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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Minutes - July 15, 2026 (208) 359-3020 35 North 1st East Rexburg, ID 83440 Rexburg.org | Engage.Rexburg.org City Council Minutes – July 15, 2026 Mayor Jerry Merrill Council Members: Bryanna Johnson David Reeser Colin Erickson Bill Riggins Eric Erickson Alisha Tietjen 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 6:30 P.M. Council Member Tietjen said the prayer. Council Member Riggins led the pledge. Roll Call of Council Members: Attending: Council Member Johnson, Council Member Tietjen, Council Member C. Erickson, Council Member Reeser, and Council Member Riggins. Council Member E. Erickson, Council Member C. Erickson and Mayor Merrill did not attend the meeting. Motion to Amend the Agenda as per Idaho State Statute §74-204(4)(b): Item 5 Amendment to add consideration of Burn Ban enacted by ordinance and to suspend the rules if motion passes Action Item Council Member Riggins moved to Amend the Agenda as per Idaho State Statute §74-204(4)(b): Item 5 Amendment to add consideration of Burn Ban enacted by ordinance and to suspend the rules if motion passes; Council Member Tietjen seconded the motion; Council Member Johnson asked for a vote: Those voting aye Those voting nay Council Member Johnson none Council Member Tietjen Council Member Reeser Council Member Riggins The motion carried. Welcome New Employees: Statler Gould – Streets/Sanitation Departments Statler Gould introduced himself and said he is grateful for the opportunity to work for the City of Rexburg. He mentioned he grew up in Rexburg. Madison Fire Department recommendation to approve a temporary open burn ban effective July 15th to September 30, 2026. Designated as Ordinance No 1354 if motion passes, recommendation to suspend the rules and consider third read – Corey Child, Madison Fire Chief Action Item Fire Chief Child presented information explaining the conditions that have led to the request for a burn ban. He said Madison County has entered a burn ban that day after the county commissioners approved the ordinance on Monday with an effective date of Wednesday. There are differences between a burn ban and burn restrictions, burn restrictions still allow certain types of burning, while a burn ban prohibits all open flames. He stated that he is recommending the City Council implement a burn ban because of the current fire conditions. Chief Child reviewed a drought map produced by the Boise Interagency Fire Center and explained that all of Madison County is experiencing extreme drought conditions, classified as D3 that is one of the primary factors supporting the burn ban. He also presented the three- to four-week temperature outlook, which showed eastern Idaho experiencing above-average to well-above-average temperatures. The "equal chances" areas represented typical climate conditions, while eastern Idaho is forecast to remain well above normal, increasing wildfire concerns.  Chief Child presented additional predictive service maps from the Boise Interagency Fire Center that illustrated the potential for wildland fires to become large incidents. The forecast in July indicated a high likelihood that any wildland fire in southern Idaho could grow into a large fire. The August projections expanded the high-risk area across southern and eastern Idaho and that September forecasts showed no anticipated improvement. These outlooks demonstrated where firefighting resources would likely be needed throughout the remainder of the fire season.    Chief Child explained that eastern Idaho fire chiefs and their federal partners meet every Wednesday morning to review fuel moisture levels and fire danger indices. Although the current indices remained acceptable, he noted that federal agencies have chosen to delay implementing a burn ban by one week because conditions are just below the established threshold. He emphasized that temporary rainfall and cooler weather did not significantly reduce the wildfire threat, as hot temperatures and low humidity quickly return after brief moisture events. Chief Child also explained the difference between one-hour fuels, such as grass, and one-thousand-hour fuels, such as ponderosa pine. The grass could become fully saturated after one hour of steady rainfall but can dry completely after one hour of sunlight. In contrast, large trees require approximately 1,000 hours of wet or dry conditions to significantly change their moisture content. The forecasted monsoonal moisture would provide only limited relief and would not substantially improve overall fuel conditions before warmer temperatures return. Chief Child described a wildfire that occurred the previous Monday in the desert near Plano. He said firefighters had committed significant resources to protect nearby homes, including large air tankers, helicopters, single-engine aircraft, bulldozers, and approximately 60 to 70 firefighting personnel. The suppression effort cost approximately $600,000. Additional photographs were presented showing the air tankers used during the incident. Chief Child reviewed several recent wildfire incidents that have influenced his decision to request the burn ban. There were two fires that occurred at the Menan Butte during the Fourth of July weekend. One fire west of the trailhead burned approximately five acres and was caused by exploding targets, while another fire near the trailhead had burned approximately two acres and was caused by fireworks. The responsible parties left the scene without reporting either fire. He noted that the individual responsible for a fire at the gun range also left the scene without reporting the incident.   