HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Minutes - March 20, 20191
Mayor Jerry Merrill
Council Members:
Christopher Mann Jordan Busby
Mikel Walker Tisha Flora
Brad Wolfe Sally Smith
City Staff:
Stephen Zollinger – City Attorney
Matt Nielson – Finance Officer
Keith Davidson – Public Works Director
Val Christensen – Community Development Director
Scott Johnson – Economic Development Director
Deborah Lovejoy – City Clerk
6:30 P.M. City Hall
Desiree Abril said the prayer.
Police Officer Darrick Farmer led the pledge.
Roll Call of Council Members:
Attending: Council Member Flora, Council Member Walker, Council Member Wolfe, Council Member
Busby, Council Member Mann, Council President Smith, and Mayor Merrill.
Public Comment: not scheduled on the agenda (limit 3 minutes); issues may be considered for discussion
on a future agenda. Please keep comments on point and respectful. NONE
Presentations:
A. REDI Update – Dana Kirkham
Mrs. Kirkham CEO for the Regional Economic Development Eastern Idaho (REDI) presented on a
strategic plan and other items the organization has been working on. She shared part of the organization’s
mission statement. “To protect, expand and attract” their focus is to protect the existing businesses that are
already in our region. The region is defined from Pocatello to the Teton Valley. To create an environment
and network economy where businesses can expand and flourish. There are ways to help create that type of
environment by providing tax abatement and incentives for businesses. She said there is more that goes into
attracting businesses. REDI is assisting communities by putting together a strategic plan for the region
because it’s difficult to know what type of businesses to attract if the community doesn’t know what can be
sustained in their current ecosystem. This has been an interesting process and one that is long overdue. She
has traveled around different communities and asked what type of businesses can be sustained in their
community. She receives a different answer from everyone and sometimes the data doesn’t sustain what the
community thinks they are able to sustain. There needs to be an understanding of what a certain community
can really sustain. A community needs a foundation first then they can move forward to attract and build a
network economy that will allow them to become what they want to become.
Mrs. Kirkham presented data that REDI has collected of what the region knows is sustainable in terms of
economy and business. There are five Federal Government programs in Eastern Idaho. The FBI is one of
those programs. An interesting fact about the FBI is that they only own two properties in the United States
one in Quantico, Virginia and the other in Pocatello, Idaho. The other federal programs are the Department
of Defense, Department of Energy, the Navy and Home Land Security. These federal programs are
considered anchor tenants and the region receives a lot of leverage from them such as; talent attraction and
community involvement, they are great community partners.
Mrs. Kirkham said the region is doing very well per capita in education with Idaho State University in
Pocatello, BYU- Idaho in Rexburg and the College of Eastern Idaho in Idaho Falls and 32 school districts in
Eastern Idaho. Council Member Busby asked how many counties are in the region. She said there are 14
counties that are considered to be in Eastern Idaho.
35 North 1st East
Rexburg, ID 83440
Phone: 208.359.3020 x 2101
Fax: 208.359.3022
deborahl@rexburg.org
www.rexburg.org
City Council Minutes
March 20, 2019
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Mrs. Kirkham reviewed a graph showing the Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) Population Percent
Change in the region. The region is becoming a health care hub. All of the organizations listed and the
medical facilities have a regional presence; in other words, they have facilities in other counties besides the
county they originated in. Mrs. Kirkham mentioned the five key industry players to highlight the diversity in
the region.
Mrs. Kirkham said as they review the strategic plan, they are concerned about building a regional profile.
The Department of Labor and the Department of Commerce do a great job of drilling down the numbers
by county; however, they don’t have the numbers aggregated across all 14 counties. The region is selling its
self as an area of 300,000 people and leveraging between two key universities and the Idaho National
Laboratory. She explained if the region is going to leverage all of that in one package we have to be able to
present one package and not 14 individual packages. REDI has been working on that for the last six
months.
Mrs. Kirkham reviewed the MSA population percent change graph showing the growth by county from
1990 to 2017. In all, most all of the counties have seen positive growth. There have been some counties with
stagnant growth. The graph showed the growth in Madison County when Ricks College changed to a
university.
Mrs. Kirkham continued to review the five key industries. There are other industries that are surfacing to
the top. Agriculture remains a key industry in all 14 counties. Health Care and Energy - the region has a
strong energy presence because of the Idaho National Laboratory and the Idaho Clean-up Project.
Technology is certainly one of the regions key industries; however, technology is a broad net and almost
every industry plays in the technology space in some capacity that is part of what makes the region a key
technology player. Advance Manufacturing - the region has a strong advance manufacturing presence not
only in Pocatello but in Bonneville County and outlining small counties that have Monsanto and Simplot
businesses in them.
Mrs. Kirkham said all of the data she is presenting tonight has been drilled down by county and has been
averaged out for the regional data. A graph was shown for the Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by
County. The graph showed the key industries for Madison County. Some of those key industries are Natural
Resources and Mining, Education and Health Care Services. Trade Transportation and Utilities are
industries that have seen the most growth over the last two decades. Council Member Busby asked if the
Natural Resources and Mining industry is referring to agriculture. She replied yes, farming is included in that
industry.
Mrs. Kirkham continued to review the data in the Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by County graph.
The 14 counties in Eastern Idaho are responsible for about 13 billion dollars of the gross domestic product
for the State of Idaho. The key counties are Bingham, Bonneville and Madison in the GDP for the region.
