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minutes meeting date 2026-02-23 · fetched 2026-09-09 · 28693 characters · official file · plain text
POWER COUNTY COMMISSION Page 1 of 10 REGULAR SESSION MINUTES Monday, February 23, 2026 POWER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Meeting Minutes Commission Chambers 543 Bannock Ave. American Falls, ID 83211 www.powercounty.id.us Monday, February 23, 2026, 9:00 a.m. I. CALL TO ORDER The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session Monday, February 23, 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: Deanna Curry Laura Porath Byron Marshall Kami Chandler Macie Evans Ryan Grayson Andi Higgins Jeff Rankin Josh Campbell Kasey Kendall Steve Herzog Gilbert Hofmeister Whitney Nichols Cecil Sweeney Kasey Kendall Kami Chandler Pat Sullivan Ryan Robinson Ron Anderson III. AGENDA A. NOTICES/REPORTS 1. Public Comment: Byron Marshall, an employee of the Power County Sheriff’s Office, provided public comment regarding the upcoming interim sheriff appointment. He expressed support for appointing Chief Deputy Kasey Kendall, emphasizing the need for continuity in Sheriff’s Office operations. He noted current staffing shortages and turnover challenges and stated concern that an incorrect appointment could worsen staffing problems during the approximately 11-month interim period. Mr. Marshall clarified he was speaking as an employee wishing to voice his opinion. POWER COUNTY COMMISSION Page 2 of 10 REGULAR SESSION MINUTES Monday, February 23, 2026 2. Personnel and Travel Policy Discussion: Prosecutor Brock Bischoff presented a proposed update to the county travel policy, which expired September 30, 2025. The revision would automatically reference current federal per diem rates for meals, lodging, and mileage to eliminate the need for annual updates. The proposal also shifts travel authorization to the appropriate elected official or department head, recognizing that those offices manage their own budgets, and places responsibility for employee accommodation requests at the department level rather than with the Clerk/Auditor. Clerk Sprague clarified that the Clerk/Auditor’s Office does not authorize travel, approve reimbursements, or grant accommodations. Instead, the office is statutorily responsible for auditing submitted claims to verify their legality and validity under applicable auditing standards. To properly perform that function, the Clerk/Auditor must be able to confirm that any travel or accommodation was approved by the appropriate authority prior to submission of a claim. Clerk Sprague emphasized that the office does not require or want disclosure of the reason for accommodation. To protect employee privacy while maintaining an audit trail, the travel claim form has already been revised to include a designated approval section and a simple notation indicating that accommodation was requested for meals or lodging, along with the date the auditor was notified. The proposed policy also outlines procedures for county vehicle use, including maintaining a list of designated vehicles, implementing a reservation system, and prioritizing the use of county vehicles before personal mileage reimbursement is claimed. Mileage would be calculated from the courthouse unless the employee’s residence is closer. Prosecutor Bischoff discussed the need for a clear process for reserving and using county vehicles. Commissioner Povey indicated he would explore shared calendar options for scheduling. Clerk Sprague noted that Mariano Villa is available to assist with coordination and vehicle maintenance. Clerk Sprague also addressed travel to higher-rate locations such as Coeur d’Alene, Sun Valley, and Boise and confirmed with Prosecutor Bischoff that those rates are covered within the revised policy. She recommended that any claim seeking reimbursement above the standard in-state rate include supporting documentation from the GSA website, so the Auditor’s Office has appropriate documentation during the audit process. The proposed policy has been distributed to elected officials and department heads for review, and a resolution for adoption will be scheduled for public hearing at the next Commissioners’ meeting. 3. Discussion with City of American Falls: This item went into Executive Personnel Session 74-206 1(b). 4. Pat Sullivan 2026 Legislative Update: Pat Sullivan provided a legislative update, highlighting tensions in the state budget process. The legislature now passes a single maintenance budget bill covering prior-year budgets, with supplemental items rolled into one large bill at the end of the session. This process often forces legislators to vote for entire packages to secure desired items. Mr. Sullivan reported that Joint Finance- POWER COUNTY COMMISSION Page 3 of 10 REGULAR SESSION MINUTES Monday, February 23, 2026 Appropriations Committee leadership has been acting with limited consultation, relying on consistent floor votes to control outcomes. This approach may result in early budget bills failing due to lack of broader member input. Key issues under consideration include a managed care bill for Health and Welfare and the allocation of $183 million in federal rural health transformation funds, with ongoing disagreement over structure and oversight. Mr. Sullivan anticipates an increase in legislation affecting local governments following the filing deadline. He also noted potential constitutional amendments related to abortion and marijuana. 