Public Meetings - Twin Falls, Idaho

Twin Falls City Council Meeting Summary - June 15, 2026\n\nThe Twin Falls City Council convened on Monday, June 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM. Mayor Jason Brown presided, with Vice Mayor Craig Hawkins and Council Members Ruth Pierce, Christopher Reid, Nathan Murray, and Cherie Vollmer present. Council Member Grayson Stone was excused. The meeting adjourned at 6:18 PM.\n\n Consent Calendar\n- Approved 6-0. Items included the June 8, 2026 meeting minutes, Accounts Payable from May 28 to June 10, an Agreement with Terra Hotels LLC, and the Trust and Improvement Agreements for the South Ridge Subdivision.\n\n Public Comments & Testimony\n- Maria Hernandez addressed the Council, thanking David Woodhead for reopening the Lamphouse Theater and expressing strong anticipation and support for a future special event center in Twin Falls.\n\n Discussion Items\n- Formal Promotion Ceremony: Captain Brent Wright promoted Records Clerk Katie Gardner to the position of Administrative Services Supervisor. Mayor Brown offered congratulations to Gardner.\n- Opportunity Zone 2.0 Application: Economic Development Director Shawn Barigar presented the federal program update. Four eligible census tracts were identified, with the downtown area recommended. Council Member Pierce expressed support, calling it the perfect area, and Mayor Brown agreed it was a great opportunity. Staff will submit the application by the end of June.\n- Mutual Assistance Agreement (ICAC): Chief of Police Matthew Hicks requested authorization to sign an agreement with the Idaho Attorney General's Office to dedicate one officer to the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) task force. Scott Lang from the AG's office was present. Council discussion covered resiliency training (Murray), budget (Vollmer), and oversight and term limits (Reid). The motion passed unanimously (6-0).\n- Digital Forensics Grant (DATAPILOT): Captain Brent Wright requested approval for a $6,995 noncompetitive grant for digital forensics software, funded via asset forfeiture. The motion passed unanimously (6-0).\n- In-N-Out Burger Grand Opening Traffic Plan: Officer Joel Smith presented the traffic management plan. The plan includes a 39-vehicle drive-thru, overflow parking, reader boards, and a dedicated team. The presentation was informational; a formal action item is scheduled for the next meeting. Traffic impacts are estimated to last 3 to 6 months.\n- Twin Falls Police Department 2025 Annual Report: Chief Hicks and division heads presented the report. Highlights included 81,193 total calls, 121 employees, a 0.19% use of force rate, 653 dogs returned directly to owners, and the recognition of Officer Cody Christensen with a regional SRO award. Council Member Hawkins expressed pride in the department.\n\n Key Outcomes\n- Consent Calendar approved (6-0).\n- Chief Hicks authorized to sign the ICAC Mutual Assistance Agreement (6-0).\n- Approval granted for the DATAPILOT digital forensics grant and budget amendment of $6,995 from asset forfeiture funds (6-0).\n- Staff directed to submit the Opportunity Zone 2.0 application for the downtown tract.\n- In-N-Out traffic plan presentation received; formal action scheduled for the June 22, 2026 meeting.\n- The TFPD 2025 Annual Report was accepted as presented.

