HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Minutes - November 18, 2025+0U R G,
m
I"'/SHED 'S
City Council Minutes — November 18, 2025
Mayor Jerry Merrill
Council Members:
Bryarma Johnson Eric Erickson
Robert Chambers David Reeser
Colin Erickson Mikel Walker
6:3o P.M.
Robert Chambers said the prayer.
Council President Walker led the pledge.
(208) 359-3020
35 North V East
Rexburg, ID 83440
Rexburg.org I Engage. Rexburg.org
..............................................................................
City Staff:
Spencer Rammell — City Attorney
Matt Nielson — Finance Officer
Keith Davidson — Public Works Director
Alan Parkinson — Planning & Zoning Administrator
Scott Johnson — Economic Development Director
Deborah Lovejoy — City Clerk
Roll Call of Council Members:
Attending: Council Member Johnson, Council Member C. Erickson, Council Member E.
Erickson, Council Member Reeser, Council Member Riggins, Council President Walker and
Mayor Merrill.
Presentation: Thomas Dye Eagle Scout Project — Picnic tables for Eagle Park
Mayor Merrill said Thomas Dye could not attend tonight's meeting, Thomas will report on his Eagle
Scout Project at the next meeting.
Presentation: Robert Chambers Appreciation of Years of Service on Rexburg City Council
Mayor Merrill invited former Council Member Robert Chambers to the front of the room and
presented him with several items including a service award plaque, blanket featuring the city seal and
the words `America's Family Community and mug.
Mr. Chambers expressed his gratitude and explained what a privilege it had been to serve. He said he
enjoyed working with everyone, and learned a great deal, and would miss the experience of serving on
the City Council. He thanked the group and expressed confidence that the City Council would continue
to do good work for the city.
Ratify the 2o25 City of Rexburg General Election Results canvassed by the Board of
Canvassers of Madison County on November 10, 2025, Action Item
Mayor Merrill said the canvassed election results are available in the City Council packets for review.
He expressed his appreciation to Council Member Riggins for accepting the appointment to fill Council
Member Chambers' place for the last couple of months of that term.
Council President Walker moved to Ratify the 2025 City of Rexburg General Election
Results canvassed by the Board of Canvassers of Madison County on November 10, 2025;
Council Member Riggins seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill asked for a vote:
Those voting aye Those voting voting nay
Council Member Johnson none
Council Member C. Erickson
Council Member E. Erickson
Council Member Reeser
Council Member Riggins
Council President Walker
The motion carried.
Welcome New Employee and Oath of Office: Phillip Golden — Police Department, Mr.
Golden will be sworn in by City Attorney Spencer Rammell
City Attorney Rammell administered the oath of office to Reserve Officer Phillip Golden.
OATH OF OFFICE
I, Phillip Golden, do solemnly swear that I will support the Constitution of the United States, and the
Constitution and Laws of the State of Idaho, the Ordinances of the City of Rexburg, and the Law Enforcement
Code of Ethics. I will endeavor to enforce these laws to the best of my abilities, and that I will faithfully discharge
all of the duties assigned or requested of me in my capacity as a reserve law enforcement officer for the City of
Rexburg.
Phillip Golden
Phillip Golden expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to serve his community and
the public. He said he grew up in Washington State and has lived in Rexburg for the last four
years. Law enforcement has always been his goal, and being able to make that happen is both
awesome and humbling. He explained that he looks forward to improving himself as an officer
in the coming years.
Public Comment: Items not on the agenda; limit 3 minutes; issues may be considered for
discussion on a future agenda. Please keep comments on point and respectful.
Steve Oakey explained there was another item in the recent election which was the bond for a new
law enforcement facility. He believes a large portion of the electorate was uninformed about this
facility. He said he voted no, not because he opposed the facility itself, but because he opposed the lack
of information available. He said he spoke to several people about this issue, and it seemed that they all
shared the same concerns.
Mr. Oakey said he understands that there were some discussions with the county about a combined
law enforcement facility, but he was not privileged to those details. He asked the city to increase
community awareness of the police station bond. He suggested that the City Council, the County
Commission, Police Chief Rhodes, and Sheriff Ball meet in an open public forum where they can
present strong arguments for or against the matter and participate in a follow-up Q&A session.
Mr. Oakey mentioned he investigated other areas of the United States where cities and counties had
consolidated their law enforcement services, such as Louisville, Kentucky; Indianapolis, Indiana;
Miami, Florida; and Nashville, Tennessee. In those metropolitan areas, the city and county shared law
enforcement duties under unified administration. He questioned why the city, and county could not
share a single law enforcement facility, which seems to have obvious benefits for both Madison County,
the city and the citizens they serve. He said he understood there are benefits and drawbacks, he
acknowledged that some decisions may already have been made.
Mayor Merrill stated that all the suggestions Mr. Oakey has mentioned were thoroughly vetted, and
a great deal of information regarding the police bond was distributed. Police Chief Rhodes held two
open houses at the police station so people could come see the plans and ask questions. There were
several Open Houses held at City Hall. City Staff had also posted information on Facebook, Instagram,
and the city's website, and every platform they could think of to get the information out. Still, residents
said they had not heard anything about it. The city had the same situation with the baseball and
softball programs —residents continued to say they did not know about them, even though they had
shared the information widely.
