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minutes meeting date 2026-03-30 · fetched 2026-09-09 · 21379 characters · official file · plain text
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION
Page 1 of 8
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
Monday, March 30, 2026
POWER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Meeting Minutes
Commission Chambers
543 Bannock Ave.
American Falls, ID 83211
www.powercounty.id.us
Monday, March 30, 2026, 9:00 a.m.
I. CALL TO ORDER
The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session Monday, March 30, 2026, and called
the meeting to order at the hour of 9:01 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:
Aaron Thompson
Kami Chandler
Macie Evans
Linda Lozano
Andi Higgins
Dave Zimmerman
Nola Aguirre
Ivan Permann
Martia Poulson
Jeff Stewart
Brett Leyshon
Justin Huse
Elizabeth MCormack
Kasey Kendall
Brad Rogers
Jacob Reiss
Jeff Rankin
Kyle Matthews
Kevin Ramsey
Aaron Povey
Laura Prath
Nick Andreason
Patt Sullivan
III. AGENDA
A. NOTICES/REPORTS
1.
Public Comment: Aaron Thompson, a magistrate judge in Bannock County with eight
years of judicial experience and 18 years as a trial attorney, introduced his candidacy
for district court judge against incumbent Judge Cody Brower. He highlighted his broad
legal background, including work in civil and criminal cases and service in various
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judicial leadership roles, such as overseeing guardianships and chairing a statewide
Supreme Court committee. Thompson emphasized his commitment to courtroom
efficiency, daily presence, thorough preparation, and collaboration with law
enforcement while maintaining fairness. He acknowledged the rarity of challenging a
sitting judge but stated his belief that improvements are needed within the district
court.
2. Power Soil & Water Conservation District – Budget Request: A budget request was
presented to maintain last year’s funding level of $11,500, with representatives citing
ongoing state and federal funding constraints. The District also provided updates on its
scholarship program, with a May 3rd application deadline. The program is open to high
school juniors, seniors, and early college students, and has been expanded to include
neighboring states. Additionally, educational outreach efforts were highlighted,
including elementary-level agricultural education events and conservation programs
designed to engage students in stewardship activities. Commissioners clarified that no
budget approvals would be made at this time, and requests will be considered during
the formal budget process.
3. Vector Disease Control Update: An early-season mosquito emergence was reported,
with activity observed as early as March—approximately two months ahead of the
typical schedule and the earliest on record in Idaho. This accelerated timeline raises
concerns about an increased risk of West Nile Virus, which may peak earlier than usual
due to warmer conditions. Other vector-borne diseases continue to be monitored.
Legislative concerns were also discussed, specifically House Bills 747 and 960, which
could allow property owners to opt out of mosquito abatement efforts and impose
penalties for noncompliance. These proposals were described as posing challenges to
effective public health response, particularly during aerial spraying operations.
Operationally, it was noted that Bingham County’s program management has
transitioned, though staffing continuity remains. The extended mosquito season is
expected to increase labor costs, though pricing will be evaluated after the season.
4. Sheriff’s Office Update: The Sheriff Kendall reported ongoing staff training, including
upcoming marine patrol and detention academy attendance, with additional training
opportunities pending. Vehicle acquisitions and replacements continue, with several
new units received or in process, while older vehicles are planned for auction to help
offset lease costs. The office is also awaiting activation of its new camera system.
Budget concerns were raised regarding fuel costs, and staff will be encouraged to limit
unnecessary idling while maintaining patrol operations. Discussions were also held
regarding security and safety improvements for the jail.
5. M2 Discussion: M2 and the IT team updated the Commissioners on ongoing discussions
regarding county security systems, equipment inventory, service agreements, and
future upgrades. The county is reviewing current support costs, requested additional
equipment records for inventory purposes, and sought more detailed pricing on
proposed metal detector and camera projects from M2. The Commissioners along with
the IT team discussed the best use of existing security infrastructure before making
future decisions. Input from the Sheriff’s Office and staff will be considered as the
review continues.