The Twin Falls City Council held its regular meeting on June 8, 2026, at 5:00 PM. Mayor Jason Brown presided. The council approved a $25,000 funding allocation for the Center for Community Health (CCH), authorized a $140,000 agreement for a new citywide Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), and removed the Special Event Permit for the In-N-Out Burger Opening from the consent calendar. Proclamations - Support Local Gems Day: Mayor Brown read a proclamation declaring June 12, 2026, as "Support Local Gems Day" in Twin Falls, encouraging residents to support local small businesses. Consent Calendar - Approved City Council minutes for June 1, 2026. - Approved Special Event Permit for the Company BBQ. - Approved Special Event Permit for the Multi-stake Tabernacle Choir Watch Party. - The Special Event Permit for the In-N-Out Burger Opening (Item B) was removed from the consent calendar at the Mayor's request and was not voted on. Discussion Items - Center for Community Health Funding: Mandi Thompson (Assistant to the City Manager) presented a funding request for $25,000. Kylie Goff (St. Luke's) noted that 70-80% of health outcomes are driven by social determinants outside of clinical care. Maria Contreras (CCH Executive Director) reported that since September 3, 2024, the CCH has supported over 4,400 individuals (over 2,900 in Twin Falls), made 1,875 referrals, and reached 7,500 people through community events. Council Member Grayson Stone described the request as a "no-brainer." - Emergency Operations Plan Agreement: Erin Steel (Assistant Public Works Director) requested approval to contract with Aanko Technologies for $140,000 to develop the city's EOP. (Note: the official agenda and minutes list the firm as Aanko Technologies, while the transcript refers to it as "ENCO Technologies" and "ANCO Technologies"). The funding sources are $100,000 in council-directed capital and $40,000 in contingency funds. The RFP attracted 15 qualified proposals. Council Member Ruth Pierce praised the committee's work. Key Outcomes - CCH Funding (7-0): Motion by Council Member Grayson Stone, seconded by Vice Mayor Craig Hawkins. Approved. - EOP Agreement (7-0): Motion by Council Member Ruth Pierce, seconded by Council Member Grayson Stone. Approved.

The Twin Falls City Council met on Monday, June 1, 2026, at 5:00 PM at 203 Main Ave E, Twin Falls, ID. Vice Mayor Craig Hawkins presided in the absence of Mayor Jason Brown. All six council members were present. The meeting included an invocation by Max Newlin, a proclamation for Volunteerism Just Serve Idaho, approval of the consent calendar, action on a seal coat project and a rezone ordinance, a financial presentation by the CFO, general public input, a public hearing on property transfer to the Urban Renewal Agency, and an executive session. All votes were unanimous (6-0). Consent Calendar - Items a-d, f-g (minutes, accounts payable, improvement agreements for Ashlee Townhomes Subdivision and Perrine Point Subdivision Phase 8C, special event permits for Youth Summer Solstice Youth Tri and Party at the Park) were approved 6-0. - Item e (Findings of Facts and Conclusions of Law for Final Plats: Willow May Subdivision, Two Creeks No. 1 Subdivision, Two Creeks No. 2 Subdivision) was initially removed due to a naming discrepancy. The original applicant listed the subdivision as "Fireside," but the correct name is "Willow May Subdivision." After clarification, the council approved item e with the correction 6-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Maria Hernandez, a proud resident of Twin Falls, expressed her gratitude to city employees and departments, including the police and fire departments, city manager, and others. She highlighted community champions and encouraged unity and positive support. She praised the city's leadership and expressed pride in being a citizen of Twin Falls. Discussion Items - Seal Coat Project ($300,000): Staff Engineer Sam O'Leary requested approval to use remaining budgeted funds for additional chip sealing, striping, and incidentals. The motion carried 6-0. - Ordinance O-2026-006 (2111 Addison Ave East): Planning and Zoning Director Jonathan Spendlove presented the ordinance to rezone the property. It had received a positive recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Commission on March 10, 2026. The council placed the ordinance on third and