Sentinel Media records · public agendas and minutes, text only, refreshed nightly from each body's own site · not a newspaper
minutes meeting date 2026-07-13 · fetched 2026-09-09 · 39575 characters · official file · plain text
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 1 of 15
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, July 13, 2026
POWER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Meeting Minutes
Commission Chambers
543 Bannock Ave.
American Falls, ID 83211
www.powercounty.id.us
Monday, July 13, 2026, 9:00 a.m.
I. CALL TO ORDER
The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session Monday, July 13, 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:
Gilbert Hofmeister
Whitney Nichols
Andi Higgins
Chet Taylor
Kami Chandler
Anthony Simerlink
Jacob Reiss
Hanna Boyer
Rosalie Annand
Kristen Jensen
Shauty Bloxholm
Jeff Hough
Jacklyn Taylor
Tennille Call
Kendra Sweat
Kasey Kendall
Teri Porter
III. AGENDA
A. NOTICES/REPORTS
1.
Meeting with the City of American Falls: Mayor Hoffmeister provided an update on behalf of
the City of American Falls. He reported that the city is working through budget challenges,
including a reduced budget, uncertainty surrounding employee raises, and increasing utility
and insurance costs. He also shared that the water project continues to make good progress,
school routes remain the top infrastructure priority, and efforts are ongoing to identify
locations for a new firehouse and animal shelter. Mayor Hoffmeister noted recent police
leadership changes and discussed the need to replace the city's outdated radio
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 2 of 15
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, July 13, 2026
communications system. The Commissioner’s informed the group of anticipated county landfill
fee increases. The group also discussed current regulations regarding fireworks.
2.
Elected Officials/Department Head Meeting: The following updates were given for each
department;
Treasurer / Tax Deeds
•
Working toward tax deeds and dealing with recipients via mail.
Prosecutor's Office
•
August will be a busy month; requests for review or drafting must be submitted via the
form on the common drive, sent to the prosecutor's address only.
Sheriff / Jail
•
Jail population is approximately 25, consistent with the same period last year.
•
Experienced a busy July 4th; watercraft patrol has been busy due to low water levels
near the dam.
Clerk’s
•
Staff were recertified as passport agents.
•
Working on budget.
Ambulance / Emergency Management
•
Extremely busy with 911 calls; Acute Rescue (Pocatello/Idaho Falls) went out of
business, resulting in more long-distance transports.
•
New ambulance expected at end of the month.
•
Emergency Operations Center (EOC) staff training underway; a tabletop exercise is
scheduled for next Thursday
Planning & Zoning
•
August agenda is full with subdivisions and; code enforcement letters have been
written.
•
Weed meeting scheduled for November.
IT
•
Four vehicle-sharing calendars have been created for scheduling county vehicles.
•
Common drive for the courthouse side is being migrated to the new server; the 2008
server will be decommissioned after.
•
Software and services are being categorized within the IT budget for easier tracking.
Extension Office
•
June included an IPM class grant partnership, 4-H camp (~20 kids), and a multi-county
livestock day camp.
•
Upcoming: showmanship livestock day camp on Wednesday with at least 15 kids.
Assessor
•
Final day of BOE; one appeal received.
•
Investigating an $81 million negative assessed value discrepancy in the program.
•
Exploring piggybacking on Jefferson County's Amentum contract.
•
Proposed expanding office hours to 8:00 or 8:30 AM to better serve the public.
Budget (Commissioner )
•
Health insurance costs up 12%
•
Goal remains to provide employee raises, with 3% as a target; creative alternatives like
adding Juneteenth and the day after Thanksgiving as official holidays, or a floating
birthday holiday, were discussed.
Employee picnic was discussed and scheduled on September 2nd.
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 3 of 15
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, July 13, 2026
3. Public Comment: No public comment was given.
4.
PUBLIC HEARING – Abatement and Cleanup of the Power County Courthouse Annex - Power
County intends to utilize U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Brownfields funding to
abate asbestos, lead-based paint, and universal wastes during demolition of the Power
County Courthouse Annex located at 500 Pocatello Avenue in American Falls in Fall 2026.