5. Herd District: Commissioner Krein discussed modifying existing herd districts rather than creating new ones, with a focus on filling gaps around the Rockland herd district boundaries. The effort targets specific areas affected by ongoing issues involving a small number of property owners. Clerk Sprague discussed process for placing the issue on the ballot; deadlines noted (March 13 for May election; August 28 for November). Commissioner Krein confirmed he would be looking at the November Election. Prosecutor Bischoff clarified Commissioners have authority under Idaho Code §25-2401 to create, modify, or eliminate herd districts. Prosecutor Bischoff reports the County could act as a community member, following the petition process outlined in 25-2402 or if the Board addresses this collectively as Commissioners, there's a separate (potentially easier) process. Clerk Sprague suggested working with the Assessor’s Office to develop mapping for the proposed herd district with legal descriptions. Clerk Sprague reported due to current deadlines, it would take a couple of weeks, but she would reach out to the State Tax Commission regarding levy authority and process and provide better details on the election requirements at her earliest availability. Commissioner Krein reported that he has already met with Rockland officials and gathered preliminary information for this initiative. Commissioner Krein reported that he will schedule a follow-up meeting for further planning and coordination. 6. Board Updates: The following board updates were presented; Guardianship Board – Commissioner Krein reported that the regularly scheduled Guardianship Board meeting was postponed and will be rescheduled for a later date. Museum – Commissioner Krein states that the process of moving artifacts and items to the new museum building is set to begin this Friday. Weeds – The Commissioner’s agreed that set a dedicated work session to discuss this item. 7. Building & Grounds: The following building & grounds items were discussed; Museum Building – The Commissioner’s discussed recent repairs to the museum building, specifically addressing a wall that required patching. While wallpaper was originally considered for the repair, it was reported that the area will instead be parched and painted to match the existing wall. POWER COUNTY COMMISSION Page 4 of 10 REGULAR SESSION MINUTES Monday, February 23, 2026 Employee Parking – Treasurer Curry requested that the county purchase larger signage to clearly designate employee parking areas for the public. She noted that she will follow up with Grounds Director Chet Taylor to discuss the specifics of this request. Prosecutor’s Office – Prosecutor Bischoff reported accidental damage to the railing of the ADA ramp. The Commissioners agreed to add this item to the next agenda for further discussion during the next meeting. IT – Commissioner Povey reported that the IT team is currently validating software licenses. During this process, it was determined that an additional 38 licenses were required. The licenses were purchased in the amount of $10,488.00. It was noted that these funds had already been allocated in the budget. 8. UPDATE – Planning & Zoning – Projects and Growth Discussion: The Commissioner’s discussed concerns that businesses face significant obstacles when attempting to locate in American Falls. Community members have cited high taxes, limited growth, and lack of opportunities for young residents as ongoing concerns. Issues identified include complex ordinances, lengthy application checklists, delays caused by conditional approvals, and perceived negative attitudes during Planning & Zoning proceedings. Communication gaps were also noted, particularly restrictions on commissioners discussing pending applications and unclear appeal processes. Proposed improvements include simplifying ordinances, adding a second monthly planning and zoning meeting, fast-tracking complete applications, clarifying appeal procedures, filling vacant board positions, and promoting professionalism and a growth-oriented approach among board members. 9. Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge Discussion: Commissioners discussed concerns regarding noxious weeds on federal property at the Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge. The weeds are believed to be classified as noxious under Idaho law and may spread into Power County. While federal agencies are responsible for weed control on federal land, the Commissioners agreed to monitor the situation due to potential impacts on county lands. Concerns were also raised about habitat disruption caused by weed control efforts. Commissioners requested photographic documentation of affected areas to support discussions with refuge officials regarding habitat replacement strategies. No formal county action was required at this time. B. MOTIONS: 1. Agenda: A motion to approve the agenda for Monday, February 26 2026, was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the Board, motion unanimously carried. 