Mrs. Kirkham reviewed a graph of the diversification and economies by county. The graph showed that
Madison County has a strong dependency on education because of the university; however, there are other
emerging industries and other industries that are more established. One of the things she pointed out was
that government is one of the top five employers in almost every county. This was an interesting fact
because the region is a politically conservative region; however, dependent on government for employment.
Mayor Merrill asked if the school districts are considered to be in the government or education categorizes.
Mrs. Kirkham explained the school districts fall into both categorizes. The administrative employees fall
under the government category. The teachers and all of the industries that support them, fall in the
education category. Mayor Merrill said because the school administrators are considered government the
numbers for the government employers increases. She said that is why it is important to understand the data
behind the numbers because the numbers don’t tell the whole story.
Mrs. Kirkham reviewed the Median Income Graph. The graph shows Eastern Idaho as aggregated across
all of the counties. The median income is at about $48,000 a year that puts Eastern Idaho at about $10,000
behind the national average. One of the items Eastern Idaho needs to focus on is increasing wages and not
only job creation. If the median income is increased it will increase the quality of life and it will also increase
the sustainability of businesses that are dependent on expendable income.
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Council Member Flora said in her opinion Madison County lowers the median income for the region
because of all the university students. She asked if they have considered a way to separate the calculations
from those of university students vs. residents. Mrs. Kirkham said the data comes straight from the
Department of Labor and Department of Commerce. Madison County ranks 2nd to the bottom because of
the full time student’s reduced house hold income. REDI is working on a formula to be able to back out the
university students and find a more realistic median income. They hope to have a formula in place before
the strategic plan comes out in June. Mrs. Kirkham said they are trying to come out with a formula for the
Idaho National Laboratory numbers because all 4,200 jobs go to Butte County; however, 1,400 of those
jobs fall under Bonneville County.
Mrs. Kirkham mentioned the reason REDI is very interested in the median household income is to make
sure our region is growing deliberately. A slide was shown indicating what could happen when there is rapid
growth, infrastructure that lags behind and a high demand for housing. Eastern Idaho has been labeled over
the years as the innovation corridor. If Eastern Idaho truly is an innovation corridor and the region is going
to contrast with these other innovation corridors such as: Silicon Valley, The Triangle in North Carolina and
Salt Lake County. The slide compared the Cost of Living in the innovation corridor regions. Eastern Idaho
is third in the nation for the lowest Cost of Living and fifth in the nation for lowest cost of doing business.
Mrs. Kirkham reviewed a slide indicating the forecast of federal program jobs that will be coming online in
the next 12 to 18 months. With the exception of NRF, they are going out in the next three years. The FBI
will be hiring 300 new employees in the next 18 months. She said 90% of these FBI jobs will require a
bachelor’s degree or higher. The Idaho National Laboratory will be hiring 1,500 new jobs. The new jobs
coming online are through super computer building, the cyber security building, and retirement. The Naval
Reactor Facility (NRF) will be hiring 135 new jobs over the next three to four years. These jobs are higher
than the median household income wages. She said these are the kinds of jobs the region has to attract and
retain. The majority of these jobs will require a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Mrs. Kirkham mentioned the education base for the other innovation corridors regions and how they
compare to Eastern Idaho. Eastern Idaho per capital has well established opportunities for education;
however, only 18% of the population has a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Mrs. Kirkham reviewed the graduation rates by county in the region. Madison is at a 90% graduation rate.
Council Member Busby asked how the data for the graduation rate graph was collected. Mrs. Kirkham
explained the data follows the student for four years from their freshman year to their senior year of high
school. Council Member Busby said he believes the data is incorrect when it comes to the graduation rate
for Madison. The graduation percentage rate is much higher.
Council Member Mann asked if this information was gathered by other sources. Mrs. Kirkham explained
the data source is listed on all of the graphs and slides. The Rexburg Business and Development Center
(RBDC) is a big player in REDI’s strategic plan and they also use Seed grant support out of Idaho State
University to make it a region effort. When the actual strategic plan comes out it will indicate where the data
comes from and the formula they used to calculate the data. The graduation rate will be calculated as a
region.
Mrs. Kirkham went over the information on the Workforce with Academic Degree slide. The region is
slightly ahead of the state with regards to bachelor’s degrees; however, Eastern Idaho is behind the national
level. The region has a strong presence in technical degrees and associate level degrees. Madison County has
the most graduate and professional degrees in the region. Eastern Idaho is ahead of the nation in associate
level degrees. There is a stigma that you need a bachelor’s degree or higher. The stigma isn’t apparent in
Eastern Idaho; however, 60% of the jobs coming online will require a bachelor’s degree or higher. The
region is behind of the demand for jobs that are coming online.
Mrs. Kirkham showed the education attainment for 25 year olds by county slide. Madison is doing well in
that aspect. The average age of the technical worker to fill the kinds of jobs we are looking for is 32 years of
age. When compared to the other talented technical workers that are being pulled to other regions; for
example, 40% of the population in Silicon Valley is between the ages of 25 and 44 years. Only 21% of the
population in Eastern Idaho is between 25 and 44 years of age that is a problem because the population
within those wage earning years is not spending those years in Eastern Idaho. If Eastern Idaho is to have a
successful economy that percentage has to change. She said according to the data REDI collected from
BYU-Idaho University, 36% of their students stay in Eastern Idaho.