Mayor Merrill said many residents informed the city that they did not understand certain aspects of
the police bond, and they recognized that an information gap existed. They had attempted to provide
information that addressed most questions but had clearly not answered all of them as well as they
should have —otherwise, they would have achieved the additional four percent needed for the bond
measure to pass. The police bond received nearly sixty-four percent of the vote, and they believe most
voters felt confident in the information they shared. However, a portion of voters either opposed the
project or did not understand it well enough, leading them to vote no.
Council Member Johnson asked for suggestions from the residents on how the city could better
share information. She also mentioned the two Q&A forums about the police bond, held at city hall.
Mayor Merrill noted that the city could hold forums every night and still only have three or four people
attend. He added that he has been collecting questions from the residents and keeping a list. Most of
the answers to those questions were on the website, but many residents said that they do not visit the
website. One resident suggested the city create short podcast-style videos that answer common
questions and post them on social media so the videos appear on resident's media feed without
requiring residents to search for them.
2
Council Member E. Erickson clarified that a part of Mr. Oakey's comment involved exploring a
combined city —county law enforcement facility, and agreed the topic is worth discussing at a future
City Council meeting.
Mr. Oakey clarified now that the measure had been in the ballot and had barely missed the required
percentage to pass, it raised questions. He wondered whether many of the people who voted for it had
done so simply believing that a new police station or administrative facility for law enforcement is
needed.
Council Member Riggins explained that while public forums were offered, some residents could
not attend but still managed to vote. He emphasized that if one person felt uninformed, there were
likely many more who felt the same way, and those additional people could have swung the vote.
Items from Council:
A. Committees: MEPI, Cultural Arts, Grants, School Board, MUSIC, MYAB, Emergency
Services Board, Beautification, Trails/Parks & Recreation, Urban Renewal, Airport, Golf
Board, ADA Oversight Board, Historical Preservation Committee, and Legacy Flight Museum
Council Member C. Erickson reported that he attended the School Board meeting. The Madison
High School Volleyball Team made it to the state tournament and ended up taking second place. They
could have become four -time state champions, which would have been a remarkable achievement;
however, they did earn the academic state champion title for the fourth year in a row, which is an
impressive accomplishment. The Madison High School Band has been touring and participating in
competitions. The football team has also been competing, but they were defeated by Coeur d'Alene.
Council Member C. Erickson mentioned the district has hired 4o new teachers this year, along with
more than Zoo additional employees. He emphasized how significant that level of hiring has been, three
of the teachers come from Star Valley. He noted that bringing teachers from Wyoming —where wages
are higher —demonstrated what the local school district has been able to offer both teachers and
students.
Council Member C. Erickson also mentioned that there are several groups of teachers that have
been invited to locations, including Washington, D.C., California, and New York, to present their
methods of teaching their students the school's curriculum.
Council Member C. Erickson reported the Golf Board met to discuss the letters that were sent to
the residents at Pinebrook Estates to resolve issues related to crossing the canal onto the golf course. He
believes the letters will likely help alleviate the issue. They also discussed the possibility of allowing a
vendor to sell items on the golf course, which will be addressed during a joint meeting with the county
commissioners.
Council Member Johnson explained that the golf vendor is proposing to sell alcoholic beverages.
She noted residents have contacted her with an interest in what is being proposed for sale at the golf
course. She said she believes residents should be aware that the proposal involves selling alcoholic
beverages from a golf cart. The vendor would travel around the golf course selling the beverages to golf
patrons. She said if residents have an opinion on the matter, they should have the opportunity to let the
City Council know before they vote.
Council Member Johnson reported that she attended the Trails/Parks & Recreation Committee
meeting. She said they discussed scaling down the Teton River Park project because the budget cannot
support the original plan. She mentioned that they are planning to keep the bouldering feature, which
she thought was neat because the target demographic for that park is teenagers and adolescents.
Mayor Merrill added city staff has prepared a new Teton River Park South bid package to hopefully
attract lower bid prices, though he acknowledged the possibility that the prices would likely increase.
He explained that they had removed several items and were making several adjustments. One
adjustment involved installing a new pump station dedicated solely to that park. The previous plan had
shown the pump station being shared with the DonJo Sport Complex, which made him nervous because
a pump failure would leave both parks without water. He said they were planning to redesign that
element.
Council President Walker reported that the Mayor's Youth Advisory Board went out the previous
day to work at the mobile food pantry handing out food to those in need. He said the board members
regularly serve at the mobile food pantry. He reported that the ADA Oversight Board had not met
because they did not have a quorum, they are still trying to recruit additional members.
Council Member E. Erickson reported on a few additional items related to the parks. He explained
that the new pickleball courts have been installed at Smith Park. Although some issues were raised, the
contractor has assured the city that the work is guaranteed and that they would return in the spring,
3
when the weather is better, to correct those issues. He noted that they now have six operational
pickleball courts, which is beneficial for the community.
