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POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 1 of 12
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, September 28, 2026
POWER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Meeting Minutes
Commission Chambers
543 Bannock Ave.
American Falls, ID 83211
www.powercounty.gov
Monday, September 28, 2026, 9:00 a.m.
I. CALL TO ORDER
The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session Monday, September 28, 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:
Kami Chandler
Macie Evans
Launa Snow
Jeff Rankin
Ryan Heiner
Kim Piper
Whitney Nichols
Gilbert Hofmeister
Kasey Kendall
Elizabeth McCormack
Gabe Foullt
Jonathan Huse
Jake Taylor
Mark Rose Jr.
Kristen Jensen
Brad Rogers
Jacob Reiss
III. AGENDA
A. NOTICES/REPORTS
1. Public Comment: Prosecutor Bischoff thanked the Commissioners for the employee picnic that
was held on September 17, 2026.
2. Resolution 2026-13 Ambulance Fee’s: Chairman Fehringer opened the meeting for Resolution
2026-13 at 10:06 am. Clerk Sharee Sprague reported that the resolution regarding ambulance
fees was placed on the day's agenda in error, as statutory notice requires publication across two
consecutive weeks prior to the hearing. Although Clerk Sprague had originally scheduled the
public hearing for October 12th, she realized that date falls on a holiday when the courthouse is
closed. She attempted to contact the newspaper on Thursday to modify the publication date,
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with confirmation pending in Wednesday's paper. It was agreed that holding a public hearing on
a holiday is unfeasible because the public would not expect the courthouse to be open. To fix
this, Clerk Sprague proposed moving the hearing to October 13th and drafting a published
correction. Prosecutor Bischoff advised that republishing the corrected notice is appropriate
and agreed to research the legal requirements once Clerk Sprague emails him a draft of the
updated publication notice.
3. Waterways: The following items were discussed and reported by Commissioner Krein;
•
Idaho Power Lighting and Camera Conduit (Oregon Trail Bathrooms): Following design
work for an Idaho Power underground boring project for lighting, Commissioner Krien
recommended adding a second conduit during boring to expand camera coverage to a
second pole for the dock area, making cameras accessible to both the city and the
Sheriff's Department. Commissioner Krein states he will contact Waterways Director
Ron Anderson to request the additional conduit from Idaho Power.
•
Waterways Dump Truck Repair Dispute: The Commission reviewed an unpaid
$8,404.97 repair bill from Driscoll Truck Center for the waterways dump truck, which
was returned in non-working condition. Although Driscoll acknowledged the issue and
agreed to fix it, the Commission strongly recommended withholding payment until it is
confirmed fully operational.
4. City of American Falls Update: Mayor Hoffmeister presented an update and partnership
discussion, beginning with budget context noting that the city had to cut about $140,000 from
last year’s budget—with streets taking the heaviest hit—and that pay raises have been capped
at no more than 3% over the past 8 to 10 years, where each 1% equates to roughly $30,000 in
city employee costs.
Addressing the current dispatch agreement, which is estimated at around $82,000 per year and
increases by 3% annually under contract terms currently lacking signatures from either side due
to new leadership, Mayor Hoffmeister requested a possible discount—noting that a reduction
of even $1,000 to $5,000 would help the police budget. To move forward, both sides agreed to
form a joint committee to draft a comprehensive MOU covering all areas of overlap, such as
dispatch, animal control, and planning and zoning, in sections, with results to be reported back
to the full Board of County Commissioners (BOCC). Finally, regarding the Crimes Against
Children unit, Mayor Hoffmeister asked if county software donations would continue, noting
that no budget was set aside due to a lack of communication, and the Commissioners agreed to
check with Sheriff Kendall and follow up.
5. Request for Proposal’s IT Services: Opening at approximately 1:20 PM, the RFP review focused
on IT services following the receipt of two proposals, including one from Solus Information
Systems and Snake River Computer Systems. After review , the Commissioners agreed to take
the proposals under further advisement and scheduled a workshop for October 5th to
thoroughly review all submissions and give each vendor a fair evaluation.
6. Request for Proposal’s Mosquito Abatement: Opening at approximately 1:42 pm, the RFP
focused on IT services following the receipt of 3 proposals by Teton Valley Pest Control, VDCI
Mosquito Management and Mountain Vector Control. After review , the Commissioners agreed
to take the proposals under further advisement and scheduled a workshop for October 5th to
thoroughly review all submissions and give each vendor a fair evaluation.
7. Board Updates: The following board updates were given;
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Fair board (Commissioner Fehringer) - The Board discussed creating a dual-role position
combining fairgrounds upkeep and weed control to increase fairgrounds utilization, following
cleanliness concerns at a recent dance event. The goal is to develop the job description over the
winter, with the Commission determining hourly pay, time allocation, and specific duties.
Commissioner Fehringer offered to collaborate with Clerk Sprague—who noted a draft is
already underway—and present the proposal at the next Fair Board meeting on the first
Monday for input. Regarding the weed control component, Commissioner Krein noted that
Curtis Munk reached out and suggested bringing him in for further discussion. Feedback has
been positive, and it was recommended that the public job posting be shared with the State
Weeds Commission to reach candidates statewide.