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Mrs. Kirkham mentioned some of the projects that are coming online; most specifically, the small modular
reactor that is scheduled to break ground in 2021 adjacent to the Idaho National Laboratory. REDI
completed an economic impact study to see what that project would mean to the region. The project will
cost about 2.4 billion dollars to build. She said 1.2 billion dollars is up for grabs in Eastern Idaho if the
workforce and supply chain is ready. The project consists of two phases, a construction phase and operation
phase. The construction phase last four years and the direct, indirect and induced impact for employment
are about 3,300 jobs. If you aggregate the number of jobs over the four years there is the potential of 13,000
jobs during the construction phase. She spoke with different suppliers; they expressed one of their main
concerns is being able to prepare the local work force to participate in the project. There are several
clearances the labor force will need to be able to work on the project, including being federal contractors.
She said trying to start an effort where they capture potential players to review the necessary steps to
participate in the project is the main focus for REDI.
Mrs. Kirkham reviewed the labor income during the construction phase of the project. The operation
phase could bring about 667 permeant jobs to Eastern Idaho. The result of the permeant jobs in annual
labor income would boost the regional economy.
Mrs. Kirkham mentioned REDI has been working on three projects. One of the projects is the relocation
of a company that is in the region. The company was looking to move to Iowa. They contacted REDI for
assistance for placement in the region. The company consists of 50 jobs with the average salary of $75,000 a
year. These are the types of jobs that need to remain in Eastern Idaho. There is a project called Genesis;
they are a company looking to relocate to Eastern Idaho with about 400 jobs. Some of the jobs are entry
level at 15 dollars an hour; however, there are management level jobs. The third company is the Molton Salt
reactor which is another small modular reactor.
Council President Smith asked if the slides she showed tonight are available. Mrs. Kirkham replied the
strategic plan will be available in June and the slides will be in that plan. She said she doesn’t feel
comfortable about sharing them right now because she wants to make sure the data is accurate. They hope
the strategic plan will give a vision for the whole region and to have the data drilled down per county. The
counties can then use the data for their own purposes.
Mayor Merrill said he attended a meeting with REDI and they had invited the Idaho Technical Council
and the same slides were viewed at that meeting. He was impressed with the data presented because it
identifies what the region is lacking. The region can then determine how to address where they are lacking.
Mrs. Kirkham said the two lacking items identified were transportation and broadband. If connectivity is
not available the region can’t attract a new kind of workforce. When they reach out to companies that are
leaving the region the top reason on their list is transportation. The lack of access to an international airport
really affects businesses.
Mrs. Kirkham said it is important for her to present on what REDI is working on. Mayor Merrill
mentioned in a couple of months city Economic Development Director Scott Johnson will be attending a
conference in Washington, D.C. with Mrs. Kirkham. The conference consists of companies attending and
visiting booths from different states. Eastern Idaho will have a booth at the conference.
Mayor Merrill mentioned the City, County, the Madison School District and BYU-Idaho University are
working with a consultant on a job survey to figure out what type of industries are preferred by the
residents. The survey will also rank the utilities available to the city residents. Once the surveys are
completed the consultant will match the city with companies that are compatible with the city’s workforce
and infrastructure.
Committee Liaison Assignments for 2018:
A. Council Member Mann: Golf Board · Emergency Services Board · Development Workshop
Council Member Mann reported the Emergency Services Board will meet tomorrow at 4:30 P.M. The
Golf Board met last week to discuss the upcoming season. There are changes to the rates and marketing
plans for the golf course. There are capital improvements needed at the Legacy Golf Course. The
Development Workshop has not met.
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Council Member Mann reported he was invited to attend a meeting regarding the 2020 Censes. They
discussed the challenges of counting everyone in Madison County. They also discussed the rewards for
obtaining an accurate count. If the Censes Count is not completed accurately it could cause the city financial
lose. A low count affects the type of businesses the county attracts. There have been studies that indicate the
population in Madison County is higher than what has been reported in the Censes. He said it’s a challenge
to make sure all of the BYU-Idaho students are counted because many of them graduate in April when the
count is taking place. The financial effects of not obtaining an accurate count are adverse to the county.
Finance Officer Nielson explained the Idaho Department of Water informed the Legacy Golf Course
about the issues with the amount of water being consumed at the golf course. They recommended a water
meter be installed to measure the amount of water being consumed. They found the golf course was
consuming double the rate of water allowed. The IDW asked the city to correct the problem. The city has
reviewed several options to repair the water issue. One option is to install a new irrigation system; however,
the cost of a new system costs about $700,000. The Golf Board said that would be too expensive. They also
looked at moving the pump system from the well to the canal. The cost for a pump station would cost
about $60,000. The Water Department is willing to contribute half of the cost if they are able to take the
potable water and put into the water bank to use in other places. This would be a benefit to the overall
water system. The Golf Board is recommending the new pump station and that the city engineers obtain
bids.
Council Member Mann asked if the bid for the water pump comes in higher than the estimated cost of
$60,000 that City Council is made aware of the additional costs. Mayor Merrill expressed some concerns
with using canal water because of the amount of sand pumped out with the water. He asked that a durable
screen be added to the pump station to keep the sand from damaging the sprinkler heads.
