Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Minutes - August 5, 2026(208)359-3020 35 North 1n East Rexburg, ID 83440 Rexburg.org I Engage.Rexburg.org City Council Minutes —August 5, 2026 Mayor Jerry Merrill Council Members: Bryanna Johnson David Reeser Colin Erickson Bill Riggins Eric Erickson Alisha Tietjen City staff. Spencer Rummell — 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•.qo P.M. Council Member Reeser said the prayer. Council President E. Erickson led the pledge. Roll Call of Council Members: Attending: Council Member Johnson, Council Member Tietjen, Council Member C. Erickson (via Zoom) Council Member Reeser, Council Member Riggins, Council President E. Erickson, and Mayor Merrill. Motion to Amend the Agenda as per Idaho State Statute §74-204(4)(b): Item 8B Amendment to add Resolution No 2026 — ii to ITD Grant Agreement Action Item Mayor Merrill asked for a motion to amend the agenda. Council President E. Erickson moved to Amend the Agenda as per Idaho State Statute §74-204(4)(b): Item 8B Amendment to add Resolution No 2026 — ii to ITD Grant Agreement; Council Member Riggins seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill asked for a vote: Those voting ave Council Member Johnson Council Member Tietjen Council Member C. Erickson Council Member Reeser Council Member Riggins Council President E. Erickson The motion carried. Those voting nay none Public Hearing 6:30 P.M. Amendment of the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget. Designated as Ordinance No 1356 if motion passes and considered ist read — Matt Nielson Action Item Finance Officer Nielson explained that he will not go through all the final budget adjustments because they were reviewed at a previous City Council meeting. The initially adopted budget had been $111,279,400.Over the course of the year, budget amendments have reduced that amount by approximately $6.7 million, resulting in a final budget of $104,571,3oo. He also explained that much of the reduction had resulted from the deferment of large projects. Several projects were not completed during the fiscal year and were moved to the next fiscal year, so the budget was reduced accordingly. Other significant adjustments included the ice rink and the transition of the Fire Department to the Fire District. Council Member Tietjen asked for clarification regarding the period covered by the budget. one Finance Officer Nielson clarified that the budget covers the fiscal year through September 3o, ending before October i. Mayor Merrill 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 Mayor Merrill closed the public hearing. Council Member Johnson moved to approve Ordinance No 1356 Amendment of the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget and consider first read; Council Member Reeser seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill asked for a vote: Those voting aye Those voting nay Council Member Johnson none Council Member Tietjen Council Member C. Erickson Council Member Reeser Council Member Riggins Council President E. Erickson The motion carried. Public Hearing 6:30 P.M. Final Assessment Roll for Local Improvement District 54 (LID 54)• Designated as Ordinance No 1355 if motion passes and considered ist read — Keith Davidson Action Item Public Works Director Davidson said the City Councilmembers received the official costs of LID 54 in their packets. Council President E. Erickson asked whether the bids came in considerably lower than the original estimates. Public Works Director Davidson clarified that some bids came in higher, but the costs to property owners decreased significantly because the city took over the cost of the curb and gutter. The properties that only required sidewalk work did not experience the same reduction. He confirmed that the city taking over the curb and gutter costs accounted for the difference. Council Member Johnson asked about the letters that had been received and specifically questioned whether the Goss property would be charged. Public Works Director Davidson explained that an Orangeburg sewer pipe serving one of the homes required further review. The approximately $3,500 charge appeared to have been for replacement of that sewer line. He said additional research is needed to determine exactly what occurred and city staff will follow up with the Gosses. Public Works Director Davidson also clarified that no sidewalk work was completed on the property because the property owners had changed the zoning of their property to HDR and had anticipated selling the property. However, the Orangeburg sewer pipe needs to be addressed because those pipes are known to fail, and city staff wants to avoid a pipe failure occurring in the interim. Council Member Johnson asked about another letter concerning the Kitchell property and whether the property had a curb. Public Works Director Davidson explained that there is existing curb, but it is in poor condition. The property was considered one of the miscellaneous properties included in the LID project, and the city did not plan to reconstruct the street in that area, so curb work was not included. He provided additional