04052007CouncilMinutesCITY OF AMMON
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
THURSDAY, APRIL 5, 2007
AGENDA:
CITY OF AMMON
2135 SOUTH AMMON ROAD
CITY COUNCIL
AMENDED AGENDA
THURSDAY, April 5, 2007
CALL TO ORDER:
Mayor Bruce Ard at 7:30 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance – Councilmember Thompson
Prayer – Councilmember Kirkham
MINUTES:
None
ITEMS FROM MAYOR:
Proclamation – Fair Housing Month
CONSENT AGENDA:
Attached
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
Utility Fees
PUBLIC COMMENT REGARDING ITEMS NOT ON AGENDA:
ACTION ITEMS:
1.
Preliminary Site Plan – Biolife Plasma Center
2.
Maverik Store Development Agreement
3.
Bridgewater #2 Development Agreement
4.
Resolution 2007-009 Idaho Safe Routes to School Grant
5.
Firehouse Grill/LaFleur Damage Claim
6.
Ord. #428 Assigning Numbers to Each Council Seat
7.
Ord. #429 Amendment of Ordinances Regarding 4 – 6 Person Council and Related Issues (Refer to title)
8.
Bartender License – Wilson
9.
EEO Policy Statement
10.
Resolution 2007-007 Grievance Procedure
11.
Resolution 2007-008 Utility Fees
12.
Authorization to Bid New Garbage Truck
13.
Establish FY 2008 Budget Hearing Date – Aug. 2, 2007
14.
Bonneville Fire District Proposal
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
1.Bartender Licenses
2.Idaho State Liquor Dispensary
3.School Water Meter Update
4.Misc.
MINUTES
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Ard at 7:30 p.m. in the City Building, 2135 South Ammon Road,
Ammon, Idaho, with the following City Officials present:
City Officials Present:
Mayor Bruce Ard
Councilmember Lee Bean
Councilmember Dana Kirkham
Councilmember Randy Waite
City Planning Director Ron Folsom
City Engineer Bill Manwill
City Administrator Bruce Rose
City Attorney Scott Hall
City Clerk Leslie Folsom
City Officials Absent:
Councilmember Rex Thompson
City Council Minutes 04/05/2007 -- 1
Councilmember Thompson led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Councilmember Kirkham offered
the prayer.
MINUTES:
None.
ITEMS FROM MAYOR
: Mayor Ard made a Proclamation for Fair Housing Month.
CONSENT AGENDA
:
CITY OF AMMON
AMENDED CONSENT AGENDA
Thursday April 5, 2007
License applications are pending in the City Office for the following:
GENERAL BUSINESS LICENSE 2007:
1.NEWGENERAL BUSINESS LICENSE APPLICATION:
A.Tanaka and Associates Therapy – Physical Therapy – 2475 S. Ammon Rd
th
B.Kohl’s Department Stores, Inc. – Retail Sales – 3175 S. 25 E.
th
C.Pojo’s Family Fun Center – Family Arcade – 2625 South 25 East
2.RENEWALBUSINESS LICENSE APPLICATION:
th
A.The Beneficial Financial Group – Financial – 3040 E. 17 Street
th
B.Fashion Bug #3471, Inc. - Retail – 2041 S. 25 E.
C.Waters Construction – Excavation – 2710 Midway
D.Decker, Paul R./Paul Decker Insurance – Ins. & Financial 3583 E. Briarcreek
th
E.Eastgate Drug, Inc.- Pharmacy/Retail Sales – 3250 E. 17 Street
th
F.Ammon Craigo’s Gourmet Pizza, LLC – Restaurant – 3160 E. 17 Ste. 110
G.Sunnyside Automotive – Automotive – 3790 E. Sunnyside
H.Walker Produce – Packaging Warehouse – 3965 E. Sunnyside
th
I.Neddo, Linda dba Optical Illusions – Eyewear – 3160 E. 17 St. Ste 150
J.Rockwell, Development, Inc. – Contractor – 3539 Briarcreek
th
K.Commercial Tire – Automotive – 2525 E. 17 Street
th
L.Ameritel Inn – Motel – 2501 S. 25 E.
M.Eagles Landing Apartments – Apartment Community – 2785 Eagle Dr.
