Public Documents
Downloadable reports, legal documents, meeting minutes, and public records
About Document Flags: Flags such as Open Meeting Violation, Constitutional Issue, and Legal Issue are indicators of potential concerns only. They are generated during document review to highlight areas that may warrant further examination. These flags are not legal conclusions, findings of fact, or determinations of wrongdoing.
Feeding the Best That Will Eat Us
Jerome County Citizens Ordinance Reform Proposal
Government Documents
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Commissioners — Minutes — 2024-03-18 Energy/Data Center
This document records the March 18, 2024 Jerome County Board of Commissioners meeting, featuring commissioner reports on various community activities, routine administrative business including claims approval and personnel matters, and several agenda items including airport bid openings, park updates, IT equipment purchases, and tax payment arrangements.
Decisions Made
- Approved indigent matter and signed Order of Reimbursement for Case No. 2024-21 to pay funeral expenses
- Approved claims totaling $1,030.72, $60,621.01, and $112,759.46 for various funds
- Approved purchase of ten new computers for $13,993.20 to replace overheating equipment
- Forgave 2020 interest of $207.43 and penalties/fees of $10.55 for Larry Michals with payment plan arrangement
- Granted two-year extension to Silver Sky Subdivision for completion of asphalt work
Energy, Data Centers & Ordinances
- Idaho Power substation location discussed for Snake River Canyons Park area
Guests, Speakers & Presentations
- Jesse Vallez - newly hired human resources director introduction
- Kent Atkin and Marty Luhr - Hazelton Airport bid opening with Thomas Leija from JUB Engineers
- Bill Bridges - Snake River Canyons Park Managing Board chairman providing park update
- Cody Westover and Matthew McGregor - IT personnel providing technology updates
- Larry Michals - property tax payment extension request
- Kacie Buhler - Planning and Zoning Administrator regarding Silver Sky Subdivision extension
- Tanya Stitt - Emergency Management Director providing operational report
Upcoming Dates & Activities
- March 22 - Larry Michals first $125 tax payment due
- March 28 - Local Emergency Planning Committee meeting 1-2 PM with Narcan training
- April 3-4 - Election security session
- April 15 - Metropolitan Planning Organization executive director interviews
- May 1-2 - Reunification training sponsored by Public Health District
- July - Larry Michals return appointment with Board
- Summer - Bridge dedication ceremony at Snake River Canyons Park
Key Points
- Commissioner activity reports
- Administrative leave requests
- Indigent matters and funeral expenses
- Claims approval and payment processing
- Human resources personnel introduction
- Hazelton Airport rehabilitation bid opening
- Snake River Canyons Park management and development
- IT infrastructure updates and equipment purchases
- Property tax payment extensions
- Silver Sky Subdivision final plat extension
- Emergency management operations and grant distribution
- Generator maintenance and repair bids
Commissioners — Minutes — 2026-03-19 Concern Energy/Data Center Open Meeting Violation
Jerome County Board of Commissioners met to review an emergency energy ordinance passed last year and discuss passing a new energy ordinance to restrict solar, wind, and BESS projects to specific areas of the county. The planning and zoning commission had recommended denying the energy ordinance, but the Board decided to proceed with a public hearing on April 13th to adopt the ordinance as currently written, with plans to fine-tune it later based on public feedback.