background on the property. The property changed ownership around 2oig and was refinanced, possibly in 2022. The refinancing brought the property to the city's attention because the bank requested information regarding any outstanding obligations, including LIDS. City Staff subsequently communicated with the property owners regarding the sidewalk requirement. Public Works Director Davidson continued to explain that Salem Road is a narrow street with some homes located close to the roadway similar to Bear Street, where sidewalks had been required. Initially, the city had not required the property owner to install a sidewalk because a final determination regarding sidewalks on those streets had not yet been made. After further analysis, the city determined that sidewalks needed to be installed on those streets as properties changed ownership. He said an LID letter had been sent to the property owners on February 20, 2025, followed by an email regarding the sidewalk on April 23, 2025. A city intern also attempted to contact the property owners by phone but apparently had not been able to reach them. Mayor Merrill opened the public hearing. Public Testimony in favor of the proposal (5-minute limit): NONE Public Testimony neutral to the proposal (5-minute limit): John Goss stated that he had initially planned to speak in opposition to the assessment. However, after Senior Accountant Phethean and Public Works Director Davidson had explained the issue involving the Orangeburg sewer pipe, he understood the reason for the charge and its ramifications. Mr. Goss explained that he had recently spent nearly $2,000 to amend the comprehensive plan and rezone the property. He received a bill for $372, which prompted him to contact Senior Accountant Phethean for an explanation. He subsequently received another bill for more than $3,40o. After receiving clarification regarding the charges, Mr. Goss stated that he has taken a neutral position and no longer intended to dispute or contest the assessment. Public Testimony opposed to the proposal (5-minute limit): NONE Mayor Merrill closed the public hearing. Council President E. Erickson moved to approve Ordinance No 1355 Final Assessment Roll for Local Improvement District 54 (LID 54) and consider first read; Council Member Riggins seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill asked for a vote: Those voting aye- Those voting nay Council Member Tietjen none Council Member Johnson ^ Council Member C. Erickson Council Member Reeser Council Member Riggins Council President E. Erickson The motion carried. Presentation Automatic License Plate Recognition (ALPR) Camera Systems Safety — Taylor Riley Good evening, Councilmembers, tonight I'm not asking you to solve a crime. I'm asking you to decide whether every innocent civilian in Rexburg should become part of a nationwide Al surveillance network. My name is Taylor Riley, and I appreciate the opportunity to discuss a topic impacting communities across the country: AI surveillance systems. A month ago, I asked this council to take action by establishing ordinances to prevent these technologies from coming to Rexburg. Tonight, I'll share information and data to help you make an informed decision. This is a significant issue involving privacy, constitutional rights, and responsible use of citizens' information. I'm an outdoorsman, entrepreneur, and Idaho resident of 17 years. My wife and I chose this area as our long-term home, and my background is in media production, marketing, and outdoor education. About two months ago, I began researching AI surveillance after noticing an increase in traffic cameras and sensors across cities, including small communities. I started hearing about systems being deployed PER nationwide where vehicle data was collected and accessed without traditional search warrants or probable cause. That caught my attention. So, let's dive in. What is all this Flock talk about? Flock Safety began in 2017, as a privately held manufacturer and operator of security hardware and software. It operates its systems under contracts with law enforcement agencies, cities, counties, neighborhood associations and private property owners. Their product line consists of License Plate Readers, Video Cameras, Audio Detection, Mobile Security Trailers, F1ockOS, and Drone as First Responder. They claim that 1o,000+ missing people were located in 2o25, and 1 million plus cases were supported by Flock last year. They sell the idea of safety, reduced crime, searchable evidence, cross -agency visibility, audit -ready use, local control, and faster incident response. Flock license plate readers are motion -activated cameras connected to cloud -based software that uses AI to capture, analyze, and search vehicle data. These cameras are commonly installed at roads, neighborhood entrances, and parking lot exits, collecting information such as license plates, vehicle characteristics, and other identifying details. The process is simple: agencies contract with Flock, install the cameras, and the collected data is processed through Flock's cloud -based platform. In Idaho, police chiefs in Idaho Falls, Wilder, Greenleaf, and St. Anthony moved forward with Flock systems without requiring city council approval before installation. This is St. Anthony's contract. The city purchased F1ockOS, Flock's cloud -based platform that connects surveillance equipment and data into one system. It uses AI to analyze data, provide alerts, enable cross -agency sharing, integrate with CAD and records systems, and includes tools like Free Form Search. St. Anthony purchased four Safety Bundles, which include solar powered license plate readers and video cameras connected to the FlockOS platform. The installation cost was $17,000, with an annual subscription cost of $17,000. The contract was signed last October by Dan Haley, Flock's Chief Legal Officer, and Chief Greg Belew of ..