N.Legend Realty – Realty – 1570 Midway
th
O.Chuck-A-Rama Buffet – Restaurant – 999 S. 25 E.
th
P.Jamba Juice – Restaurant – 1803 S. 25 E.
th
Q.No Limit, Inc dba Piano Gallery – Retail Sales – 3050 E. 17 Street
th
R.Lincoln Financial Advisors dba Premium Financial Advisors – Financial Services – 3456 E. 17 Street Suite
#205
th
S.Bank of Commerce Branch Charter #360 – Financial – 3113 S. 25 E.
th
T.Rush Auto Parts – Retail Sales – 2565 E. 17 Street
th
U.VEMCO dba Mountain States Wireless – Wireless Service – 3049 E. 17 St.
th
V.Carpet Mart – Retail Sales – 1572 South 15 East
th
W.Ship Pro, LLC Aim Mail Centers #75 – Mail Service – 3270 E. 17 St.
th
X.Grand Teton Storage – Storage – 2595 E. 17 Street
th
Y.Fazoli’s – Restaurant – 3003 South 25 East
th
Z.KY-Ani Sun Inc. – Network Marketing – 3456 E. 17 St. Ste#215
th
AA.Washington Mutual – Banking – 1711 S. 25 E.
th
BB.B.J. Alan Fireworks/Kmart #4758 – Fireworks – 3101 E. 17 Street
CC.Zirker Family Dentistry – Professional Services – 1801 S. Ammon Rd.
th
DD.Redwing Shoe Store – Retail Sales – 2003 S. 25 E.
EE.City Storage – Storage Units – 1800 S. Ammon Rd.
FF.Sawmill Woodwork & Supply – Cabinets & Millwork – 3968 Sunnyside #6
GG.Murri Painting, Inc. – Painting Contractor – 3968 East Sunnyside Rd.
HH.R. Jay Taylor Construction – Contractor – 3968 E. Sunnyside Rd. Unit 4B
th
II.Soapy’s Auto Wash – Car Wash – 2523 East 17 Street
th
JJ.The Mortgage Connection – Mortgage Services – 3040 E. 17 Street Ste. #2
th
KK.Coldstone Creamery – Restaurant – 2019 South 25 East
th
LL.GND Enterprises – Food Service – 2035 South 25 East
th
MM.Edward D. Jones – Financial Services – 2677 East 17 Street
th
NN.Family Chiropractic Center – Chiropractice – 3298 East 17 Street
th
OO.Citizens Community Bank – Financial Services – 2797 South 25 East
PP.Idaho Traffic Safety – Manufacturing, Sales & Rental – 3400 E. Sunnyside Rd.
QQ.
Auto Lube Services, Inc. – Auto Service – 2523 East Sunnyside Rd.
HOME OCCUPATION PERMITS 2007:
1.NEW HOME OCCUPATION PERMITS:
City Council Minutes 04/05/2007 -- 2
A. Peterson, Derick dba Kodero Construction, LLC – Construction – 3895 E. Sunnyside Rd.
2.RENEWAL HOME OCCUPATION PERMITS:
A.Ever True Enterprises –Translation/Photo-Video Preservation – 1929 Eagle Pointe Court
B.Herrick, Leeann dba Shear Pointe – Hair Salon – 4215 Willow Canyon Drive
C.McGuire, Jackie dba Faux Masters Plus – Home Decorating – 3801 Orchard Circle
D.Johnston, Terri – Gymnastics – 3760 Georgia Lane
LIQUOR/BEER/WINE WITH GENERAL BUSINESS LICENSE 2007:
1.NEW LIQUOR/BEER/WINE WITH GENERAL BUSINESS LICENSE:
th
A.Dooley, Jared – Bartender – 3520 E. 17 Street
th
B.Glunz, James Douglas – Bartender – 2665 S. 25 E.
MISC:
1. MASSAGE ESTABLISHMENT
th
A. Ajara Massage/Sargent, Christa – Massage – 3456 E. 17 Street
2. MOBILE FOOD VENDOR
A. Mac’s Snow Shack-3500 S. Ammon Road
Councilmember Kirkham motioned to approve the Consent Agenda. Councilmember Bean seconded. Roll
call vote: Councilmember Kirkham – Yes, Councilmember Bean – Yes, and Councilmember Waite – Yes. The
motion passed.
PUBLIC HEARINGS – Utility Fees:
Mayor Ard asked if there was any public comment. No-one came forward,
so he closed the public hearing. Council mentioned they had already discussed this issue in a work session.
Councilmember Bean motioned to approve the Resolution 2007-008. Councilmember Kirkham seconded.