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Monday, March 30, 2026
6. IT Update: The IT Sollus team provided an update on the county phone system, noting
that the current server was purchased in 2016 and installed in 2017, making the system
approximately nine years old. The IT team reported that the system is outdated, lacks
many modern features, presents potential security concerns, and relies on aging
hardware, including several handsets nearing end-of-life. Current monthly service costs
continue in addition to annual licensing and support expenses. Two replacement
options were reviewed. The first would keep the current provider while moving to a
cloud-based system with updated features and equipment, but at a higher monthly
cost. The second would transition to an alternative cloud-based system recommended
by Sollus, which would lower annual operating costs and allow some existing phones to
remain in service initially while replacements are phased in overtime. It was noted that
the county’s 911 dispatch system would not be affected, as only non-emergency lines
are included in the proposed changes. Any transition would require some staff training
and adjustment to a new interface. Commissioners recommended presenting both
options at a future department head meeting for additional input before making a final
decision.
7. Herd District Update: Discussion was held regarding the status of herd districts, noting
that the board has been largely inactive since the May 2019 Rockland meeting. It was
acknowledged that many existing herd districts lack proper perimeter fencing, which
technically renders them noncompliant, though they continue to operate under
“grandfathered” status. Ongoing concerns were raised about the lack of open range
warning signs along state highways, creating potential liability risks. Mr. Lamar Isaak
reported that he has attempted to work with the State over several years to address
these concerns but has not been successful, though he remains willing to contribute to
a solution and to install “Watch for Cattle” signage on his property. Commissioner Krein
and Mr. Isaak agreed to coordinate a meeting with appropriate representatives to
further address the issue. Future considerations include installing additional signage
and evaluating whether herd districts should be maintained or dissolved.
8. Pat Sullivan 2026 Legislative Update: Sullivan provided a legislative update noting that
the Idaho session is expected to adjourn later in the week, with key appropriation bills
for Health and Human Services and Education moving forward. He highlighted several
bills of local interest, including legislation affecting Attorney General authority,
ambulance and fire funding, immigration enforcement, and mosquito control, with
varying outcomes in the House and Senate. Budget discussions emphasized a
conservative approach, with no use of reserve funds and all needs met through cuts in
anticipation of economic challenges next year. Overall, the update reflected a mix of
advancing and stalled legislation with potential impacts on county operations.
9.
Board Updates: The following board updates were reported;
SICOG: Commissioner Povey reports that Amanda Collins has stepped down from SICOG
effective April 15. SICOG Director Layne Bourgeous has stepped down as well. Crystal
Denny will be an interim Executive Director.
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Museum: They Museum has moved into their new building. Grand opening will be on
April 25, 2026. Representative Rick Cheatum and Mayor Hofmiester will be present as
well for the grand opening.
Weeds: Brad Cooper from the forest service will be working with the county more.
Ambulance: Commissioner Krein announced that internal training is underway to help
staff achieve the certifications necessary for advancement to Paramedic and other
positions.
10. Personnel: This personnel item was discussed and approved under the Ambulance
Administration & Financial Report.
11. Building & Grounds: Items for building & grounds that were discussed and considered
was relining the demo pit at the landfill, locations to store election equipment, and
feedback from departments on office relocations.
B. MOTIONS:
1. Agenda: A motion to approve the agenda for Monday, March 30 2026, was presented
by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of
the Board, motion unanimously carried.
2. Convene as Ambulance District Board at 9:17 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.
Ambulance Administration & Financial Report: Ambulance services provided a
February financial and operational update. The department responded to 65 calls,
including 35 billable and 30 non-billable calls, with a mix of Basic Life Support,
Advanced Life Support, treat-and-release incidents, and inter-facility transports.