Council Member E. Erickson said the construction work on the trail running from 2nd East on the
north side of the river to the area across from the new Teton River Park will begin in the spring. They
anticipate the trail will be complete sometime the following summer. He added that the trail would
connect to the existing trail leading to Sugar City. He noted that they also discussed adding a bridge to
bring the trail across to the park, though that would occur over time.
Council Member Erickson reported that he attended his first meeting with Madison Economic
Partners this month. Their discussion focused on a potential collaboration with BYU-Idaho to develop
an entrepreneurial center. He explained that Madison Economic Partners would likely be involved as
the entity helping to make the project possible. He acknowledged that there were several hurdles to
overcome and significant work required before the proposal could move forward.
Mayor Merrill added that city officials had met earlier that afternoon with representatives from BYU-
Idaho and the Idaho National Laboratory to discuss how to begin moving the entrepreneurial center
project forward. He emphasized that the idea is still in a preliminary phase, and many questions remain
about whether and how it could be accomplished. He said they would share more information as it
becomes available, noting the conversations have begun and efforts are underway to advance economic
development.
Council Member Reeser reported that the Legacy Flight Museum had hosted the BYU-Idaho Piano
Sale the previous week. He said the Legacy Flight Museum served as a beautiful venue for the event.
Council Member Riggins explained that he has been serving as chairman of the Urban Renewal
Agency. The agency has been working on creating a new district on the west side of the freeway, just off
Main Street. He noted that the work is still in progress, with all the necessary legal steps underway.
Council Member Riggins also reported that the agency has been in the process of purchasing
property from the school district —specifically, the old junior high school building on Main Street. He
stated that purchase has already been made public through the newspaper. He added that the agency
had promising conversations with investors regarding low-income and affordable housing projects that
could be built on parcels already owned by the Urban Renewal Agency.
Council Member C. Erickson reminded everyone to mark their calendars for December 13th, the
date of the annual Shop with a Cop event. He explained the event organizers asked the City Council
Members and their spouses to help serve breakfast to participants that morning.
B. Other Reports:
Staff Reports:
A. Finance: - Matt Nielson
1. Financial Reports
Finance Officer Nielson explained that 8.3% represents one month into the fiscal year, and the city
has spent about 5.3%. He noted that a few funds were higher than 8.3%. As he reviewed those funds, he
stated most of those projects were carried over, clarifying those projects were not completed in fiscal
year 2025 and had continued into fiscal year 2026.
CITY Of REXBURG
TREASURER'S EXPENDITURE REPORT BY FUND
FISCAL YEAR 2026 (0CT'25 - SEPT'261 YEAR-TO-DATE AS OF OCT 312025 - 8, 354 OF THE YEAR
4 FUND
PERSONNEL
EXPENSE
OPERATIONS
EXPENSE
OTHER
EXPENSE
CAPITAL
EXPENSE
TRANSFER.
EXPENSE
TOTAL
EXPENSE
REVISED
BUDGET
8.3%
SPENT
0' GENERAL
:._, _-
;
32A2C
s61,33d
14,29e,7`v0
9.3%
02 5TREET OPERATION:=
-
0
0
139,4A4
5,3551500
2 t%
03 RECREATION PROGRAMS-
7.
0
0
181895
300.300
61%
C4 TABERNACLE OPERA-f-)W
7,77=
"•0
07 POLICE IMPACT FEr CAPITAL
v
+''
0
0
383.300
0.0%
C8 D.A0.R.E,TRUST FUNt
12A
0
0
12A
MaW
0.7%
09 DRL•G INTFRvrmc.vEr1 rA'ip
T,11 ,
4
0
P.11e-
18;C�J0
15.1w5
13 POLICE SMALL :AA P'
443
0
0
3,13°-
Si, OJT
s.lk
15 SIGH 5 C,RAN'
r,
C,
18 FIRE STATION S01::i,yD
37 EMiRGENCYiEFVIC€i
11'1e.8
:,3d
0
0
112,25
i8 JOIN -;IRE EI]IiIPMEN'
19 MADISON COUNTY FR€ DI'?KICT
9
0
0
C
1,565,500
t
2C FIRE IMPACT FEE CA -":TA-
0
0
1G,000
0
1C,
21 FIRE DEPARTMENT EI "= _=-YE=
v
_
�
O
C_
31000
a ,
22 REVOLIANC,,L '•
2,232
00
21232
83,500
2.7
23 REX8UFGRA:;-:_ --==_iICFP+C
7,-19
-�.373
_
0
2-,393
622,5,10
3.5k
24 LEGACY FUt,H P✓.+:. = _ .
„a
L
p
0
",
147,300
1.106
25 SANITATION OPE;u-
:z33
0
i85,153
3,570,900
5.2%
26 WATER OPERATI Or-.
-38
7c, n
r
1`.',A35
.0
361,957
4,675,201
7.7(_
27 WASTEWATE;
;J,593
3^_,78A
,.