Roll call vote: Councilmember Bean – Yes, Councilmember Kirkham – Yes, and Councilmember Waite – Yes.
The motion passed.
PUBLIC COMMENT REGARDING ITEMS NOT ON AGENDA:
None
ACTION ITEMS
:
1. Preliminary Site Plan – Biolife Plasma Center:
Planning Director Ron Folsom explained where the property is
located. There is excess parking and no requirements for landscaping because TSR handles the landscaping for the
area. Councilmember Bean inquired when they plan to build. It was mentioned around Summer/Fall.
Councilmember Kirkham inquired if there was anything from Planning & Zoning. Ron Folsom stated there was no
recommendation.
Councilmember Bean motioned to approve the Preliminary Site Plan for Biolife Plasma Center.
Councilmember Waite seconded. Roll call vote: Councilmember Bean – Yes, Councilmember Waite – Yes, and
Councilmember Kirkham – Yes. The motion passed.
2. Maverik Store Development Agreement:
Planning Director Ron Folsom explained this development should
meet everything that was discussed in the work session. Councilmember Kirkham inquired about the traffic
recommendations. Ron Folsom stated from what he can see, it looks as though everything has been met. Council
discussed what they talked about in the last work session.
Councilmember Kirkham motioned to approve the Maverik Store Annexation and Development
Agreement Division #1. Councilmember Bean seconded. Councilmember Kirkham – Yes, Councilmember Bean –
Yes, and Councilmember Waite – Yes. The motion passed.
3. Bridgewater #2 Development Agreement:
Planning Director Ron Folsom explained this is just the developer’s
portion. It was explained a development agreement is usually done separate with a school district. Council
discussed what the developer is responsible for.
Councilmember Kirkham motioned to table this until the next meeting on April 19, 2007. Councilmember
Bean inquired if this puts the school district behind. It was discussed the school wants to start construction in 4-6
weeks. Councilmember Waite seconded. Roll call vote: Councilmember Kirkham – Yes, Councilmember Waite –
Yes, and Councilmember Bean – Yes. The motion passed.
City Council Minutes 04/05/2007 -- 3
4. Resolution 2007-009 Idaho Safe Routes to School Grant:
Councilmember Kirkham summarized this grant.
The school district has written a grant to improve the signage in our school zones that would put in boxes showing
speeds. If they get the money through this grant, then the municipality has to maintain the grant, which is why it is
before Council. City Administrator Bruce Rose explained what signage would be added. The financial
consideration we need to understand is we have to pay for costs up front and them be reimbursed. School Dist. 93
explained the procedure for the reimbursement. Bruce Rose also explained the grant covers everything but
$1000.00 for mobilization/installation fee, which would be a consideration for Council. Council discussed they may
have to reopen the budget. Bruce Rose explained we can afford to do it because of some items that are not going to
be done right away.
Councilmember Bean motioned to approve Resolution 2007-009. Councilmember Kirkham seconded.
Roll call vote: Councilmember Bean – Yes, Councilmember Kirkham – Yes, and Councilmember Waite – Yes.
The motion passed.
5. Firehouse Grill/LaFleur Damage Claim:
Leslie Folsom explained the claim was for $2678 but was filed by
Firehouse Grill over the 180 days allowed into ICRMP so it was denied. We did investigate and told them they need
to come in and file a claim, they did not come in – she was not sure whether they did not understand. It was our
error per Rick. Bruce Rose explained it was damage done by us. The claim was filed at 186 days. They went from
his statement that it was in July and they went from the last day in July. Councilmember Bean inquired about the
statute of limitations. Scott Hall explained it depends on the policy. Scott Hall explained that if Mr. LaFleur had
filed on time, then it would have only cost us $500. Councilmember Kirkham stated she understood what he was
saying, but this was still our error and we should have followed up on it. It is our responsibility to correct our
actions. Bruce Rose also indicated this bid is from him and we should get our own bid. Bruce Rose summarized the
events up until now concerning the claim. They did try to get ICRMP to budge, but they would not.
Councilmember Bean suggested we work on this during the work session. Councilmember Bean asked Rick to get a
bid.
7. Ordinance #429 Amendment of Ordinances Regarding 4-6 Person Council and Related Issues (Refer to
Title):
Councilmember Bean suggested doing Item #7 before Item #6 because it falls in line with how we need to
pass these next two items.