Waterways (Commissioner Krein) - Waterways Director Ron Anderson requested a meeting with
Commissioner Krein and Clerk Sprague to discuss vessel funding and waterways financial
reporting.
Museum (Commissioner Krein) – Commissioner Krein states that everything at the museum is
going well.
8. Commissioners Business as Needed: The following items were discussed;
•
Commissioner Fehringer confirmed that he will do the jail inspection on Wednesday.
•
The board discussed having the Commissioner’s day on a different day rather than on
Monday’s.
9. Radio Generator Discussion: The Commissioners discussed the radio system upgrade and
generator costs. The Highway District agreed to cover the $6,700 generator cost difference,
while Power County would be responsible for the approximately $67,000 system upgrade. The
current system is expected to become obsolete within a year, making the upgrade necessary to
maintain countywide communication coverage and eliminate existing dead spots, including at
Paps Mountain. The Commissioners noted that obtaining financial contributions from outside
entities, including the Tribe, ISP, and Fish and Game, may be difficult. Commissioner Fehringer
will confirm the Highway District's commitment with Nick Annen and bring the matter forward
for formal approval. The Commissioners also discussed budgeting for future system upgrades to
avoid similar unexpected costs.
10. Weeds/Fairground Discussion: Commissioner Fehringer provided an update on the fairgrounds,
noting plans to attend the upcoming Fair Board meeting on the first Monday to gather input
before presenting a formal proposal to the Board. Commissioners discussed creating a new
Fairgrounds Keeper position combining fairgrounds maintenance and weed control. The
position would help improve upkeep and increase use of the fairgrounds, with recent feedback
highlighting the need for improved cleanliness. Commissioner Fehringer will work with the Clerk
Sprague to finalize a draft job description and present it to the Fair Board for input at its next
meeting. He mentioned connecting with a fairground’s expert at IAC, who highlighted
fairgrounds as a unique taxing entity. Commissioner Krein shared that Curtis Munk had reached
out to him, prompting discussion of a multi-role staffing model based on Munk’s former split
duties between weeds and the landfill.
B. MOTIONS:
1. Agenda: A motion to approve the special agenda for Monday, September 28, 2026, was
presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call
of the Board, motion unanimously carried.
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2. Convene as Ambulance District Board at 9:05 am: A motion to adjourn as the Power County
Board of County Commissioners and convene as the Power County Ambulance District Board
was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following an
audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried.
3. Power County Ambulance Administration & Financial Report: Ambulance Administrator Kami
Chandler presented the Systems Design West accounts receivable reports for July and August
2026. July recorded 68 billable runs (38 BLS, 30 ALS, 10 inter-facility) and 64 non-billable runs,
while August saw 54 billable runs (24 BLS, 30 ALS, 8 inter-facility) and 62 unbilled runs, with
extra transports trending downward as other agencies absorb ALS calls. Financial updates
included collecting $1,304.56 from Power County Collections and noting a Systems Design West
price increase of $1 per transport effective January 1, 2027. Additionally, the service secured a
$39,900 Harry Morrison Foundation grant for a Zoll Monitor for its new ambulance, which will
launch soon alongside repurposing the oldest high-mileage vehicle for events transport without
a narc box or Lucas device. Staffing updates noted two confirmed resignations and a few recent
sick calls. To combat this, the department is prioritizing selective hiring over quick fills,
revamping the interview process to include a full-day ride-along, and restructuring the schedule
for better consistency. On protocols and hospital relations, Director Chandler emphasized that
the service strictly follows Idaho State protocols—such as routing trauma to trauma centers and
stroke to stroke centers—rather than local hospital preferences, rendering Power County
Hospital's claims of outside influence untrue. Tensions remain high due to hospital frustrations
over patient intake, a specific incident of staff rudeness toward EMS in front of a patient, and
the hospital's failure to provide a requested capabilities list. Despite these challenges, meetings
are being arranged with the hospital's newly added emergency providers to resolve operational
issues while ensuring strict adherence to state protocols for liability protection. Following
discussion, a motion to accept the Financial Reports as submitted was presented by
Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the Board,
motion unanimously carried.
4. Reconvene as Board of County Commissioners at 9:29 am: A motion to adjourn as the Power
County Ambulance District Board and reconvene as the Power County Commissioners was
presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following an audible
call of the board, the motion unanimously carried.
5. Emergency Management Update: EMS Director, Kami Chandler, presented the 2025
Subrecipient Award Agreement (2025 SHSP – SHSP25SH3900). The program/budget period is
from September 1, 2025 – August 15, 2028. Director Chandler states the grant amount is
$21,203.28 from the Idaho Office of Emergency Management. This no-match grant will be fully
applied toward the previously discussed radio generator, with the remaining balance of
approximately $6,700 expected to be covered by the highway district. The radio generator
qualifies toward the mandatory 35% law enforcement allocation, rounding out past 2024 grant
distributions that included the American Falls Police Department, Search and Rescue, and
Rockland Fire, while closeout work on the 2024 grant remains ongoing. An MOU was attached
to the grant but had not been reviewed by Prosecutor Bischoff. Following discussion, a motion
to approve the Idaho Office Emergency Grant (2025 SHSP – SHSP25SH3900) in the amount of
$21,203.28, 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 MOU between Power County and the Idaho Office of Emergency
Management for the SHSP funding for grant award (2025 SHSP – SHSP25SH3900) contingent on
legal review was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein.
Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried.
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6. Snow Property Management: Snow Property Manager and Owner Launa Snow appeared
before the Commission to provide several updates regarding county properties. She presented
photos of damaged and hanging vinyl soffits at 579 Bannock Ave. and requested authorization
to accept a repair bid, alongside guidance on handling future repairs. Currently, the contract
allows repairs up to $250 without Commission approval, and the Commission discussed
whether to increase this threshold, noting that repairs over $250 require full Commission
approval while emergencies can be addressed by contacting Commissioner Fehringer. For the
soffit repairs, CCX—project managed by Devin Espinosa—submitted a $500 bid to fix the
damaged areas and inspect the rest, with positive references confirmed. The Commission
stipulated that the contractor must provide a W-9 and a certificate of insurance to the Clerk's
office. Clerk Sprague requested authorization to pay out of the appropriate expenditure fund
pending verification of rental revenue routing. Following discussion, Commissioner Krein moved
to approve the $500 CCX bid and direct the auditor’s office to pay from the appropriate
expenditure line, seconded by Commissioner Povey, and the motion unanimously carried.
Additionally, the Commission authorized Chairman Commissioner Fehringer to approve
emergency appliance repairs or replacements up to $2,000, with a subsequent report to the
Commission, while amounts over $2,000 must go on the agenda. A motion to authorize
Commissioner Fehringer to approve repair expenses, up to $2,000, for buildings and grounds,
was presented by Commissioner Krein with a second by Commissioner Povey. Following audible
call of the board, the motion unanimously carried.
7. Ordinance 2026-04 Landfill Fee Rates: Chairman Fehringer opened the meeting for Ordinance
2026-04, an Ordinance setting Landfill fee rates to at 10:11 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
•
Ryan Hyner
Clerk Sprague noted for ordinances you have to only publish notice once and it won’t go into
effect for 30 days. Following discussion, a motion to approve Ordinance 2026-04 , was
presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Fehringer. Following audible
call of the Board, the motion unanimously carried.
The ordinance will be attached to the approved meeting minutes as exhibit A.
8. Harmony Grove Estates Subdivision – Final Plat: Building Administrator Kim Piper presented
the findings of fact and conclusions of law for the five-lot Harmony Grove Estates Subdivision,
noting that the Planning and Zoning board previously approved the final plat—following two
reviews and securing city water connection approval from the City of American Falls. The site,
formerly a Jehovah's Witness chapter, is currently being converted into a duplex. Discussion
arose regarding the water system, which will be dead-ended rather than looped. While a fire
hydrant with confirmed sufficient pressure will be placed at the line's end, concerns were raised
regarding periodic flushing due to buildup. Although the project moved forward because the
city approved the setup, the Board suggested that future developments aim for looped systems
and that the city be more involved during reviews. Following discussion, a motion to approve
the Harmony Grove Estates Subdivision – Final Plat was presented by Commissioner Krein with
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a second by Commissioner Povey. Following audible call of the Board, the motion unanimously
carried.
9. Landfill Update: Jeff Rankin updated the Commission on the old landfill, noting that the
Municipal Solid Waste Landfill Closure Agreement is pending review by attorney Nate Cuoio. A
key strategic shift now prioritizes methane remediation over the demolition pit, with DEQ
approval to raise the pit by two or more feet to provide two to three extra years of capacity and
avoid costly hauling—buying time while landfill employee Elizabeth Tischendorf pursues SICOG
grant funding. Following discussion, a motion to approve the municipal solid waste landfill
closure agreement contingent on outside counsel Nate Cuoio’s review was presented by
Commissioner Fehringer with a second by Commissioner Povey. Following audible call of the
board, the motion unanimously carried.
Additionally, the Commission reviewed a $34,940 agreement with Tetra Tech for two rounds of
groundwater monitoring recommended by DEQ to ensure four-year data consistency. Valley
Consulting's request for an advisory role was declined since DEQ-approved processes are
established, it was also advised tabling the Tetra Tech agreement for Nate's review before
placing it on the next agenda. Finally, regarding recently approved landfill rate changes, Jeff will
verify whether the effective date runs 30 days from publication or the hearing date and will
update signage and printed materials accordingly.
10. Sheriff’s Office Update: Sheriff Kendall reported the following updates;
1. ITD FY2027 Traffic Enforcement Grant Agreement
Sheriff Kendall presented the Idaho Transportation Department Office of Highway Safety
FY2027 Traffic Enforcement Grant Project Agreement for routine seatbelt emphasis and
DUI mobilizations, noting minor parameter updates due to federal NHTSA changes.