Findings from Environmental Site assessments as well as an Analysis of Brownfields Cleanup
Alternatives (ABCA) will be presented at the meeting and be made available for public
comment. Public comments will be accepted through July 22,2026:
Hearing opened at 11:49 am. Attendance is as follow’s;
•
Commissioner Fehringer
•
Commissioner Krein
•
Commissioner Povey
•
Clerk Sprague
•
Prosecutor Bischoff
•
Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa
No public comment was given in regards to this item. The Commissioner’s held brief
discussions on installing a perimeter fence to deter ones from entering the grounds.
5. Kids First Coalition Budget Request: Representatives from the Kids First Coalition and United
Way of Southeastern Idaho presented the TriShare Child Care Program as a workforce
development initiative aimed at improving employee recruitment and retention by reducing
childcare costs. They highlighted statewide workforce impacts related to childcare affordability
and noted recent daycare closures in neighboring Bannock County. The TriShare model splits
childcare costs equally among families, employers, and public funding, with United Way serving
as the fiscal agent to keep public funds within the county. The coalition requested $25,000 from
Power County to support the program. Commissioners received the request and stated they
would consider it during the budget review process.
6. Zoning Compliance – Complaint: Teri Porter presented a complaint regarding Jag Enterprises
Inc. allegedly operating a commercial underground boring business out of a rural residential
zone, citing heavy traffic, multiple pump-vac trucks, and potential illegal fluid discharge. Staff
noted receipt of a letter from the property owner’s attorney stating the site is used strictly for
vehicle storage, which is permitted under current code. The Board discussed the ambiguity
between allowable storage and unpermitted business operations. Prosecutor Bischoff advised
that establishing a violation would depend on the totality of circumstances, incorporating both
traffic data and video evidence. Building Administrator Andi Higgins states that she will work
with the highway district to deploy a functional traffic counter on Taghee Road. Teri Porter
states she will submit a personal recording to Ms. Higgins for review. Documents and evidence
will be compiled to determine if further action is needed.
7. Budget Workshop: Discussions were held on potential days to have budget workshops for the
Commission.
8. Commissioners Meeting’s – Schedule Discussion: Discussions took place regarding the
implementation of weekly Commissioner’s meetings. However, due to members’ personal
employment commitments, it was agreed to maintain the current schedule.
9. Idaho Advanced Energy Consortium: Discussions were held regarding a request for information
(RFI) from the Idaho Advanced Energy Consortium regarding potential reactor sitings. It was
agreed to complete the RFI and submit it on behalf of the county.
10. Tort Claim: Clerk Sprague updated the Commissioners regarding a potential tort claim that may
be submitted against the County. Clerk Sprague reported that the claimant's vehicle was
damaged at the Power County Landfill when another resident reversed into it. At this time, it is
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 4 of 15
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, July 13, 2026
still being determined whether the matter constitutes a County liability or whether the claimant
will need to pursue compensation through the insurance carrier of the individual who caused
the damage.
B. MOTIONS:
1. Agenda: A motion to approve the agenda for Monday, July 13, 2026, was presented by
Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the Board,
motion unanimously carried.
2. Ecoplexus Battery Storage Facility for a Conditional Use Permit: Ecoplexus highlighted its
experience developing utility-scale solar and battery storage projects across the United States.
The proposed project will use lithium iron phosphate batteries housed in Tesla Megapack 2XL
units as part of a 200 MW / 600 MWh battery storage facility. Company representatives
reviewed built-in fire suppression systems, emergency response procedures, and plans to
provide specialized safety training for the local fire department. They also committed to
participating in the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC), supporting community
outreach events, utilizing a PILT agreement for tax payments, and addressing cybersecurity
questions with Tesla. Following discussion, a motion to approve the conditional use permit for
Koompin Ag LLC and EcoPlexus Inc. battery storage facility with the submitted finding of facts
and conclusion of law and with the added conditions that a PILT-type payment agreement be
agreed with the Power County, a sign-off by the emergency management director, fire training
and emergency response plan, cybersecurity assurances from Tesla, agreed financial
contribution to emergency management/fire department equipment (amount to be mutually
agreed, was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following
audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried.
3.