Councilmember Bean read Ordinance #429,
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF AMMON, OF THE STATE OF
IDAHO, AMENDING TITLE 1, CHAPTER 6, COUNCIL, SECTION 4, TERM OF OFFICE, SECTION 5, SALARY, SECTION 9,
ELECTION OR APPOINTMENT, SECTION 10, DECLARATION OF CANDIDACY, SECTION 11, ELECTIONS AND PETITIONS FOR
NOMINATION AND SECTION 12, FORM OF PETITION; CHAPTER 10, ORDINANCES, SECTION 4, VETO BY MAY0R; PASSAGE
OVER MAYOR’S VETO; TITLE 3, CHAPTER 1, POLICE, SECTION 3, CITY’S OPERATION OF POLICE DIVISION, SUBSECTION (C),
by title and motioned that the City Council dispense with the rule requiring the reading of the
CHIEF OF POLICE
ordinance on three different days and that the three readings be waived. Councilmember Kirkham seconded. Roll
call vote: Councilmember Bean – Yes, Councilmember Kirkham – Yes, and Councilmember Waite – Yes. The
motion passed. Scott Hall explained there needs to be a change with Section 3. It should read “This ordinance shall
become effective upon its passage by the City Council, signature of the Mayor, due publication, effective for the
purpose of the general election 2007 and the taking of offices, thereafter.
Councilmember Bean read Ordinance #429,
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF AMMON, OF THE STATE OF
IDAHO, AMENDING TITLE 1, CHAPTER 6, COUNCIL, SECTION 4, TERM OF OFFICE, SECTION 5, SALARY, SECTION 9,
ELECTION OR APPOINTMENT, SECTION 10, DECLARATION OF CANDIDACY, SECTION 11, ELECTIONS AND PETITIONS FOR
NOMINATION AND SECTION 12, FORM OF PETITION; CHAPTER 10, ORDINANCES, SECTION 4, VETO BY MAY0R; PASSAGE
OVER MAYOR’S VETO; TITLE 3, CHAPTER 1, POLICE, SECTION 3, CITY’S OPERATION OF POLICE DIVISION, SUBSECTION (C),
by title and motioned to adopt Ordinance #429 as an ordinance of the City of Ammon with the
CHIEF OF POLICE
changes in Section 3 as written on this third and final reading. Councilmember Kirkham seconded. Roll call vote:
Councilmember Bean – Yes, Councilmember Kirkham – Yes, and Councilmember Waite – Yes. The motion
passed.
6. Ordinance #428 Assigning Numbers to Each Council Seat
: Councilmember Bean explained this ordinance
authorizes the City Clerk to assign seat numbers to the Council seats. Leslie Folsom stated she thinks we do the
even numbers with the general election and the odd numbers with the off election years. Councilmember Bean
explained it is at her discretion. Council discussed whether or not there are stipulations.
Councilmember Bean read Ordinance #428,
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF AMMON, OF THE STATE OF
by
IDAHO, ALLOWING FOR THE CITY CLERK TO ASSIGN A NUMBER TO EACH COUNCIL SEAT FOR ELECTION PURPOSES
title and motioned that the City Council dispense with the rule requiring the reading of the ordinance on three
different days and that the three readings be waived. Councilmember Waite seconded. Roll call vote:
Councilmember Bean – Yes, Councilmember Waite – Yes, and Councilmember Kirkham – Yes. The motion
passed.
City Council Minutes 04/05/2007 -- 4
Councilmember Bean read Ordinance #428,
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF AMMON, OF THE STATE OF
by
IDAHO, ALLOWING FOR THE CITY CLERK TO ASSIGN A NUMBER TO EACH COUNCIL SEAT FOR ELECTION PURPOSES
title and motioned to adopt Ordinance #428 as an ordinance of the City of Ammon on this third and final reading.
Councilmember Waite seconded. Roll call vote: Councilmember Bean – Yes, Councilmember Waite – Yes, and
Councilmember Kirkham – Yes. The motion passed.
8. Bartender License - Wilson:
Scott Hall explained what the charges were concerning the bartender. He stated
it was a misdemeanor citation. He explained the City’s policy and the legal standpoint. The language can be
interpreted differently. Councilmember Kirkham asked what Scott’s recommendation would be for this case. Scott
Hall stated it is a vague statute. Councilmember Bean stated we need to rework our statute. He feels we need to
direct someone on staff to take a look at this. Leslie Folsom and Scott Hall stated they are already working on
language for it.