Open Meeting Law Concerns
- The document mentions there was 'some confusion regarding the phrasing on the agenda' and needed clarification that it was not an emergency meeting but a review of an emergency ordinance, which suggests potential inadequate agenda description that could mislead the public about the nature of the meeting
Decisions Made
- Decided to hold a public hearing on April 13th at 6 pm for the energy ordinance
- Decided to proceed with the current ordinance as written rather than making changes that would restart the process
- Decided against continuing workshops until after the current ordinance is approved to avoid confusion
Energy, Data Centers & Ordinances
- Review of emergency energy ordinance passed last year
- Discussion of new energy ordinance to restrict solar, wind, and BESS projects
- Current concern that energy projects are allowed in most zones countywide
- Proposed ordinance would restrict facilities to specific areas requiring special use permits
- Planning and zoning commission recommended denying the energy ordinance
- Previous ordinance was a 182-day ban on all energy applications
- Public comment noted current energy facilities are not addressed in the ordinance
- Discussion of including safety standards requirements in special use permit process
- Moratorium option discussed but not favored
Constitutional & Social Concerns
- Restriction of energy development projects across most of the county could raise property rights and due process concerns
- The ordinance effectively blocks most renewable energy development which could impact energy policy and environmental considerations
Guests, Speakers & Presentations
- Mike Seib - topic not specified
- Jerry Holton - topic not specified
- Kacie Buhler - provided information about ordinance process and planning commission recommendations
- Ryan Christensen - topic not specified
- Aaron Menenberg - topic not specified
- Ivy Lyn - topic not specified
- Katy Riker - topic not specified
- Sam Beus - confirmed timeline information about ordinance changes
- Unidentified public commenter - addressed need to include current energy facilities in ordinance
Upcoming Dates & Activities
- April 13th at 6 pm - Public hearing/open house for energy ordinance
Key Points
- Emergency Energy Ordinance review
- Solar, wind, and BESS project restrictions
- Planning and zoning commission recommendations
- Special use permits for energy facilities
- Public hearing scheduling
- Workshop continuation discussion
- Current energy facility regulations
- Moratorium vs normal process options
- Public information dissemination
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Commissioners — Minutes — 2023-03-20 Energy/Data Center
This document records the March 20, 2023 Jerome County Board of Commissioners meeting. The primary focus was renaming the Judicial Annex Building to honor the late Judge Thomas Borresen, following a petition from 53 county employees and citizens. The meeting also covered commissioner reports on various county activities, discussions about remodeling the former jail space, routine administrative business, and presentations on fireworks enforcement and security camera systems.
Decisions Made
- Motion to rename the Jerome County Judicial Annex in honor of Judge Borresen - passed unanimously
- Motion to close the Courthouse and Annex on April 3 from 10:30-2:00 for Judge Borresen's funeral - passed unanimously
- Motion to rename the Judicial Annex as the Thomas H. Borreson Judicial Complex - passed unanimously
- Motion to approve claims as presented - passed unanimously
- Motion to accept the Election Canvass Certification for Jerome School District - passed unanimously
- Motion to approve $21,250 cost for replacement of Annex security scanner - passed unanimously
- Motion to approve Notice of Cancellation for Ruth E. Pedersen tax matter - passed unanimously
- Board signed Claims Approval Report for Insurance Deductible Trust Fund totaling $1,725.84
- Board signed Catering Permit for 19th Hole Bar & Grill for April 1, 2023
- Board signed Employee Wage Change forms to hire three new employees
- Board signed Retail Alcoholic Beverage License for Claudia Lopez dba La Ideal Baker
- Board signed Claims Approval Report totaling $76,484.96 for multiple funds
- Board signed Employee Wage Change form for IT Specialist Desea Lance wage increase
- Commissioner Crouch agreed to have County legal counsel review Civil Science Infrastructure contract
- Commissioner Howell agreed to pursue obtaining architectural plans for jail remodeling
- Commissioner Howell agreed to ask Park Managing Board to assess flag poles
Energy, Data Centers & Ordinances
- Discussion of building a data room/data center in the former jail space in the Courthouse with estimated cost of $1.2 million for all planned remodeling
- Equipment for data center estimated at $800,000 with $80,000 needed from budget for server room
- Alternative small data center room available at Thomas H. Borreson Judicial Complex
- $465,000 LATF grant funds received that could be used to help build new data center in Courthouse
Guests, Speakers & Presentations
- Brad Calbo, Prosecutor - discussed Judge Borresen renaming petition and fireworks enforcement
- Mike Seib, Deputy Prosecutor - spoke about Judge Borreson's service
- Deserae Calbo, Misdemeanor Probation Administrator - present for Judge Borreson discussion
- Tracee McKim, Chief Deputy Clerk - multiple agenda items including grants and security scanner
- Mark Swenson, Assessor - present for Judge Borreson discussion and tax cancellation
- Cy Lootens, deputy clerk/elections specialist - presented March 14 election certification
- Bill Bridges, Snake River Canyons Park Managing Board chairman - park updates and improvements
- Larry Hall, Jerome 20/20 economic development - presented Civil Science Infrastructure contract
- Janet Prescott, real estate agent - discussed selling 203.9 acres near Snake River Canyons Park
- Gary Taylor, Deputy Sheriff - present for fireworks enforcement discussion
- Ron and Pam Yates - discussed fireworks sales enforcement and park flag poles
- Tony Civello, Verkada company representative - security camera presentation via Zoom
- Desea Lance, IT Technician - present for Verkada presentation
Upcoming Dates & Activities
- April 3 - Courthouse and Annex closure from 10:30-2:00 for Judge Borresen's funeral
- March 21 - Web Host meeting scheduled for Snake River Canyons Park
- May 13 - Clean-up scheduled for Snake River Canyons Park
- End of March - Idaho Legislature expected to close session
- Friday and Saturday (dates not specified) - Gun show at Fairgrounds
- Summer - Self Help Housing 100th anniversary celebration
- Within eight months - Timeline for new data center construction in Courthouse
Key Points
- Petition to rename Judicial Annex in honor of Judge Thomas Borresen
- Commissioner reports on Fair Board meeting, community partnerships, legislative review, and economic development
- Former jail remodeling discussion for data center and offices
- Business and administrative matters including permits and hiring
- Claims approval and payroll
- March 14 school district election certification
- Snake River Canyons Park updates and improvements
- Real estate discussion for 203 acres near Snake River Canyons Park
- Clerk matters including grants, wage increases, and security scanner replacement
- Tax cancellation for homeowner exemption error
- Fireworks sales enforcement and Snake River Canyons Park flag poles
- Verkada security camera system presentation
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Commissioners — Minutes — 2024-03-22 Concern Open Meeting Violation
This is a special meeting of the Jerome County Board of Commissioners held on March 22, 2024, focusing on two main issues: implementation of a new payroll system requiring employee check-in/check-out procedures, and addressing camping enforcement issues at Snake River Canyons Park including the need for proper signage and county ordinances.