final reading by title only and adopted it 6-0. - Financial Presentation (2nd Quarter FY2025-2026): CFO Breanna Howard presented an overview of the city's financial position, covering national economic trends, local economic indicators, tax-supported funds, and enterprise funds (Water, Wastewater, Sanitation). Key statistics included: - Idaho leads the nation in hiring demand at 21%. - The city's total budget is $100 million, with 60% ($60 million) from tax-supported funds and 40% ($40.8 million) from non-tax sources. - Property tax revenue has grown from $27 million to $33 million over the past four years, with about 59.9% received so far this fiscal year. - Building permit revenue is estimated at $1.3 million for the year; single-family permits are down 26% compared to the prior year. - 75% of capital funds have been spent, partly due to $2 million encumbered from the prior year for the pool remodel. - The city maintains strong reserves and conservative budgeting practices. - Council member Stone asked about state sales tax on online purchases. City Manager Rothweiler explained that Idaho does not share online transaction taxes with cities, and Twin Falls sends about $125 million annually to the state but receives only about $6 million back. He emphasized the need for a local option sales tax. Public Hearing: Property Transfer to Urban Renewal Agency - Urban Renewal Agency Director Shawn Barigar requested adoption of Ordinance O-2026-005, authorizing the transfer of four parcels on 4th Avenue South (currently used as public parking) to the Urban Renewal Agency for redevelopment. The public hearing was opened at 5:51 PM and closed at 5:52 PM with no public comment. The ordinance was placed on third and final reading by title only and adopted 6-0. Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items approved (6-0), with item e corrected and approved separately. - Seal Coat Project additional $300,000 approved (6-0). - Ordinance O-2026-006 (rezone at 2111 Addison Ave E) adopted (6-0). - Ordinance O-2026-005 (property transfer to Urban Renewal Agency) adopted (6-0). - The meeting convened into executive session at 5:55 PM under Idaho Code § 74-206(1)(b) to consider the evaluation, dismissal, or discipline of a public officer, employee, or agent; the executive session concluded at 6:30 PM, and the meeting adjourned.

The Twin Falls City Council met on May 18, 2026 at 5:00 PM at 203 Main Ave E, with Mayor Jason Brown presiding and six council members present (Councilwoman Cherie Vollmer excused). The council approved consent items, conducted swearing-in and certification ceremonies for police officers, recognized an emergency vehicle technician certification, debated and approved adding delineators to Washington Street North for traffic safety, approved construction and lighting contracts, allocated funds for a signage plan at Shoshone Falls, authorized a lease of water shares, heard public comments, and held a public hearing on zoning title amendments. All actions were passed with most votes being unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approved City Council minutes for May 11, 2026. - Approved Accounts Payable for May 7–13, 2026. - Authorized the Mayor to sign Termination of Airport Lease Agreement and an Airport Advertising Agreement. - Approved Special Event Permits for the Iron Warriors Regional Dinner and the 250th Anniversary Celebration of Our Independence. - Approved Final Plats for Two Creeks No. 1 (32 lots on 8 acres) and Two Creeks No. 2 (47 lots on 17.6 acres) at the Preserve PUD. - Declared city equipment 7219 (1994 John Deer 4x2 Utility) surplus and approved online auction sale. (All consent items approved 6-0.) Police Officer Swearing-In and Certification Ceremony - Mayor Brown administered the Oath of Office to new officers Alexander Baiz, Efrain Deleon, and Colin Jensen. Chief Hicks introduced each officer, noting their backgrounds. Family members pinned badges on the new officers. - Chief Hicks presented POST Basic Certificates to Officers Malakai Brune, Luke Heninger, Sebastian Kondracki, Eric Ryan, and Austin Titus, along with the POST Advanced Certificate to ECO Erin Ash and Officer Dzevad Mandzic. Erin Ash was recognized for over 20 years of service at the department. Emergency Vehicle Technician Certification Achievement - Deputy City Manager Gretchen Scott recognized Jared Grimm for achieving Level