� the St. Anthony Police Department. The cameras were installed on Bridge Street and are maintained by both the City of St. Anthony and Flock. The equipment is installed and is now part of a surveillance system of over 125,o82 automated license plate readers, powered by AI, that captures and analyzes images of all passing vehicles. It stores the details of your car's location, the date, and time. It analyzes the make, model, color, and even features such as dents, roof racks, bumper stickers, all of which become searchable data points. The cameras collect data on millions of vehicles regardless of whether the driver is suspected of a crime. This data does not require a warrant to use. The network produces more than 20 billion vehicle tracking plate scans every month. But Flock isn't just a license plate reader. It has been deployed in parks and public spaces. Their website says that it's forparks of all sizes. It boasts its Always -On Outdoor Security Cameras: 'Flock Video helps you prevent vandalism, monitor behavior, and respond to complaints with confidence. Clear footage gives parks teams and law enforcement what they need, fast."Its Gunshot Detection also goes beyond gunshots to include other audio detection that is AI programmed to listen and record, including vehicle crashes, fireworks, and protests or public demonstrations. Let's notforget to mention that Flock cameras use a combination of motion detection and infrared technology, or IR. IR allows cameras to capture clear images at night without using visible flashes to the human eye. We put all these features together, and this is just one company, in a growing surveillance industry, seeking contracts with agencies, businesses, schools, parks, and so on. Other companies such as Axon, Motorola Solutions, Genetec, and Leonardo, Neology are competing for data collection and surveillance solutions as well. The surveillance race is on. And it isn't showing signs of slowing down. One other emerging technology is Leonardo's Signal Trace, which analyzes electronic devices that travel together to create a unique digital fingerprint. Devices such as phones, smartwatches, fitness trackers, your dog's microchip, and other devices emitting frequencies can be detected and paired with other surveillance systems, even without a known license plate. Signal Trace is effective in off - road areas such as parks and stores and performs with or without license plate readers. Now, here's what happens after all this data is collected. The data is uploaded to the nationwide networks. Artificial intelligence automatically analyzes what is recorded and makes it searchable for investigators. It breaks it down into keywords: someone can search `Red pickup near downtown yesterday", "White van with roof rack". If multiple Flock cameras are deployed, it will reconstruct a person or vehicle's route. So how is this, and other systems being used? We have already heard from Flock how many cases it claims to have supported. But as expected, the AI isn't always accurate. Utah resident Brad Johnston was charged with felony damage to an Uber driver's vehicle after facial recognition technology identified him as a 94% match from a screenshot and linked it to his driver's license photo. The AI result became key evidence against him, but Johnston proved he was not involved. He had not taken the Uber ride or been at the location, and the actual suspect was later identified. After five months, the case was dismissed. Robert Dillon In 2023, Robert Dillon was arrested in Florida for allegedly luring a child away from a McDonald's—despite being 300 miles away when the crime occurred. Police relied on an AI system that identified him as a 93% match to the suspect. Dillon told officers they had the wrong person, but he spent the night in jail and had to borrow money to post bond. The charges were eventually dropped, and his record was cleared. Dillon said the experience still haunts him, stating that police relied on "dangerous technology instead of doing their jobs and actually investigating." Lindsey Isaacs In Florida, Lindsey Isaacs spent 13 days in jail falsely charged with triple homicide. Her car was simply the same make and model. Different color, no damage and a partial plate that didn't match. Remember when I mentioned that nationwide APLR networks can be accessed without probable cause or a warrant? That