Several patients were transported to both Power County Hospital and Portneuf
Medical Center. Chief Chandler reported that billing collections typically lag one to two
months due to insurance processing timelines. Access to the Optum payment portal
for United Healthcare was recently completed and is expected to improve future
collections. Power County Collections recovered $1,573.55 during February. The
department is also exploring additional reimbursement opportunities through the
Ground Emergency Medical Transportation (GEMT) program. Chief Chandler plans to
attend an upcoming conference to gather more information. Staffing updates included
one new medic completing field training, with two others nearing completion. A
revised training program was implemented to provide consistent standards. The new
ambulance remains on schedule for August delivery, and a power-load Stryker gurney
purchase will be brought forward for future approval.
Chief Chandler also presented an endorsement letter to the Commissioner’s for the
County to apply for a grant for a non-transport vehicle. Following discussion, a motion
to authorize Chairman Fehringer to sign the endorsement letter for the non-transport
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vehicle was presented by Commissioner Krein with a second by Commissioner Povey.
Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried.
The County Payroll Clerk reported several personnel changes for the county. Ms.
Aguirre reports that impacted budget lines have been reviewed for sustainability of the
requested changes and submitted the following changes;
•
The Ambulance Department approved a step increase due to Mr. Johnston
becoming a full-time paramedic and requests Jesse Johnston receive $21 hourly as
compensation for completion of assigned job duties.
•
The Ambulance Department reports that Ty Bolich will now be a PRN Paramedic
and requests Mr. Bolich receive $23.37 hourly as compensation for completion of
assigned job duties.
Following discussion, a motion to approve the salary approval forms as submitted and
once they are signed by the employees, was presented by Commissioner Povey with a
second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the board, the motion
unanimously carried.
4. Reconvene as Board of County Commissioners at 9:36 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. Hardship Exemption RPA0826-00: The Board reviewed a hardship exemption request
from a homeowner who experienced significant personal and property-related
challenges. Following the death of her husband and major home damage caused by a
pipe failure, she was displaced from her home for nearly two years due to prolonged
and incomplete restoration work. During this period, she incurred ongoing utility
expenses and faced substandard living conditions upon partial return. The loss of her
homeowner’s exemption while the home was uninhabitable resulted in a substantial
increase in property taxes and mortgage payments. She was previously ineligible for
Circuit Breaker assistance due to displacement but has since reapplied. Her situation
was presented for consideration due to the financial strain caused by these
circumstances. Following discussion, a motion to forgive $872.27 for 2025 second half
taxes owed for RPA0826-00 was presented by Commissioner Krein with a second by
Commissioner Povey. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously
carried.
6. Emergency Management/2022 State Homeland Security Grant 22SHSP077: Emergency
Management provided an update on the closeout of the 2022 State Homeland Security
Grant (22SHSP077). The original award totaled $25,565.49, of which $22,357.92 was
expended, leaving $3,207.57 unspent. Because the grant period has expired, the
remaining balance must be surrendered back to the Idaho Office of Emergency
Management. As this was a reimbursement-based grant, the county never received the
unspent funds, and therefore no actual money is being returned—only the opportunity
for reimbursement is being relinquished. Chief Chandler reported that efforts are
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underway to close out this and other outstanding grants, including locating missing
documentation and uploading required materials. It was also noted that the current
Emergency Manager was not in the role when this grant was active and is now working
to bring grant administration up to date. Progress on new grant applications remains on
hold pending the resolution of the federal government shutdown. Following discussion,
a motion to authorize Chairman Fehringer to sign the Idaho Office of Emergency
Management 2022 final grant adjustment notice was presented by Commissioner Povey
with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the board, the motion
unanimously carried.
7.
Consenting Agenda: A motion to approve the consenting agenda as submitted was
presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following
audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried. The following items were
approved under the consenting agenda;
Approval of Past Meeting Minutes: Minutes for meetings held on February 9 and
March 6, 2026, were approved.
Certificate of Residency Application for Junior College Tuition l.C. §33-2110: The
following Certificate of Residency for Junior College Tuition assistance application was
approved;
Applicant Name
Accredited
College
Term Covered
Guadalupe
Patlan
College of
Southern Idaho
Spring 2026
Treasurer Update: Treasurer Deanna Curry submitted to the board a LGIP monthly
statement, Treasurer’s Cash, Joint Month End Report ending February 2026. Reports
were discussed, reviewed and approved by the Board.