Sheriff’s Office Update: Item’s under the Sheriff’s Office update are as follow’s;
•
Law Enforcement Mutual Assistance Compact Agreement: Sheriff Kendall submitted
the Mutual Assistance Compact agreement for approval. Legal review confirmed
compliance with the Idaho Tort Claims Act insurance requirements. Following
discussion, a motion to approve the Law Enforcement Mutual Assistance Compact
agreement was presented by Commissioner Krein with a second by Commissioner
Povey. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried.
•
Bancorp: The Sheriff reported that the lease cost for new Toyota Tundra patrol
vehicles increased from the original estimate, likely due to upfitting costs. Issues with
having multi-year lease agreements under Idaho Law were brought forward.
•
Software: The Sheriff's Office also reported that the Motorola Flex software renewal
will exceed the current software support budget. Ongoing costs associated with
maintaining both the Computer Arts and Spillman systems were discussed due to an
incomplete Viapath interface conversion. The county directed staff to negotiate with
the vendor, establish an October 1 deadline for completing the conversion, and
ultimately transition to a read-only historical database.
•
Firearm Surplus: Sheriff Kendall submitted a list if of surplus firearms. Following
discussion, a motion to surplus 8 Bushmasters, 1 Smith & Wesson M&P 15, 1
Remington shotgun, 2 Glock pistols and 1 Taurus pistol was presented by
Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of
the board, the motion unanimously carried.
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 5 of 15
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, July 13, 2026
4.
Resolution 2026-10 Budget Correction: Chairman Fehringer opened the meeting for
Resolution 2026-10 a resolution for budget corrections at 3:30 pm and roll call of attendance is
as follows;
•
Commissioner Fehringer
•
Commissioner Krein
•
Commissioner Povey
•
Clerk Sprague
•
Persecutor Bischoff
•
Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa
Following discussion, a motion to approve Resolution 2026-10 was presented by Commissioner
Krein with a second by Commissioner Povey. Following audible call of the board, the motion
unanimously carried. Resolution will be included as Exhibit A.
5.
Retail Alcohol License Application’s: The following retail alcohol license applications were
approved;
Retail Alcoholic Beverage License Application of Jacksons #7: The application for a retail
alcoholic beverage license #7 came before the Commission at 3:39 pm. The applicant, Jacskons
Food Stores dba Jacksons #7 requests approval of retail alcohol beverage license #7 for 2026-
2027, namely bottled or canned beer not to be consumed on premises and retail wine.
Roll call of attendance:
•
Commissioner Krien
•
Commissioner Povey
•
Commissioner Fehringer
•
Clerk Sharee Sprague
•
Prosecutor Brock Bischoff
•
Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa
A motion to approve the application of Jacskons Food Stores dba Jacksons #7 for approval of
retail alcohol beverage license #7 for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer not to be
consumed on premises and retail wine was presented by Commissioner Fehringer with a
second by Commissioner Krien. Following roll call vote, motion carried unanimously and the
record concluded at 3:40 pm.
Retail Alcoholic Beverage License Application of Jet Stop #8: The application for a retail
alcoholic beverage license #8 came before the Commission at 3:40 pm. The applicant, A.E.
Sales LLC dba Jet Stop requests approval of retail alcohol beverage license #8 for 2026-2027,
namely bottled or canned beer not to be consumed on premises.
Roll call of attendance:
•
Commissioner Krien
•
Commissioner Fehringer
•
Commissioner Povey
•
Clerk Sharee Sprague
•
Prosecutor Brock Bischoff
•
Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa
A motion to approve the application of A.E. Sales LLC dba Jet Stop for approval of retail alcohol
beverage license #8 for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer not to be consumed on
premises was presented by Commissioner Fehringer with a second by Commissioner Krein.
Following roll call vote, motion carried unanimously and the record concluded at 3:40 pm.
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 6 of 15
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, July 13, 2026
Retail Alcoholic Beverage License Application of City of American Falls #9: The application for
a retail alcoholic beverage license # 9 came before the Commission at 3: 40 pm. The applicant,
Gilbert Hofmeister dba City of American Falls Golf Course requests approval of retail alcohol
beverage license #9 for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer to be consumed on premises
and retail wine.