9291025
0
_, 69,409
13,804,700
i,
28 BUILDINGSAF€TY
3E,036
0
0
9e,272
1,541.100
6.2%
29 GEOGRAPHIC IN=)RV.`i . _i—V
?i.' :
-E,143
a
0
n,50,333
601,300
8.4%
30 DOWNTOWN REVI"ALIZ A-! DN
0
C
0
0
r
0
0.0%
31 SHOP BUILDING
4
-
..
0
0
C
0
0.0%
32 NEW SLC* CITY HALL POL
C
n'CC
5CINN
1,581,200
3.2%
11
33 STREET IMPACT FEE CAPITAL
0
0
0
0 0
0
1,222,200
O.U%
34 WATER CAPITAL RESERVE
0
0
0
0 0
`
2,698,CIM
010%
35 SEWER CAPITAL RESERVE
0
0
0
0 0
0
5,890,200
0.1ik
36 ARTS PROMULGATION
0
u
0
0 C1
_
225,0--n
0.A
37 PARAMEDIC CARE WILL AND
175,738
0
C.
0 U
175,78i
1,501,700
11.7%
38 PARKS IMPACT FEE CAPITA!
0
0
0
200,0G0 0
2, C,Cnr_
2,511,700
8.036
39 TRAILS 0= MADHON COUNTY
0
0
0
0 0
C
1,066,000
0.01.4
40 ROMANCE THEATER
41256
5,426
0
0 U
9,n 2
1M,300
5.2%
41 PARK CONSTRUCTION
0
0
0
43,895 0
43,895
5,000
877.9%
42 WATER CAPITAL CONSTRUCT
0
0
0
0 U
0
2,185p"
013%
43 STREET REPAIR/RECONSTRUCTION
0
0
0
0 0
C
3,785,000
0.0%
44 STREET NEW CONSTRUCTION
0
0
0
0 0
C
7,333,000
0.0%
47 AIRPORT OPERATIONS
1,642
395
0
0 0
2,037
81,100
3.3%
2. Discussion of rate increases for water and sewer and set public hearing for rate change on
December 17, 2025, Action Item
Finance Officer Nielson explained that the city engaged FCS, a Bowman Company, to conduct a
utility rate study. They had begun the process six months earlier, and it had proven to be extensive. From
the City's side, the departments involved included Legal, Public Works, Finance, and Mayor Merrill. He
noted that these meetings would continue for many more months and that the study was still far from
complete. He stated that the process involved reviewing both utility rates and capacity fees for customers
purchasing water and sewer capacity. For utility rates, the study covered sanitation, water, and sewer.
Finance Officer Nielson reviewed the memorandum and explained that it summarized the progress
made so far. He emphasized that the purpose of the utility rate study focused on three key targets:
stability, revenue sufficiency, and rate equity. The most important goal is to ensure that the city
equitably recovers costs from each customer's class. He added that this concept is new and would be
discussed further in future months. The city plans to break down utility rates more precisely than simply
a base fee plus a flat rate. The study would eventually classify users into categories such as single-family
homes, apartments, and commercial accounts.
Finance Officer Nielson continued to explain that the section of the study recently completed is the
revenue requirement, which determines the total revenue needed to fully fund each utility. The
consultant reviewed a five-year forecast from 2025 through 2030. After running the analysis for water
and sewer, the memorandum showed that although current revenues were sufficient to cover operating
expenses, the capacity available for capital projects was beginning to decline. When the City
incorporated the five-year capital improvement plan —which he described as massive and extremely
expensive for both water and sewer —the analysis showed that capital capacity would erode entirely. As a
result, the city would need to take on additional debt to complete all the projects identified in the plan.
He stated that based on the revenue requirements, the recommendation for water was an 8% increase
effective January 1, 2026, followed by a 6% increase in October at the start of the new fiscal year. He
reminded the City Council that water and sewer rates were not raised at the beginning of fiscal year
2026, and he noted that he had anticipated this eventual increase for some time. For sewer, the
recommendation was an 8% increase in January and another 8% increase in October. He clarified that
although rates would change in January, customers would not see an increase in their bills until
February due to a 3o-day delay.
Council Member Riggins suggested providing examples of how the increases would affect an average
household, since percentages could sound alarming without context. Finance Officer Nielson responded
that the base rate for water would increase by approximately $1.78, and the base rate for sewer by about
$1.47, with sewer usage charges varying based on volume.
Council Member Johnson emphasized the importance of saving for capital projects. Finance Officer
Nielson agreed, noting that utilities must continually reinvest in asset replacement. He explained that
sewer lines were assumed to have a 50-year life, and major improvements at the wastewater treatment
plant typically cost between $2 million and $15 million.
Council Member E. Erickson asked whether the rate increases would apply to users outside the city.
Finance Officer Nielson confirmed that out -of -city users and other cities served by the wastewater
system would experience proportional increases. These included other municipalities and customers
subject to a 30% out -of -city surcharge.