I Fire Apparatus Certification through the national Emergency Vehicle Technician (EVT) program. Grimm has 20 years of experience and has been with the city since 2019. Discussion Items Washington Street North Delineators Proposal: Approve adding delineators on Washington Street between Addison and Shoup to prevent illegal left turns and reduce crashes. Discussion: Officer Ryan Howe presented data showing high crash rates, including a video of 21 violations in 20 minutes. Business owners Ben Swensen (Swensen's) and Darren Kyle (McDonald's) spoke against the delineators, citing negative impacts on deliveries and customer access, and asked for alternative solutions. Citizen Matt Stearns submitted a letter describing a motorcycle accident at the location. Council members debated balancing public safety and business impacts. City Attorney Castleton clarified that the decision falls under discretionary immunity of the Tort Claims Act, protecting the council if they make a policy decision. Vote: A motion to table for further study failed 2-4. A motion by Council Member Murray to approve the delineators for a minimum of one year after installation, with a report back to council, passed 5-1 (Council Member Reid dissenting). 2026 Mill and Inlay Project - Council approved awarding the project to Knife River Corporation for $461,766 and authorized use of the remaining $175,000 in the budgeted line item for additional roadwork. Approved 6-0. Harmon Park Lighting - Council approved using Sourcewell (Source Well) pricing and accepted a quote of $320,000 from Musco Sports Lighting for purchase and installation of lighting at Harmon Park (parking lot and skate park area). Approved 6-0. Shoshone Falls Signage Plan and Design Phase - Council approved allocating $30,000 from Shoshone Falls cash reserves to complete a signage plan and design phase. Sierra Sandison of Trademark Creatives presented the need for a cohesive signage system at Shoshone Falls and Dierke's Lake. The contract with Trademark Creatives will produce brand guidelines and construction-ready plans. Approved 5-1 (Council Member Stone dissenting). Lease of Water Shares - Council approved Resolution No. 2026-003 authorizing the lease of 500 water shares to the Southwest Irrigation District for the 2026 water year. City Manager Rothweiler explained that releasing more shares could impact city consumers, but 500 could be safely leased. Terms to be negotiated. Approved 6-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Maria Hernandez spoke about musician Leon Patillo's film project on teen suicide, noting Idaho's high suicide rates. She expressed support for the project and its potential benefit to the community. - Ron Yates apologized for violating public comment rules at a previous meeting and thanked council members for engaging with him on the park plaza project. Advisory Board Report and Announcements - Council Member Pierce reminded the public that May 19, 2026 is Election Day. - City Manager Rothweiler announced that City Hall will be closed on Memorial Day and the City Council meeting scheduled for May 26, 2026 is cancelled. Public Hearing: Zoning Title Amendment - Planning and Zoning Director Jonathan Spendlove and Senior Planner William Klaver presented a series of corrections and clarifications to Title 10 (Zoning Title), including reinserting a missing section on non-conforming uses, updating public hearing sign requirements, correcting tables, and amending accessory dwelling unit (ADU) regulations to comply with upcoming state law. Changes also included adjustments to required improvement exemptions. The public hearing opened at 7:15 PM and closed at 7:16 PM with no public testimony. Council approved the amendments 6-0. Executive Session - Council voted 6-0 to adjourn to executive session at 7:18 PM under Idaho Code § 74-206(1)(f) to discuss legal matters with the city attorney. The session ended at 7:35 PM, and no further open session followed. Key Outcomes - Delineators on Washington Street approved (5-1) with a one-year trial period and review. - Mill and Inlay contract awarded to Knife River Corp. (6-0). - Harmon Park lighting contract approved (6-0). - Shoshone Falls signage plan funded (5-1). - Lease of 500 water shares authorized (6-0). - Zoning title amendments adopted (6-0). - Executive session held (6-0). - Meeting was adjourned after executive session at 7:35 PM.

