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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Minutes - November 18, 2025+leivRG''° t� 9� 1 9o��s!{ED 19a9 .......................................................................................................................... City Council Minutes — November 18, 2025 Mayor Jerry Merrill Council Members: Bryanna Johnson Eric Erickson Robert Chambers David Reeser Colin Erickson Mikel Walker 6:30 P.M. Robert Chambers said the prayer. Council President Walker led the pledge. (208) 359-3020 35 North I" 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 2025 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 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 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 0F1JCE 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, 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. FISCAL YEAR 2026 if FUND CITYOf REX BURG TREASURER'S EXPENDITURE REPORT BY FUND (OCT'2S - SEPT'261 YEAR-TO-DATE AS OF OCT 31 2025 - &, 3'd OF THE YEAR PERSONNEL OPERATIONS OTHER CAPITAL TRANSFER TOTAL EXPENSE EXPENSE EXPENSE EXPENSE EXPENSE EXPENSE REVISED BUMET 8.3% SPENT GENERAL STR-ETC F. i _ TA3ERNACL " POUCy NPAC%F_. Y3 D.A,R.E. TRUST F!_ t,: t2A 12d 17,W -,.7% :4 PRI,GIITERU": POLICESrrtA l == s43 3,134 91.0aU 1°t _e. FIRE STATION _ -- - -1 %i' C, C 0 cj 305,0}:I 0:11% Er1.-RGNC 9CE> _,34 1 2,29E 7,0&2,7p0 1,3# +9 MADt"sONCOI.++7-yFItiE91-TFlr-T 0 C - 1.55=,5•0 n.0'e 2C FIRE IMPACT FEE CA=iTA: ,, 1:.0<+i "I 1C,Ctir' 42.000 23.E 21 FIRE DEPAR7MENT-N'=' A YE: C 3.P•xJ r,: tt t 22 REVOLVING LOAN 2,232 0 2,1132 311500 2.7i 23 FEXRURCRAPIu,;O�--R,%_1_'!" -._-. _.^.,473 52216,X 3.5;6 2e LEGACY FUCHT MI, jc:,,• _,';�.;c + .. a _,. 147a'70 i.l't 25 >ANITATfONOPE'4 :33 i35,153 3,5601Ki :.2"t 'r. WAT-ROPERATIv-:'. --,_-- 7 ,fie±, 1S,_•A3=: -i 3,1,06 d.676,Zn� 7.7"t 27 t+�AzT€WATER .. _32:7dt ._._..- �'I _,_54,dti. 12.5700 9,1 2BJI_DIN SAFETY 3c;;'36 - :+t,27 1,541,10+3 '3Zae 23 GE4GRAP41( INPORM:- - .. - � ,� 50.393 501,300 -.4% 31, 'Y:JWNTOWN REVITALIZA- ?r.- 31 S409 BUILDING 0:. J a rM% 32 NEW SLDGCITY HALL P L 0 33 STREETIM='ACT FEE CAPITAL C 0 0 0 0 o 1,222,200 0.0% 34 WATER CAPITAL RESERVE 0 0 0 0 0 (_ 216381000 0!0% 35 SEWER CAPITAL RESERVE 0 0 0 0 0 C 5,890,200 0.1A 36 ARTS PROMULGATION 0 0 0 0 4 C. 2251000 010% 37 PARAMEDIC CARE WILGLAND 175,734 0 0 0 0 175,7 ' 1,`01,7U5 11.71A 3S PARKS IMPACT FEE CAPITAL 0 0 0 200 010 0 200,O)i 2,511,70i 8.096 39 TRAILS OF MADISON COUNTY 0 0 0 0 0 C. 1,066X0 00% 40 ROMANCE HEATER 4,256 5,426 0 L} 0 9,662 136,3.0 5.2% 41. PARK CONSTRIXTION 0 0 0 43,E95 0 43,693 5,000 877.9% 42 WATER CAPITAL CONSTRLCT 0 0 0 0 0 L 2,165,000 00% 43 STREET REPAIR/RECCNSTRUCTION 0 0 0 0 0 4 3,765,000 0.0% STREET NEWCCNSTRUCTION 0 0 0 0 0 C 7,333,600 0,0% 47 AIRPORT OPERATIONS 1,642 395 0 0 0 2,037 61,16C) 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 logo, 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 $10 million sewer bond from 2010 but still carried about $7 million in water -related 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 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. 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 IA I DTI ON S-niall Business Saturday N-overnber 2q, 2025 Whereas .he ay.ernnzent of Fexo:rg. Idaho. -elebrates our local small businesses and the cortrbutions trey ma -le to our local economy and community: and Whereas a_cording to the U S Smaf E•usinass Ndmin:stratior. there are 34.7 million small husinesses in the United Sia`es: _mall c.isiresses represent 99_7% of urns vith paid erltp Cyees. strall ousiresses are resporsicle for 61 1S-c of net rielv jobs created since '995. anal sr -all ousinesses errplo-Y 45 9°i of the emplcyees in tine private sector in the United States anal Whereas 66 cents cf ever;, dollar spert at a small cusiness in the Unitec States Mays in the local community And every dollar spent at small busiresses creates an additional 48 cents in local business acii i-; as a resut of enip ogees and local businesses purchasing local Goods and services: and Whereas 591-c of U S ccn_uirers a•oare of Cma l Business Saturda% shopped or ate at a sir.al independently ovrred retailer c= restaurant or Small Business Saturda•,. 