Chief Child reiterated that drought conditions, fire forecasts, recent wildfire activity, and current fire danger indices are the reasons he requested the Madison County Commission to adopt a burn ban for the unincorporated areas of the county. The commissioners approved a strict burn ban that prohibited nearly all outdoor burning except the use of backyard barbecue grills. He acknowledged that residents often request exceptions for activities such as backyard campfires and hot dog roasts but explained that even seemingly harmless fires have previously caused significant wildfires. The Thornton Fire, which started from a simple backyard hot dog roast and had resulted in the loss of nine structures. He said that allowing exceptions would undermine the purpose of the burn ban and increase the risk of additional fires. Chief Child explained that the burn ban also prohibited the use of fireworks, including those typically used during the upcoming July 24 holiday. The restriction will inconvenience residents but emphasized that suspending fireworks is necessary to protect public safety and reduce wildfire risk. Chief Child informed the City Council that the proposed ordinance language included in their meeting packets mirrored the county's burn ban ordinance, with modifications to reference the City of Rexburg. He said he plans to present the same ordinance to the City of Sugar City Council during their meeting the following week to maintain consistent regulations throughout the area. Council Member Reeser asked what neighboring counties outside of the local fire district are doing and whether they have implemented similar burn bans. Chief Child responded that they have. He said Teton County is expecting to enter a burn ban the following week. Fremont, Jefferson, Clark, Bonneville, and Bannock counties are already under burn restrictions. Granite County implemented restrictions earlier. Chief Child explained that he closely monitors the fire danger indices and preferred not to place the public under a burn ban until the indices indicated it is necessary. He added that some neighboring counties have implemented restrictions based on local conditions and surrounding activity, whereas he waited for the objective fire danger indices before recommending a burn ban. Council Member Reeser moved to suspend the rules for Ordinance No 1354 a temporary open burn ban effective July 15th to September 30, 2026; Council Member Riggins seconded the motion; Council Member Johnson asked for a vote: Those voting aye Those voting nay Council Member Johnson none Council Member Tietjen Council Member Reeser Council Member Riggins The motion carried. Council Member Riggins moved to approve Ordinance No 1354 a temporary open burn ban effective July 15th to September 30, 2026, and consider third read; Council Member Reeser seconded the motion; Council Member Johnson asked for a vote: Those voting aye Those voting nay Council Member Johnson none Council Member Tietjen Council Member Reeser Council Member Riggins The motion carried. Public Hearing 6:30 P.M. Approval of Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Appropriation Ordinance. Designated as Ordinance No 1350 if motion passes and considered first read – Matt Nielson Action Item Finance Officer Nielson presented the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget, which covered the period from October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2027. He stated that the total proposed budget is $95,281,200. He explained that the General Fund budget totaled just over $20 million. The proposed budget included $80,000 in contingency funding and required the use of approximately $735,000 from the City's General Fund reserves, reducing the reserve balance to approximately 21%, which was below the City's policy goal of maintaining reserves between 25% and 33%. Finance Officer Nielson reported that the budget approved funding for one new full-time position. It also included a 2.73% cost-of-living adjustment for employees, increased health insurance costs, and funding for numerous capital improvement projects, including streets, water, and wastewater infrastructure. He further noted that the proposed budget did not include taking on any additional debt. However, he cautioned that if the budget were adopted as proposed, the City's cash reserves in several funds would decline significantly over the next few years. Council Member Reeser asked which department had received approval for the one new full-time position included in the proposed budget. Finance Officer Nielson responded that the approved position is for the Wastewater Collections Department. Council Member Reeser asked for clarification regarding the previous year's budget had been approximately $118 million, while the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget is approximately $95 million, and asked whether the difference is primarily due to the way capital project funding is accounted for. Finance Officer Nielson confirmed that is largely the case. He explained that the City Council will later consider a budget amendment that would reduce the prior year's budget substantially. He noted that one significant factor contributing to the higher prior-year budget is a budget amendment of more than $5 million in the General Fund to account for the donated ice rink. He further explained that capital construction projects increase the reported budget because construction funds receive transfers from reserves and operating funds. Those transfers are recorded both as expenditures from the source funds and as revenues into the construction fund, causing the same dollar amounts to appear twice in the overall budget totals. Council Member Johnson opened the public hearing. Public Testimony in favor of the proposal (5-minute limit): None Public Testimony neutral to the proposal (5-minute limit): None Public Testimony opposed to the proposal (5-minute limit): None Council Member Johnson closed the public hearing. Council Member Tietjen moved to approve Ordinance No 1350 Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Appropriation Ordinance and consider first read; Council Member Reeser seconded the motion; Council Member Johnson asked for a vote: Those voting aye Those voting nay Council Member Johnson none Council Member Tietjen Council Member Reeser Council Member Riggins The motion carried. 