Discussion regarding surface water rights and needing water when the canals are not running.
Finance Officer Nielson explained there is a way to tie into a fire hydrant with a backflow device when
water is not running in the canal to water the grass at the golf course. Public Works Director Davidson said
if the city exceeds the diversion rate then the city has to recharge the exceeded amount of water.
Mayor Merrill encouraged the university students in the audience to make sure they are counted in the
Census. There has been misunderstandings regarding college students participation in the Censes where they
live because of residency or being claimed on their parents tax return and possible issues with a scholarship.
He said that is not the case, when it comes to being counted in the Census. The Census prefers people to be
counted where they actually live. He asked the students to encourage their fellow classmates to be counted
in the Census. When the Census count is not accurate in a county, that county misses out on federal
funding. The city has calculated that the City of Rexburg is missing out on five to six million dollars in
funding because the city is under counted by about two to three thousand people. The city is starting the
effort to obtain a more accurate count of the number of residents in the county.
B. Council Member Busby: Airport Board · Traffic & Safety · School Board
Council Member Busby reported the Airport Board has not met. He asked Public Works Director
Davidson if he has an update on the studies the airport has been working on. Public Works Director
Davidson said a feasibility study is still being worked on.
Council Member Busby reported the Traffic and Safety Committee met two weeks ago. They discussed
several issues with potholes. Reed Nelson who served as Vice Chairman of the committee will be retiring to
serve a mission. The committee nominated Gale Harding to serve as Chairman with David Bell serving as
Vice Chairman of the committee. The School Board will meet tomorrow.
C. Council Member Walker: MYAB · Parks & Recreation · Trails of Madison County
Council Member Walker reported the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Board met today. They have been learning
about city government and held a mock City Council Meeting earlier today. The Parks Department is
working on cleaning up the city parks so they are ready for the summer. The Recreation Department is
doing; well they are seeing participation at Kidsburg. They are finishing up the winter programs and getting
ready for the summer programs. The Teton Dam Marathon is ahead of last year with sign ups. The Trails of
Madison County have not met.
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Council President Smith: Legacy Flight Museum · Beautification Committee · M.E.P.I.
Council President Smith reported the Legacy Flight Museum Committee will be meeting on Friday
morning at 7:00 a.m. The Beautification Committee has not met. M.E.P.I. continues to work with Basic
American Food on their expansion. The old Wal-Mart building has been sold to a group out of California
and the city Economic Development Department is working with them to fill the building with tenants.
Council President Smith report the Economic Development Department responded to a Request for
Proposal. A company is looking at relocating in Rexburg. The company is projected to bring about 60 new
jobs. The company is requesting the following educational requirements to fill some of their positions:
PhD’s, engineers, executive staff, production staff including operators and maintenance personnel. When
the city responds to these businesses the city needs to prove that they have the workforce available with the
educational requirements the company is requesting. The estimated annual payroll for these positions will be
as follows; for production and technical work, they are looking for 40 employees with a pay rate of $20.00
an hour and for support and administrative staff they are looking to fill eight positions at $20.00 an hour.
On the management side they are looking for about 12 employees with a salary of about $100,000 a year
average.
Council President Smith reported the Economic Development Department is also working with the
Rexburg Business and Development Center to run the business incubator. They are also working on the
Business Competition that will be held on May 16th. The Start-Up Weekend will be held on October 24th -
26th. The Big Idea Competition will be held on March 12th of next year.
Mayor Merrill said he asked Economic Development Director Scott Johnson to head up the Correct
Count Committee. He expressed his appreciation for the Economic Development Department’s work on
the committee.
D. Council Member Flora: GIS Oversight · Rexburg Arts Council/ Museum of Rexburg
Council Member Flora reported she met with the Upper Valley Arts Council; they are currently working
on a car show for the Experience Rexburg Event. She also met with the Rexburg Arts Director, Jackie
Rawlins and she reported the Rexburg’s Got Talent Event was a success with a sold out show every night.
In June there will be a month long theater camp for children ages six to seventeen. The camp will be two
hours long per day and anyone that registers can be a part of the camp. The camp will culminate into a four
day production of the Lion King Jr. The play will be performed on July 5th, 6th, 8th and 9th. Those interesting
in a leading role will need to audition for the play on April 12th and 13th.
Council Member Flora reported the Rexburg Arts is working on the Teton Story Telling Festival in
August. They are looking for artists and craft vendors to sign up for a booth for the festival. They currently
have nine vendors signed up and their goal is to have 50 arts and craft vendors.
Council Member Flora reported on Romance Theater, they are currently working on installing an HVAC
system. She asked Public Works Director Davidson if he has been in contact with the architecture firm that
will be installing the system. Public Works Director Davidson said he has been in contact with the firm.
They have completed the plans for the system and they will be meeting with the city’s Building Department
to review the plans. Council Member Flora said the goal is to have the Romance Theater opened all year
long and the HVAC system will facilitate that because the inside of the theater becomes very hot during the
summer months.
E. Council Member Wolfe: Planning & Zoning/Building · Urban Renewal Agency · Police
Council Member Wolfe reported Planning and Zoning will meet tomorrow night. The Urban Renewal
Agency met with Bron Leatham regarding the purchase of a property on 2nd W and 1st N. They are planning
on building more apartments at that location. They are looking forward to developing the property. Urban
Renewal purchased the parking lot on College Avenue from BYU-Idaho University.