The Twin Falls City Council met on May 11, 2026, at 5:00 PM. All seven council members (Mayor Jason Brown, Vice Mayor Craig Hawkins, Council Members Christopher Reid, Grayson Stone, Cherie Vollmer, Ruth Pierce, and Nathan Murray) were present. The meeting covered consent calendar approvals, appointments, property resolutions, budget reallocations, a major playground project, and public input. The meeting adjourned at 5:44 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved 7-0 (Motion by Council Member Reid, seconded by Council Member Pierce). - May 4, 2026, City Council minutes. - May 6, 2026, Travel Requests. - Accounts Payable for April 30 to May 6, 2026. - Final Plat for Willow May Subdivision (two lots on 0.8+/- acres, PZ26-0054). Public Comments & Testimony - Maria Hernandez: Honored her uncle, retired Chief of Police Robert Bob Vasquez, in recognition of National Police Week (May 10-16). She detailed his career and expressed pride in his service. - Francis Florence: Expressed general support for the City Park project but raised significant concerns about the park's archaic irrigation system, which he stated has not worked properly for a year, resulting in dead grass and weeds. He noted constraints in budget, manpower, and engineering capacity to address the repairs. - Ron Yates: Attempted to speak against the Park Plaza. Mayor Brown ruled him out of order, as discussion of the plaza was not permitted during this public input period. Yates expressed frustration over a lack of response to his letters and opposition to the permanent street closure for the plaza. Discussion Items - Appointment to Historic Preservation Commission (Item 4a): City Planner Lisa Strickland requested the appointment of Phillip Hobbs. Strickland noted Hobbs' thesis on agricultural history and his interest in military history and urban planning as good fits for the commission. The appointment was approved 7-0. - Resolution for Property Disposal (Item 4b): URA Executive Director Shawn Barigar requested the adoption of Resolution 2026-002 declaring the city's intent to convey several parking lots and the Globe Seed and Feed properties to the Urban Renewal Agency. The agency plans to include the parcels in a formal Request for Proposals for redevelopment. A public hearing was set for June 1, 2026. The resolution was adopted 7-0. - Senior Center Fund Reallocation (Item 4c): Deputy City Manager Gretchen Scott requested reallocation of $9,876.76 from the Senior Center siding project. Council Member Murray noted a discrepancy between this amount and the $5,750 listed on the agenda cover; the correct staff request and approved amount was $9,876.76. The funds will replace the building sign (which crumbled upon removal), repair gutters and downspouts, and fix flooring damaged during door replacement. The motion to approve the reallocation passed 7-0. - CDBG Budget Amendment and Playground Equipment (Item 4d): Senior Planner Will Klaver presented a dual request. First, an amendment to the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program budget from $400,000 to $900,000 to correct an error in encumbering unused federal funds. Second, approval for the purchase and installation of replacement playground equipment for City Park for $249,594 from Big T Recreation using a Sourcewell cooperative purchasing agreement. Klaver detailed plans for new playgrounds with historical elements (a safe merry-go-round, two fully ADA-accessible swings, a train-themed structure for young children), the permanent closure of Hanson Street to create a pedestrian plaza (resulting in a net increase of two parking stalls), and an outdoor learning space for the library. Council Members discussed emergency vehicle access and ADA compliance. The motion passed 7-0. Key Outcomes - Appointments: Phillip Hobbs appointed to the Historic Preservation Commission (7-0). - Property: Resolution 2026-002 adopted to convey City properties to the URA; public hearing scheduled for June 1, 2026 (7-0). - Budget/Finance: $9,876.76 reallocated from the Senior Center siding project to building repairs (7-0). CDBG budget amended from $400,000 to $900,000 (7-0). - Contracts: Purchase of playground equipment ($249,594) from Big T Recreation approved; staff authorized to sign the contract (7-0).