Following review, a motion to approve the ITD Highway Safety Traffic agreement and
authorize use of digital signatures for the agreement, was presented by Commissioner
Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the board, the
motion unanimously carried.
2. MOU with Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for Cross-Deputization
The Sheriff presented an informational 5-year MOU—previously reviewed and approved
by Prosecutor Bischoff—allowing BLM rangers to be cross-deputized to handle state law
violations and provide emergency support without any exchange of funds. Following
discussion, a motion to accept the MOU between the Power County Sheriff’s office and
Bureau of Land Management was presented by Commissioner Krein with a second by
Commissioner Povey. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously
carried.
3. Radio Tower Upgrade – Motorola Quote Pending
Sheriff Kendall provided an update on the pending $65,000–$67,000 radio tower upgrade,
expressing frustration over Motorola's delayed quote despite follow-ups with Day
Wireless. With equipment lead times running 8 to 20 weeks and tight budget year
timelines, the Sheriff will continue pursuing a resolution and bring the item back for
action if a breakthrough occurs.
4. Sheriff's Office Basement Water Leak
The Sheriff reported a significant basement water leak following heavy rainfall where
water ran between conduit bundles rather than through them. While quick action
managed the mess and prevented server room damage, a formal letter will be drafted by
Prosecutor Bischoff and the Sheriff to the original contractor to seek accountability and
prevent potential mold issues before any future office expansions.
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5. Comp Time and Vacation Time Accrual
The Board reviewed an HR spreadsheet analysis showing several Sheriff's Office
employees over their maximum carryover limits due to past management practices and
jail staffing constraints. While no formal policy change was enacted, the Commission
favored a long-term cap-based model to halt accruals once limits are reached, and the
Sheriff will meet with Clerk Sprague and Deputy Clerk Lissette Aguirre to review data and
establish a clearer framework.
6. Crime Trends in Power County
With county service calls approaching 2,700 for the year, the Sheriff updated the
Commission on public safety trends, highlighting persistent controlled substance issues,
rising domestic and assault violence, and increasingly sophisticated international fraud
cases. To help combat these challenges, a new detective position is slated to be filled in
December, and the Sheriff is actively building investigative partnerships with surrounding
agencies.
11. Ada County Pathology Services Agreement: Deputy County Coroner Mark Rose Jr. met with the
Board to discuss the Ada County Pathology Service Agreement for autopsy services, noting it
remains largely unchanged aside from a new clause regarding tissue storage fees after two
years and a corrected fiscal year expiration date. Following review by Prosecutor Bischoff—
which addressed a question regarding the omission of the American Board of Pathologists
certification requirement—and confirmation from Deputy Coroner Rose that he is comfortable
with the terms and prefers Ada County over Salt Lake for their working relationship, a motion to
approve the Ada County Pathology Services agreement was presented by Commissioner Povey
with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the board the motion
unanimously carried.
12. IT Update: The following updates were provided by the IT department;
1. M2 Automations – Notice of Discontinuation/Transition to Basic Support: The IT
Department recommended discontinuing the County’s contracted service agreement
with M2 Automations and transitioning to a no-cost basic support model. M2 will
remain a vendor and value-added reseller for the Avigilon system, with Tier 1 and Tier
2 support handled internally by the County and Tier 3 support provided by M2 on a
time-and-materials basis as needed. Upon termination, M2 will provide the County
with root and administrative credentials to ensure full control of its systems. The
previous service agreement cost approximately $50,000–$80,000 annually across
departments. A formal Notice of Discontinuation must be signed to prevent automatic
renewal effective October 1. Motorola is also being evaluated as an alternative vendor
for camera and access control support. The IT Department expressed confidence in
managing the transition and maintaining system integrity. A motion to sign the notice
of discontinuation with M2 and sign up for the no-cost basic support through them
was presented by Commissioner Krein with a second by Commissioner Povey.
Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried.
2. IT Department Updates – Vendor Audit, MDM, Phone Consolidation, and Print
Management: Brad Rogers provided an update on ongoing IT initiatives, including
vendor consolidation, phone and data plan audits, mobile device management, and
print management. Several unused or unnecessary phone and data lines have been
identified for cancellation or consolidation, including FirstNet, CenturyLink, AT&T,
Verizon, and T-Mobile services. The County is also reviewing existing phone numbers
and services as part of a broader phone system upgrade. Mobile Device Management
(MDM) has been implemented using Microsoft tools, allowing the IT Department to
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remotely manage, lock, wipe, and track County-issued devices. New FirstNet devices
will be automatically enrolled, and additional departments are transitioning to County-
issued phones. Certain phone services are being held or reviewed based on
operational needs. The IT Department is also reviewing print contracts and costs, with
a full report to be presented at a future elected officials and department heads
meeting. Other updates included the successful operation and calibration of the
courthouse metal detector and continued planning for the Aumentum tax program,
with implementation dependent on the completion of another county’s conversion.
The IT Department will continue working on vendor consolidation and cost reduction.
Departments were reminded to route vendor communications through the IT
Department rather than contacting vendors directly.