2. Deaton & Company Outside Audit: Ryan Robinson, Certified Public Accountant, presented the Fiscal Year 2025 audit results. The audit resulted in a clean opinion with no significant findings. The independent Auditor’s Report confirmed the county’s financial statements present its financial position as of September 30, 2025, in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards and government auditing POWER COUNTY COMMISSION Page 5 of 10 REGULAR SESSION MINUTES Monday, February 23, 2026 standards. Mr. Robinson reported no material deficiencies or instances of non- compliance and did not encounter any difficulties or disagreements with management during the audit. Mr. Robinson confirmed that all significant transactions were properly recognized. Following discussion, a motion to accept the FY25 Financial Audit report submitted by Deaton & Company was presented by Commissioner Krein with a second by Commissioner Povey. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried. 3. Convene as Ambulance District Board at 9:49 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. 4. Power County Ambulance Administration & Financial Report: Chief Kami Chandler and Deputy Chief Macie Evans, appeared before the Board and presented the accounts receivable reports for the date ending December 2025 and January 2026. Call volumes remained high. December recorded 47 billable calls and 22 no-bill responses, including 12 inter-facility transfers. January was described as a “super busy month,” with 53 billable calls and 24 no-bill responses, including 13 inter-facility transfers. Most transports were to Power County Hospital and Portneuf Medical Center. Staffing updates included one full-time employee stepping down to PRN status after March 9. Three new medics are completing training and are expected to be fully operational by April 1. The district is moving forward with an EMS SAVE grant application for a Quick Response Unit and exploring donation opportunities for equipment. Chief Chandler requests for a $500 credit card for Rockland ambulance fuel due to compatibility issues with existing fuel cards. Following discussion, a motion to approve a credit card with a limit of $500 for the ambulance was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried. Discussions were also held if the ambulance district qualifies for a 7k exemption. Following discussion with legal, it was determined that the ambulance district did not fall under this category as only law enforcement and fire departments fall under this category. Regarding using a budget line to cover salaries for staff, the Commissioner’s directed Chief Chandler to visit with Clerk Sprague. 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. 5. Reconvene as Board of County Commissioners at 10:17 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. 6. Probation Department Policy Adoption: Probation Director, Ryan Grayson, presented a new comprehensive policy manual combining adult and juvenile probation policies. The previous juvenile policy, dating back to approximately 2001, was identified during an Idaho Department of Juvenile Corrections audit as a major deficiency. The new manual POWER COUNTY COMMISSION Page 6 of 10 REGULAR SESSION MINUTES Monday, February 23, 2026 was developed using policies from other counties as templates and includes a mission statement, vision statement, core values, and updated procedures reflecting current practices. Director Grayson confirmed that legal reviewed the policy. Director Grayson described the manual as a strong foundation that will continue to evolve as new situations arise. The Commissioners expressed appreciation for the extensive work completed. Following discussion, a motion to approve 2026 Probation policy manual submitted by Director Grayson was presented by Commissioner Krein with a second by Commissioner Povey. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried. 7. Treasurer Updates: Treasurer Deanna Curry presented the Board of Commissioners with a LGIP monthly statement, Treasurer’s Cash, Joint Month Report ending January 2026. Reports were discussed and reviewed by the Board and following discussion, a motion to accept the reports was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following an audible call of the board, motion unanimously carried. The annual investment policy was reviewed with no changes recommended. Treasurer provided historical context for prior updates, including increased FDIC coverage limits, revised approval requirements, and the transfer of full investment authority to the Treasurer in 2023 in accordance with Idaho Code. Following discussion, a motion to approve the annual review of investment was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried. Treasurer Curry also presented annual affidavits verifying the financial health of all institutions holding county funds. All institutions were confirmed to be in sound financial condition. The Commissioners approved the report and thanked Treasurer Curry for her continued due diligence in handling funds. 