Council Member Reeser asked about projections for fiscal years 2028 through 2030, which also
included smaller increases. He questioned whether those increases would be sufficient to address
maintenance and capital projects. Finance Officer Nielson responded that although the increases would
help, the city would still need to take on debt to complete all the identified capital improvements, unless
the timeline extended beyond five years. He noted that it was common for utilities to carry debt. The city
recently paid off a $io million sewer bond from 2010 but still carried about $7 million in water -related
5
debt at 1..75% interest rate through a DEQ loan. The city builds up the capacity fees and reinvests the
funds in the reserves close to a 4% return.
Council Member Johnson asked whether population growth projections affected the financial model
and whether the city could adjust rates if revenue exceeded needs. Finance Officer Nielson explained
that sewer and wastewater funds could not be used for other purposes, and that the model could be
updated each year. If growth slowed or projections changed, the city could adjust rates accordingly. He
added that the new model, unlike the older spreadsheet used for decades, was comprehensive and
structured across roughly fifteen interconnected workbooks covering water, sewer, and sanitation.
Council Member E. Erickson moved to approve of setting a Public Hearing on December
17, 2025, for the proposed water and sewer rate change; Council Member C. Erickson
seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill asked for a vote:
Those voting aye
Council Member Johnson
Council Member C. Erickson
Council Member E. Erickson
Council Member Reeser
Council Member Riggins
Council President Walker
The motion carried.
Those voting nay
none
Mayor's Report/Business:
A. Proclamation 2025 — o6 Small Business Saturday November 29, 2025, Action Item
Mayor Merrill read Proclamation 2025 — o6 Small Business Saturday November 29, 2025.
PROC'I-A-NUTI O
,
Small Business Sattcrday Yot� ernber 29, 2025
Whereas the goa:ernment of Rexourg. Idaho. celebrates our local small businesses and the
cor. buttons They ma<e lc our local economy and community: and
Whereas according to the U S Srnal Eusiness Admin vratior, there are 34.7 million small
businesses in the Uniied Sia-es _irall busiresses represent 99.7% of firms with paid
employees, small busiresses are resporsicle for 61 11;� of nei ne,; jobs created s>nce 1995.
and small ousinesses employ 45 9�t of the employees in the privaie sector in the United States
and
Whereas 63 cenis of ever, dollar spent at a small cusiness in the United States stays in the
local community and ever; dollar spent at ..mail b.isiresses creates an additional 48 cents in
local business ac Nity as a resu'l of employees and local businesses purchasing Inc -al goods
and ser-ices: and
Whereas. 5 95,� of U S consumers x.vare of Sma`:I o;isiness Saturday shopped or ate at a smal
independently o,;,red retailer o• restaurant on Small Business Saturday 2024: and
Whereas Re burg. Idaho supports -o-r local businesses 'hat create jobs boost our local
eccroiry arc preserve o:r commrrba_: and
Whereas advocacy groups. as ;,ell as public and private croanizations. across the country
have erdcrsed the Saturday afterThar"g-oring as Sirall Business Saturday.
Now, Therefore, I. Jerry Nlerri`I t:ta;:o of Rexburg Idaho do hereb;: proclaim. November 29.
2025. as
SAMiLL
And urge the residents of our community arc communities across the country to support smal
businesses and merchants on Small Business Saturda->- and to Shoo Small throughout the year
ATTEST,
Deborah LoveJby
REXBURG CITY CLERK
IN WITNESS WHEREOF. / have hereunto set my
hand and caused the Seal of the City of Raxbury
to be affixed this 18' day of November of the
year of our Lord rwo thousand twenty-five.
APPROVED.
Jerry -l•JerrY.
.VA YOR
on
Council Member Johnson moved to ratify Proclamation 2025 — o6 Small Business
Saturday November 29, 2025; Council President Walker seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill
asked for a vote:
Those voting aye
Council Member Johnson
Council Member C. Erickson
Council Member E. Erickson
Council Member Reeser
Council Member Riggins
Council President Walker
The motion carried.
Those voting nay
none
Items for Consideration:
A. Staff recommendation to approve Resolution No 2o25 — 12 Urban Renewal Eligibility
Study for West Highway 20 District — Scott Miller Action Item
Finance Officer Nielson mentioned City Controller Miller could not attend tonight's meeting. He
reminded the City Council that they had previously presented the map of the proposed West Highway
study area. He explained that Urban Renewal had engaged Brad Kramer to complete the eligibility
study. Urban Renewal accepted the study through a resolution, after which it was taken to the County
Commissioners, who also accepted it by resolution. He stated that the purpose of bringing it to the City
Council is to determine whether the City Council is willing to accept the study as well. If the Council
accepts the study, the next step would be for Urban Renewal to begin developing the full plan. He noted
that this planning process is lengthy —approximately eighteen months —and that they are already about
six months into the process. He said the goal is to have the plan completed by next fall.
Brad Kramer provided a brief overview of the eligibility study and explained whether he believed the
area qualified for Urban Renewal.
• The state uses 15 statutory criteria to determine eligibility for an urban renewal district; only one
criterion must be met, but all were reviewed.
• The study area consists of 84o acres near i000 South, Highway 20, 3000 West, and 2000
North, primarily designated for low -density residential and commercial use with some county
land included.