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. Mitch Neibaur introduced himself and stated that he is the developer and a major owner of Rexburg West Development. He expressed appreciation for the City's support in promoting commercial development and acknowledged that the project has taken longer, and cost more than originally anticipated. He reported that the development included 18 commercial lots, with four lots sold. He noted that Dr. Fulmer's business was established on the corner, Dr. Jackson had recently completed a new dental office, and Sutton and Simmons are constructing a new office building. He stated that the main commercial corridor is becoming active and continuing to develop. Mr. Neibaur explained that the development is experiencing increasing traffic, parking, and safety concerns. He stated that the streets were dedicated to the City, leaving the development with little authority to regulate their use. After discussing the matter with City staff, he was encouraged to bring the issue before the City Council to explore whether an ordinance could be developed to address current and future concerns. Mr. Neibaur explained that construction contractors frequently parked heavy equipment along the streets, sometimes leaving numerous pieces of equipment in front of occupied businesses. He stated that this limited customer parking, created maintenance and cleanup issues, and raised safety concerns for business owners, customers, and pedestrians. Mr. Neibaur requested that the city consider working with staff and the City Attorney to develop an ordinance addressing several issues, including: Prohibiting trucks and large trailers from using the streets to protect landscaped medians, curbs, irrigation systems, and other improvements. Restricting through traffic to discourage motorists from using the development streets as a shortcut between nearby roadways, thereby improving safety. Prohibiting overnight parking to prevent vehicles from occupying limited on-street parking for extended periods. Limiting daytime on-street parking to approximately two or three hours, between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., so parking would remain available for customers of the surrounding businesses. Mr. Neibaur said these measures would improve safety, preserve the appearance of this development, encourage continued commercial investment, and better serve existing businesses and their customers. Council Member Johnson directed city staff to review and discuss the request and would follow up with Mr. Neibaur later. Items from Council: 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 Tietjen reported that the city was awarded a $15,000 AARP grant to improve sidewalks at the Nature Park, which she said is an exciting development. The Mayor's Youth Advisory Board is not meeting during the summer and will resume meetings in August or September. The ADA Oversight Board is still seeking one additional member before they can move forward with meetings. She noted that the Historical Preservation Commission toured the Tabernacle and attended the Urban Renewal Agency meeting to continue discussions regarding the historic seminary building. Council Member Johnson asked whether there is a timeline for completing the Nature Park grant project. Council Member Tietjen responded that she did not have that information; however, the project must be completed during the current year. Council Member Reeser reported that he was unable to attend the Legacy Flight Museum Fly-In because he was out of town. He asked whether the event had been successful. Council Member Tietjen said that she attended the Legacy Flight Museum Fly-In and free breakfast and spoke with an attendee from Utah who told her they travel to Rexburg each year specifically for the event. She commented that it was encouraging to see visitors returning annually to participate in the Fly-In. Council Member Riggins reported that the Urban Renewal Agency met earlier that day. He stated that much of the discussion focused on the downtown area, particularly the property formerly occupied by the old junior high, including the historic seminary building. He explained that the same group presented to the City Council two weeks earlier regarding preservation of the seminary building had also presented it to the Urban Renewal Agency. He stated that the Agency reiterated that the city could not own or maintain the building because it did not have the financial resources to do so. He explained that if the building were to be preserved, it would require private ownership and private funding. Council Member Riggins also reported that the Urban Renewal Agency discussed the University District, including the University Avenue corridor near McDonald's. He stated that businesses are under contract to purchase property in the area, although the names of the prospective businesses were not disclosed. He explained that the Urban Renewal Agency anticipated assisting with infrastructure improvements associated with the redevelopment, including the widening of University Avenue and related roadway and bridge improvements needed to support future development. He added that significant redevelopment activity is occurring in both the Downtown District and the University District. Council Member Johnson reported that none of her assigned committees had met since the previous City Council meeting. She noted, however, that the Local Improvement District (LID) Committee is expected to present its recommendations to the City Council in September. Other Reports: None Staff Reports: Finance: - Matt Nielson Financial Reports Finance Officer Nielson reported that he has several updates for the City Council. He first provided an update on the committee that was established during the budget discussions to evaluate options for a future police station. He said that six individuals were identified to serve on the committee and that the first meeting is planned for July 30. He explained that the committee would review available options, report its findings to the City Council, and assist in developing recommendations before a final decision is made. Council Member Tietjen asked whether a member of the City Council will serve on the committee. Finance Officer Nielson confirmed that the committee would include Mayor Merrill, Council Member Reeser, City Attorney Spencer, himself, and representatives from the Police Department, including Chief Josh Rhodes and Josh Gary. Finance Officer Nielson also reported that he received numerous questions regarding the financial results of the Rexburg 350 Celebration. He explained that expenses are still being processed and recommended waiting approximately one month before presenting a financial summary. He suggested placing the report on a City Council agenda during the second meeting in August. Finance Officer Nielson reviewed the city's financial reports. He explained that the city is approximately three-quarters of the way through the fiscal year and that expenditure is currently at approximately 36% of the budget, compared to the expected benchmark of roughly 75%. He stated that the budget adjustments being considered this evening, along with the formal budget amendments scheduled for the following month, would make the financial reports more representative of actual spending. He noted that city staff have spent considerable time working through the Fire Department funds and explained that those accounting adjustments have been completed and now only need to be formally adopted through the budget amendment process.    