access creates opportunities for misuse. Across the country, there have been numerous cases of officers using ALPR systems to monitor romantic partners, ex partners, or individuals they had personal interests in. A Wisconsin officer tracked a romantic partner and one of her exes nearly 18o times in two months. In Florida, a sheriff's deputy used ALPR data to track and pull over a woman he met while working security on a film set. In Jerome County, Idaho, a sheriff used Flock to search for his wife's vehicle more than boo times. Other cases show how these systems can impact innocent citizens. ICE and Border Patrol have used Flock over 4,000 times in immigration enforcement, without using warrants. Kansas police used ALPR data to investigate a man who criticized the department. In Colorado, a woman was falsely accused of theft based on a Flock alert, and another family was held at gunpoint after their vehicle was mistakenly matched to a stolen motorcycle from another state, resulting in a $1.9 million settlementfor the family. Atlanta, Georgia has experienced one of the largest expansions ofALPR technology in the country, with more than 5,00o Flock cameras now deployed across the city. However, FBI crime data has raised questions about the effectiveness of this massive surveillance network, showing no measurable impact on the Atlanta Police Department's ability to solve crimes. At the same time, at least 20 Georgia public officers have been arrested for misusing surveillance databases. We could discuss these cases all night, but the point is clear: when surveillance systems expand without strong safeguards, innocent people can become the ones forced to prove they did nothing wrong. Idaho Law ID Code § 49-1432 (2025) Idaho law limits ALPR use to authorized Idaho agencies and requires data to be used only for law enforcement or traffic purposes. Access is restricted to authorized personnel and prohibits unrelated uses. The question is whether participation in a national surveillance network violates Idaho law by allowing Idaho citizens' data to be accessed outside the ... state. Flock automatically connects agencies to FlockOS, providing nationwide law enforcement access. Many ALPR searches do not require a traditional warrant and instead rely on agency policies or authorized purposes. Concerned citizens across Idaho are speaking out at city councils, but this issue extends far beyond our state. At least 98 cities nationwide have canceled, rejected, or deactivated these systems, including communities in California, Texas, Washington, Oregon, Colorado, and others. Salmon has rejected ALPR and submitted a resolution that no money be spent on it without the council's permission since often this is done without any public input. Clearwater County will not be renewing due to lack of crimes solved and community concerns. In Los Altos Hills, California, officials ended their Flock contract after residents and council members questioned whether the cameras reduced crime enough to justify the cost and raised privacy concerns. In San 4 Marcos, Texas, the council canceled Flock after reviewing research that questioned whether surveillance technology actually improves public safety. Charlottesville, Virginia, declined to continue its pilot program, determining that the concerns outweighed the benefits. In Roseville, California, an investigation found that 71% of Flock -generated alerts reviewed involved incorrect license plate reads. There is growing concern across America about the potential misuse and abuse of surveillance technology by law enforcement. While we may trust the individuals currently serving our community, systems should never depend solely on personal restraint. Good policies protect citizens regardless of who holds power. Assuming these tools will never be misused risks sacrificing both public safety and the constitutional rights they are meant to protect. We cannot live by the idea, `If you're not doing anything wrong, you have nothing to fear."Tell that to Robert Dillon, Brad Johnston, and the many others who were wrongly accused and forced to prove their innocence. That same logic would mean ^ that if you are not saying anything wrong, you do not need free speech. But we understand that is not how rights work. Rights are not reserved for people under suspicion —they are protections for every citizen, especially innocent people. Privacy is a fundamental right, not a reward for innocence. The issue isn't whether you're doing anything wrong. The issue is whether the government should monitor innocent people without cause, or before any crime has occurred or is suspected to occur. In America, the government generally needs a reason before searching your home, reading your mail, or tracking you. That's the principle behind the Fourth Amendment. The Bill of Rights wasn't written to protect criminals. It was written to protect ordinary citizens from excessive government power. The founders assumed government power would eventually be abused if left unchecked. We talked about mission creep. Today's promise may be: "We're only looking for stolen cars" Tomorrow it becomes: • Outstanding