Council Member Wolfe reported he met with Police Chief Turman. They discussed the foundation called
Team 5. He read a part of the Founder/Chairman of the foundation, Eric Linder’s biography.
Based on his vast military and international experience, Eric had a vision in 2010 to build a foundation that had no political
or religious affiliation. A foundation that would do the right thing without any strings attached. To that end, he created Team
5. It is now considered the most extreme medical foundation in existence. Today, Team 5 takes great pride in bringing
critically-needed medical relief to remote locations and indigenous populations around the world. The foundation’s motto, “In
order to be involved, you must first show up” embodies the Team’s commitment to brave extraordinary situations
to provide medical care to vulnerable populations around the world. In a testament to the value of Team-5’s outstanding work,
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the World Health Organization has officially certified Team 5 Foundation to support international healthcare efforts led by the
organization.
Prior to establishing Team-5, Eric had a career in law enforcement, UN Peacekeeping and two militaries (United States and
Israel), that spanned more than three decades. His career personifies his desire to serve others. Eric specializes in Airborne
Combat Search and Rescue, Escape and Evasion and covert operations. Linder held a Command Staff position while
directing the UN Mission in Kosovo. He has been decorated several times for bravery, participation in combat, and search &
rescue. He has received the Secretary of Defenses Above and Beyond and Patriot Award.
Council Member Wolfe said the foundation reached out to the Rexburg Police Department to offer their
assistance with training. He read the statement below from the Team 5 web-site.
Rexburg Police Department in Idaho has added a Tactical Medical Program to their Special Weapons and Tactics Team.
Team 5 is now assigned to this team. T5 has been a part of the multi-jurisdictional task for the last two years in Idaho, and
as the program grows, more departments have shown interest. The objective of the foundation is to assist in training for Tactical
Medicine, Officer Down, Active Shooter and being sworn officers of the actual SWAT entry team. As members in the inner
circle, response to anyone injured will have no delay as the Medic/Doctor is already inside the active area and has the essential
medical supplies and experience needed.
Along with this, Team 5 has incorporated a Tactical Veterinarian who will also be deployed with the police K9 officers into the
hot zones where he can treat any injuries to the working police dog. As you can imagine, the k9 is an intricate and costly part of
the team, and is also an officer, which deserves the best care available. Having the TacVet on scene will minimize the injuries
and extend the chances of survival.
Council Member Wolfe said the Police Department is also planning on sending four police officers to
Team 5 training in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Staff Reports:
Finance: - Matt Nielson
Finance Officer Nielson said the Recreation Department is asking to surplus 1993 Ford pick-up. Council
Member Busby asked if the pick-up will be auctioned in a public auction or online auction because Gale
Harding is holding a public auction on March 30th and he will need to put the pick-up on his list of items
before that date.
Council Member Busby moved to approve the Surplus of a 1993 Ford F-150 XL white pickup truck; Council
Member Walker seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill asked for a roll call vote:
Those voting aye Those voting nay
Council Member Flora None
Council Member Wolfe
Council Member Walker
Council Member Busby
Council Member Mann
Council President Smith
The motion carried
1. Finance Reports
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Finance Officer Nielson reviewed the Budget Summary Report Expenditures. The city should be at 42%
through February. The report indicates over all the city is at 42% in the operating expenditures. The Police
Department is at 41%. He mentioned the Capital Reserves is at 53% spent; it’s slightly higher because the
city acquired some land for a future city park on the Barney property. The land acquirement occurred in the
last couple of weeks. The Total Expenditures for all funds are at 24%.
Finance Officer Nielson reviewed the Budget Summary Report Revenues. The Permits and Licenses Fund
is really low at 23%. The revenues received for this fund are from parking tickets and building permits. He
processed an individual report of the building permits only and they are at 19% of budget. A comparison
report was created for the last three years of revenues collected in building permits. The report indicates
there are substantially less revenues this year through February then the two prior years.
Finance Officer Nielson reveiwed the Utility Revenues. The Wastewater Operating revenues are at 32%
compared to budget because the city had a 1.16 million dollar project contribution that the city was going to
bring in; however, the project has been pushed back a year. By factoring out the wastewater project the fund
would be at 40% of budget. The city will be processing a DEQ Loan request this week in the amount of
about $600,000. Over all in the Budget Summary Report and from an operating stand point the city is
basically at a negative $756,000 and a positive of $52,000 on the capital side. The city is cash flowing about
$704,000 through the first five months.
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Council Member Busby asked about the wastewater project that is being posponed for a year. Finance
Officer Nielson said he was referring to a wastewater collection project near Wal-Mart.
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Finance Officer Nielson reviewed the Treasure’s Expenditure Report. The city is cash flowing the Fire
Operations Fund by about one million dollars. He spoke with County Clerk Kim Muir and she said the
county will be sending a check to the city. The Fire District will also be sending the city funds for the last
quarters. Finance Officer Nielson reviewed the Capital Reserves amounts for water, wastewater, and streets.