The Twin Falls City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, May 4, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chambers at 203 Main Ave E. Mayor Jason Brown presided, joined by Vice Mayor Craig Hawkins and Council Members Ruth Pierce, Cherie Vollmer, and Grayson Stone. Council Members Nathan Murray and Christopher Reid were excused. A quorum was present, and all five voting members voted in favor of every action item requiring a vote. Proclamations - Mayor Brown presented proclamations for Public Service Recognition Week (May 3–9), Peace Officer Memorial/National Police Week (May 10–16), and Idaho Gives Week (May 4–7). - Representatives from the city, the Twin Falls Police Department, and the Idaho Community Foundation accepted the proclamations. The Idaho Gives campaign had raised over $1.1 million in the first few hours of the day. Consent Calendar - The Council unanimously approved the Consent Calendar (5-0), which included: - Approval of the April 27, 2026, meeting minutes. - Accounts Payable for April 23–29, 2026. - Declaration of city equipment (a 2009 Volvo Roller and a 2019 Sweeper) as surplus for online auction sale. - Special Event Permits for the Twin Falls Pride Festival, Twin Falls Pride Kickoff Rally, Summer Reading Kickoff 2026, Twin Falls Municipal Band 121st Concert Season, Magic Valley Law Enforcement Memorial, St. Edward’s Catholic School Variety Show, Girls on the Run 5K, and Market on Main. - Findings of Fact for a rezone to add a Professional Office Overlay (PZ26-0008 ZDC). Discussion Items & Action Items - Twin Falls School District HVAC Fee Waivers: Building Official Matthew Long presented two fee waiver requests for school HVAC upgrades funded by state modernization funds. Dr. Brady Dickinson of the School District explained that waiving the fees allows the district to reinvest the savings back into the systems. - Robert Stuart Elementary (644 Caswell Ave W, Permit 26-0878): A fee waiver of $29,042.89 on a $6.31 million project. - Bickel Elementary (607 2nd Ave E, Permit 26-0886): A fee waiver of $15,403.16 on a $2.97 million project. The building was constructed in 1938. - Crack-Sealing Program Expansion: Street Superintendent Mark Thomson requested approval to purchase two crack-sealing machines and related equipment for a total cost not to exceed $200,000, to be funded from street reserves. He explained that the current single machine is prone to breakdowns, halting the program. Expanding to two crews would provide redundancy and significantly improve preventative roadway maintenance. Council Member Stone asked about the expected lifespan of the equipment, which was stated to be approximately 11 years. - Playground at Elizabeth and Hankins: Parks and Recreation Director Wendy Davis requested approval of a $190,720 quote from Big T Recreation for playground purchase and installation. The park land was the first acquired using park impact fees, and the developer required the entrance to the subdivision to be landscaped and developed promptly. Council Member Stone inquired about a ninja course listed as an exclusion on the quote; Director Davis confirmed it is planned for a future phase. - Vista Bonita Expansion Project: Director Davis requested approval of a $1,643,945 Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) from CORE Construction for the park expansion. The project is supported by $2 million in State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF). The GMP covers construction of a parking lot, walking trails, a dog park, and other amenities. Council Member Pierce asked about the timeline, confirming a goal of completing the project by the end of October 2026, and about how the public can track progress (online updates provided by CORE Construction). Public Comments & Testimony - Maria Hernandez, a Twin Falls resident, used the General Public Input period to thank Les Schwab on Blue Lakes and an employee named Wyatt for professionally replacing her flat tire at no cost, which she greatly appreciated given her budget constraints. Key Outcomes - Robert Stuart Elementary Fee Waiver: Motion by Council Member Pierce, seconded by Hawkins. Approved 5-0. - Bickel Elementary Fee Waiver: Motion by Council Member Pierce, seconded by Vollmer. Approved 5-0. - Crack-Sealing Equipment Purchase: Motion by Council Member Vollmer, seconded by Pierce. Approved 5-0. - Playground Quote Approval: Motion by Council Member Hawkins, seconded by Pierce. Approved 5-0. - Vista Bonita GMP Approval: Motion by Council Member Pierce, seconded by Hawkins. Approved 5-0. - Executive Session: The Council voted unanimously (5-0) to adjourn to Executive Session at 5:42 PM to discuss personnel evaluations, trade negotiations, and legal matters as permitted by Idaho Code § 74-206(1)(b), (e), and (f). The session concluded at 6:45 PM.

