Power County | minutes | meeting 2026-03-30 | Commissioner's Meeting Agenda source: https://www.powercounty.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_03302026-293 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 POWER COUNTY COMMISSION Page 2 of 8 REGULAR SESSION MINUTES Monday, March 30, 2026 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. POWER COUNTY COMMISSION Page 3 of 8 REGULAR SESSION MINUTES 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. POWER COUNTY COMMISSION Page 4 of 8 REGULAR SESSION MINUTES Monday, March 30, 2026 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 POWER COUNTY COMMISSION Page 5 of 8 REGULAR SESSION MINUTES Monday, March 30, 2026 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 POWER COUNTY COMMISSION Page 6 of 8 REGULAR SESSION MINUTES Monday, March 30, 2026 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 POWER COUNTY COMMISSION Page 7 of 8 REGULAR SESSION MINUTES Monday, March 30, 2026 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. POWER COUNTY COMMISSION Page 8 of 8 REGULAR SESSION MINUTES Monday, March 30, 2026 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.