Claims: The following claims report was reviewed and approved;
FUND
Paid
0001 GENERAL FUND (CURRENT EXPENSE)
$ 54,475.20
0003 FAIR BOARD
$ 500.00
0004 POWER COUNTY AMBULANCE DIST.
$ 21,095.31
0005 POWER COUNTY ABATEMENT DIST.
$ 16,060.00
0006 DISTRICT COURT
$ 10,699.95
0008 JUSTICE FUND
$ 65,080.11
0009 DRUG COURT
$ 408.91
0010 ENHANCED 911 SERVICES
$ 636.61
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0011 HEALTH DISTRICT
$ 795.15
0015 ELECTIONS
$ 1,449.73
0020 REVALUATION
$ 2,197.32
0023 SOLID WASTE (LANDFILL)
$ 64,286.35
0024 TORT
$ 69,971.50
0027 WEEDS
$ 423.22
0038 WATERWAYS
$ 501.45
0039 MUSEUM
$ 3,833.09
0041 AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT
$ 7,599.15
0050 PAYMENT IN LIEU OF TAXES
$ 33,879.76
Total Amount Paid
$ 353,892.81
8. Non-Medical Guardianship/Indigent Request: The Board considered a request from the
Power County Guardianship Board for financial assistance on behalf of an individual
under guardianship facing financial hardship. The individual’s fixed monthly income is
largely consumed by facility care costs, leaving minimal funds for personal expenses. An
outstanding balance of $489.49 accrued due to a combination of Medicaid transition
delays and facility rate increases. Concerns were also raised regarding the facility’s
billing practices and lack of notification for rate changes. Following discussion, a motion
to pay the outstanding balance of $489.89 from 01-18-609, contingent that an
application be filed through the Clerks office, was presented by Commissioner Krein
with a second by Commissioner Povey. Following audible call of the board, the motion
unanimously carried. It was also noted that this motion will be made official through a
resolution during the next Commissioner’s meeting. The Commissioners also
commended Guardianship board member, Teri Kendall, for her dedicated service to the
Guardianship Board.
9. Marine Patrol Grant: A motion to approve the Marine Patrol grant agreement through
the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation was presented by Commissioner Krein
with a second by Commissioner Povey. Following audible call of the board, the motion
unanimously carried.
10.
VIAPATH Jail Telecommunications Agreement: The Board reviewed the agreement
with Viapath Telecommunications, which provides inmate telephone and tablet
visitation services for the Power County Detention Facility. It was noted that these
services are funded entirely by inmates through commissary accounts, with no cost to
county taxpayers. The agreement also amends prices. Following discussion, a motion
to approve the Viapath Telecommunications agreement (with amendments) for the
jail, 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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11. Southern Idaho Solid Waste Memorandum of Understanding: A motion to approve the
Memorandum of Understanding between Power County and Southern Idaho Solid
Waste District was presented by Commissioner Krein with a second by Commissioner
Fehringer. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried. The
Commissioner’s also wanted it on record that they appreciate the partnership and the
willingness for the Solid Waste district to work with the County.
12. Indigent Burial: Following discussion, a motion to approve the indigent burial
application for Delores Gilbert in the amount of $1,200.00 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. Amendment PC Development Code Title 10, Chapter 1-9 to Change Minimum Lot Size
from 5 acre to 1 acre and to correct spelling and grammar: This item was tabled to
April 27, 2026.
2. Surplus: This item was tabled to the next meeting.
V. ASSESSMENTS/CONCLUSIONS:
1. Next Meeting: The next regular session for the board to meet is slated for April 13,
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, the motion carried and the meeting was adjourned
at 2:36 pm.
The foregoing minutes were approved by the Board of County Commissioners during the Regular
Board Meeting held April 27, 2026.
ATTEST:
MARIANO VILLA, Deputy Clerk
__________________________________
COMMISSIONER FEHRINGER, Chairman
Mariano Villa Jr.
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