The Twin Falls City Council met on Monday, April 27, 2026, at 5:00 PM with all seven council members present. Mayor Jason Brown presided. The meeting covered the proclamation of Sexual Assault Awareness Week, consent calendar approvals, operational items including a fire truck lease adjustment, airport janitorial services, hazardous material grant acceptance, authorization to apply for a COPS grant, and the confirmation of policy board appointments. The council also held a public hearing and approved a zoning overlay, and moved into executive session. Proclamations - Mayor Brown read and presented a proclamation declaring April 27, 2026, as Sexual Assault Awareness Week in Twin Falls, including Denim Day on April 29, 2026. The proclamation recognized local partners including St. Luke's Hospital, the Twin Falls County Prosecutor's Office, and Voices Against Violence. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the April 20, 2026, City Council meeting. - Approved Accounts Payable for April 16-22, 2026. - Approved the February & March 2026 Wells Fargo Credit Card Summary. - Approved an Alcohol License for Hong Kong of Twin Falls. - Accepted a bench donation from Wanda Gustafson in memory of Kathryn and Dale Tankersley. - Motion by Council Member Reid, seconded by Council Member Hawkins. Approved 7-0. Discussion Items - Fire Truck Lease Interest Revenue: Chief Financial Officer Breanna Howard requested ratification of staff action to apply $114,342.40 in accrued interest revenue toward the lease principal for the Pierce PUC Enforcer Pumper, generating approximately $15,728 in savings. City Manager Travis Rothweiler commended the action as a 'windfall' from the city's investment strategy. Motion by Council Member Stone, seconded by Council Member Vollmer. Approved 7-0. - Airport Janitorial Services: Airport Manager Matt Barnes requested approval to reallocate approximately $38,000 from a vacant part-time Airport Custodian position to fund a janitorial professional services contract, at an estimated cost of $300 per cleaning, twice per week. Council Member Murray inquired about the permanence of the change; Barnes confirmed it is included in the fiscal year 2027 budget proposal. Motion by Council Member Pierce, seconded by Council Member Reid. Approved 7-0. - Hazardous Material Response Grant: Battalion Chief Corey Beam requested approval to accept and expend up to $500,885.71 in state-appropriated legislative funds for state-approved hazardous material response equipment through a reimbursement model. Motion by Council Member Pierce, seconded by Council Member Stone. Approved 7-0. - COPS Grant Application: Police Chief Matthew Hicks and Captain Brent Wright requested authorization to apply for the federal COPS (Community Oriented Policing Services) grant. The request outlines applying for funding for four additional officers. Discussion included staffing challenges highlighted by data from the 2025 annual report: a resident population of 56,000 with 1.4 officers per 1,000 (dropping to 0.8 with the influx population), 43,425 calls for service with only 40 deployable patrol officers, and significant overtime costs ($118,000 for patrol year-to-date). Council Members expressed support, noting the department's successful history of receiving the grant in all prior applications (three grants totaling 10 officers). The grant application does not obligate the city to accept funds if awarded. Motion by Council Member Reid, seconded by Council Member Hawkins. Approved 7-0. - Magic Valley MPO Appointments: City Manager Rothweiler requested the confirmation of Mayor Jason Brown and Clark Kauffman to serve staggered three-year terms on the Magic Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization (MVMPO) policy board. Council Member Pierce voiced her support, having worked with both appointees. Motion by Council Member Pierce, seconded by Council Member Murray. Approved 7-0. Public Hearing - Zoning District Change: The council held a public hearing for a request by Mark Jones on behalf of owner Carolyn Matsuoka to add a Professional Office Overlay to the property located at 2111 Addison Ave E (currently zoned TN-1, Town Neighborhood). City Planner Kelli Ebersole presented staff findings, noting the property is on an arterial road adjacent to existing overlay and commercial properties and is consistent with the comprehensive plan's neighborhood commercial designation. The Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval on March 10, 2026. Applicant stated the overlay would allow the widow owner to sell the property at its highest and best use. No public testimony was offered. Council Member Vollmer stated the change 'makes sense' given the surrounding context. Motion by Council Member Reid, seconded by Council Member Stone. Approved 7-0. Key Outcomes - Ratified the application of $114,342.40 in interest to a fire truck lease principal (7-0). - Authorized reallocation of airport custodial funds to a janitorial services contract (7-0). - Authorized accepting and utilizing $500,885.71 in hazardous material response grant funds (7-0). - Authorized applying for the COPS grant for up to four officers (7-0). - Confirmed reappointments of Jason Brown and Clark Kauffman to the MVMPO policy board (7-0). - Approved a Professional Office Overlay zoning change for 2111 Addison Ave E (7-0). - Moved into Executive Session at 5:45 PM to discuss personnel, real property, and pending litigation pursuant to Idaho Code § 74-206(1)(b)(c)(f). The meeting did not reconvene in open session. Announcements - Council Member Pierce announced that early voting opened on April 27, 2026, encouraging citizens to vote. - Council Member Hawkins announced that Council Member Pierce received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Twin Falls Chamber of Commerce.