Roll call of attendance:
•
Commissioner Povey
•
Commissioner Krien
•
Commissioner Fehringer
•
Clerk Sharee Sprague
•
Prosecutor Brock Bischoff
•
Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa
A motion to approve the application of Gilbert Hofmeister dba City of American Falls Golf
Course for approval of retail alcohol beverage license # 9 for 2026-2027, namely bottled or
canned beer to be consumed on premises and retail wine was presented by Commissioner
Fehringer with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following roll call vote, motion carried
unanimously and the record concluded at 3:41 pm.
Retail Alcoholic Beverage License Application #10 of Family Dollar Store #26564: The
application for a retail alcoholic beverage license #10 came before the Commission at 3:41
ppm. The applicant, Family Dollar Store #26564 requests approval of retail alcohol beverage
license #10 for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer not to be consumed on premises
and retail wine.
Roll call of attendance:
•
Commissioner Povey
•
Commissioner Krien
•
Commissioner Fehringer
•
Clerk Sharee Sprague
•
Prosecutor Brock Bischoff
•
Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa
A motion to approve the application of Family Dollar Store #26564 for approval of retail alcohol
beverage license # 10 for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer not to be consumed on
premises and retail wine was presented by Commissioner Fehringer with a second by
Commission Krein. Following roll call vote, motion carried unanimously and the record
concluded at 3:41 ppm.
Retail Alcoholic Beverage License Application of Maverik Group, LLC. #11: The application for
a retail alcoholic beverage license # 11 came before the Commission at 3:41 pm. The applicant,
Maverik, Inc. requests approval of retail alcohol beverage license #11 for 2026-2027, namely
bottled or canned beer to be consumed off premises, and Retail Wine.
Roll call of attendance:
•
Commissioner Povey
•
Commissioner Krien
•
Commissioner Fehringer
•
Clerk Sharee Sprague
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 7 of 15
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, July 13, 2026
•
Prosecutor Brock Bischoff
•
Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa
A motion to approve the application of Maverik, Inc. for approval of retail alcohol beverage
license # 11 for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer to be consumed off premises and
retail wine was presented by Commissioner Fehringer with a second by Commissioner Krien.
Following roll call vote, motion carried unanimously and the record concluded at 3:41 pm.
Retail Alcoholic Beverage License Application of Dam Pizza Place #13: The application for a
retail alcoholic beverage license # 13 came before the Commission at 3:42 pm. The applicant,
Ron Michaelson DBA Falls Pizza, LLC requests approval of retail alcohol beverage license # 13
for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer to be consumed on premises and Wine by the
Drink.
Roll call of attendance:
•
Commissioner Povey
•
Commissioner Krien
•
Commissioner Fehringer
•
Clerk Sharee Sprague
•
Prosecutor Brock Bischoff
•
Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa
A motion to approve the application of Ron Michelson, DBA Falls Pizza, LLC for approval of retail
alcohol beverage license #13 for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer to be consumed on
premises and wine by the drink was presented by Commissioner Fehringer with a second by
Commissioner Krien. Following roll call vote, motion carried unanimously and the record
concluded at 3:42 pm.
Retail Alcoholic Beverage License Application of M & J Kitchen, Inc #1: The application for a
retail alcoholic beverage license #1 came before the Commission at 3:42 pm. The applicant,
Jose L. Pelayo, DBA as M & J Kitchen requests approval of retail alcohol beverage license # 1
for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer to be consumed on premises and Wine by the
drink.
Roll call of attendance:
•
Commissioner Fehringer
•
Commissioner Povey
•
Commissioner Krien
•
Clerk Sharee Sprague
•
Prosecutor Brock Bischoff
•
Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa
A motion to approve the application of M & J Brothers Inc for a retail alcohol beverage license
#1 for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer to be consumed on premises and Wine by the
drink was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Fehringer.
Following roll call vote, motion carried unanimously and the record concluded at 3:42 pm.
Retail Alcoholic Beverage License Application of Mr. Petrol's Pantry #2: The application for a
retail alcoholic beverage license #2 came before the Commission at 3:43 pm. The applicant,
George and Shirley Udy dba Mr. Petrol's Pantry requests approval of retail alcohol beverage
license #2 for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer not to be consumed on premises.