The comprehensive plan designated most of the area for low -density residential and commercial
use, with some open space.
AMnbwg Comp, Plan
Low-R
— Study Ares
Low Resfdentinl
Ittalvdlate Rea tlo lbal
LOW R
Nign Rosidorlllel
Comrn 6.1
Ind115nlnl
Open Spate B Publlt Fatl11110
OYPF
Os;pr
FormH.-
Low R
D97pf
11.11
OfIPF
Lu CUMIOA
Luw Ira-RLOA
!jlnt.R ��o,rr USlP
uw R �!
mR
I mu N1mN
NI�N�
Inl cUM
vin1,14
Nn-N
n1.R •(50M
7
• Zoning in the area primarily consisted of low -density residential, along with public facilities,
commercial zones, and mixed -use zoning.
• Part of the area lay within the county, requiring county approval by resolution, but most of it was
within the City's area of impact.
• A small section near the Highway 33 curve was outside the impact area, but this created no legal
issues --only the need for county review.
• The state required evaluation of fifteen eligibility criteria.
• Criterion 1 (deteriorating buildings or sites) was not met because the area was relatively new
and developing.
• Criterion 2 (age and obsolescence of buildings or sites) was also not met, as the few older
buildings did not demonstrate enough deterioration.
R
PS !
Rexburg Zoning
5:.+dy an-.
lrw Dcns+ty Res'drnt'.al I
low Density Res dtmtiJl 2
l,pw Den;,tV PtsO4nGAl 3
Mediuri 0e,Iirr Ri- i eni z11
Menr,,m De,�s:ry Rw+f�e�tMt ;.
IAt.
HIOh DRr9N RMO"r+a: 1
4,qr, Dorchy Rezitiant:sl I
C'mol Ril<fn..I Di17+irl
ipn+mctiry OvilrBtT CC Iw
U I`iv"f Sity DGtl:ct
Open SpA
RJfA= RRFPRTIeI t
R Nri' RFs'dr-ntiai 2
Ugh+ IrdfMtr4Al
! (tlii
Hewy Irdust"M
I
4e9ion al 9vsiN�, Cer:Cr
11fht)
PrOttlsf'9''.11 QN1CR ZCi1R
Ruplic cncircJ
pf.r. t Red,�•re opl—lt Opt—
', RPPIdPPt1�I Bl;6trlPfut l?+Suitt
itirra USe
J•--•_—
Htr q P'. Z.X
lwitallCtiei' 49.E lw-
h111R1
Cty Center T,..I— t
Motif: St•re! T.inwct
...�
� RRslden!lal frASRct --
� t~ntr TrnrcM
• Primary eligibility criteria met:
• Criteria 3, 4, 5: Defective or outdated street layout, including the misaligned 12th & Main
intersection, excessive access points to Highway 33, and lack of sidewalk connectivity for
students.
• Criterion 6, 9: Faulty lot layout and fragmented landownership complicating
redevelopment and road widening.
�3
• Criterion S, 12: Unsafe traffic and pedestrian conditions.
• Additional criteria met (13, 14, 15): Conditions that hinder long-term growth due to
expensive infrastructure needs, challenging road widening, and river/canal crossings.
• Criteria not met:
• No significant deterioration (Criteria 1-2).
• No unsuitable soils or topographic hazards (Criteria 7 & 12).
• Tax delinquency and title issues (io—n) were not reviewed in detail.
• Overall findings:
The area met 9 of 15 statutory criteria, making it eligible for an urban renewal district.
I: Criterion is not met
2: Criterion Is not met
r. t-rrcerion is met
4: Criterion is met
5: Criterion Is met
b: Criterion Is met
7: Criterion Is not met
8: Criterion is met
9: Criterion is met
10, 11. 12: Criteria are not met
13: Criterion is met
14, IS: Criteria are met
J
• Valuation impact:
• Total base value of all districts would remain around 4%, below the io% statutory limit; the
downtown district's upcoming expiration will further reduce the total and maintain
flexibility.
City of Rexburg
$2,730.223.521
Downtown
$32,941,731
North Central
$36.688,091
North Interchange
$3,934,165
University Boulevard
$8,073,270
Study Area
$28,036,291
Total Assessed Base
$109,673.548
% of City Assessed
4.02
Valuation
Council Member E. Erickson asked about potential legislative impacts, noting that urban renewal
frequently received scrutiny at the State Legislature. Mr. Kramer responded that, based on discussions
with the Redevelopment Association of Idaho and current legislative briefings, no significant legislation
was being discussed. He cautioned that unexpected legislative bills could appear but noted that
concerns generally arose when agencies used urban renewal to bypass public bonding processes or to
support developments with minimal public benefit. Mr. Kramer stated that the proposed district, which
clearly met multiple statutory criteria, should withstand scrutiny. Mayor Merrill added that recent
conversations with local legislators had confirmed that no major urban renewal legislation was
anticipated in the upcoming session.