Open Meeting Law Concerns
- No public comment period mentioned in the meeting minutes
- Meeting appears to focus on operational matters but lacks indication of proper public notice requirements for the special meeting
Decisions Made
- Approved vehicle transfer from Office of Emergency Management to Sheriff's office for detective use
- New payroll system will be implemented in May 2024
- Deputy times may be entered manually if new system doesn't work for law enforcement
- Leave requests will be processed through the new payroll system
Constitutional & Social Concerns
- Discussion of camping restrictions and enforcement in public park areas
- Shooting restrictions in public park with exceptions only for hunting
- Implementation of employee tracking system that monitors check-in/check-out times
Guests, Speakers & Presentations
- Payroll Clerk Leanne Snowden presented information about new payroll system implementation
- Clerk Cy Lootens discussed leave request procedures
- Chief Deputy Clerk Tracee McKim attended payroll system discussion
- Sheriff George Oppedyk addressed camping enforcement and vehicle needs
- Chief Deputy Sheriff Gary Taylor participated in sheriff's office discussions
- Human Resources Director Jesse Vallez attended payroll system meeting
Upcoming Dates & Activities
- May 2024 - New payroll system implementation
- Future meeting planned between Leanne Snowden and sheriff's office regarding deputy hours
- Department of Fish & Game study to be conducted on proposed gun range feasibility
Key Points
- New payroll system implementation
- Employee time tracking procedures
- Deputy sheriff work hour management
- Leave request procedures
- Camping enforcement at Snake River Canyons Park
- Park signage requirements
- County ordinance needs
- Shooting restrictions in the park
- Hunting regulations
- Proposed gun range feasibility study
- Detective vehicle transfer
Commissioners — Minutes — 2026-03-23 Energy/Data Center Exec Session Open Meeting Violation
These are the minutes from the Jerome County Board of Commissioners meeting held on March 23, 2026. The meeting covered routine county business including election preparations, facility improvements, departmental reports, and grant approvals. A significant portion was dedicated to a Q&A session with Madison County's Gary Armstrong about energy ordinances and planning/zoning matters.
