist in efforts to attract and maintain air service. Deferred Maintenance Mayor Dahlquist reviewed progress on deferred maintenance, including paving, water-main replacement, urban forestry projects, playground improvements and other Parks and Public Works projects. Staff is also utilizing an urban forestry grant to address diseased trees and replace trees in the downtown area. Greenway Trail Maintenance Plan Council members discussed development of a Greenway Trail maintenance plan. Public Works and Street Department staff are evaluating trail conditions and considering pavement- management information. The Portneuf Health Trust has offered a one-to-one match for trail improvements. Staff identified the Kirkham, AMI, and Parrish Trail areas as requiring significant maintenance. Council members discussed whether maintenance work could be completed using City staff and equipment. Tom Kirkman, Public Works Director, explained that some sections of the trail can be maintained using existing equipment, although tighter curves in other sections may present challenges. Staff will provide additional information regarding estimated costs and equipment requirements. Comprehensive Plan Communication Mayor Dahlquist reported that communications and news releases are being coordinated with the Comprehensive Plan to ensure that public information reflects the City's adopted planning goals. Code Enforcement Council members discussed efforts to increase public awareness and enforcement of City codes. Pocatello Police Department and Code Enforcement staff continue to address issues along major thoroughfares and within neighborhoods. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 8 JULY 9, 2026 Mayor Dahlquist reported that staffing levels have improved and that officers are increasingly able to take a proactive approach to code enforcement. Approximately $200,000 in an abatement fund through the Building Department could be used to address qualifying property issues, with costs potentially recovered through an assessment lien against the property. Council members discussed the need to become more proactive regarding overhanging vegetation, sidewalk obstructions and other neighborhood concerns. The use of door hangers and neighborhood outreach was discussed as a possible tool. Public Knowledge of the City Budget Mayor Dahlquist reported that Finance Department staff members have implemented OpenGov and is being used to improve public access to City budget information. Chantelle Macy, Budget Manager, explained that the system has been fully implemented and is being integrated into the City's budget process. Final approval will be brought to the Council before the information is made fully public-facing. She added that Chief Financial Officer Rich Morgan has also been developing dashboard reports that have been well received by the Council. A presentation regarding OpenGov and City budget information is planned for the July 20 Town Hall Meeting, including an opportunity for public questions and answers. Landscaping Standards/Skate Park Mayor Dahlquist recognized the work of Parks and Recreation staff to improve landscaping throughout the City. Improvements have been made in parks, cemeteries and other public spaces. He noted continued challenges related to irrigation and water management but stated that tree grants and other improvements are enhancing public spaces and providing examples of good landscaping practices. Relocation Study A public meeting is scheduled for July 15 regarding the City's relocation study. Mayor Dahlquist reported that the study is underway and that Council members have toured potential sites. Water Conservation Water conservation efforts continue through Water Week activities, Water Wise initiatives and the Environmental Fair. Mayor Dahlquist encouraged continued public awareness regarding responsible water use. Net Zero and Sustainability Mayor Dahlquist reported on several sustainability-related efforts, including continued recycling programs at the Recycle Center, development of a fleet plan involving hybrid vehicles and an energy audit of City Hall. He stated staff is also evaluating electric vehicles as part of its fleet, although staff noted that storage and winter operating conditions may present challenges for some vehicles. Downtown Business Support and Construction Communication Council members discussed improving directional signage for downtown businesses, particularly around 4th Avenue and Clark Street and 4th Avenue and Benton Street. Mayor Dahlquist discussed the possibility of providing more frequent public updates regarding downtown construction projects. Video updates from contractors and City staff were discussed CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 9 JULY 9, 2026 as a potential way to explain construction progress and keep the public informed. In response to a Council question regarding the anticipated timeline for maintaining one lane of traffic during construction, Mayor Dahlquist explained that opening one lane could potentially add approximately one month to the overall project timeline and the current approach is to continue construction without slowing the project. He noted upcoming downtown events, including “Rock the Block” on August 8, and encouraged residents to support downtown businesses, especially during construction. Permitting and Community Partnerships Mayor Dahlquist reported that the Building Department is implementing the Central Square digital permitting system to improve the permitting process. Council members discussed community partnerships with neighborhood associations. The Pocatello Police Department continues to participate in neighborhood association meetings, with designated officers and lieutenants available as points of contact. Mayor Dahlquist concluded that the Council's goals are being actively implemented and that departments are making measurable progress toward the priorities established by the Council. Council members briefly discussed the disposition of the former South Ath Avenue city entrance sign. Staff reported that the sign is stainless steel and currently does not have a designated use. Mayor Dahlquist suggested contacting Portneuf Valley Partners, which previously contributed approximately $12,000 toward the original placement of the sign, to determine whether the organization would like to retain or reuse the sign. AGENDA ITEM NO. 6: COUNCIL ADVISORY BOARD UPDATES Council members provided updates from various advisory boards and committees. Council member Nichols reported on the Animal Shelter and noted that the DocuPet contract will require Council consideration. He also reported on Library matters, including the director evaluation and the Idaho250 time capsule project. The Pocatello Development Authority (PDA) reviewed the Historic Downtown Economic Feasibility Study. Airport matters included discussion of the airport master plan analysis. Council member Bates reported that the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) committee had not met. SICOG is evaluating the current director position. Mayor Dahlquist reported on Bannock Transportation Planning Organization (BTPO). The Board recently considered temporary candlestick-style traffic markers along Yellowstone Avenue. The markers were originally anticipated to remain for approximately five years; however, the Board has approved a resolution seeking replacement with permanent concrete improvements in the following year. Council member Satterfield reported receiving positive feedback regarding new Parks and Recreation signage. She also provided an update on the Golf Advisory Committee. She reported that Riverside Golf Course was performing well, construction of the clubhouse was progressing CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION 10 JULY 9, 2026 and parking operations had transitioned smoothly with few complaints. Golf tournaments have been well attended and fully booked. She also reported that the Downtown Historic Committee continues to work on flowerpots, trees and downtown events. Council member Mangum reported that the Investment and Audit Committee had not yet met and is scheduled to meet quarterly. He also provided an update regarding NeighborWorks Pocatello, reporting that the organization has hired a new executive director and continues its work in the community. Council member Paulsen reported that the SEICAA Board does not meet during the summer. He also provided an update regarding the BTPO unified budget and the Human Relations Advisory Committee, which has elected new leadership. The Senior Activity Center is seeking a crosswalk on the south side of the facility. The Center recently raised approximately $15,000 through a car show and has a golf tournament fundraiser scheduled for September 12. Mr. Paulsen reported on the Street Renaming Committee. The committee has narrowed its recommendation to Gutierrez Avenue, honoring an Idaho judge who assisted with bilingual services. The recommendation is expected to be presented at a future City Council Work Session. AGENDA ITEM NO. 7: ADJOURN There being no further business, Mayor Dahlquist adjourned the meeting at 11:47 a.m. APPROVED: Tig, Que MARK DAHLQUIST, MAYOR ATTESTED AND PREPARED BY:
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