8. Ordinance O-2026-01 Title 8 Chapter 1 & 2: Building Official Andi Higgins presented Ordinance O-2026-01. This ordinance update does not change fees but resolves confusion caused by outdated online information. During discussion, Commissioner Povey raised concerns about the county’s fee structure, particularly for large commercial and solar projects. Comparisons with neighboring counties indicated Power County’s solar project fees are significantly lower, raising concerns about potential lost revenue. Commissioner Povey emphasized the need to revisit fee structures, especially for large projects and solar installations. Following discussion, a motion to approve changes to the ordinance to reflect the resolutions that have already passed was presented by Commissioner Krein with a second by Commissioner Fehringer. Following audible call of the Board, Commissioner Krein and Fehringer voted in favor of the motion and Commissioner Povey voted against the motion. Motion carried by majority vote. 9. Resolution 2026-04 Budget Changes: Chairman Fehringer opened the meeting for Resolution 2026-04 a Resolution to adjust the FY26 budget at 11:28 am and roll call of attendance is as follows; POWER COUNTY COMMISSION Page 7 of 10 REGULAR SESSION MINUTES Monday, February 23, 2026 • Commissioner Fehringer • Commissioner Krein • Commissioner Povey • Prosecuting Attorney Brock Bischoff • Clerk Sharee Sprague • Deputy Clerk Mariano Villa • Jeff Rankin • Ron Anderson • Treasurer Curry • Assessor Porath • Ryan Grayson • Kami Chandler • Macie Evans • Andi Higgins Clerk Sprague read Resolution 2026-04 into the record. Following discussion, a motion to approve Resolution 2026-04 a Resolution to adjust the FY26 budget, as read into the record, was presented by Commissioner Krein with a second by Commissioner Povey. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried. 10. Sheriff’s Recognition of Service – Presentation of Badge and Service Weapon: A motion to award Sheriff Campbell his badge and service weapon in honor of his years of service was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried. Sheriff Campbell expressed gratitude to the Commission, county officials, and staff, noting that law enforcement had been his lifelong identity since age 18. He acknowledged recent challenges in public service and commended county officials for adapting to changing dynamics. The Commissioners thanked Sheriff Campbell for his dedication and for his service to the County. 11. Waterways: Waterways Director Ron Anderson reports that he had discussions with the City of American Falls to purchase vehicles/equipment for waterways. The items are as follows; • 2007 John Deere Back Hoe 410 G for $12,000 • 1980 Ford 27000 Bobtail Dump truck for $3,000 The total cost for both items is $15,000. Mr. Anderson states that the vehicles would also be available for county use, provided they are operated by an experienced operator. Following discussion, a motion to purchase the 2007 John Deere Back Hoe 410 G and the 1980 Ford 27000 Bobtail Dump Truck for a total of $15,000, from the city, and for both of the items to be paid from PILT, was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried. 12. Fire Department Barrier Discussion: Previous discussions with the American Falls and Rockland Fire Department, the County and Search and Rescue resulted that it was easier for the county to buy the barriers and then have all entities pay the county back for their portion. The amount for the barriers was $8,977. Following discussion, a motion to purchase the barriers in the amount of $8,977, to be paid from PILT, was presented by Commissioner Krein with a second by Commissioner Povey. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried. Fire Chief CJ Sweeney states that he will coordinate with Clerk Sprague regarding the invoice. 13. Emergency Management: Following discussion, a motion to accept the resignation of Frances Beitia as Emergency Management manager effective 2/23/2026 was presented POWER COUNTY COMMISSION Page 8 of 10 REGULAR SESSION MINUTES Monday, February 23, 2026 by Commissioner Krein with a second by Commissioner Povey. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried. 14. Consenting Agenda: The Commissioners discussed an additional claim submitted by CivicPlus. Following discussion, a motion to approve and pay the invoice from CivicPlus, in the amount of $2,761.06, with authorization for a demand check, was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried. Discussions were held for the consenting agenda. Following discussions, 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. Items approved under the consenting agenda are as follows; Approval of Past Meeting Minutes: Minutes for meetings held on January 12, 15 and February 3rd were approved. Claims: The following claims report was approved; FUND Paid 0001 GENERAL FUND (CURRENT EXPENSE) $ 8,612.84 0003 FAIR BOARD $ 500.00 0004 POWER COUNTY AMBULANCE DIST. $ 3,595.90 0005 POWER COUNTY ABATEMENT DIST. $ 16,060.00 0006 DISTRICT COURT $ 1,753.39 0008 JUSTICE FUND $ 9,726.26 0009 DRUG COURT $ 1,815.42 0010 ENHANCED 911 SERVICES $ 300.00 0011 HEALTH DISTRICT $ 513.09 0020 REVALUATION $ 63.28 0023 SOLID WASTE (LANDFILL) $ 44,010.62 0027 WEEDS $ 110.84 0038 WATERWAYS $ 31,904.86 0039 MUSEUM $ 304.44 0041 AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT $ 1,468.70 0050 PAYMENT IN LIEU OF TAXES $ 34,218.98 0051 BOND – WATER RIGHTS $ 897.00 Total Amount Paid $ 155,855.62 15. Personnel: The following personnel items were discussed; Clerk Sharee Sprague reports that Hanalorraine Miller has resigned from the Ambulance District and is eligible for the following separation benefits; • 0 hours of current compensation pay • 0 hours of Vacation pay for a total of $0 • 0 hours worked during the last payroll for a total of $0 • Employee is not eligible for COBRA Insurance Coverage through the County Payroll Clerk Lissette Aguirre reports that Rebekah Titterington has resigned from the Ambulance District and is eligible for the following separation benefits; POWER COUNTY COMMISSION Page 9 of 10 REGULAR SESSION MINUTES Monday, February 23, 2026 • 0 hours of current compensation pay • 0 hours of Vacation pay for a total of $0 • 0 hours worked during the last payroll for a total of $0 • Employee is not eligible for COBRA Insurance Coverage through the County • Ms. Titterington is now a full-time employee at the Sheriff's Office The Landfill Department submitted a salary approval form for current Landfill employee, Joseph R. Workman. Mr. Workman’s hourly salary will stay the same. Hours worked per week will change from 32 hours a week to 38 hours a week. New annual salary will be $34,659.04. Following discussion, a motion to approve the personnel update as submitted, was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried. 16. Sheriff Appointment Update: Clerk Sharee Sprague presented the Commission with two (2) candidates for appointment from the Republican Central Committee listed in order of preference. In discussion, the commissioners emphasized the importance of continuity and stability within the Sheriff’s Office, particularly given current staffing challenges and the position scheduled for the upcoming election cycle to complete Sheriff Campbell’s term. Citing Kasey Kendall’s experience, including service in jail operations and as Chief Deputy. Following discussion, a motion to appoint Kasey Kendall as Power County Sheriff was presented by Commissioner Povey with a second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried. Kasey Kendall accepted the appointment by phone immediately following the vote. The Commission directed Clerk Sprague to notify the other candidate by phone and requested Prosecutor Bischoff to draft a letter notifying the other candidate of the result. A formal appointment letter will be drafted and signed, and the swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for March 2, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. A motion to draft a formal appointment letter for Kasey Kendall as Power County Sheriff, was presented by Commissioner Povey with second by Commissioner Krein. Following audible call of the board, the motion unanimously carried. Clerk Sharee Sprague presented a written notice of Appointment, which the Commission executed. C. POINTS OF ORDER: 1. America 250 Resolution: This item was tabled to a further date. IV. EXECUTIVE SESSION: 1. Executive Personnel Session I.C. 74-206(1)(b) 12:00 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 10 of 10 REGULAR SESSION MINUTES Monday, February 23, 2026 • Commissioner Fehringer, AYE Following roll call of the Board, motion unanimously carried. Upon conclusion of discussion, Commissioner Fehringer declared the meeting open at 12:16 pm. 2. Executive Personnel Session I.C. 74-206(1)(b) 12:16 pm: A motion to enter into executive session to consider personnel actions pursuant to Idaho Code 74-206(1)(b) was presented by Commissioner Fehringer 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 1:18 pm. 3. Executive Personnel Session I.C. 74-206(1)(b) 1:30 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 • Commissioner Fehringer, AYE Following roll call of the Board, motion unanimously carried. Upon conclusion of discussion, Commissioner Fehringer declared the meeting open at 1:55 pm. V. ASSESSMENTS/CONCLUSIONS: 1. Next Meeting: The next regular session for the board to meet is slated for February 7, 2022. 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 2:57 pm. The foregoing minutes were approved by the Board of County Commissioners during the Regular Board Meeting held March 9, 2026. ATTEST: SHAREE SPRAGUE, Clerk __________________________________ COMMISSIONER FEHRINGER, Chairman
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