Council Member Johnson asked about the large number of residential property owners who would
be affected by potential road widening and how urban renewal interacted with private property
concerns. Mr. Kramer explained that, since state law has changed, urban renewal agencies no longer
hold eminent domain authority. They could only recommend action to the city or county and could
provide funding assistance using tax -increment revenues. Property acquisition would still rely on
voluntary agreements or, as a last resort, eminent domain exercised by the city —not by the urban
renewal agency.
Council Member Johnson expressed her concerns that some property owners might be unwilling to
sell. Council Member Riggins noted that previous projects, such as those along North Rexburg near
Walmart, required extensive communication and negotiation but ultimately succeeded without eminent
domain.
Council Member Johnson asked whether widening i 2th West was guaranteed if the district were
adopted. Finance Officer Nielson clarified that priorities would be identified in the formal plan, which
would be developed over the next several months and returned to the City Council for review. The
highest priorities were expected to be the Main/12th intersection and wastewater infrastructure.
Depending on growth and tax -increment revenue, some lower -priority projects —such as the widening
Of 12th West —might not occur within the district's 20-year lifespan.
Council Member Johnson asked how the City Council would be involved once the district was
created. Finance Officer Nielson explained that the City Council approved the district and its overall
project list, but the urban renewal board managed the execution of those projects. The Council would
typically be involved only when projects required city action —such as bidding, construction, or eminent
domain. In Rexburg, the City had historically completed the construction work, and the Urban Renewal
Agency had reimbursed the City for eligible costs.
Council Member C. Erickson moved to approve Resolution No 2025 - 12 Urban
Renewal Eligibility Study for West Highway 20 District; Council Member Reeser seconded the
motion; Mayor Merrill asked for a vote:
Those voting aye— Those voting nay
Council Member Johnson none
Council Member C. Erickson
Council Member E. Erickson
Council Member Reeser
Council Member Riggins
Council President Walker
The motion carried.
B. Staff recommendation to amend the Employee Committee Bylaws, to remove
Emergency Services Department from the Committee - Action Item
10
Mayor Merrill explained that the Emergency Services Department is now employed by the Fire
District and no longer considered city employees; therefore, the Employee Committee is recommending
the removal of the Emergency Services from the committee.
Council Member E. Erickson moved to approve to amend the Employee Committee
Bylaws, to remove Emergency Services Department from the Committee; Council Member
Riggins seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill asked for a vote:
Those voting aye Those voting nay
Council Member Johnson none
Council Member C. Erickson
Council Member E. Erickson
Council Member Reeser
Council Member Riggins
Council President Walker
The motion carried.
C. Planning and Zoning recommendation to amend the Rexburg City Development Code,
Ordinance No 1200 (25-00978) to provide for Skybridges in Chapter 3.9. Designated
as Ordinance No 1340 if motion passes. Request to suspend the rules and
consider Ordinance No i34o as third read — Alan Parkinson Action Item
Planning and Zoning Administrator Parkinson explained that city staff have received a request
about the possibility of constructing sky bridges between buildings over public streets. They had
discussed this previously in relation to the city's downtown projects and the potential to include sky
bridges. However, when they reviewed our code, they found that they did not have any provisions that
would allow such structures.
P&Z Administrator Parkinson said they examined the options available to the city and studied
other cities that have sky bridges. There were quite a few examples, and city staff reviewed their codes,
their requirements, and even contacted several of them. They spoke with officials in Boise, where sky
bridges already existed. One of the main concerns from the city Public Works Department is how to
control the use of a structure that extended into public space. Boise handled this through a "right to
use" agreement. The agreement stated that if the user violated the terms, the city had the right to revoke
the agreement and stop the use. City Staff obtained a copy of that agreement, and City Attorney
Rammell reviewed it and planned to modify it to meet the city's needs.
P&Z Administrator Parkinson added that there is a need for sky bridges in the city, especially for
one particular project in which two portions of an apartment complex were being constructed on
opposite sides of a street. The offices, workout rooms, and similar amenities were located in one
building, while the other building stood across the street. Without a sky bridge, a large number of
students would need to cross the intersection during winter and in other adverse conditions. The
developer suggested a sky bridge to protect students from the weather and improve accessibility. We
also recognized that sky bridges could be useful in other parts of the city.
Council Member E. Erickson asked whether the code would apply only to sky bridges crossing city
streets. P&Z Administrator Parkinson responded that yes — it applied only when the structure crossed a
public street. Private connections between adjacent buildings were not affected. Some buildings, such
as those at BYU—Idaho, were already connected without any issues, as long as they met building and
engineering requirements. The key concern in this case was encroachment into the public right-of-way,
which required regulation.
P&Z Administrator Parkinson said he requested that each sky bridge be reviewed as a Conditional
Use Permit (CUP), meaning each proposal would come before the City Council to determine whether it
met the necessary criteria for the right time and place.
Council Member Johnson asked about the height requirements for a sky bridge. P&Z Administrator
Parkinson explained that the sky bridge needed to maintain a clearance of 16 feet 5 or 6 inches so that
city equipment could pass safely. For one proposed sky bridge, city staff also analyzed whether it would
block the visibility of a future stoplight. They created a model and confirmed that at 16 feet 6 inches, a
traffic light signal would still be visible. Additional requirements included prohibiting signage or
advertising on the sky bridge, limiting the width to between 8 and 14 feet, ensuring the use of safety
glass, and requiring drainage systems to contain rainwater and snowmelt. The goal was to prevent snow
from falling onto the street or pedestrians.