Executive Session Decisions
- After a 9-minute executive session for personnel matters (9:43-9:52 am), no specific decisions from this session were disclosed
- After a 13-minute executive session for possible legal issues (2:07-2:20 pm), the board decided to remove a lien from the Higley Group hangar so it could be used as collateral
Open Meeting Law Concerns
- The document appears to be truncated mid-sentence, suggesting the minutes may be incomplete
- No specific open meeting law violations are evident, though the truncated nature makes full assessment difficult
Decisions Made
- Approved purchase of 10 new double-sided polling booths for $2,800 total ($280 each)
- Approved polling places for 2026 primary and general elections with changes to Bishop Court (moved to Renew Church) and Shepherdview (moved from gym to library at Jerome Middle School)
- Approved new postage machine lease that is $100 cheaper per quarter
- Accepted waterways grant of $5,905 with 50% county match for waterway patrolling and inspections
- Approved expenditure of $26,977.05 for signage at overlook park (funded by Chobani donation)
- Approved emergency threat procedure posters purchase for $280 (10 posters from Jerome Printshop)
- Removed lien from Higley Group hangar to allow use as collateral
- Approved claims as presented by staff
- Approved PTO payout requests
- Approved meeting minutes
Energy, Data Centers & Ordinances
- Madison County has a wind ordinance allowing windmills up to 350 ft total height to blade tip
- Madison County does not allow solar energy facilities at all
- Madison County commissioners rejected a company's request to amend height requirements for wind facilities
- Gary Armstrong discussed that Madison County doesn't currently allow battery energy storage systems (BESS) due to lack of interest
- Discussion about Idaho Code giving counties options to define what energy projects are wanted
- Agriculture protection areas were discussed as they relate to energy development
Guests, Speakers & Presentations
- Gary Armstrong - Madison County administrating director, 30 years experience, presented on energy ordinances and planning/zoning matters
- Cy Lootens and Ryan Treanor - discussed polling booths and election locations
- Marion Umana - gave juvenile probation monthly report
- Andrea Gonzalez - gave misdemeanor probation monthly report
- Chad Kingsland and Bill Bridges - discussed waterways grant
- Bill Bridges - updated on Shoshone Falls Overlook Project
- Eric Jackson and Kirsten Hartley - presented emergency threat procedure posters
- Marthy Luhr - discussed airport leases
- Multiple attendees at evening P&Z workshop including Kacie Buhler, Ryan Christensen, Cathy Roemer, Loretta Holton, Jerry Holton, Lyle Johnstone, Jeff Pierson, Aaron Menenberg, Elizabeth Kocekeritz, Connie Kincheloe, Ralph Kincheloe, and Julie DeWolfe Arroyo
Upcoming Dates & Activities
- May 19, 2026 - Primary Election date
- November 2026 - General Election (specific date not mentioned)
- 6 pm - Planning and zoning commission scheduled to arrive at evening workshop
- Ribbon cutting ceremony for Shoshone Falls Overlook (date not specified)
- CSI campus parks department meeting event (date not specified)
Key Points
- Commissioner reports and activities
- New polling booth purchase
- Designated polling locations for May 2026 Primary Election
- Postage machine contract renewal
- Fair Board Memorandum of Understanding review
- Juvenile probation monthly report
- Misdemeanor probation monthly report
- Waterways grant discussion
- Shoshone Falls Overlook Project update
- Emergency threat procedure posters
- Airport lease issues and lien removal
- Claims approval
- Employee PTO payout requests
- Planning and zoning workshop with Gary Armstrong
- Energy ordinances discussion
- Agriculture protection areas
- Battery energy storage systems (BESS)
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Commissioners — Minutes — 2025-03-24 Concern Open Meeting Violation
This document contains the minutes from the Jerome County Board of Commissioners meeting held on March 24, 2025. The meeting covered commissioner reports from various committee meetings, discussions about Snake River Canyon Park trails and overlook project with BLM, monthly reports from probation departments, property tax exemptions for religious organizations, HR updates regarding comp time payouts, and approval of a $219,083 parking lot repair project for the administration building.
Open Meeting Law Concerns
- The American Legion was absent due to a veteran's death and funeral, but it's unclear if proper notice was given for rescheduling their agenda item
- No mention of public comment periods being offered during the meeting
Decisions Made
- Reappointed Arlen Morgan to the Mid Snake River Water Resource Commission Board
- Approved probation officers' conference attendance expenses
- Approved updated expenditure of $1,192.64 for Mark Reyes to fix GIS truck
- Approved payout to county employees with over 80 hours of comp time
- Approved HR furniture purchases for new office
- Accepted Hayes Construction proposal for $219,083.00 for parking lot and building repairs including storage shed removal
- Approved Resolution 2025-22 for destruction of prosecuting attorney's office records
- Approved minutes from 3/10/25 and 3/17/25 meetings
- Approved claims as presented by staff
Constitutional & Social Concerns
- Discussion of teen pregnancy prevention courses in local schools through Public Health
- Records destruction from prosecuting attorney's office without specific details about what records or retention periods
Guests, Speakers & Presentations
- Bill Bridges - Snake River Canyon Parks board member discussing trails and overlook project
- Tracee McKim - present for Snake River Canyon Park discussion
- Mark Reyes - present for Snake River Canyon Park discussion
- Andrea Gonzalez - Misdemeanor Probation monthly report presentation
- Mario Umana - Juvenile Probation monthly report presentation
- Jeff Miller - Idaho Department of Juvenile Corrections yearly report on Jerome County
- Mark Swenson - Property tax exemptions for religious organizations
- Jesse Vallez - HR updates on comp time and office setup
- Cy Lootens - present for HR and parking lot discussions
- Brent Culbertson - Administration building parking lot repair project presentation
Key Points
- Commissioner reports from Public Health, South-Central Community Action, Taxation and Legislative committees
- Meeting with Senator Crapo
- Republican Central Committee meeting
- Snake River Canyon Park Trails project and overlook development
- BLM coordination and cattle guard requirements
- Idaho Department of Lands road fees
- Culvert repair at Yingst grade and gravel complaints
- RV park operations
- American Legion electrical discussion (postponed)
- Mid Snake River Water Resource Commission Board appointment
- Misdemeanor Probation monthly report and conference attendance
- Juvenile Probation monthly report and yearly statistics
- Property tax exemptions for religious organizations
- GIS truck repair expenditure update
- HR comp time balance payouts and wage changes
- New HR office setup and furniture purchases
- Administration building parking lot repair project
- Records destruction resolution
- Minutes and claims approval
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Commissioners — Minutes — 2024-03-25 Concern Energy/Data Center Exec Session Open Meeting Violation
Minutes from the Jerome County Board of Commissioners meeting on March 25, 2024, covering routine county business including personnel matters discussed in executive session, commissioner reports on various boards and activities, approval of grants and contracts, property tax exemptions, juvenile justice statistics, and decisions on jail remodeling and airport construction projects.