Finance Officer Nielson also provided an update on the city's investments. He reported that the city had recently reinvested a certificate of deposit (CD) at an interest rate in the low four-percent range. He explained that the city's investment strategy continued to focus primarily on 12- to 18-month maturities, while also taking advantage of two- to three-year investments when interest rates exceeded 4%. He added that staff continued to monitor and manage the city's investment portfolio and believed it remained in good financial condition.  Review and Approve Fiscal Year 2026 Final Budget Adjustments Action Item Financial Officer Nielson reviewed the proposed budget adjustments. He noted that, following discussion, the City Council will need to approve the budget adjustments before considering the amended budget proposal. Financial Officer Nielson explained that the General Fund adjustments included accounting changes required under Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) rules for lease-purchase agreements involving police vehicles. He noted that the city has extended the service life of its police vehicles by continuing lease payments until ownership transferred, requiring a different accounting treatment. He also reported that higher-than-anticipated revenues allowed the City to reduce the amount of General Fund carryover needed to balance the budget.  Finance Officer Nielson reported that increased franchise and claw back fee revenues allowed an additional $370,000 to be transferred to Streets Fund 43, which finances street reconstruction projects.  Regarding the Ice Rink Fund, Finance Officer Nielson explained that this is the third budget adjustment related to the facility since it opened earlier in the year. He estimated that the city will subsidize the ice rink by approximately $110,000 from February through September. While public skating revenues have declined during the summer as expected, rental income has exceeded projections. He stated that city staff planned to operate the facility through the fiscal year before evaluating whether year-round operations or seasonal operations would be more appropriate. Council Member Riggins agreed that the new manager should be given an opportunity to establish operations before making long-term decisions. Council Member Johnson asked whether the oversight committee should participate in the evaluation. Finance Officer Nielson indicated that both the committee and the full City Council will likely be involved because of the significance of the decision.   Finance Officer Nielson noted that Police Impact Fee revenues have exceeded expectations. He recommended transferring the additional revenue to help offset the cost of purchasing property along Pioneer Road for future police facilities.  Finance Officer Nielson reviewed the Fire Building Reserve Fund and several other adjustments related to the Fire Department. He explained that the original budget had been prepared under the assumption that fire operations would remain under the city, but after the transition to the Fire District, the associated operating, equipment, building reserve, and wildland fire budgets needed to be reduced.    Financial Officer Nielson explained that some of the former Fire Department funds will retain small budget balances because they included carryover funds from prior operations. The city is required to complete a formal process to dispose of the remaining operations and accounts associated with the transition to the Fire District. As a result, some accounting entries will remain in the budget until that process is completed. Finance Officer Nielson noted the Fire District Fund budget adjustment is like the previous fire-related amendments.  Council Member Tietjen asked whether the city's future payments to the Fire District will continue to be accounted for through the General Fund. Financial Officer Nielson explained that, under the previous accounting structure, the city's share of fire service costs had been transferred from the General Fund into separate Fire Operating Funds. He stated that, with the transition to the Fire District, those payments will no longer be recorded as transfers. Instead, the city created a new General Fund budget division to record the city's fire service contribution as a direct operating expense. He emphasized that the City's financial obligation has not changed; only the accounting method has changed. The city will no longer maintain separate budget allocations for the former Fire District and Ambulance District funds because those operations have been transferred to the independent Fire District. Finance Officer Nielson reviewed the Police Building Reserve Fund budget is being reduced because the proposed police bond did not pass. As a result, those funds would remain in reserve and be carried forward into the following fiscal year.  Finance Officer Nielson explained that the 9th East Bridge Project, extending from Barney Dairy to 7th North over the Teton River, had been postponed until the following year. As a result, both the Street Impact Fee budget and the related construction budget were reduced. Similar reductions were made in the Water Fund because a major water project had also been delayed.   Finance Officer Nielson reviewed the Wastewater Fund required an increase of approximately $966,000 for expanded work associated with the Headworks Project, with additional funding coming from the Sewer Capital Reserve Fund. The corresponding construction fund adjustment reflected approximately $1.8 million in additional construction expenditures.  