Roll call of attendance:
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 8 of 15
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, July 13, 2026
•
Commissioner Fehringer
•
Commissioner Povey
•
Commissioner Krien
•
Clerk Sharee Sprague
•
Prosecutor Brock Bischoff
•
Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa
A motion to approve the application of George and Shirley Udy dba Mr. Petrol's Pantry for
approval of retail alcohol beverage license #2 for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer
not to be consumed on premises was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by
Commissioner Fehringer. Following roll call vote, motion carried unanimously and the record
concluded at 3:43 pm.
Retail Alcoholic Beverage License Application of Kin Enterprises Inc. #4: The application for a
retail alcoholic beverage license # 4 came before the Commission at m. The applicant,
Kin Enterprises, Inc. DBA Pop N Cork requests approval of retail alcohol beverage license #4 for
2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer not to be consumed on premises and Retail Wine.
Roll call of attendance:
•
Commissioner Krien
•
Commissioner Povey
•
Commissioner Fehringer
•
Clerk Sharee Sprague
•
Prosecutor Brock Bischoff
•
Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa
A motion to approve the application of Kin Enterprises Inc. DBA as Pop N Cork request approval
of retail alcohol beverage license #4 for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer to not be
consumed on premises and Retail Wine, was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second
by Commissioner Fehringer. Following roll call vote, motion carried unanimously and the
record concluded at 3:44 pm.
Retail Alcoholic Beverage License Application of Ridley’s Family Markets, INC. #5: The
application for a retail alcoholic beverage license #5 came before the Commission at 3:44 pm.
The applicant, Ridley’s Family Markets, Inc. dba Ridley’s Family Markets requests approval of
retail alcohol beverage license No. 5 for 2026–2027, namely bottled or canned beer not to be
consumed on premises and retail wine.
Roll call of attendance:
•
Commissioner Fehringer
•
Commissioner Krien
•
Commissioner Povey
•
Clerk Sharee Sprague
•
Prosecutor Brock Bischoff
•
Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa
A motion to approve the application of Ridley’s Family Markets, Inc. for approval of retail
alcohol beverage license No. 5 for 2026-2027, namely bottled of canned beer not to be
consumed on premises and retail wine, was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by
Commission Fehringer. Following roll call vote, motion carried unanimously and the record
concluded at 3:44 pm.
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 9 of 15
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, July 13, 2026
Retail Alcoholic Beverage License Application of Valleywide Cooperative, Inc. #6: The
application for a retail alcoholic beverage license #6 came before the Commission at 3:44 pm.
The applicant, Valleywide Cooperative, Inc.
requests approval of retail alcohol beverage
license #6 for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer not to be consumed on premises and
Retail Wine.
Roll call of attendance:
•
Commissioner Krien
•
Commissioner Fehringer
•
Commissioner Povey
•
Clerk Sharee Sprague
•
Prosecutor Bischoff
•
Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa
A motion to approve the application of Valleywide Cooperative, Inc. for approval of retail
alcohol beverage license #6 for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer not to be consumed
on premises and Retail Wine was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by
Commissioner Fehringer. Following roll call vote, motion carried unanimously and the record
concluded at 3:44 pm.
Retail Alcoholic Beverage License Application of Ken's Food Market #14: The application for
a retail alcoholic beverage license #14 came before the Commission at 3:45 pm. The applicant,
Rod Garner dba Ken's Food Market requests approval of retail alcohol beverage license # 14
for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer not to be consumed on premises and retail
wine.
Roll call of attendance:
•
Commissioner Krien
•
Commissioner Povey
•
Commissioner Fehringer
•
Clerk Sharee Sprague
•
Prosecutor Bischoff
•
Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa
A motion to approve the application of Rod Garner dba Ken's Food Market for approval of
retail alcohol beverage license #14 for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer not to be
consumed on premises and retail wine was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second
by Commissioner Krein. Following roll call vote, motion carried unanimously and the record
concluded at 3:45 pm.
Retail Alcoholic Beverage License Application of Bingham Ag Services, LLC #15: The
application for a retail alcoholic beverage license #15 came before the Commission at 3:45 pm.
The applicant, Bingham Ag Services, LLC requests approval of retail alcohol beverage license
#15 for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer not to be consumed on premises and
retail wine.