2. Review Budget Work Meeting Schedule and Posting of Public Meeting
Finance Officer Nielson reviewed the 2019 Budget Work Meeting Schedule. He said Council Member
Mann had requested that all of the City Council Members be able to attend the Department Budget
meetings. The meetings will be posted as public meetings to allow all of the City Council Members to attend
all of the department budget meetings. The first scheduled meeting is the City Council drive around on May
1st. The next meeting will be on Monday, May 6th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and then on Tuesday, May 7th
there will be a meeting from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. On May 8th there will be an evening meeting with the
Emergency Services Board. He said the next meeting will be a morning meeting on Thursday, May 9th and
they will meet until about 1:00 p.m.… On Friday, May 10th the budget meeting for the Legacy Flight
Museum will begin at 7:00 a.m.… The last budget meeting will held the following week on Monday.
Discussion regarding the City Council drive around meeting.
Public Works: - Keith Davidson
1. Declare Surplus Item – 2 Bed 2 Bath Mobile Home located at 297 E 7th N
Public Works Director Davidson reported there is a mobile home that needs to be surplused. The mobile
home was on the property that the city had purchased adjacent to the water reservoir. If the mobile home is
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not purchased the Fire Department and Police Department are considering using the home for training
purposes.
The City of Rexburg will be holding a closed bid process for purchase and removal of 24’ x 48’ 1976 Fleetwood 2 Bed 2 Bath
Mobile Home at 297 E 7th N. House must be moved and all construction material and debris must be removed. Bids must be
turned into the City Clerk by 4:00 p.m. on April 10, 2019. Bid will be opened and awarded at 4:30 p.m. on April 10,
2019. Once the winning bidder is notified, they will have 14 days to make payment or the home will be awarded to the next
highest bidder. The winning bid will have 60 days from the notification date to have the building and all attachments removed
from the premise.
Council Member Busby moved to approve the Surplus of a 24’ x 48’ 1976 Fleetwood 2 Bed 2 Bath
Mobile Home at 297 E 7th N.; Council Member Flora seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill asked for a roll
call vote:
Those voting aye Those voting nay
Council Member Flora None
Council Member Wolfe
Council Member Walker
Council Member Busby
Council Member Mann
Council President Smith
The motion carried
2. Spring Clean-up dates April 15th to May 3rd
Public Works Director Davidson reported the dates for the Spring Clean-up are scheduled from April 15th
to May 3rd. Mayor Merrill mentioned the Street Department will start sweeping the streets tomorrow.
Public Works Director Davidson explained the Street Department is still training on how to operate the
new street sweeper after their training is complete they will start sweeping the streets. The old sweeper is
being repaired.
Council Member Walker asked if the yard waste is only picked up on the residents garbage day. Public
Works Director Davidson replied the yard waste is normally picked up on the residents garbage day;
however, the city crew is constantly picking up yard waste around town. The residents can call into city hall
if the yard waste is not being picked up in a timely manner.
Public Works Director Davidson reported the Street Department helped to delineate the traffic lines on
Yellowstone and University Boulevard. The crosswalk flashing lights in the Summerfield Subdivision are
installed and working. Council President Smith questioned the lights that are being installed at Smith Park.
Public Works Director Davidson explained they are not installing new lights they are pulling out the old
light poles that were used for the baseball field. Rocky Mountain Power assisted in removing the light poles.
Council Member Busby asked how long ago the slurry seal was completed on 7th S. The seal didn’t last
very long because the asphalt is breaking up. Public Works Director Davidson said they are going to reshape
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the crown and raise the asphalt slightly to keep the water in the gutter and off the street so that it doesn’t
tear up the asphalt.
Mayor’s Report:
Mayor Merrill reported the Mayor’s Youth met early today and held a mock city council meeting. One of
the items they debated was the pros and cons of exchanging the current currency to sea shells. They
discussed some serious topics as well. He believes the mock city council meeting helped the youth to
understand the decision making process City Council goes through when voting on an issue. Mayor Merrill
turned the time over to the youth to present on a project they have been working on.
The Mayor’s Youth Advisory Board Members attending the meeting: Chairman Claire Bird , Katrina Toll
the Board’s Historian, Eliza Ballard is the publicity Manager, Beth Corpany Vice Chairman, and Board
Member Colter Rodrigues.
Katrina Toll explained the MYAB attended the AIC Conference in Boise, Idaho. While at the conference
they attended an award ceremony. The City of Pocatello’s youth board received an award for creating a city
flag for Pocatello. She said they discussed the idea of creating a city flag for Rexburg with the rest of the
board and Mayor Merrill. She said after speaking with Mayor Merrill he said the flag should represent:
family, agriculture, education and entrepreneurship.
A picture of the two flags that were designed was viewed on the overhead screen.
Claire Bird explained what the colors and emblems represent on the flag that was designed by a BYU- Idaho
student.
The light blue represents trust, loyalty, sincerity, wisdom, faith and confidence. The Gold represents
illumination, compassion and love. We as citizens will all need illumination as we study for an important
exam or figure out a difficult mathematical problem. We need compassion to help those around us and to
show compassion unto ourselves. Most importantly as we love ourselves we can love our neighbors.
The wheat emblem represents abundance, fertility and life. In ancient Greece the Greek Goddess Demeter
is associated with agriculture. There are many farm lands in our area and we may even say that schools are a
form of farms with the way they nurture our understanding of subjects such as; language, history, etc. We
have a cycle of sowing and reaping everyday of our lives.
The Mountains represent obstacles in life. There is also a positive meaning of the mountains; as human
beings we have the ability to overcome these obstacles and rise to achievement. He also used the mountains
because of the Grand Teton Mountains.