Finance Officer Nielson explained that the Wildland Fire Fund is a reduction of the budget.   Finance Officer Nielson reviewed Parks (Impact Fund) and Parks (Trails Fund) budget adjustments. The Steiner Park project has been postponed until the following fiscal year, resulting in a reduction to the Parks budget. He noted that staff still hoped to complete the design of the new irrigation system and install the pump after canal water service ended. Urban Renewal will help fund irrigation improvements for the acreage north of the canal. Several trail projects funded primarily through federal grants have been delayed and will be budgeted for the following year.   Finance Officer Nielson explained that construction of the Smith Park pickleball courts has taken longer than anticipated but have recently begun, and the courts will soon be completed. He also noted that funding remained available to complete the Parks storage building that had been carried over into the current fiscal year.   Finance Officer Nielson reviewed the Street Local Improvement District (LID) construction required approximately $2 million in additional funding because completion of LID 54 had extended into the current fiscal year rather than finishing in the previous year.  Finance Officer Nielson explained that the budget adjustment below is related to the 9th East Bridge Project. This particular adjustment reflects the construction fund portion of the project, which is being reduced because construction has been postponed until the following fiscal year.  Finance Officer Nielson reported a significant reduction in the Airport Fund because land acquisition associated with the airport relocation had been delayed until approximately 2028. Although the acquisition has been postponed, he stated that an agreement is in place and that city staff continues working with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) regarding the timing of the transaction.  Finance Officer Nielson explained that the Wastewater Construction Fund reflected an additional $1.8 million in construction funding for the Headworks Project, corresponding to the expanded scope of work.  Financial Officer Nielson explained that this Street budget adjustment is related to the Local Improvement District (LID) Construction Fund. The adjustment reflects approximately $2 million in construction expenditures needed to complete the LID projects that had carried over into the current fiscal year  Finance Officer Nielson reviewed the Streetlight Fund retained a small carryover balance after the city discontinued streetlight assessments. The remaining funds will continue to be used for streetlight maintenance until the balance is exhausted or allocated to eligible streetlight projects.   Council Member Reeser moved to approve Fiscal Year 2026 Final Budget Adjustments; Council Member Riggins seconded the motion; Council Member Johnson asked for a vote: Those voting aye Those voting nay Council Member Johnson none Council Member Tietjen Council Member Reeser Council Member Riggins The motion carried. Set public hearing for Fiscal Year 2026 Amended Budget on August 5, 2026, at 6:30 P.M. Action Item Finance Officer Nielson reviewed the updated budget summary and explained that the City's budget had been reduced from the originally adopted budget of approximately $111.2 million to about $104.5 million through the proposed budget amendments.  Finance Officer Nielson reviewed a report that summarized budget changes by fund, explaining that only the funds with amendments were listed. Rather than reviewing each individual change again, he highlighted the overall budget distribution by department. Approximately 64% of the City's budget is allocated to Public Works, 7% to Administrative Overhead, 1% to Building Safety, 15% to Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Arts, and 13% to Public Safety. He also explained that the 15% allocation for Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Arts is unusually high due to the ice rink budget adjustment and stated that this percentage is typically much lower.   Council Member Riggins moved to Set public hearing for Fiscal Year 2026 Amended Budget on August 5, 2026, at 6:30 P.M; Council Member Tietjen seconded the motion; Council Member Johnson asked for a vote: Those voting aye Those voting nay Council Member Johnson none Council Member Tietjen Council Member Reeser Council Member Riggins The motion carried. Cultural Arts: - Jed Platt Flood 50 Review Cultural Arts Director Platt thanked the City Council for its support of the Flood 50 event. He reported that the event had finished under budget due to generous financial support from local businesses, organizations, municipalities, individual donors, and numerous in-kind contributions, including support from BYU–Idaho. The City Council received an outline of the event expenditures in their meeting packets. Cultural Arts Director Platt introduced the Flood 50 presentation by describing it as an event that was 50 years in the making. The Teton Dam Flood remained a defining moment in the community's history; many residents still refer to events occurring either before or after the flood. He said the flood had become part of the community's shared identity and history. Cultural Arts Director Platt explained that planning for the Flood 50 commemoration began in 2020 during the renovation of the Romance Theater, when workers discovered a visible flood water line inside the building. That discovery reinforced the importance of preserving and sharing the community's flood story, leading organizers to begin developing the commemorative event several years in advance. He stated that the Flood 50 event was built around three central themes: remember, connect, and serve. These three pillars guided the planning process and were incorporated throughout the various activities and events held during the commemoration.  Cultural Arts Director Platt said they displayed historical photographs of the Romance Theater during the aftermath of the Teton Dam Flood and the discovery of the original flood water line inside the theater became the inspiration for the Flood 50 commemoration. He pointed out the visible discoloration on the exterior of the Romance Theater, approximately five feet above ground level, which marked the flood's high-water line. A five-foot marker extended along Main Street during the previous month to illustrate the flood level and serve as a visual storytelling tool. Each marker highlighted the experiences of downtown businesses and residents during the flood.  