13.
Consenting Agenda: Following discussion, a motion to approve the consenting agenda with no
action taken on the Treasurer’s Update was presented by Commissioner Krein with a second
by Commissioner Povey. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried.
The items approved under the consenting agenda are as follows;
•
Claims – Along with the claims, Deputy Auditor Cathy Miles presented a $419.43 ICCU
credit card statement. She requested approval to pay the balance to avoid late fees, as
the authorized department head was away at a conference and unable to submit the
claim. Following discussion, a motion to pay the credit card balance of $419.43 was
presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Fehringer.
Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried. The following
claims report was approved;
FUND
Paid
0001 GENERAL FUND (CURRENT EXPENSE)
$ 22,841.14
0003 FAIR BOARD
$ 500.00
0004 POWER COUNTY AMBULANCE DIST.
$ 24,459.29
0006 DISTRICT COURT
$ 2,845.06
0008 JUSTICE FUND
$ 37,014.95
0009 DRUG COURT
$ 150.00
0010 ENHANCED 911 SERVICES
$ 906.66
0011 HEALTH DISTRICT
$ 866.91
0015 ELECTIONS
$ 3,443.49
0020 REVALUATION
$ 45.00
0023 SOLID WASTE (LANDFILL)
$ 52,201.97
0027 WEEDS
$ 36.84
0038 WATERWAYS
$ 1,906.25
0039 MUSEUM
$ 879.52
0050 PAYMENT IN LIEU OF TAXES
$ 174.60
0051 BOND – WATER RIGHTS
$ 100.00
Total Amount Paid
$ 148,371.68
•
Approval of Past Metting Minutes – Minutes for meetings held on August 24th, 28th,
September 8th and 14th were approved.
•
Treasurer’s Update – No action was taken for this item.
14. Personnel: The Board discussed resolving a workers' compensation claim for a law enforcement
employee. Due to processing delays, the employee used accrued sick and vacation leave during
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his claim period, and the workers' compensation check was subsequently issued directly to him
rather than the County. Clerk Sprague reported that while the County is normally reimbursed
directly to restore employee hours, law enforcement claims involve specific provisions and are
allowed retention of some accruals. Clerk Sprague reported that her office provided the
employee with options to close out the worker’s compensation claim by either remitting the
funds received to the county and having all leave used during the claim period credited back to
their accruals or retain the funds and only have a portion of the leave credited back.
Prosecutor Bischoff clarified that under Option 2, the employee retains the workers'
compensation check and has 55.76 hours of leave credited back. The Board noted this reduces
County liability, as short staffing would otherwise prevent leave usage and require a payout.
Following discussion, a motion to approve option 2 and allow the employee to retain payment
from workers comp and credit back 55.76 hours of sick/vacation leave was presented by
Commissioner Povey with a second Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the board, the
motion unanimously carried.
15. Building & Grounds: Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa informed the Commission of the need to clarify
which budget lines would cover two bills for work performed by Harmison Heating & Air
Conditioning:
1. EMS Furnace: Deputy Auditor Cathy Miles informed the Commission that EMS is a
separate taxing district; therefore, invoices cannot be paid from the regular building line
(01-10-494-00). EMS has its own maintenance line (04-00-494-00), which is currently in
the red. The Commissioners agreed to approve a demand check from line 04-00-494-00
and, per Clerk Sprague’s recommendation, pass a budget adjustment resolution to
replenish that line. A motion to change where we are paying the ambulance furnace
invoice of $5,534.62 from the building maintenance fund to the EMS maintenance line
04-00-494-00 was presented by Commissioner Krein with a second by Commissioner
Povey. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried. A demand
check was authorized as well.
2. 590 Gifford: The appropriate line (01-10-494-00) was likewise in the negative. As with
the EMS furnace, the Commissioners agreed to approve a demand check from line 01-
10-494-00 and, per Clerk Sprague’s recommendation, pass a budget adjustment
resolution to replenish the line.
Snow Plowing Services: ABC Auto submitted an agreement for snow plowing services. The
Commissioners agreed that with the purchase of a new plow and truck, snow plowing can be
performed by the County, eliminating the need to contract out these services.
Commissioners discussed a water leak at the Sheriff’s Office caused by a communication line
installed by Crown Utilities from the courthouse. Water is entering the building along the line
during rainstorms, requiring repairs to the exterior foundation. Crown Utilities was contacted
but declined responsibility. The Commission directed Chet to document the issue with photos
and provide the information to Prosecutor Bischoff so a formal letter could be drafted
referencing the original contract warranty.
The Commission also discussed a pavement bid from Carter for nearly $9,000 and decided to
hold off on the work. The Health Department requested a building inspection of safety and exit
signs and fire extinguishers, which the Commission approved for liability purposes. One
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Commissioner’s office has been cleaned and is ready for use, while a second is still being
prepared. Key access was also discussed, including keys for the Commission Chambers,
Extension Office, and two additional keys for the Public Defender’s Office.