Executive Session Decisions
- Motion made by Commissioner Crouch to go into executive session per Idaho Code 74-206(1)(b), personnel at 8:30 A.M.
- Motion made by Commissioner Crouch to go into executive session per Idaho Code 74-206(1)(b and f), personnel and litigation at 2:48 P.M.
- Decision made to award contract to Core Construction for former jail remodel based upon interviews and ranking criteria
Open Meeting Law Concerns
- Document appears truncated at the end, potentially missing complete information about decisions and discussions
- No mention of public comment periods during the meeting
- Executive session topics are properly cited under Idaho Code
Decisions Made
- Approved Parks & Recreation agreement for $3,870 grant funding with $1,930 county match for marine program
- Approved time records for March 10-23, 2024 payroll period for seven employees
- Approved leave requests for Brent Culbertson, Mark Reyes, and Mario Umana
- Approved claims totaling $36,943.76, $3,982.95, and $9,227.66 for various funds
- Approved minutes from March 11 and March 18
- Tabled Amy Bradley tax cancellation until April 8
- Awarded Hazelton Municipal Airport parallel taxiway project to Idaho Materials and Construction for $562,614
- Renewed Airport Board appointments for John Toolson and Jon Higley, extended invitation to Charles Schabacker
- Accepted property tax exemption application from Valley Lions Club for Eden property
- Upheld property tax exemptions for North Canyon Medical Center on two parcels
- Agreed Jesse Vallez position should be salaried rather than hourly
- Signed Employee Wage Change form hiring Jesse Vallez as HR director effective March 18, 2024
- Awarded jail remodel contract to Core Construction
Energy, Data Centers & Ordinances
- Commissioner Howell gave radio interview reporting on Lava Ridge wind project and power line request
- State Legislature working on bill to establish agricultural protection area
Constitutional & Social Concerns
- Juvenile arrest and detention statistics showing increases over past two years
- Average youth offender statistics identifying demographic patterns
- Discussion of harassment training implementation for all county employees
Guests, Speakers & Presentations
- Deputy Sheriff Chad Kingsland - Parks and Recreation grant presentation
- Amy Bradley - homeowner exemption issue
- Assessor Mark Swenson - homeowner exemption and property tax exemptions
- Airports Manager Marty Luhr and Consultant Kent Atkin - airport projects and reports
- Mario Umana and Jeff Miller (Idaho Department of Juvenile Corrections) - juvenile justice annual report
- Jesse Vallez - Human Resources report
- Jan Rogers (SIEDO) - economic development update
- Kevin Thibault (EDA Architects) - jail remodel discussion via speakerphone
Upcoming Dates & Activities
- April 1 - Scott Denning rescheduled meeting
- April 8 - Amy Bradley tax cancellation form presentation
- May - new county payroll software implementation
- June - Jan Rogers to return with Paris outreach results
- April 11 - Mario Umana to attend McCall meeting as vice president of Idaho Association of County Juvenile Justice Administrators
- April - juvenile probation officers to attend Arrest and Control class
- April - Jan Rogers to attend site selector conference
- May - Jan Rogers to present Magic Valley region in Paris
- September - Jan Rogers to attend manufacturing council in Quebec
Key Points
- Personnel matters
- Health Board strategic plan and budget
- South Central Community Action Partnership
- Idaho Department of Lands trail lease requirements
- Snake River Canyon Park cattle guard problems and camping violations
- SIRCOMM dispatch staffing and budget
- Lava Ridge wind project
- Jerome Fair high school rodeo concerns
- Republican Central Committee Presidential Caucus
- Agricultural protection area legislation
- New county payroll software implementation
- Narcan training
- Parks and Recreation marine program grant
- Time records and claims approval
- Homeowner exemption issues
- Airport construction projects
- Juvenile justice statistics and probation reports
- Property tax exemptions for non-profits
- Human resources updates
- SIEDO economic development activities
- Jail remodeling project
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Commissioners — Minutes — 2023-01-16 Duplicate
This document is a brief notice stating that the Jerome County Board of Commissioners did not hold their regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, January 16, 2023, due to the observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day federal holiday.