The Lakes represent a way to give and fertilize; it also represent the transition of life.
Colter Rodrigues designed the following flag and explained the meanings of the symbols and colors.
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The color green represents trust, agriculture, and nature. The color white represents family, purity, and
community. The color blue represents the Teton Dam Flood and the rivers that run through the city. The
Mountains represent the surrounding mountains that encompass our valley. The star represents the heavens.
Katrina Toll explained the flags are examples and ideas the youth have entertained. She asked City Council
for their feedback on having a city flag. They also asked to open up the idea of having a city flag to the
public to have more input.
Mayor Merrill thanked the Mayor’s Youth for their presentation of designing a city flag. He also asked for
the Council’s input regarding designing a city flag. There could also be additional costs of have a city flag
with the installation of additional flag poles.
Council Member Mann said he has felt the city does need a flag. A flag should be designed in a way a
child can draw the flag. He said both of the designs presented tonight are great ideas.
Council Member Busby questioned why more flag poles would be needed to hang the city flag. There are
flag poles already in place. Mayor Merrill said there may be issues with hanging three flags on one pole.
Discussion regarding the community’s input with the design of the city flag
Council Member Walker asked if the Mayor’s Youth is going to be in charge of involving the community
members to design the flag. Mayor Merrill said a committee will be formed first and some of the MYAB
Members can be on the committee to approach how to involve the community in the design.
Mayor Merrill reported he received a report on the state of homelessness in Idaho.
Mayor Merrill reported the service terms for both John Bowen and Greg Blacker on the Planning and
Zoning Commission have expired. He reached out to both of the commissioners to see if they would be
able to serve a second term. The two commissioners agreed to serve a second term.
Mayor Merrill reported he met with Randall Porter the grandson of Arthur Porter who the park was
named after. Arthur Porter was responsible for planting most of the trees at Porter Park. Randall noticed
some of the trees along 2nd West have started to decay and die. The trees are about 80 years old. He said
after meeting with city staff they decided to remove the dying trees and purchase new trees of the same type.
They are planning on removing the old trees this fall and planting the new trees in the early spring.
Mayor Merrill said a committee will be formed to discuss the removing and replacing of the trees at Porter
Park. Mr. Porter has agreed to serve as chairman of the committee. He mentioned this year is the 90th year
the park was established. The purpose of the committee is to support community involvement. Rocky
Mountain Power has reached out to the city about having their foundation help with cost of purchasing the
new trees.
Mayor Merrill reported the City Planner position is still being reviewed and interviews for the position
have been held.
Mayor Merrill reported the Downtown Strategic meetings are being held by-weekly. Council President
Smith has been involved in the meetings. They have discussed zoning for the downtown area and how it
should be redeveloped. The city is facilitating the formation of a Downtown Merchant Association to assist
in revitalizing the downtown.
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Mayor Merrill reported he attend the Chamber Legislative Forum last week. They visited with legislators
regarding an urban renewal proposal that is coming up and other items that are important to the city.
Mayor Merrill said the Historical Committee met and Arts Director Jackie Rawlins showed samples of
flooring, bathroom sink fixtures, and light fixtures for the Romance Theater.
Mayor Merrill mentioned he met with a solar company that would like to perform an analysis on the city
buildings and pump stations to see if installing solar panels would save the city money on energy costs. The
city spends about $360,000 a year in energy costs. There is a possibility for grant funding for a non-profit
organization to help pay for the installation of the solar panels. The solar company said they would not
charge the city for the analysis.
Public Hearings: NONE
Items for Consideration:
A. Ordinance No. 1209 Amend the Compensation and Benefits Package for Mayor & City Council
Mayor Merrill explained any kind of increases in compensation and benefits needs to be performed during
an election year. City Council determined years ago that the increase to the Mayor and Council salaries
would be based on the cost of living calculations.
Council Member Wolfe expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to serve as a City Council Member.
Council Member Mann said the cost of living calculations are based on a scientific method. He favors this
way of determining what the increase in wages should be instead of having to decide what they should be.
Mayor Merrill commended the City Council Members for their time and effort to serve as council
members. He is aware of the extra time the Council Members are called to serve.
ORDINANCE NO. 1209
AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING THE SALARIES OF THE MAYOR AND
CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS OF THE CITY OF REXBURG, REPEALING
ORDINANCES 941, 986, 1102, AND 1165; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE
TO COMMENCE; JANUARY 1, 2020.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
REXBURG, IDAHO:
SECTION 1. MAYOR’S SALARY.
The salaries of the Mayor and City Council of the City of Rexburg shall be as follows:
2.01.100 The Mayor shall receive an annual salary in the sum of Seventy Nine Thousand
One Hundred Ninety Two Dollars ($79,192), and shall be paid Three Thousand Two Hundred
Ninety Nine Dollars and Sixty Seven Cents ($3,299.67) semi-monthly; and receive benefits
consistent with employee coverage.
SECTION 2. CITY COUNCIL SALARIES.
The salaries of the members of the Rexburg City Council shall be as follows:
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2.02.160 Each member of the City Council shall receive an annual salary in the sum of
Nine Thousand Two Hundred Twenty Six Dollars ($9,226), and shall be paid Three Hundred Eighty
Four Dollars and Forty Two Cents ($384.42) semi-monthly; and receive benefits consistent with
employee coverage.