16. Ardurra – Savage Field Notice: A notice to proceed for construction on the runway out at
Savage Field was presented to the Commissioner’s. Following discussion, a motion to approve
the Ardurra Savage Field notice to proceed with the construction for the taxiway and apron
work was presented by Commissioner Fehringer with a second by Commissioner Krein.
Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried.
17. SICOG Agreement & Annex Discussion: Commissioner Povey presented an update regarding
the SICOG agreement, noting that the agreement was ready for the chairman’s signature.
Following the chairman’s signature, RFPs will be issued promptly, with the goal of completing
the work by the end of the calendar year. A penalty clause for non-completion will be included
in the RFP. Commissioner Povey also noted that 13 different government entities are involved
in the project. The RFPs will be issued promptly, with a year-end completion target and penalty
provisions for non-completion. Following discussion, a motion to approve the SICOG agreement
for the demolition of the annex and authorize Chairman Fehringer to sign the agreement was
presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call
of the board, the motion unanimously carried.
Regarding SICOG services, a motion to approve the SICOG services contract for 2027 was
presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call
of the board, the motion unanimously carried.
18. Levy Certification: Clerk Sprague presented the annual levy certification, noting L-1 certification
of the taxing district levies is done annually. Clerk Sprague explained that the taxing district
submits levy requests with her office, and she reviews those filings before compiling the
countywide L-1. This year there were eight taxing district L-2s that required corrections, and
those corrections have been made in collaboration with the taxing districts. Clerk Sprague
advised that the report presented reflects the levies as currently filed. Clerk Sprague also
provided a comparison report showing the 2025 certified levies against the 2026 filings. Overall,
the combined levy shown in the report decreased and represents a decrease of approximately
$215.77 per $100,000 of taxable value, across all the listed taxing districts. Clerk Sprague
advised that Power County’s total impact for the Abatement, Ambulance and County taxing
districts is estimated to be 10.75% of overall levied taxes for all taxing districts. It is important
to note that the actual comparison and savings will vary based on tax code area. Clerk Sprague
explained that the certification will be filed with the State Tax Commission (STC) for review,
verification and final certification for the tax drive. Any changes or corrections will be
addressed thru a change a change letter. Clerk Sprague advised that the STC is required to
certify levies by the fourth Monday in October. Following discussion, a motion to approve the
certification of tax levies was presented by Commissioner Krein with a second by Commissioner
Povey. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried. Clerk Sprague will
sign and submit the certification to the State Tax Commission for review, with certification or a
change letter expected by the fourth Monday in October.
19. FY2027 Budget Change: The following items were discussed;
1. Deputy Prosecutor Position:
Clerk Sprague advised that prior to drafting the budget change resolution, she needs a
formal decision by the Commission identifying the funding source for the $12,000 raise
for the Chief Deputy Prosecutor. After reviewing insurance line projections, it was
determined there was sufficient surplus in the insurance line to cover the $12,000.
Following discussion, a motion move $12,000 from the dedicated insurance line to the
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 11 of 12
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, September 28, 2026
Chief Deputy Prosecutor line was presented by Commissioner Krein with a second by
Commissioner Povey. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously
carried.
2. Chemical Budget — $20,000 Rollover:
Clerk Sprague states that $20,000 budgeted for chemicals in FY27 went unused and the
department requested it be pushed to next year, making that line $40,000. A suggestion
was made to prepay with a chemical supplier to carry a credit balance, avoiding future
budget timing issues and potentially earning a 6% credit on the account. Commissioner
Krein agreed to speak with Kim to explore going through a local or preferred supplier.
C. POINTS OF ORDER:
1. Idaho Rural Economic Development Grant Agreement: This item was tabled as the agreement
needs further review.
IV. EXECUTIVE SESSION:
1. Executive Personnel Session I.C. 74-206(1)(b) 10:45 am: 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 10:56 am.
2. Executive Personnel Session I.C. 74-206(1)(b) 10:56 am: A motion to enter into executive
session to consider personnel actions pursuant to Idaho Code 74-206(1)(b) was presented by
Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Clerk Sharee Sprague 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 11:18 am.
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 Fehringer. Following
audible call of the Board, motion carried and the meeting was adjourned at 2:16 pm.
The foregoing minutes were approved by the Board of County Commissioners during the Regular
Board Meeting held October 13, 2026.
ATTEST:
__________________________________
COMMISSIONER FEHRINGER, Chairman
Mariano Villa Jr.
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 12 of 12
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, September 28, 2026
MARIANO VILLA, Deputy Clerk
fnstrument # 226574
POWER cori TY, lOAl€
g-?p-Xl?s O1|XltA
Recorded for : FOY\rER
SHAREE SPRAGUE
F.e: 0.00
ordinance #2026-0J Er{T Gio Rcco'tlcr
POWEII (]OUNTY I-ANDFILL }-EES
Be it ordained by the Board ofCounty Commissioners ofPower County, Idaho:
The amendment ofPower County Code Title 4, Chapter 2, Section l3 FEES, was considered and
approved by the Power County, Idaho, Board of Commissioners on the iy' day of
,2026.