Cultural Arts Director Platt added that walking tours were offered throughout the event and that BYU–Idaho had participated by identifying significant locations on campus that played important roles during the flood. The event recreated the atmosphere of the 1970s to encourage residents to reminisce and share memories. Activities included a recreation of a well-known 1976 photograph, with individuals from the original image traveling from across the country to participate. Additional activities included a BYU–Idaho Fashion Department fashion show, a classic car show on Center Street, and a 1970s-themed concert.  Cultural Arts Director Platt mentioned that the event also created opportunities for residents to share their personal experiences from the flood. The documentary Flood of Memories, which was produced several years earlier in preparation for the anniversary, was shown throughout the week at the Romance Theater alongside three additional documentaries, all of which were offered free to the public. The event also included discussion panels featuring engineers and the release of a companion book to Flood of Memories. He noted that generous donations funded the printing of the book and that all proceeds from book sales will support the renovation of the Rexburg Tabernacle. Cultural Arts Director Platt shared several personal stories that emerged during the event. He described one resident who brought photographs he had taken on June 4, 1976, the day before the Teton Dam failed. The photographs showed two Caterpillar tractors working on the dam, although the photographer had not realized their significance at the time. One of the individuals operating a tractor in the photograph was later identified as Jake Alderwood, who attended the event and shared his firsthand experiences while standing beside the same tractor he had operated nearly fifty years earlier. Cultural Arts Director Platt also described another meaningful connection that occurred through volunteer efforts. Shortly after receiving the June 4 photograph, a volunteer mentioned that his grandfather had worked on the dam operating a Caterpillar tractor the day before the failure. The volunteer's grandfather was identified in the newly discovered photograph, creating an unexpected and meaningful connection between the historical images and the personal stories shared throughout the week.  Cultural Arts Director Platt shared additional stories from participants who attended the Flood 50 commemoration. A couple who traveled from Washington State to celebrate both the event and their 50th wedding anniversary. The couple explained that they had been married in the Idaho Falls Temple on the day the Teton Dam failed. During their wedding ceremony, someone announced that the dam had broken, but because they were not from the area, they did not understand the significance of the news. A few days later, after hearing requests for volunteers to assist the community, they decided that, although they could not afford to donate money as newlyweds, they could volunteer. They turned their car around during their honeymoon and returned to the area to help with recovery efforts. Cultural Arts Director Platt noted that other attendees had traveled from across the country, including former BYU–Idaho students who described the flood as an important part of their family's history. City residents also attended with their children and grandchildren to share their personal experiences and preserve those stories for future generations. Cultural Arts Director Platt reported that an art show featuring works inspired by flood stories were held as part of the commemoration. Several of the pieces were added to the museum exhibit’s permanent collection. He also announced the opening of the museum's new interactive Flood 50 exhibit. While information about the flood could easily be found online, the exhibit is designed to preserve personal experiences and provide visitors with an opportunity to record and share their own stories. Staff expressed appreciation that City Hall now provided a permanent place to collect and preserve those community memories.  Cultural Arts Director Platt also highlighted outdoor activities that were included in the commemoration. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held for the new Teton River overlook and encouraged residents to visit the site, describing it as a beautiful location that celebrates the river itself. There was a river float that also experienced strong public participation throughout the event.  Cultural Arts Director Platt explained that, although many of the stories centered on hardship and loss, the event also celebrated the resilience of the community. Many participants reflected on how, after enduring difficult experiences, laughter had become part of the healing process. The event therefore included opportunities for attendees to reminisce, reconnect, and celebrate both the challenges and the enduring spirit of the community. Cultural Arts Director Platt reported that BYU–Idaho hosted Mud Fest and that the Flood 50 celebration also included the Flood Mud Queen Pageant, providing opportunities for the community to enjoy lighthearted activities while reflecting on the memories of the Teton Dam Flood. Service was one of the primary themes of the Flood 50 commemoration. He quoted former Ricks College President Henry B. Eyring, who stated that "a crisis doesn't create one's character, it reveals it." The community's response to the 1976 flood demonstrated a legacy of service, and organizers intentionally incorporated that legacy into the anniversary events.  Cultural Arts Director Platt said on display was a volunteer logbook from 1976 that documented the many groups who had traveled to the area to assist with flood recovery. The records listed volunteer groups by community, the number of volunteers who arrived, and the locations where they served. He explained that the extensive volunteer records inspired organizers to make service a central focus of the commemorative event. Throughout the week, service activities included community service nights at the Romance Theater and a food drive benefiting local organizations, including the local soup kitchen. The organizers set a goal of filling the city's orange wheelbarrows with donated food 50 times during the week and he proudly reported that the community had achieved that goal.  