SECTION 3. REPEAL OF CONFLICTING PROVISIONS.
All ordinances and parts of ordinances in conflict with this ordinance are hereby repealed to the
extent of such conflict.
SECTION 4. EFFECTIVE DATE.
This ordinance shall be effective upon its passage and publication as provided by law.
The salaries for the Mayor and City Council shall commence January 1, 2020, and shall be paid semi-
monthly.
PASSED AND APPROVED this ___ day of ___, 2019.
________________________________
Jerry L. Merrill, Mayor
ATTEST
_________________________
Deborah Lovejoy, City Clerk
Council President Smith moved to approve and first read Ordinance No. 1209 Amend the Compensation
and Benefits Package for Mayor and City Council; Council Member Mann seconded the motion; Mayor
Merrill asked for a roll call vote:
Those voting aye Those voting nay
Council Member Flora None
Council Member Wolfe
Council Member Walker
Council Member Busby
Council Member Mann
Council President Smith
The motion carried
Calendared Bills and Tabled Items:
A. “LAND USE ACTION” – Bills Recommended/Approved in a Land Use Public Hearing Procedure
(Recommend Suspension of the Rules):
B. Second Reading: Those items which have been first read: NONE
C. Third Reading: Those items which have been second read:
1. Ordinance No. 1207 #18-00709 – Rezone 150 E 2nd N from Central Business Center (CBC) to
Mixed Use (MU) Zone
ORDINANCE NO. 1207
Rezone 150 East 2nd North, Rexburg, Idaho to Mixed Use (MU)
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING AND CHANGING THE ZONING
MAP OF THE CITY OF REXBURG, IDAHO, AND PROVIDING THAT
THE ZONED DESIGNATION OF THAT CERTAIN PROPERTY
HEREINAFTER DESCRIBED, SITUATED IN REXBURG, MADISON
COUNTY, IDAHO, BE CHANGED AS HEREINAFTER
DESIGNATED; AND PROVIDING WHEN THIS ORDINANCE
SHALL BECOME EFFECTIVE.
Council Member Walker moved to approve and consider Ordinance No. 1207 the Rezone at
approximately 150 E 2nd N from Central Business Center (CBC) to Mixed Use (MU) Zone third read;
Council Member Busby seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill asked for a vote:
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Those voting aye Those voting nay
Council Member Flora None
Council Member Wolfe
Council Member Walker
Council Member Busby
Council Member Mann
Council President Smith
The motion carried
Mayor’s Business:
A. Proclamation 2019 – 01 – Census 2020 Awareness Day – April 1, 2019
PROCLAMATION
No. 2019 - 01
CENSUS 2020 AWARENESS DAY – APRIL 1, 2019
WHEREAS, more than $675 billion per year in federal funding is allocated to states and communities based on census data; and
WHEREAS, an up-to-date and accurate census count is vital in ensuring our state and cities receive annual funds that help improve
transportation, schools, hospitals, public works and other vital programs; and
WHEREAS, census data helps shape where to locate schools, offices and stores; and
WHEREAS, census data helps local governments provide greater public safety and emergency preparedness; and
WHEREAS, census data ensures fair Congressional representation in the U.S. House of Representatives and in redistricting state
legislatures, county and city councils, and school and voting districts; and
WHEREAS, the 2020 Census will create jobs in communities; and
WHEREAS, the census is meant to represent everyone;
NOW, THEREFORE , the Mayor and City Council of the City of Rexburg, Idaho, do hereby proclaim
April 1, 2019 as Census 2020 Awareness Day
in the City of Rexburg and call on and encourage our citizens in this special observance.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and
caused the Seal of the City of Rexburg to be affixed this 20th day of March of the year
of our Lord two thousand nineteen.
APPROVED:
_____________________________
SEAL Jerry Merrill
MAYOR
ATTEST:
______________________________
Deborah Lovejoy
Council Member Wolfe moved to ratify Proclamation 2019-01 Census 2020 Awareness Day as April 1,
2019; Council Member Flora seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill asked for a vote:
Those voting aye Those voting nay
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Council Member Flora None
Council Member Wolfe
Council Member Walker
Council Member Busby
Council Member Mann
Council President Smith
The motion carried
Mayor Merrill asked Council Member Walker to attend the Resource Conservation and Development
Association sponsorship meeting on March 28th from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The RCD is an organization in
the Upper Valley that assists sponsoring members looking for grants.
Consent Calendar: The consent calendar includes items which require formal City Council
action, however they are typically routine or not of great controversy. Individual Council members may ask
that any specific item be removed from the consent calendar for discussion in greater detail. Explanatory
information is included in the City Council’s agenda packet regarding these items.
A. Minutes from March 6th, 2019 meeting
B. Approve the City of Rexburg Bills
Council Member Wolfe moved to approve the Consent Calendar containing the minutes and city bills;
Council President Smith seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill asked for a vote:
Those voting aye Those voting nay
Council Member Flora None
Council Member Wolfe
Council Member Walker
Council Member Busby
Council Member Mann
Council President Smith
The motion carried
Adjournment 8:20 P.M.
APPROVED:
________________________________
Jerry Merrill, Mayor
Attest:
_____________________________
Marianna Gonzalez, Deputy City Clerk