Upon motion of Commissioner
trdn
and seconded by Commissioner
ht<,
. the Board modifies Power Countv Code as follows
WHEREAS, the fees for disposing of solid waste at the Power County Landfill have not been
updated since August 24, 2022; and
WHEREAS, fee adjustments are necessary due to significant increases in the cost of operating the
County's landfill and the costs associated u'ith waste handling, transportation. disposal, equipment,
regulatory compliance, and operation of the system have continued to increase. Based on current
projections and notices from our vendors, the county anticipates those cost to nearly triple by Fiscal Year
2028;
WHEREAS, Idaho Code Chapter 44, Title 3l and Power County Code Chapter 2, Title 4 grants
the Boards ofCounty Commissioners the authority to set and collect fees for use oflandfill services;
WHEREAS, the below changed fees are reasonably calculated to assist in covering the costs of
operation at the Power County Landfill;
NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS RESOLVED that the Board of Power County Commissioners does
hereby adopt Power County Ordinance #2026-04, amending Power County Code section 4-2-13 to state
the following:
4-2-13: FEES:
A. PURPOSE: The purpose of this section is to establish fees to cover the partial costs ofoperating and
maintaining Power County's solid waste disposal system.
B. AUTHORITY: This section is adopted pursuant to the authority granted by Idaho Code Chapter 44,
Title 3l and Power County Code Chapter 2, Title 4, which allows Power County to charge and collect
fees for use ofthe county solid waste disposal system.
Pil tto. ot P€..: 5
COTj TY COil tsSPltERs
Po$cr'( ountl Ortlinancc2026-0-l l'nge I of5
EXHIBIT A
C, DEFINITIONS:
1. 150 pounds: 1 cubic yard.
2. A 300 gallon container: 1.4 cubic yards.
3. Agricultural Tires: Any farm implement tires and rubber tracks.
4. Big Truck Tires: Any tire with a wheel diameter larger than nineteen (19) inches.
5. "Commercial rate" relates to institutional, retail and wholesale businesses including, but not
limited to: hospitals, nursing homes, restauants, motels, service stations, offices, banks.
residential rental complexes, and mobile home parks.
6. "Household refuse unit (HRU)" means the average family sized refuse container, which is a 90
gallon container. I HRU : $120.00 per 22 cubic yardlyear. (3300 lbs : 1.65 ton)
7. Non-Specialized Waste: Any waste that cannot be placed into one olthe specialized pits or
piles defined as Specialized Waste. This is waste that is commonly referred to as having to be
dumped on the floor, which then is transported to a facility out ofcounty for disposal, not
retained on site.
8. Specialized Waste: Waste has been sorted to allow it to be dumped as either
construction/demolition waste, brush waste, or metal waste. This distinction shall be in the
discretion ofthe staff evaluating each load presented for disposal at any Power County
Facility.
9. Unsecured Load: An unsecured load shall be defined as any load, which is not sufficiently
secured to prevent debris from the load from blowing out of, lalling from, or leaving the
transport vehicle in any way. A secured load will be able to prevent the waste materials from
escaping the load.
10. "Waste volume calculation" is the method used to determine the commercial rate.
D. SITE DISTINCTION: The American Falls Transfer Station is hereby designated as the primary solid
waste disposal lacility for Power County. Al[ other solid waste disposal sites, shall be designated as
satellite transfer sites.
E. ANNUAL REVIEW AND ASSESSEMENT: The board of county commissioners will review the rate
schedule annualll'. The board ofcounry commissioners will accept, revie*., and adjust, when
necessary, any erroneous assessments by way of written request.
F. RESIDENTIAL FEES
Residential Rates: A household rate ofone hundred twenty dollars ($120.00) rvill be assessed
on every household in Power County for the year 2026 and every year thereafter. This rate is
based on an average family sized ninety (90) gallon container which equals twenty-two (22)
cubic yards per year. The first 500 lbs of household waste per week is free to residents before
incuning additional costs.
G. COMMIIRCIAI. I lllls
l. Waste lor institutional, retail and wholesale businesses which include, but are not limited to:
hospitals, nursing homes, restaurants, motels, service stations, offices, banks, residential rental
complexes, mobile home parks, and other commercial businesses will be assessed for the year
2000 and every year thereafter. This rate is based on the average cubic yards of waste disposed
of per year per business.
2. Waste Volume Calculation: The following table will be used to determine the applicable rate
charged to commercial businesses:
Po\r'er Countl Ordinance2026-0,1 Page 2 of5
3. Waste Iree Calculation: The following table will be used to determine the solid waste fee:
Total waste volume
produced annually
(cu. yd.)
Household
refuse unit
(22 cu. yds.)
Cost ol household
refuse unit
( 120.00)
Total solid
waste fee
assessed
\
4. Minimum Rate For Commercial Businesses: The one hundred twenty-dollar ($ 120.00)
household rate identified above in subsection D(1) will be the minimum annual rate for a
commercial business.