Councilmember Bean motioned to approve the bartender’s license for Glenn Wilson. Councilmember
Kirkham seconded. Roll call vote: Councilmember Bean – Yes, Councilmember Kirkham – Yes, and
Councilmember Waite – Yes. The motion passed.
9. EEO Policy Statement:
Bruce Rose stated the next two items were given to him to review at the last City
Council meeting. They are a requirement of the Idaho Commerce and Labor since we are a recipient of the
infrastructure grant. The EEO statement will be given out to potential applicants.
Councilmember Bean motioned to approve the EEO Policy Statement as presented and authorized the
Mayor to sign it. Councilmember Waite seconded. Roll call vote: Councilmember Bean – Yes, Councilmember
Waite – Yes, and Councilmember Kirkham – Yes. The motion passed.
10. Resolution 2007-007 Grievance Procedure:
Councilmember Bean motioned to approve Resolution 2007-007
Grievance Procedure. Councilmember Waite seconded. Roll call vote: Councilmember Bean – Yes,
Councilmember Waite – Yes, and Councilmember Kirkham – Yes. The motion passed.
11. Resolution 2007-008 Utility Fees:
Leslie Folsom explained we already addressed this issue in the Public
Hearings Portion of this meeting.
12. Authorization to Bid New Garbage Truck:
Bruce Rose explained this is budgeted but needs to be authorized.
It was actually budgeted in 2006 budget but had to roll into this year. That truck has arrived, but now it is time for a
new truck. There is $125,000 in the budget for a new truck. If you still feel comfortable with that, then they will get
a bid, come back before the Council to approve the bid and order it. Councilmember Kirkham asked what route this
truck would drive. Bruce Rose explained they do not have specific routes. He explained this truck can do both
dumpster and hand route. It would be the same kind we have right now. Councilmember Kirkham stated we need
to keep in mind about having an automated system for residential sanitation. Bruce Rose explained this truck will
not take as long to get here as the other one did. Councilmember Bean stated they have Council’s authorization.
13. Establish FY 2008 Budget Hearing Date – Aug. 2, 2007:
Councilmember Bean motioned to adopt August 2,
2007 as the date for the FY 2008 Budget Hearing Date. Councilmember Kirkham seconded. Roll call vote:
Councilmember Bean – Yes, Councilmember Kirkham – Yes, and Councilmember Waite – Yes. The motion
passed.
14. Bonneville Fire District Proposal:
Councilmember Bean stated he is not prepared to act on this motion as he
needs some additional information. He would like to see a budget for the year 2007-2008 to assure they have the
revenues and capabilities they are stating they have.
Dick Fowler, 9628 N. River Road Idaho Falls, stated he has a copy of the budget they hand out each month.
Councilmember Bean inquired if he has a budget for 2007-2008. Dick Fowler stated not yet. Councilmember Bean
stated if they are going to join the District, he needs to see the revenues and income sources. Dick Fowler stated
they will not have their budget hearing until August. Dick Fowler stated they do their budget on a quarterly basis.
Councilmember Bean stated they did a survey in October 2005, and it asked if patrons were satisfied or
dissatisfied with the voluntary fire department services. 47% said they were very satisfied, 30 % said they were
somewhat satisfied. So a total of 77% said they were basically satisfied. Another question was asked if the City of
Ammon were to change the way it provides fire service, which of the following reservations would you make in
regards to future fire protection and services in the City of Ammon. 42% said would keep the volunteer fire
department, 17% said they would create their own fire department, and 31% they would join the County Fire
District. Councilmember Bean also stated Ammon residents currently pay a city tax of 52 cents per $1000 or $52
per $100,000 for volunteer fire support – would you support or oppose an increase of $1.42 per $1000 or $142 per
$100,000. 51% said they support, 42% said they would oppose. Councilmember Bean inquired what they are
City Council Minutes 04/05/2007 -- 5
buying with a $1.42 versus what they could provide with a $1.42. Councilmember Kirkham stated she would argue
that we probably cannot get the same level they are offering on with that amount. She stated what we gain by
joining the District is more trucks, etc. Councilmember Bean stated he understands we would have better fire
protection; he wants to know what we could do ourselves. We could not provide a secondary station.
Councilmember Kirkham stated we could not man two stations full time either, we could only man one.
Dwayne Nelson inquired about the proposal itself. A lot of people don’t understand what the proposal is.