Duplicate Check
This appears to be a standard template notice used when meetings are cancelled for federal holidays, as it contains only basic formatting and a brief holiday observance statement with no substantive content.
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Commissioners — Minutes — 2023-03-27 Concern Energy/Data Center Exec Session Open Meeting Violation
Minutes from Jerome County Board of Commissioners meeting on March 27, 2023, covering routine county business including GIS training approval, fairgrounds updates, courthouse remodeling plans, opioid settlement contracts, probation reports, airport pavement rehabilitation bids, technology issues resolution, and various departmental reports and funding approvals.
Executive Session Decisions
- Executive session held from 10:36-11:12 A.M. for personnel matters per Idaho Code 74(206)(1)(b), but no specific decisions from the executive session were disclosed in the minutes
Open Meeting Law Concerns
- Document appears truncated mid-sentence on page 7 which may indicate incomplete minutes
- Executive session outcome not specifically reported - only states 'Return to open session' without detailing any decisions made
Decisions Made
- Approved Mark Reyes for ISU GIS training in Pocatello April 18-20
- Approved Mark Reyes assignment to Snake River Canyons Park Managing Board subcommittee
- Approved time records for seven employees for March 12-25, 2023 payroll period
- Approved claims totaling $49,161.16 for Justice Fund
- Approved claims totaling $36,689.33 for multiple funds
- Approved signing opioid participation and release forms for Allergan, CVS, Teva, Walgreens, and Walmart
- Approved approximately $1165 for juvenile probation personnel to attend Nevada gang conference
- Authorized up to $800 for Marty Luhr and Ralph Kincheloe to attend Idaho Airport Management Association conference
- Approved credit card for airport manager Marty Luhr with $1500 limit
- Authorized up to $1300 for three IT employees to attend Moscow IT conference in June
- Scheduled April 10 meeting to assign risk management roles and establish safety committee
Energy, Data Centers & Ordinances
- New data center planning discussed as part of courthouse remodeling project - architect to meet with maintenance supervisor to measure space
- Data center identified as first priority for construction in courthouse remodel
- IT department borrowed server from ETS and migrated storage, with more storage planned for new data center
- Lava Ridge wind energy facility opposition mentioned - commissioners scouted Hunt area for alternative venues to sign multi-county proclamation of non-support
- Commissioner Crouch sent letter to Idaho attorney general about potential problems for Jerome Airport from proposed windmills
Constitutional & Social Concerns
- Mark Swenson argued that lighting fireworks is a Constitutional right under First Amendment freedom of speech
- Swenson compared flag burning protection to fireworks as protected speech
- Swenson referenced Jerome County Resolution 2021-16 regarding respect for Constitutional rights
- Swenson stated belief that Idaho law regarding fireworks is government overreach
Guests, Speakers & Presentations
- Mark Reyes - GIS matters and training requests
- Mark Swenson - fireworks constitutional rights (private citizen)
- Sandra and Dennis Capps - present during fireworks discussion
- Steve Maxwell (Maxwell Asphalt), Kent Atkin and Thomas Leisa (JUB Engineers) - airport pavement rehabilitation bids
- Deserae Calbo - misdemeanor probation report
- Mario Umana - juvenile probation report
- Marty Luhr - airports report
- Cody Westover and Desea Lance - technology matters
- Michelle Emerson and Tracee McKim - clerk matters
- Cy Lootens - risk management appointment
- Linda Montgomery - health district board representative update
Upcoming Dates & Activities
- April 18-20: ISU GIS training in Pocatello
- April 6-7: Idaho Airport Management Association conference in Boise
- April 26-28: Gang conference in Nevada for juvenile probation staff
- April 10: Meeting to assign risk management roles and establish safety committee
- June: Idaho Association of Counties IT conference in Moscow
- October: Need to replace some public defenders
Key Points
- GIS training and park board assignments
- Commissioner reports on fairgrounds, grandstands, courthouse remodeling
- Third Snake River Canyon bridge planning
- Fireworks regulations and constitutional rights
- Airport pavement rehabilitation bids
- Opioid settlement contracts
- Personnel leave policies
- Misdemeanor and juvenile probation reports
- Airport management and fuel prices
- Technology systems and data center planning
- Public defender recruitment
- Risk management assignments
- Health district budget updates
Commissioners — Minutes — 2026-03-30 Concern Energy/Data Center
This document records the March 30, 2026 Jerome County Board of Commissioners meeting covering routine county business including coroner facility needs, IT upgrades and security measures, airport lease modifications, and a zoning map amendment for a recently de-annexed property.