warrants • Minor traffic violations • Tax collection • Protest attendance • Political demonstrations • Firearm owner tracking • Routine movement history • Religious affiliation Technology almost always expands beyond its original purpose unless laws clearly limit it. One month ago, I called for transparency regarding any discussions involving automated surveillance networks, a ban on AI surveillance and mass surveillance tools, and a comprehensive ow privacy ordinance establishing clear standards for future technologies. Today, I have provided a draft ordinance designed to protect Rexburg citizens' rights and privacy from AT surveillance systems and technologies that can be misused. I ask this council to take proactive action by reviewing this ordinance, allowing public input, and considering amendments to the City of Rexburg code that establish these protections. Again, I appreciate the time you've provided for me to share this information with you. I much rather be at home with my family than talking about this! But this is important to me and more than 20,000 other Idahoans engaged in Deflocking Idaho. Technology is advancing faster than the laws that govern it. Once a surveillance network is built, history shows it almost never becomes smaller —it expands. The question before this council isn't whether today's officials can be trusted. It's whether the laws we adopt today will protect Rexburg residents decades from now. George Orwell said it best. A powerful quote from the book 1984 is: `Nothing was your own except the few cubic centimeters inside your skull." It should never come close to that. Council Member Johnson requested placing the issue with Flock Cameras on a future agenda for further discussion. Mayor Merrill said the proposed ordinance will be reviewed and noted that the state has strict laws that the city is required to follow and that those laws could potentially supersede a city ordinance. He said he will consult with legal counsel to determine how the state laws related to the proposed ordinance. He said the issue involved several considerations that have been discussed with the Rexburg Police Chief and others. He thanked Mr. Riley for the information provided. Public Comment: Items not on the agenda; limit of 3 minutes; issues may be considered for discussion on a future agenda. Please keep comments on point and respectful. Staff Reports: A. Finance: -Matt Nielson Finance Officer Nielson reported that he did not have an official monthly report but provided a brief update. He said that the first internal police committee meeting was held. The committee discussed several options and planned to prepare a presentation for the City Council. The presentation is expected to be brought back to the City Council at the beginning of September. Council Member Tietjen asked whether there will be a presentation regarding America 250 financial report. Finance Officer Nielson responded that a presentation could be scheduled for September. He explained that expenses are still being finalized and that he had approved two additional bills that day. He preferred to wait to present the report until all expenses have been received and paid so that nothing would be omitted. He suggested that the second meeting in September will likely be a good time for the presentation, as all expenses are expected to be paid by then. B. Public Works: - Keith Davidson I. Resolution No 2026-11 Approval of the State and Local Grant Agreement for Construction of the 9th East Bridge Project A023(33o) Action Item Public Works Director Davidson presented a resolution to enter into a local grant agreement with the state for the 9th East project between 7th North and Barney Dairy Road. The project includes .^ construction of the roadway and a bridge across the river. He explained that the city is required to enter' into the agreement and set aside its share of the project funds before the project can be bid. The city's required share is $7,969,56o. Public Works Director Davidson reviewed the anticipated funding sources for the project. The original funding plan included $4 million from the Local Highway Technical Assistance Council (LHTAC), $4 million from Urban Renewal contributions, $3 million from street impact fees, and $600,000 from other street funding sources. LHTAC subsequently increased their estimated contribution amount. Because the project has not been bid out, the costs remain estimates and adjustments will be made to the funding plan. Under the revised funding plan, LHTAC is expected to contribute approximately $4.737 million, Urban Renewal approximately $4.2 million, street impact fees approximately $3.1 million, and other street funding sources approximately $629,000. He said that the required funds will be placed into an account with LHTAC before the project is bid. The purpose of approving the agreement and making the funds available is to allow the project to move forward to the bidding process. Bridge Project at 7th North and 9th East LHTAC Grant 2026-2027 FinalAmounts Per Anticipated Revenues Original Estimate Avallable-781D Contract LHTAC Federal Gran[ 111111111111ff $ 4,000,000 $ 