Councilmember Kirkham stated we do not have a formal proposal.
Todd Bettie, 4375 Mason, asked if this is open for opinions. Councilmember Kirkham stated this is not a
public hearing, but you can make a statement. He stated he is here as a patron and not a city firefighter. He stated it
makes more sense to join a wider district for the same dollar, than to contract with the District and have a smaller
one for the same dollar. Councilmember Bean explained if they decide to join, they will be joining the Fire District,
not contracting with them. Todd Bettie explained that would settle his fears.
Councilmember Bean inquired to the leaders of the Fire District what was their total annual tax? Matt
Morgan, Bonneville County Fire District, stated he does not have that information for them. He stated they are $1.4
million plus a year in their collections. Councilmember Bean stated he needed to see their tax revenue. He needs to
see that you can pay the fire chief, the staff, etc. He is not questioning that they can’t do it, he just feels he needs to
be prudent for the patrons. Dick Fowler stated whatever information they need, they will furnish it to you. He
stated he ran some numbers of how they would be if Ammon joined the Fire District and said it would be a very
solvent District. They don’t have the materials for the details tonight, but they can prepare it and get it for you. He
feels this would be a true benefit for the City of Ammon. Councilmember Kirkham suggested we revisit this in a
work session to look at the numbers closer. She feels we need to look at this very closely. Scott Hall stated there
are a lot of issues they need to look at, he made an analogy of a marriage and a divorce. Councilmember Bean
stated he understands that the Fire District is under pressure because a decision needs to be made soon, but
wondered if it can be put off. Matt Morgan stated it would not be fair for them to do that to the City of Idaho Falls.
He also stated in response to Scott Hall’s analogy, he feels that is more of an analogy for a contract, not if they are
joining the District. He feels they would become a whole, not a marriage. Scott Hall stated he only used that
analogy because they want to look at what this “marriage” would look like and then what would happen if they
pulled out. Councilmember Kirkham stated there is concern about the deadline, and they would like to give the
patrons a chance to give them their opinion. She wants to know if you can give us that much time. Matt Morgan
stated he would have to discuss it with the Commissioners, whether they are or are not, going to continue with the
current contract. They have to take care of the District no matter what. They do owe it to the City of Idaho Falls to
make a decision though. Councilmember Bean inquired if the District could go on alone without the City of
Ammon. Councilmember Kirkham interjected that we could not actually join the Fire District until December
because of the way the assessment is done. Scott Hall stated there is a question on that, because they have already
done assessments for the year. The question becomes how you fund it from January to October due to the fiscal
versus the tax year. Councilmember Bean stated the Fire District has to present something to the county sometime.
Matt Morgan stated that is in August. They are capped at 3% by law.
Matt Morgan introduced Ralph Isom one of the Commissioners of the Fire District. He explained Ralph
brought up a good point, although their fiscal year ends on October 1, they are looking to offer the same services as
the patrons of the Fire District have. They way they see it is the operations of the Fire District take place on January
1, which there is a 90 day window. They are solvent and anything they need to do during that 90 day period, they
don’t have a problem helping the City of Ammon. They can back up things to get you through that 90 day period.
Councilmember Bean explained the budget gets set before any rates are changed. They don’t get any benefits from
it until a later point. Scott Hall explained they would not see the money from Ammon until July. Matt Morgan
explained during the period of transition, they can come up with a program that would be a best fit for the situation.
They are solvent enough to handle it. Matt Morgan explained they need to get something together to make a formal
proposal. Councilmember Bean asked Matt Morgan again if the Fire District could survive without the City of
Idaho Falls and the City of Ammon. Matt Morgan explained there are a lot of hard feelings out there coming from
the City of Idaho Falls firefighters and he doesn’t understand why. To answer Bean’s question, he stated that the
Fire District was very solvent from 1967 to 1991 and when the merger came together, he was a county fireman.
There were more fireman on both sides of the fence that were disputing it. He has watched it from then, and the Fire
District is solvent. The biggest threat comes from the City of Ammon with their annexations; another piece of their
pie is taken. They see this as a 50/50 benefit to taxpayers of the City of Ammon and a necessary evil step up to the
next level for a progressively growing community. He feels this is a great fit for the District and the City of
Ammon, they can grow together. The issue at hand is what is the benefits the City of Ammon residents.