Cultural Arts Director Platt also reported that the week's activities concluded with a Celebration of Service at the Idaho Central Credit Union (ICCU) Center, which they described as a spectacular event. A professionally edited video documenting the Flood 50 commemoration is being completed and would be made available on the museum's website for the public to view. In closing, he invited the Councilmembers who have not visited the new Flood 50 museum exhibit to schedule a guided tour and again thanked the City Council for its continued support of the project.  Council Member Riggins expressed his appreciation to Cultural Arts Director Platt and volunteers for the tremendous amount of work that had gone into planning and hosting the Flood 50 commemoration. He specifically commended the organizers for delivering a successful event while remaining under budget, describing that accomplishment as remarkable. He also thanked everyone involved for their dedication, hard work, and commitment to preserving the community's history and making the event a success. Public Works: - Justin Beard Approval of Resolution No 2026 – 10 Set public hearing to close out Local Improvement District 54 (LID 54) for August 5, 2026, at 6:30 P.M. - Action Item Discussion: Council Member Riggins moved to approve Resolution No 2026 – 10 Set public hearing to close out Local Improvement District 54 (LID 54) for August 5, 2026, at 6:30 P.M.; Council Member Reeser seconded the motion; Council Member Johnson asked for a vote: Those voting aye Those voting nay Council Member Johnson none Council Member Tietjen Council Member Reeser Council Member Riggins The motion carried. Approval of Water Department Building Remodel and Addition Bid - Action Item Public Works Assistant Director Beard presented the proposed contract award for the Water Department Building Remodel and Addition project. The project included remodeling the interior of the east end of the existing Water Department building and constructing an addition on the west end. The purpose of the project is to expand the facility to accommodate future growth by providing additional office and storage space for the Water Department. The city received seven bids for the project. Although the bids exceeded the architect's original estimate, they were all relatively close in price, indicating that the bids accurately reflected current construction costs. The apparent low bid was submitted by Headwaters Construction in the amount of $1,674,156, compared to the architect's estimate of approximately $1.1 million. Council Member Riggins asked whether sufficient funding had been budgeted for the project. Public Works Assistant Director Beard explained that approximately $1.2 million had been budgeted, meaning the project exceeded the available budget by roughly $475,000. He said he has met with the city's Financial Officer to review available funding and confirmed that a future budget adjustment would transfer funds from other Water Department projects to fully fund the building improvements.  Council Member Reeser moved to approve the low bid of $1,674,156.00 from Headwaters Construction for the Water Department Building Remodel Project; Council Member Tietjen seconded the motion; Council Member Johnson asked for a vote: Those voting aye Those voting nay Council Member Johnson none Council Member Tietjen Council Member Reeser Council Member Riggins The motion carried. Approval of 2nd West and 2nd South Traffic Signal Improvement Bid Action Item Public Works Assistant Director Beard presented the proposed contract award for improvements to the traffic signal at the intersection of 2nd West and 2nd South, located on the southeast corner of Porter Park. He explained that the existing traffic signal has been in service for many years and was originally relocated from another location. As a result, the signal no longer meets current design and safety standards and require modernization. Public Works Assistant Director Beard explained that the project will include replacing the traffic signal controller, installing additional signal heads, extending the signal mast arms to accommodate protected left-turn movements, and improving pedestrian crossing features to comply with current requirements. The city received three bids for the project. The apparent low bid was submitted by Arco Electric in the amount of $216,500, which is lower than the city's engineering estimate and within the approved project budget. He recommended awarding the contract to Arco Electric. Council Member Reeser asked whether the project included reconfiguring the intersection by adding dedicated left-turn lanes or whether it only involved replacing the traffic signal equipment. Public Works Assistant Director Beard clarified that the project would not change the physical layout of the intersection. The existing turn lanes would remain in place, and no curb or roadway modifications are planned. Instead, the improvements will add new signal heads capable of displaying protected green left-turn arrows, allowing the existing left-turn lanes to operate with protected turn lanes. The current signal equipment cannot provide protected left-turn movements, and the upgrades will improve both traffic operations and safety while remaining entirely within the existing curb lines.  