4.737.932 URA Contributions $ 2.000,000 $ 4,000,000 $ 4.194,521 Development Impact Fees $ 1.720,000 $ 3,000,000 $ 3.145.891 Other Street Sources S 280.000 $ 600,000 $ 629,178 Total $ 6,000.000 $ 11,600,000 9 12,707,522 Estimated Expenses S 6.000,000 $ 12,600,000 S 12,707,522 r� Net $ - $ $ - Mayor Merrill mentioned that LHTAC has estimated the project costs higher due to increasing construction costs. The funding contributions could be reduced proportionately if the bids came in below the estimated $12.7 million project cost. Resolution 2o26 — 11 `vHERF.AA, the Idaho Transportation Department, hereafter called the STATE, has submitted an Agreement stating obligations of the STATE and the CITY OF REXBURG. hereafter called the CITY, for construction of E PARKWAY; BARNEY DAIRY RD TO 7111 N; and IN HEREAS, certain functions to be performed by -the STATE involve the expenditure of funds as set forth in the Agreement; and WHEREAS. The STATE can only pay for work associated with the State Highway - system; and WHEREAS, the CITY is fully responsible for its share of project costs; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE1T RESOLVED: i. That tine Agreement for Federal Ald Highway Project A023(330) is hereby approved. 2. That the Mayor and the City Clerk are hereby authorized to execute the Agreement on behalf of the CITY. 3. That duly certified copies of the Resolution shall be furnished to the Idaho Transportation Department. Passed by -the City Council and approved by the Ma= =5 h day of August 2026. CITY OF RETBURG, MADISON COUNTY, IDAHO BY: Jerry L. Merrill. Mayor ATTEST: Deborah Lovejoy, City Clerk — ... CERTIFICATE I, Deborah Lovejoy. City Clerk, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a full, true, and correct copy of Resolution No. 2026 - ii adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council held on the 5,h day of August 2026, and that the same is now in full force and effect. IN WITNESS WHEREOF. i have hereunto set my hand and impressed the official seal of the city, this 5-h day of August 2o26. Deborahefoy, er Council Member Reeser moved to approve Resolution No 2026-11 - Approval of the State and Local Grant Agreement for Construction of the 9th East Bridge Project; Council Member Tietjen seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill asked for a vote: Those voting aye Council Member Tietjen Council Member Johnson Council Member C. Erickson Council Member Reeser Council Member Riggins Council President E. Erickson The motion carried. Those voting nav none Mayor's Report/Business: A. Ratify Candi McFadden as a member of the Planning & Zoning Board Action Item Mayor Merrill reported that city staff met with two Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) staff members the previous day. He expressed appreciation to ITD for their work on Main Street, including completing the paving project before the 4th of July festivities and coordinating with the city throughout the process. Mayor Merrill noted that ITD has also been involved in several other projects and that the city valued their positive working relationship with the department. The meeting also included discussion of upcoming transportation projects, including potential improvements to the 12th West intersection. Options discussed included widening the intersection, constructing a roundabout, or modifying the traffic signals. They also discussed improvements to other areas of the city where state highways affected traffic flow. goo Mayor Merrill presented the appointments of Candi McFadden to the Planning and Zoning Board and Tahni Cottrell to the Urban Renewal Board. He stated that the appointments will be considered separately and asked whether there are any questions or discussion regarding either candidate. rm Council Member Johnson moved to ratify Candi McFadden as a member of the Planning & Zoning Board; Council President Erickson seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill asked for a vote: Those voting aye - Council Member Tietjen Council Member Johnson Council Member C. Erickson Council Member Reeser Council Member Riggins Council President E. Erickson The motion carried. Those voting nav none B. Ratify Tahni Cottrell as a member of the Urban Renewal Board Action Item Council Member Reeser moved to ratify Tahni Cottrell as a member of the Urban Renewal Agency; Council Member Tietjen seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill asked for a vote: Those voting aye Council Member Tietjen Council Member Johnson Council Member C. Erickson Council Member Reeser Council Member Riggins Council President E. Erickson The motion carried. Those voting nav none 7 Mayor Merrill also reported that the city had been contacted by (RCI) Reconnecting Communities Institute, which has been working with the city to identify grant opportunities, particularly for crossings over Highway 20. The group invited a city representative to attend the National Regional Transportation Conference and participate in a panel discussion. He said he attended the conference and discussed the city's transportation challenges, including traffic movement, emergency vehicle