Decisions Made
- Approved IT expenditures: $7,073.80 annually for backup support, $9,963.71 for ADA compliant website updates, and $3,000 plus monthly costs for IT performance assessment
- Approved Mark Doerr's request to change airport hangar lease from company name to personal name
- Approved release of lien on Higley hangar at airport
- Approved claims as presented by staff
- Approved PTO payouts as presented
Energy, Data Centers & Ordinances
- Commissioner Watkins attended an open house discussing BESS (Battery Energy Storage System)
- Commissioner Crouch attended the BESS open house
Constitutional & Social Concerns
- Website ADA compliance requirements for accessibility to blind and deaf users
- Legal protection concerns regarding ADA compliance lawsuits
Guests, Speakers & Presentations
- Dan Chatterton - discussed coroner facilities needs
- Cy Lootens - present for coroner facilities and Veterans Affairs discussions
- Matthew McGregor - presented IT purchases and system needs
- Eli Bair - discussed ETS broadband installation and network topology
- Kacie Buhler - present for zoning map amendment hearing
- Ryan Christensen - present for zoning map amendment hearing
- Kolbie Simmons - requested zoning assignment for de-annexed property at 110 E 50 N
Upcoming Dates & Activities
- Six-month term mentioned for IT performance assessment
- Over six months timeline mentioned for search engine results updates to take effect
- Later date mentioned for reviewing Veterans Affairs information once Twin Falls expenses are received
Key Points
- Commissioner reports on various meetings attended
- Coroner facilities discussion and needs assessment
- IT purchases including offsite backups, website ADA compliance, and mobile device management
- ETS broadband network installation and testing
- Veterans Affairs services discussion
- Airport lease modifications and lien release
- Zoning map amendment for de-annexed property at 110 E 50 N
- Claims approval
- Employee PTO payout requests
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Commissioners — Minutes — 2025-03-31 Concern Energy/Data Center Exec Session
This document records the Jerome County Board of Commissioners meeting from March 31, 2025, covering routine county business including IT infrastructure upgrades, personnel matters, and board appointments. The commissioners approved data cabling for a new data center, discussed security policies, conducted hiring interviews in executive sessions, and appointed Connie Kincheloe to the Agriculture Protection Area board.
Executive Session Decisions
- Personnel matter discussed in executive session from 1:39 pm to 1:50 pm but no specific decision recorded
- Adult probation employment interviews conducted in executive session from 2:02 pm to 2:52 pm but no specific hiring decision recorded
- IT department employee interviews conducted in executive session from 3:30 pm to 4:02 pm but no specific hiring decision recorded
Decisions Made
- Approved Impact5, LLC bid for cabling network project at $4,704.75
- Approved shipment of two printers at $800.00 each for return to Fishers Technology
- Approved new county password policy with multi-factor authentication
- Approved tire purchase from Wickel Tire Pros for $995.40
- Appointed Connie Kincheloe to the Agriculture Protection Area board
- Approved minutes from 3/24/25
- Approved claims as presented by staff
Energy, Data Centers & Ordinances
- New data center cabling installation approved for $4,704.75 from Impact5, LLC
Constitutional & Social Concerns
- Agriculture Protection Area ordinance discussion focused on protecting farmland from development
- Mental health services presentation mentioned at Rotary meeting involving new brain imaging technology
Guests, Speakers & Presentations
- Matthew McGregor - IT matters and data cabling quotes
- Barry Biesen - present for data cabling discussion
- Mark Swenson - present for data cabling discussion
- Julie Arroyo - present for multiple agenda items
- Mark Reyes - GIS department monthly report
- Marty Luhr - Hazelton Airport discussion
- Jesse Vallez - scheduled for HR time but not present
- Andrea Gonzalez - present for adult probation interviews
- Kacie Buhler - present for Agriculture Protection Area discussion
- Connie Kincheloe - interviewed for Agriculture Protection Area board
Key Points
- Commissioner reports on meetings and activities
- Data cabling quotes for new data center and offices
- Copier return costs to Fishers Technology
- County IT security policy updates
- GIS department monthly report
- County truck tire replacement
- Hazelton Airport trespassing issues
- Airport runway problems and repairs
- Car show request at airport
- HR executive session
- Adult probation employment interviews
- Agriculture Protection Area board appointment
- IT department hiring interviews
- Meeting minutes approval
- Claims approval
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Commissioners — Minutes — 2024-04-01 Exec Session Open Meeting Violation
This document records the Jerome County Board of Commissioners meeting from April 1, 2024, where two commissioners conducted regular county business including departmental reports, budget approvals, and planning for major infrastructure projects. Key business included approving a $10.8 million broadband grant administration, purchasing new payroll software, and airport rehabilitation engineering services. The meeting included reports from multiple department heads and concluded with discussions about outstanding invoices for courthouse audio-visual equipment.