Roll call of attendance:
•
Commissioner Krien
•
Commissioner Povey
•
Commissioner Fehringer
•
Clerk Sharee Sprague
•
Prosecutor Bischoff
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 10 of 15
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, July 13, 2026
•
Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa
A motion to approve the application of Bingham Ag Services, LLC for approval of retail alcohol
beverage license #15 for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer not to be consumed on
premises and retail wine was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by
Commissioner Krein. Following roll call vote, motion carried unanimously and the record
concluded at 3:45 pm.
Retail Alcoholic Beverage License Application of Pocatello Trap Shooting Club Inc. #16: The
application for a retail alcoholic beverage license #16 came before the Commission at 3:45 pm.
The applicant, Julie Wakley dba Pocatello Trap Shooting Club Inc. requests approval of retail
alcohol beverage license #16 for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer to be consumed
on premises. Roll call of attendance:
•
Commissioner Povey
•
Commissioner Krien
•
Commissioner Fehringer
•
Clerk Sharee Sprague
•
Prosecutor Bischoff
•
Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa
A motion to approve the application of Julie Wakley dba Pocatello Trap Shooting Club Inc. for
approval of retail alcohol beverage license #16 for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer
to be consumed on premises was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by
Commissioner Krien. Following roll call vote, motion carried unanimously and the record
concluded at 3:46 pm.
Retail Alcoholic Beverage License Application of La Esperanza Mexican Restaurant and Bakery
#17: The application for a retail alcoholic beverage license #17 came before the Commission at
3:46 pm. The applicant, Mario Palacios dba LA Esperanza Restaurant and Bakery requests
approval of retail alcohol beverage license #17 for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer to
be consumed on and off premises.
Roll call of attendance:
•
Commissioner Krien
•
Commissioner Povey
•
Commissioner Fehringer
•
Clerk Sharee Sprague
•
Prosecutor Bischoff
•
Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa
A motion to approve the application of Mario Palacios dba La Esperanza Restaurant and Bakery
for approval of retail alcohol beverage license #17 for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned
beer to be consumed on and off premises was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second
by Commissioner Krein. Following roll call vote, motion carried unanimously and the record
concluded at 3:47 pm.
Retail Alcoholic Beverage License Application of Rupes Rockland Café #18: The application for
a retail alcoholic beverage license #18 came before the Commission at 3:47 pm. The applicant,
Vernessa Rupe dba Rupes Rockland Cafe requests approval of retail alcohol beverage license
#18 for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer to be consumed on premises and off
premises, and Wine by the Drink.
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 11 of 15
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, July 13, 2026
Roll call of attendance:
•
Commissioner Povey
•
Commissioner Krien
•
Commissioner Fehringer
•
Clerk Sharee Sprague
•
Prosecutor Bischoff
•
Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa
A motion to approve the application of Vernessa Rupe dba Rupes Rockland Cafe for approval
of retail alcohol beverage license #18 for 2026-2027, namely bottled or canned beer to be
consumed on premises was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner
Krein. Following roll call vote, motion carried unanimously and the record concluded at 3:49
pm.
Retail Alcoholic Beverage License Application of Rock Bottom Bar #12: The application for a
retail alcoholic beverage license #12 came before the Commission at 3:49 pm. The applicant,
Melinda Michaelson dba Rock Bottom Bar requests approval of retail alcohol beverage license
#12 for 2026-2027, namely draught and bottled or canned beer, bottled or canned beer to be
consumed on premises, and Retail Liquor.
Roll call of attendance:
•
Commissioner Krien
•
Commissioner Povey
•
Commissioner Fehringer
•
Clerk Sharee Sprague
•
Prosecutor Bischoff
•
Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa
A motion to approve the application of Melinda Michaelson dba Rock Bottom Bar for approval
of retail alcohol beverage license #12 for 2026-2027, namely draught and bottled or canned
beer, bottled or canned beer to be consumed on premises, and Retail Liquor was presented by
Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following roll call vote, motion
carried unanimously and the record concluded at 3:50 pm.