access, and the need for additional highway crossings. He said he met with RCI representatives after the conference. RCI expressed interest in entering into another agreement with the city beginning in October. Through the agreement, RCI would assist the city in identifying funding opportunities and provide technical assistance, including engineering support for potential projects. Mayor Merrill stated that the city has developed a positive relationship with RCI and that the organization viewed Rexburg as an engaged community. He noted that the relationship could help the city identify grant opportunities that might otherwise be missed. .. Mayor Merrill reported that he had attended an event related to the proposed reopening of the Stibnite mine near Stanley. He explained that the mine is expected to produce gold and antimony. Antimony was identified as an important material for ammunition and other munitions, and reopening the mine could help address domestic supply concerns. Reopening the mine could provide economic benefits to the surrounding area. Mayor Merrill reported that city representatives planned to attend an upcoming event at Idaho National Laboratory (INL) regarding nuclear energy and the future of the energy grid. He stated that the city has remained actively involved with INL so that Rexburg can be considered for future opportunities that could benefit the community, including potential small modular reactor projects (SMRs). He added that these are some of the initiatives the city has been working on. Items for Consideration: A. Planning & Zoning recommendation to approve the Home Depot Subdivision Plat located at approximately gol S Yellowstone Hwy, the application is to subdivide the property into six (6) lots (26-00073) — Alan Parkinson Action Item P&Z Administrator Parkinson reviewed the plat for property located east of the temple under construction near the North Rexburg Interchange. The property includes multiple parcels that would be divided according to the proposed Plat. Construction has already begun on the development. Home Depot owns its individual lot within the development and is included in the plat as the anchor store. FW Oht m.,r fu Home Depot Subdivision H� � :I• pit t' i t m mm. v i WA- 2 1 rl.w. vi a-" Council Member Tietjen asked about traffic concerns associated with the development due to its proximity to the freeway. P&Z Administrator Parkinson said a traffic impact study was completed and that traffic concerns were addressed. A traffic signal is planned for the Teton River Temple intersection, and the proposed improvements meet the requirements identified in the traffic impact study. Ingress and egress have also been addressed. He noted that utility work, including sewer line installation, is underway and has contributed to traffic congestion in the area. Council President E. Erickson asked if the two accesses from Teton River Temple Street to the Home Depot parking lot are private accesses. P&Z Administrator Parkinson clarified that the two 91 accesses are private. He added that although accesses appear narrow on the drawing, they meet the Fire Department requirements. Discussion regarding access from end East and future connectivity with surrounding properties. P&Z Administrator Parkinson explained that there will be one access from end East between the north side of Walmart and the freeway. The existing access on the north side of Walmart will remain in place. Council President E. Erickson asked about future access to undeveloped property south of the proposed development. P&Z Administrator Parkinson said no additional southern access is shown on the current plat, but future development is expected to provide connections to Walmart's parking lot and other roads east of Walmart that would eventually connect to Moody Road. ^' Public Works Director Davidson further explained that the city frequently required interconnectivity between parking lots as properties developed. This allowed traffic to move between adjacent developments without requiring vehicles to exit onto a main roadway and re-enter another property. As the property to the south develops, the city will evaluate appropriate locations for additional street access and parking lot interconnectivity. He added that the exact connections will be addressed when the surrounding properties are developed. Council Member C. Erickson moved to approve the Home Depot Subdivision Plat located at approximately goi S Yellowstone Hwy, the application is to subdivide the property into six (6) lots; Council Member Johnson seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill asked for a vote: Those voting ave Council Member Johnson Council Member Tietjen Council Member C. Erickson Council Member Reeser Council Member Riggins Council President E. Erickson The motion carried. Those voting nay none Calendared Bills: A. Second Reading: Those items which have been first read: i. Ordinance No 135o Fiscal Year 20277 Budget Appropriation Ordinance — Matt Nielson Action Item Discussion: ORDINANCE NO. 1350 FISCAL YEAR 2027 BUDGET APPROPRIATION AN ORDINANCE ENTITLED THE ANNUAL APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF REXBURG, IDAHO, FOR THE FISCAL YEAR OCTOBER 1, 2026, TO SEPTEMBER 30, 2027, AND APPROPRIATING TO THE SEVERAL DEPARTMENTS, OFFICES AND FUNDS OF THE SAID CITY GOVERNMENT FROM THE REVENUE DERIVED FROM TAXES LEVIED FOR SAID FISCAL YEAR, AND ALL OTHER SOURCES, SUCH SUMS AS MAY BE NECESSARY OR DEEMED NECESSARY BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL TO DEFRAY THE EXPENSES AND LIABILITIES OF SAID CITY FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2027; AND PROVIDING FOR THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF ORDINANCE. Council Member Tietjen moved to approve Ordinance No 135o Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Appropriation Ordinance and consider second read; Council Member Reeser seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill asked for a vote: Those voting ave Those voting nay Council Member Johnson none Council Member Tietjen Council Member C. Erickson Council Member Reeser No Council Member Riggins Council President E. Erickson The motion carried. 2. Ordinance No 1353 Amending the dates for Firework Stand Sales to June 23'd to July loth to comply with State Statute §39-26o6(i) — Spencer Rammell Action Item Discussion: 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. Council Member Riggins moved to approve Ordinance No 1353 Amending the dates for Firework Stand Sales to June 23rd to July loth to comply with State Statute §39-26o6(i) and consider second read; Council President E. Erickson seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill asked for a vote: Those voting aye Those voting nay Council Member Johnson none Council Member Tietjen Council Member C. Erickson .. Council Member Reeser Council Member Riggins Council President E. Erickson The motion carried. B. Third Reading: Those items which have been second 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 Discussion: 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. Proposed Rezone from Light Industrial and Medium Density Residential 2 to Community Business Center 15, 0A J Teton River Temple St C c u t v c y 3 3 J O m r� PdRP4 Q rsemne W Moody Rd PER Council Member Johnson moved to approve 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 and consider third read; Council Member Riggins seconded the motion; Mayor Merrill asked for a vote: Those voting ave Council Member Johnson Council Member Tietjen Council Member C. Erickson Council Member Reeser Council Member Riggins Council President E. Erickson The motion carried. Those voting nay none Consent Calendar: The consent calendar includes items which require formal City Council action, however, they are typically routine or not of great controversy. Individual Council members may ask that any specific item be removed from the consent calendar for discussion in greater detail. Explanatory information is included in the City Council's agenda packet regarding these items. A. Minutes from July 15, 2026, City Council Meeting - Action Item B. Approve 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; Mayor Merrill asked for a vote: Those voting ave Council Member Johnson Council Member Tietjen Council Member C. Erickson Council Member Reeser Council Member Riggins Council President E. Erickson The motion carried. Discussion: Those voting nay none Council President E. Erickson raised concerns regarding the condition of the pickleball courts at Smith Park. The courts are in poor condition and difficult to use. Mayor Merrill said a contractor has been working on the courts the previous several days. The work included repairing and sealing cracks and repainting the courts. He said he will follow up with the contractor regarding the status of the repairs. Mayor Merrill added windscreen netting had been obtained for the fencing around the courts to help reduce wind and noise following complaints from neighboring residents. Council Member Riggins raised concerns regarding the condition of the restroom facilities and overflowing trash receptacles at Eagle Park. Mayor Merrill thanked Council Member Riggins for bringing the matter to the city's attention and stated that staff would follow up with the maintenance concerns. Council Member Riggins also raised concerns regarding golf fees for members of the BYU-Idaho community who participated in golf leagues but lived outside city limits. He noted that nonresidents are charged different fees, and a request has been made to consider allowing league participants to pay the same rate regardless of residency. ... City Attorney Rammell advised that matters requiring discussion or a decision should be placed on an appropriate meeting agenda rather than addressed during general announcements. He explained that the golf fee request should first be presented to the Golf Board, which serves as a recommending board, and could then be forwarded to the City Council if necessary. He requested that the individuals proposing the change submit their request by email for consideration for placement on the upcoming Golf Board agenda. 11 Adjournment 7:43 P.M. . n. IMM'wAd' Attest: G�Lc�c� Dh Z_ arianna Gonzalez, Ci eputy C erk Q 12