Executive Session Decisions
- Went into executive session per Idaho Code 74-206(1)(a) for hiring an employee from 11:17 A.M. to 11:46 A.M. - no specific decision mentioned upon return to open session
Open Meeting Law Concerns
- Executive session was held for 'hiring an employee' but no hiring decision or discussion results were reported upon return to open session, which may indicate incomplete minutes or improper executive session use
Decisions Made
- Approved catering permit for El Sombrero at The Risk Barn for April 20, 2024
- Approved JUB Engineers contract for airport taxilane rehabilitation design for $146,743.70
- Approved March 4 meeting minutes
- Authorized transfer of vehicle from Emergency Management to Sheriff's department
- Approved McKinlay & Klundt Appraisal Company engagement for $2,500 property appraisal
- Approved claims totaling $41,267.60
- Authorized $1,500 credit card for HR Director Jesse Vallez
- Approved Jesse Vallez work schedule change to 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. without lunch break
- Approved $6,495 WebCTRL software upgrade for Judicial Complex HVAC system
- Decided not to purchase HVAC software service agreement
- Approved $13,601.25 for TimeClock Plus and $2,520 for Computer Arts for new payroll time clock system
- Approved polling places for May 21, 2024 primary election
- Approved purchase of eight printer trolleys at $155 each
- Appointed Chief Deputy Clerk Tracee McKim as County broadband grant administrator
Guests, Speakers & Presentations
- Scott Denning - Veterans Service Officer/Board of Community Guardians coordinator/Risk Management report
- Steve Hines - University of Idaho Extension Educator report on extension office activities
- Mark Reyes - Mapping Specialist report on GIS projects and addressing updates
- Jesse Vallez - Human Resources Director report on policies and procedures
- Cody Westover and Matthew McGregor - IT staff presenting HVAC software upgrade needs
- Tracee McKim and Leanne Snowden - Clerk's office staff on payroll system updates
- Ryan Treanor and Cy Lootens - Election matters including polling places and equipment
- Jacob Johnson and Scott Linsley from Eminent Technical Solutions - Broadband grant planning and implementation
- Dave Orr - Hazelton Mayor attending broadband and election discussions
- Ange Black - Hazelton City Clerk
- Tanya Stitt - Emergency Management Director discussing AVI Systems invoice
- Ralph Kincheloe - Present for AVI Systems invoice discussion
Upcoming Dates & Activities
- April 8 - Department heads luncheon with nacho bar by Renew
- April 8 - Mark Reyes to bring GIS conference cost information
- April 20, 2024 - El Sombrero catering event at Risk Barn from 4 P.M. to 1 A.M.
- May 21, 2024 - Primary election date
- July - TimeClock Plus implementation expected to be active
- December 2026 - Deadline for completing broadband coverage from $10.8 million state grant
- April - Commissioner Watkins to complete quarterly jail inspection
Key Points
- Commissioner reports on community events and meetings
- Empty Bowls fundraiser planning
- Snake River Canyons Park maintenance
- Quagga mussel prevention
- Shoshone Falls overlook site visits
- Emergency planning and Narcan training
- Broadband grant application
- Catering permits
- Airport taxilane rehabilitation
- Emergency management vehicle transfer
- Property appraisal services
- Department heads luncheon planning
- Quarterly jail inspection
- Claims approval
- Veterans services
- Community guardianship program
- Risk management and employee training
- Extension office activities
- Mapping and GIS services
- Human resources policies
- HVAC software upgrades
- Payroll system implementation
- Election polling places and equipment
- Broadband infrastructure project planning
- Audio-visual equipment invoicing