6. Convene as the Board of Equalization 3:51 pm: A motion to adjourn as the Power County Board
of County Commissioners and convene as the Power County Board of Equalization was
presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Fehringer. Following an
audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried.
7.
Board of Equalization - RPD-0997-04: The Board of Equalization heard the property
assessment appeal submitted by Jordan and Kacy Gehring. During the hearing, the Assessor
presented a corrected valuation ($1,419,049.00) that reflected a reduced square footage
calculation and explained the property's unfinished area, noting that while it was classified as
unfinished, it was considered livable space. The Board found that the appellants did not
provide sufficient evidence to support a different valuation and therefore did not meet the
burden of proof required to overturn the assessment. Following discussion, a motion to deny
the appeal from the appellants on their not providing sufficient evidence was presented by
Commissioner Fehringer with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the
board, the motion unanimously carried.
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 12 of 15
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, July 13, 2026
A motion to approve the Assessor’s valuation was presented by Commissioner Fehringer with a
second by Commissioner Povey. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously
carried.
8. Reconvene as Board of County Commissioners at 3:54 pm: A motion to adjourn as the Power
County Board of Equalization 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.
9.
Consenting Agenda: Following corrections and updates to the minutes for June 22, 2026, a
motion to approve the consenting agenda as submitted was presented by Commissioner Krein
with a second by Commissioner Povey. Following audible call of the board, the motion
unanimously carried. The following items under the consenting agenda were approved;
Approval of Past Meeting Minutes – Following corrections, the minutes for June 22, 2026, were
approved.
Certificate of Residency; College Tuition Application – Pursuant to l.C. §33-2110 the
Commissioner’s approved the Application for Certificate of Residency for Junior College Tuition
assistance as filed. The following certificate of residency was approved;
Applicant Name
Accredited
College
Term Covered
Sierra
Tischendorf
College of
Southern Idaho
2026-2027 Fall
Semester
Claims: The following claims report was approved;
FUND
Paid
0001 GENERAL FUND (CURRENT EXPENSE)
$ 33,263.67
0003 FAIR BOARD
$ 20,000.00
0004 POWER COUNTY AMBULANCE DIST.
$ 18,056.04
0006 DISTRICT COURT
$ 1,682.37
0008 JUSTICE FUND
$ 27,517.48
0009 DRUG COURT
$ 274.40
0010 ENHANCED 911 SERVICES
$ 855.70
0011 HEALTH DISTRICT
$ 32,776.46
0015 ELECTIONS
$ 195.75
0020 REVALUATION
$ 9,692.51
0023 SOLID WASTE (LANDFILL)
$ 5,854.65
0027 WEEDS
$ 128.59
0038 WATERWAYS
$ 2,181.90
0039 MUSEUM
$ 1,379.24
0041 AMERICAN RESECUE PLAN ACT
$ 1,811.02
0051 BOND – WATER RIGHTS
$ 100.00
Total Amount Paid
$ 155,769.78
10.
Tax Cancellations: Power County Assessor Laura Porath and Treasurer Deanna Curry presented
a cancellation of taxes on several parcel numbers;
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 13 of 15
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, July 13, 2026
Parcel No.
Reason for Cancellation
Cancelled
Amount
RPD0223-
00
As Per Treasurer
$13.29
RPD0222-
00
As Per Treasurer
$24.70
TOTAL TAXES CANCELLED
$37.99
A motion to approve the tax cancellations for Michael Taylor in the amount of $37.99 as his
payment was post marked correctly but arrived late, was presented by Commissioner Povey
with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the board, the motion
unanimously carried.
Parcel No.
Reason for Cancellation
Cancelled
Amount
MHZ0127-
05
As Per Treasurer
$190.20
TOTAL TAXES CANCELLED
$190.20
The Assessor’s office reported that the mobile home at this property burned down which
cancelled the second half of the taxes. Following discussion a motion, to approve the
cancellation of taxes for Great Rift, in the amount of $190.20 was presented by Commissioner
Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the board, the motion
unanimously carried.
Parcel No.