2024: and Whereas Rexburg. Idaho supports our local businesses °hat create jobs. boost our local ecororny. arc preserve oi, commurNes: and Whereas. Ad;ccac;: _coups as ;,ell as public and private crgani=atiors across the countrY have endorsed the S;0=rda1 after 1-anksgo ing as Small Business saturda; . Now, Therefore. I. Jerry Nlerri I Ma;:c° of Rexburg Idaho co hereby p•ocla rr.. tlovEirrer 29 2025 as And urge the resicents of ourccrrmunitp arc communities across the count; to srpoort smal businesses and riervltanis on Sirall Business Saturda'.� and to Shoo Snlall throughout the ;:ear 1N WITNESS WHEREOF. 1 have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seat of the city of Rexburg to be affixed this 18' day of.November of the year of our Lord nvo thousand twentyfrve. APPROVED: Jerry t•,erd"Y VAYOR ATTEST: Deborah Lovejoy REXBURG CITY CLERK 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 2025 — 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. Lew.R Mxbwy Comp Won Study Amn Lew Residential Itennediale Kesi[fentrpl • L" R Miqu Resrduntlal Conunwdel Industnal Open Space R Public Facilities O�rP4 OSlPF Form an. taw R osrvA sLu oslvF L.. LOMI oA low In bRCOA uw•R OSi nl R 1 nv. Rln[ It 111' 1 Im COM �IntR MI R et;OM /I • 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. 11 Rexburg Zoning . F+W DFF4:ty aF,,.aeryenl 1 p v Denyty Rrs arnYat ] M19egf:: Ft D[�tsi Ft R[�icontiall M:vcli:nn acrtsi.lp Rw.kenty:l 2 TAG Hwi Dan" Re5leentar 1. H4 trn nnn 6 cal Y C.1mnt Dt Umt ��I'my�11ly G3'SiRes' Come, Qt v_rsity D>Wct 9Won 5j} burr.: Raxmrttlet R:ua: Nr-sweuiM1• 2.. Ligh 1-11A4rn1 F Cllil HI.j f lr d"11-,l1 _ � Rm,:unai A.rsiro:•ss Genxr ITIM ': olu>4'DFa1 Ofxics 4.1w _ Pr�,rrcl Re-zray��p(rme'1: �llIGI1 --- ,taalapf<:AI y4,�InPYc ():{1nCS Y W,:. ;,W ai ay s4 . - i1Y}R1 � L-1 ; Ct.^t-r 1•,�rs�cly %Vw slr et aiNpnlnl lenaeet • 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. I • Criterion 6, 9: Faulty lot layout and fragmented landownership complicating redevelopment and road widening. n. • Criterion 8, 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 (lo—ii) 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 3: Criterion is met 4: Criterion Is met 5: Criterion Is met 6: Criterion Is met 7: Criterion Is not met B: Criterion is met 9: Criterion Is met 10, 11, 12: Criteria are not met 13: Criterion is met 14, 15: Criteria are met E • Valuation impact: • Total base value of all districts would remain around 4%, below the lo% 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 eminenl domain. Council Member Johnson asked whether widening 12th 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 Iifespan. 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 1H40 if motion passes. Request to suspend the rules and consider Ordinance No 184o 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 nay 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 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 Calendared Bills: A. Second Reading: Those items which have been first read: i. Ordinance No 1339 Rezone in Sky Meadows Subdivision along Silver Wood Lane and Ridge View Drive from Low Density Residential 1 (LDR1) to Low Density Residential 2 (LDR2) (25-00855) — 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 1 (LDR1) 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 I iKCW l i� gainne Proposed Rezone from Low Density Residential 1 (LDR1) to Low Density Residential 2 (LDR2) �J wwr.a vnou�a E tlW.Lin A. A 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 (LDR1) 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 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 B. Third Reading: Those items which have been second read: 1. 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 Ylf.nrkry qn s N'c as NQ^W Vxatbn . 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 nav 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 nav none ROVED: �/ r j Xry Merrill Mayof 14