H. SPECIALIZED WASTE DISPOSAL FEES: The fees for the following types of specialized waste
disposal: construction demolition matcrial; brush; and metal, when said materials are properly
separated, as determined by the staff evaluating each load presented for disposal at any Power County
Facility, shall be as follows:
Description
Charge
Notes
Recycting/Satvage
Free
Brush
Standard Size Truck
$
2o.oo
after 1st load each week
Bobtait and Lg. Trucks $
so.oo
after 1st toad each week
I\4SW (shipped trash )
$
1oo.oo
/ ton
I\,1etal
Free
Dead Animat
$
so.oo
/ ton
Demo
$
1oo.oo
/ ton ($5.00 minimum)
Tires
Car/Sm. Tires
$
1o.oo
without rim
$
15.00
with rim
TrucULg. tires
$
2s.00
without rim
$
5o.oo
with rim
Butk
$
3oo.oo
/ ton (in excess of 4 tires)
Wood Chips
$
z.oo
lyafi
Unsecu red Loads
$
10.00
$
15o.oo
/ ton or minimum fee of $150 whichever is more
Crushed Asphatt
cost ptus $10
/ ton
Crushed Concrete
Cost ptus $10
/ ton
Late Gate Fee
$
2o.oo
Any patron unable to untoad and exit the gate before
ctosing witt be charged or turned away.
Campers
$
2oo.oo
Mobite Homes
$ soo.oo
All transactions will be rounded up to the next dollar amount.
I. OTHER FEES: Fees for other types of waste disposal are outlined as follows:
1 . Mixed Loads: any load which contains specialized waste, that has not been properly sorted for
disposal in the specified pits and piles on site. as determined by the staff evaluating each load
presented for disposal at any Power County Facility, shall be charged as fee ofone hundred
fifty dollars ($150.00) per ton.
Po\rer Count) Ord iD a n cc2026-0{ Page3ttf 5
Contaminated Load
I
2. Big Truck Tires: shall be charged twenty-five dollars ($25.00) per tire.
3. Big Truck Tires on Rim: shall be charged fifty dollars ($50.00) per tire/rim combination or for
rims without tires.
4. Agricultural Tires: shall be charged three hundred dollars ($300.00) per ton.
5. Rounding: All transactions will be rounded up to the next dollar amount.
J. SATELLITE TRANFER SITES: Waste deposited at any Power County Satellite Transfer Site shall be
charged regular landfill fees except as follows:
I . Pick-up Truck No Trailer: shall be granted one ( 1) free load per week. Thereafter a fee of
twenty dollars ($20.00) per load shall be charged.
2. Other Sizes ofLoads: no load transported in anything other than a pick-up truck or a trailer
without a truck load will be accepted at a satellite transfer site. Any larger load must be
transported to the American Falls Transfer Station.
3. Unsecured Loads: any person bringing an unsecured load for disposal at any Power County
Facility shall be charged an additional ten dollars ($10.00) fee.
4. Non-Accepted Items: tire, rims, freon units, and truck and trailers loads are not accepted at any
satellite stations.
5. Specialized Waste: The fees for the following types of specialized waste disposal at any
satellite site, when said materials are properly separated, as determined by the staffevaluating
each load presented for disposal at any Power County Facility, shall be as follows:
i.
Construction/Demolition: shall be charged one hundred dollars ($100.00) per ton.
ii.
Brush: shall be charged twenty-five dollars ($25.00) per load.
iii.
Metal: shall not be charged a fee.
K. OUT OF COUNTY WASTE: Any waste delivered to the transfer station which originates from
outside ofPower County or is presented lor disposal by a non-Power County resident will incur
double the rate for county residents.
L. RIGHT TO REFUSE EXCESSIVE OR NONCONFORMING WASTE: The County reserves the
right to refuse to accept waste presented for disposal at any Power County facility, if in the discretion
of the staff at said facility, the waste does not conlorm to that which can be safely accepted and
disposed of in compliance with state and federal laws and regulation, or which the facility lacks the
capacity to eflficiently and effectively dispose of.
M. RIGIIT TO CHARGE FOR CONTAMINATED LOADS: The County reserves the right to charge a
fee calculated by Stafffor the cost ofcleaning up contaminated loads dumped in specialized
containers. The t-ee shall be based on the cost of workhours plus machinery, with a minimum fee of
one fifty hundred dollars ($ 1 50.00).
N. FREEDAYS:
l. Twice annually on a schedule to be established by the cities and the county there shall be a free
day for residential yard waste.
Pouer (buntv Ordinance2026-0.1 Page'l of5
2. Additional free days may be provided on a schedule established by the State to dispose of
specifically designated hazardous materials.
O. MISCELLANEOUS FEES:
From time to time the Power County Landfill, at the direction of the Power County Board of
Commissioners, may provide for sale any biproducts from the Power County Landfill, including but not
limited to, surplus topsoil, wood chips, gravel,
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this P/
dav ol
2026.
S
. C'hainran
Attested 11'ri, 23 day of September, 2026
N POV
Commissioner
SHAREE S
G
KRYSl' KREIN. ('onrmi SSI
C
Po$cr Countl Ordinance2026-0'l - Page 5 of5
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