Reason for Cancellation
Cancelled
Amount
RPA0826-
00
As Per Treasurer
$1,704.56
TOTAL TAXES CANCELLED
$1,704.56
The Treasurer’s office reports that the cancellation amount for this parcel was incorrect due to
typo. The correct amount is $1704.56. This is the updated amount for this cancellation that was
approved in December, 2025. Following discussion, a motion to amend the tax cancellation
amount for RPA0826-00 to $1,704.56 which was incorrectly stated in the December report as
$2,904.53, was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein.
Following audible call of the board the motion unanimously carried.
11.
Building & Grounds: The following items were discussed under building & grounds;
1. AC Units - Maintenance Director informed the Commission ongoing AC unit issues in the
courthouse. Mr. Taylor states the unit in the IT office is out and needs replacing and the
unit in magistrate is malfunctioning and outdated and recommends installing a new
unit. Harmison Heating and Cooling submitted estimates of $10,653.38 (IT office) and
$8,894.74 for each unit. Following discussion, a motion to accept the quote from
Harmison Heating and Cooling for the two ac units for $10,653.38 and $8,894.74, to be
paid out of 01-10-494-00, was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by
Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously
carried. No demand check was authorized.
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 14 of 15
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, July 13, 2026
2. Commissioners discussed building access, security, and storage options for election
equipment, including potential office reorganization to improve security and
operational efficiency.
12. LexisNexis Agreement: Prosecutor Bischoff presented the LexisNexis 1-year agreement for the
Prosecutor’s office. Costs in the agreement are $195. Following discussion, a motion to accept
the LexisNexis agreement for $195 was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by
Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried.
13.
Board Updates: The following board updates were held;
Guardianship Board: A motion to reaffirm Patricia Hernadez to the Guardianship board was
presented by Commissioner Krein with a second by Commissioner Povey. Following audible
call of the board, the motion unanimously carried.
Great Rift: Commissioner Povey reports that they will have an upcoming meeting on
Wednesday.
Fair board: Commissioner Fehringer reports that they are working in ways to improve the fair.
Discussion’s were also held regarding the circus that was held and improvements moving
forward.
14. Personnel: The following item was discussed under personnel;
•
Following discussion, a motion to proceed with a separation package with the employee
discussed under Executive Session 74-206 1(b) was presented by Commissioner Povey
with a second by Commissioner Fehringer. Following audible call of the board, the
motion unanimously carried.
15. Mosquito Abatement Services: Clerk Sprague presented a request of proposal (RFP) form for
mosquito abatement services. Companies that were interested in providing the services would
need to complete and submit the form. Following discussion, a motion to approve the Mosquito
Abatement RFP was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein.
Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried.
16.
IT Services: The Commissioners received an update on the county's information technology
operations, including proposed changes to the current data backup system and long-term data
storage strategy. The discussion focused on improving system reliability while reducing annual
operating costs. Staff also presented a Request for Proposals (RFP) for county IT services.
Following discussion, a motion to approve the RFP for managed IT services and for it to be sent
out to vendors was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein.
Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried.
C. POINTS OF ORDER:
1. Renewable Northwest Presentation: This item was tabled to August 3, 2026.
IV. EXECUTIVE SESSION:
1.
Executive Personnel Session I.C. 74-206(1)(b) 2:09 pm: 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. Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa
conducted roll call on the motion;
•
Commissioner Povey, AYE
•
Commissioner Krein, AYE
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 15 of 15
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, July 13, 2026
•
Commissioner Fehringer, AYE
Following roll call of the Board, motion unanimously carried. Upon conclusion of discussion,
Commissioner Fehringer declared the meeting open at 2:45 pm.
V. ASSESSMENTS/CONCLUSIONS:
1. Next Meeting: The next regular session for the board to meet is slated for August 3, 2026
2. Adjourn: Having no further business to come before the Board, a motion to adjourn was
presented by Commissioner Fehringer with a second by Commissioner Povey. Following
audible call of the Board, motion carried and the meeting was adjourned at 3:54 pm.
The foregoing minutes were approved by the Board of County Commissioners during the Regular
Board Meeting held August 3, 2026.
ATTEST:
MARIANO VILLA, Deputy Clerk
__________________________________
COMMISSIONER FEHRINGER, Chairman
Mariano Villa Jr.
Text is extracted by machine from the official file linked on each page; the official file is the record. Sentinel Media, LLC.