Council Member Johnson mentioned reading about sky bridges in Oregon that connected to homes.
City Attorney Rammell said that while certain dimensional requirements existed, every application
would still undergo a conditional use review. The Conditional Use Permit (CUP) process allowed the
11
City Council to evaluate factors such as compatibility with surrounding uses. Therefore, this proposal
did not grant unrestricted approval for sky bridges.
Council Member Johnson asked for the reason to suspend the rules and expedite the process. P&Z
Administrator Parkinson mentioned the developer has a timeline and wanted to move the project
forward. He said he would not have recommended suspending the rules if there was any resistance,
because in that situation additional time would be needed. However, since no opposition appeared, he
did not see any need to delay the process further.
City Attorney Rammell added the suspending of the rules is appropriate because they have gone
through the code thoroughly and have spoken with city officials in Utah and Boise. They held multiple
meetings and involved city staff. P&Z Administrator Parkinson consulted with BYU—Idaho regarding
snow -related concerns.
Council President Walker moved to approve to suspend the rule of Ordinance No 1340
to amend the Rexburg City Development Code, Ordinance No 1200 (25-00978) to provide for
Skybridges in Chapter 3.9.; Council Member C. Erickson seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill
asked for a roll call vote:
Those voting ave
Council Member Johnson
Council Member C. Erickson
Council Member E. Erickson
Council Member Reeser
Council Member Riggins
Council President Walker
The motion carried.
Those voting nav
none
Council Member Reeser moved to approve Ordinance No 1340 to amend the Rexburg
City Development Code, Ordinance No 1200 (25-00978) to provide for Skybridges in Chapter
3.9. and consider third read; Council Member E. Erickson seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill
asked for a vote:
Those voting ave
Council Member Johnson
Council Member C. Erickson
Council Member E. Erickson
Council Member Reeser
Council Member Riggins
Council President Walker
The motion carried.
Those voting nay
none
Calendared Bills:
A. Second Reading: Those items which have been first read:
1. Ordinance No 1339 Rezone in Sky Meadows Subdivision along Silver Wood Lane
and Ridge View Drive from Low Density Residential i (LDRi) to Low Density
Residential 2 (LDR2) (25-0o855) — Alan Parkinson Action Item
ORDINANCE NO. 1339
Rezone the Streets Silver Wood Ln and Ridge View Dr in the Sky Meadows
Subdivision from Low Density Residential i (LDRl) to Low Density Residential 2
(LDR2) Zone
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.
12
Proposed Rezone from Low Density
Residential 1 (LDR1) to Low Density Residential 2 (LDR2)
parcNf, s
parnne I
Council Member Johnson moved to approve Ordinance No 1339 Rezone in Sky
Meadows Subdivision along Silver Wood Lane and Ridge View Drive from Low Density
Residential 1(LDRi) to Low Density Residential 2 (LDR2) and consider second read; Council
President Walker seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill asked for a vote:
Those voting aye Those voting nay
Council Member Johnson none
Council Member C. Erickson
Council Member E. Erickson
Council Member Reeser
Council Member Riggins
Council President Walker
The motion carried.
B. Third Reading: Those items which have been second read:
i. Ordinance No 1338 Right -of -Way vacation at approximately 1233 & 1215 Stocks
Ave — Keith Davidson Action Item
ORDINANCE NO. 1338
Right of Way Vacation at Approximately 1233 and 1215 Stocks Ave in the City of
Rexburg, Idaho
AN ORDINANCE VACATING THE RIGHT OF WAY AT APPROXIMATELY 1233 STOCKS
AVE AND 1215 STOCKS AVE IN THE CITY OF REXBURG, MADISON COUNTY, IDAHO;
AND PROVIDING WHEN THIS ORDINANCE SHALL BECOME EFFECTIVE.
Proposed Right of Way Vacation
91Mnrury Ril
FSrcds
13
Council Member C. Erickson moved to approve Ordinance No 1338 Right -of -Way
vacation at approximately 1233 & 1215 Stocks Ave and consider third read; Council Member
Johnson seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill asked for a vote:
Those voting aye
Council Member Johnson
Council Member C. Erickson
Council Member E. Erickson
Council Member Reeser
Council Member Riggins
Council President Walker
The motion carried.
Those voting nay
none
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 November 5, 2025, Meeting -Action Item
B. Approve Payment of the City of Rexburg Bills - Action Item
Council President Walker moved to approve the Consent Calendar containing the minutes
and city bills; Council Member C. Erickson seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill asked for a
vote:
Those voting aye
Council Member Johnson
Council Member C. Erickson
Council Member E. Erickson
Council Member Reeser
Council Member Riggins
Council President Walker
The motion carried.
Adjournment 8:20 P.M.
Those voting nay
none
ROVED: ,- r
/ J ry Merr' May k
i
14