Council Member Riggins moved to approve the low bid of $216,500.00 from Arco Electric Idaho Inc. for the 2nd West and 2nd South Traffic Signal Improvements; Council Member Tietjen seconded the motion; Council Member Johnson asked for a vote: Those voting aye Those voting nay Council Member Johnson none Council Member Tietjen Council Member Reeser Council Member Riggins The motion carried. Council Member Tietjen asked how far the ongoing Main Street construction project would be extended and whether the work would stop at 12th West. Public Works Assistant Director Beard responded that the project would continue beyond 12th West, extending west past Mother Hibbard's store to the point where the roadway begins to curve to the west. Council Member Reeser asked whether any improvements to the traffic signal at that intersection are included in the project. Public Works Assistant Director Beard clarified that no traffic signal upgrades are planned at that location and that the work is limited to repaving the roadway. Mayor’s Report/Business: NONE Items for Consideration: Staff recommendation to approve amending the dates that fireworks are for sale in the City of Rexburg to start June 23rd and end July 10th as per state statute §39-2606(1). Designated as Ordinance No 1353 if motion passes – Spencer Rammell Action Item ORDINANCE NO. 1353 AN ORDINANCE REPEALING ORDINANCE NO 1286 SALE OF SAFE AND SANE FIREWORKS; OF THE CITY OF REXBURG, MADISON COUNTY, STATE OF IDAHO; CHANGING THE DATES ON AND BETWEEN WHICH SAFE AND SANE FIREWORKS SHALL BE SOLD OR OFFERED FOR SALE IN THE CITY OF REXBURG, IDAHO AND PROVIDING FOR THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF THIS ORDINANCE. City Attorney Rammell presented a proposed ordinance amendment to bring the City's fireworks regulations into compliance with Idaho state law. He explained that, as part of the city's ongoing legal audit, city staff has identified several ordinances that required updates to ensure they did not conflict with state statute. He noted that he had worked closely with the City Clerk's Office to identify and address those issues. Council Member Johnson asked what the city's previous fireworks sales period had been. City Attorney Rammell responded that fireworks sales had previously been permitted through July 26, which exceeded the period allowed under state law. City Attorney Rammell clarified the purpose of the ordinance. Ordinance Effective Date: The ordinance will take effect after its third reading on August 18, but the revised fireworks sales period will not be fully enforced until after the current season to allow local vendors time to sell existing inventory. Burn Ban vs. Fireworks Sales: The ordinance only changes the fireworks sales period and does not affect the dates when fireworks may legally be discharged under Idaho law. However, the current burn ban prohibits the use of fireworks regardless of the sales period. Purpose of the Amendment: The ordinance is being proposed solely to bring the City's fireworks ordinance into compliance with Idaho state law. Alignment with Other Communities: City Attorney noted that Rexburg had been the outlier, and the amendment will align the City's regulations with the standards already followed by neighboring jurisdictions and state law. Council Member Reeser moved to approve Ordinance No 1353 amending the dates that fireworks are for sale in the City of Rexburg to start June 23rd and end July 10th as per state statute §39-2606(1) and consider first read; Council Member Tietjen seconded the motion; Council Member Johnson asked for a vote: Those voting aye Those voting nay Council Member Johnson none Council Member Tietjen Council Member Reeser Council Member Riggins The motion carried. Calendared Bills: Second Reading: Those items which have been first read: 1. Ordinance No 1352 Rezone from Light Industrial (LI) and Medium Density Residential 2 (MDR2) to Community Business Center (CBC) zone at approximately 4 W Moody Rd (26-00541) - Alan Parkinson Action Item ORDINANCE NO. 1352 Rezone 4 W Moody Rd from Light Industrial (LI) and Medium Density Residential 2 (MDR2) to Community Business Center (CBC) 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.  Council Member Riggins moved to approve Ordinance No 1352 a rezone from Light Industrial (LI) and Medium Density Residential 2 (MDR2) to Community Business Center (CBC) zone at approximately 4 W Moody Rd and consider second read; Council Member Reeser seconded the motion; Council Member Johnson asked for a vote: Those voting aye Those voting nay Council Member Johnson none Council Member Tietjen Council Member Reeser Council Member Riggins The motion carried. B. Third Reading: Those items which have been second read: 1. Ordinance No 1348 Vacate a Portion of the Sky Meadows Plat at Approximately 1228 Stone Dr (26-00383) – Alan Parkinson Action Item ORDINANCE NO. 1348 Vacating “Sky Meadows” Plat AN ORDINANCE VACATING A PORTION OF THE PLAT KNOWN AS “SKY MEADOWS” IN THE CITY OF REXBURG, IDAHO; PROVIDING FINDINGS; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.  Council Member Tietjen moved to approve Ordinance No 1348 Vacate a Portion of the Sky Meadows Plat at Approximately 1228 Stone Dr. and consider third read; Council Member Reeser seconded the motion; Council Member Johnson asked for a vote: Those voting aye Those voting nay Council Member Johnson Council Member Riggins Council Member Tietjen Council Member Reeser The motion carried. 2. Ordinance No 1349 Rezone 509-539 S 5th W from High Density Residential 1 (HDR1) to High Density Residential 2 (HDR2) Zone (26-00476) – Alan Parkinson Action Item ORDINANCE NO. 1349 Rezone 509-539 S 5th W from High Density Residential 1 (HDR1) to High Density Residential 2 (HDR2) 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.  Council Member Riggins moved to approve Ordinance No 1349 Rezone 509-539 S 5th W from High Density Residential 1 (HDR1) to High Density Residential 2 (HDR2) Zone and consider third read; Council Member Tietjen seconded the motion; Council Member Johnson asked for a vote: Those voting aye Those voting nay Council Member Johnson none Council Member Tietjen Council Member Reeser Council Member Riggins The motion carried. 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. Minutes from FY27 Budget – Fire Dept. and July 1, 2026, Meeting - Action Item Approve Payment of the City of Rexburg Bills - Action Item Council Member Reeser moved to approve the Consent Calendar containing the minutes and city bills; Council Member Riggins seconded the motion; Council Member Johnson asked for a vote: Those voting aye Those voting nay Council Member Johnson none Council Member Tietjen Council Member Reeser Council Member Riggins The motion carried. Adjournment 7:46 P.M. APPROVED: ________________________________ Bryanna Johnson, City Council Member Attest: ________________________________ Marianna Gonzalez, City Deputy Clerk