Councilmember Kirkham explained she agrees this is not about Idaho Falls, it does not matter whether their contract
is discontinued or not. Councilmember Bean stated if they have the ability to not continue with that contract and go
it on their own, this provides relief to the City of Ammon knowing you can go it alone.
City Council Minutes 04/05/2007 -- 6
Ralph Isom, Commissioner, stated one thing that enhances your deal is the economy of the situation. The
backup helps a lot, with stations, firefighters, and trucks. Councilmember Kirkham motioned to move this to a work
session.
Dave Thueson, 5058 Brennan Place, stated he has a lot of thoughts on this. By saying that you don’t care
about whether they contract with the City of Idaho Falls or not is an issue because he feels it is different than what
they are bringing to the table. Right now they have five stations available. From what he understands, they are
basing this on when they are going to break away from Idaho Falls. He agrees with Mr. Morgan that we will have
more services available. He doesn’t say this is bad or good. He would also like to know if there are any other
proposals, and have we looked into any. He would like to see us look at all our avenues.
Delores ?, stated she would like to know that the City of Ammon will always be protected. She wants to
know where the trucks would go if they split. Councilmember Kirkham stated we would keep our trucks. Delores
stated she would like to see it in the proposal because she was in a city where they lost the trucks due to a situation
like this.
Charles Smith stated he would like to see Council stop and look at this. He stated it will bring EMS to
Ammon. Idaho Falls ambulances have to come out this way. To have that benefit is extreme. The tax rate is hard
to think about going up, but he would work an extra day just to get the EMS alone. This is a tremendous
opportunity for us. He feels it is a win-win situation.
Councilmember Kirkham stated she appreciates the public input, but they are clearly not in a position to
make a decision tonight. She would like those that have something to say to come next Thursday to the work
session and bring their input. It was discussed there are more budget issues to discuss also. Councilmember Bean
agreed this is a positive move for Ammon; we just want to make sure we have everything in order. Councilmember
Kirkham stated she strongly feels that we need to hear the public opinion on this. Councilmember Bean asked if she
is suggesting a public hearing. She stated yes. It was discussed we technically don’t need a hearing, could we do a
special one. Bruce Rose stated you could do a Public Information Hearing. Councilmember Bean asked if we could
make a decision that night.
Matt Morgan mentioned they would like to work on this and get something together to present to Council.
He will be gone for ten days but would like to be at the work meeting, if possible. However, they can put the
information together with or without him. As far as May 1, the City of Ammon needs to do what it needs for their
city. The Fire District will do what it needs for their district. We can see where we are at that point and see if this
“marriage” will work out.
Rick Lords, 3155 Ross, stated he has heard about the benefits and does not understand what the District is
bringing to the table as benefits. Councilmember Kirkham stated that is why they want to have the public meeting.
Councilmember Bean stated one of the things they bring to the table is full-time coverage. Right now we do not.
That is a big plus for the city. We also don’t have the secondary coverage. There is a substantial benefit in response
time and coverage. Rick Lords would like to see the facts and figures.
Ralph Isom stated he wanted to make clear they already own equipment. They own three fire trucks and
equipment and three tanker trucks and one fire station. They have talked about buying another truck. They are not
coming to the table without anything.
Councilmember Kirkham motioned to move this to work session. Councilmember Bean seconded. Roll
call vote: Councilmember Kirkham – Yes, Councilmember Bean – Yes, and Councilmember Waite –Yes. The
motion passed.
DISCUSSION ITEMS
:
1. Bartender Licenses:
Previously covered.
2. Idaho State Liquor Dispensary:
Leslie Folsom stated she got a third quarter Liquor Dispensary note with our
share of $53,000. When she was at the meeting in Boise, the Legislature authorized to do three state liquor
dispensaries. She asked if Idaho Falls or Ammon was one of them and he said he thought so. She called Ken
Winkler concerning it. If we can get one, it could increase our funds substantially. He stated Ammon is one of the
key ones. They will be either bordering Ammon/Idaho Falls or just Ammon. She explained there is land off
Ammon Road open. Councilmember Bean stated he doesn’t have a problem with it being in Ammon, just would
like to see it in a different spot. Leslie stated she would just like some land ideas for them, so we have something to
offer. Ken would like to know, if Ammon City Council is interested. If so, he would look for land. It was
discussed they were looking at a place next to the Edward Theatre. Leslie Folsom explained how we could get the
monies from having the dispensary. Councilmember Bean stated there is an interest there and we need to pursue it.
3. School Water Meter Update:
Bruce Rose stated they should be done by the first of May. Councilmember
Bean asked if we were going to put them on the churches. Bruce stated we only had decided the schools for now.
Councilmember Bean stated he would like us to keep the churches in mind for later. Leslie Folsom mentioned that
City Council Minutes 04/05/2007 -- 7
they have been working on getting these meter readings lined up. She made need some extra help to get everything
cleaned up from the mess before, with the meters and utilities. She would like to hire Mike at Caselle for one day.
Councilmember Bean said OK. Councilmember Bean would like to make sure the Building Permit department does
not overspend. He is not sure we will have as many building permits this year as we did last year. Bruce Rose
stated they realize the revenues are behind. He stated the Building Permit department has already done most of their
discretionary spending.
4. Misc.:
Mayor Ard asked Bruce Rose about an oil change that cost $92.57 on a four-wheeler. He is bothered by
that.
Councilmember Kirkham asked where we are at on the Cottages. Bill Manwill stated they have a lot dug
out. At the first of the week, they will start hauling the stockpile rock so that they don’t have to keep moving it back
every time they dig a hole. They will be working on those until they have to go somewhere else. Councilmember
Kirkham stated the Wheeler’s have all that sod on their sidewalk and wants to know if we can remove that. Bill
Manwill stated we should be able to. Bruce Rose stated if they can get it to the street, we can get it hauled off. Bill
Manwill stated there is a lot of handwork due to the gas lines. Bruce Rose stated they cannot give a deadline date
yet – this is a new project.
Councilmember Kirkham stated she met with the Sheriff’s office this week. She will be negotiating with
Bud next month. As far as the letter we received concerning a bomb threat, they took it seriously and they have
actually sent detectives to speak with this individual. The Sheriff’s Department called her today and gave her an
update. She maintains it is an idle threat.
Councilmember Kirkham stated she is concerned about the work session. There are two items on that work
session, the Fire District and the Hawks Landing. She is concerned about the length and adding the daycare
situation. Bruce Rose stated he has the daycare, budget, massage establishment fees, animal daycares, gazebo,
Hawks Landing, Fire District proposal, and a water conservation program on the work session agenda.
Councilmember Bean inquired which items are really Council items, like burying the wire for the gazebo. Bruce
Rose explained it is a Council issue due to spending issues. Councilmember Kirkham is concerned the Fire District
issue will go a couple of hours. She also feels Hawks will take a lot of time. Councilmember Kirkham told Bruce to
push anyone else that calls to the next work session.
Leslie Folsom explained the massage establishment fees concern. Councilmember Bean stated he would
like to keep the fees the way they are. It was discussed whether the fees are fair. Leslie stated the massage license
ended up costing about $425 to have an establishment. She would like to encourage them to be a business, but we
are forcing them to do home based businesses. It was discussed to bring this issue back to Council in May.
Bruce Rose talked about taking off the gazebo issue for now. Bruce Rose inquired if we could take off the
budget issue for now. It was discussed to push the water conservation program to May also. It was discussed which
issues to discuss first at the work session. The animal daycare situation was discussed.
th
Bruce Rose asked the Mayor about the Lions Club. There is a meeting on the 13. Anyone interested in
going is more than welcome. They have asked if someone from the City could come. Bruce Rose stated the dues
are $60 per year. There is one meeting per month. If anyone would like to join it is open, or he would join, if they
would like him to. Councilmember Bean stated his time is better spent here. It was discussed Mayor Ard could be a
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member and we could represent him. They would like someone there on Friday the 13 at 7pm to speak about what
is going on in Ammon. Bruce stated he would tell them the Mayor would join but we have no one available to
speak that night.
Bruce Rose stated they received a letter from the Chamber of Commerce and would like to have someone
from Ammon serve on their board. The City of Shelley is also considered part of the Greater Idaho Falls area.
Mayor Christensen of Shelley was not able to be a member, so one of the City Council members will be on the
board. They meet once a month at 7am. Councilmember Kirkham volunteered to do that. Bruce Rose stated he
would help represent her.
Councilmember Bean motioned to adjourn. Councilmember Kirkham seconded. All in favor, motion
passed.
The meeting adjourned at 11:12 p.m.
___________________________________________
C. Bruce Ard, Mayor
______________________________________
Leslie Folsom, City Clerk
City Council Minutes 04/05/2007 -- 8