The Twin Falls City Council met on Monday, April 20, 2026, at 5:00 PM in City Hall. Six members were present (Mayor Jason Brown, Vice Mayor Craig Hawkins, Council Members Ruth Pierce, Christopher Reid, Nathan Murray, Cherie Vollmer); Council Member Grayson Stone was excused. The meeting adjourned at 6:15 PM. Key actions included approvals for an emergency operations plan, adoption of an amended ordinance on transient merchants, and recognition of fire department promotions. Proclamations - Arbor Day Proclamation: Mayor Brown read and presented the proclamation declaring Friday, April 24, 2026, as Arbor Day in Twin Falls. The Parks and Recreation Department will celebrate by planting trees at the newly remodeled city pool at 3:00 PM, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the pool at 4:00 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (6-0): - City Council minutes for April 6 and April 13, 2026. - Accounts payable for April 9-15, 2026. - Airport lease agreement with SkyWest Airlines, authorizing the Mayor to sign. - Termination of an easement at 324 Ostrander St. Fire Department Promotions - Fire Chief Mitchell Brooks presented promotions with ceremonial pinning of rank badges: - Battalion Chief Joell Miller (promoted March 23, 2026) - Captains Andy Stephenson and Kody Lewin (promoted March 27 and April 23, 2026, respectively) - Driver/Operators Joe Renaldi and Lane Barker (promoted March 23 and April 23, 2026, respectively) - Chief Brooks noted these promotions were driven by a retirement and the need to fill leadership roles, and he expressed full confidence in each individual’s ability to serve the community. Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) Negotiations - Presentation: Courtney Cunningham (CSO III) and Erin Steel (Assistant Public Works Director) explained that the City’s emergency management parallel team has identified the need for a comprehensive Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) and a City Hall Emergency Action Plan. An RFP received 15 proposals from across the nation; the team interviewed and ranked the top five firms. - Top-ranked firm (HDR) priced at over $140,000 but excelled in grant assistance (over $500 million in grants won nationally). The second-ranked firm (Tamarack) is at the $100,000 budget. - Two motions approved unanimously (6-0 each): 1. Use of contingency funds: Authorized $40,000 from the contingency fund (remaining balance $178,000) for negotiations, bringing total available to $140,000 (previous $100,000 from council-directed capital plus new $40,000). 2. Authorize contract negotiations: Staff may negotiate with the top five ranked firms, starting with the top-ranked firm and moving to the second if needed, not to exceed $140,000 total. Ordinance Amendment – Transient Merchants, Vendors, Peddlers, and Solicitors - Police Captain Brent Wright presented the amended Chapter 14 Ordinance No. 0-2026-004. The amendment addresses FBI feedback that the term “other entity” was too vague. The language was changed to “other business entity formed under or recognized by Idaho state law,” and language about “whether as an owner, agent, consignee, or employee” was removed. - The ordinance was placed on third and final reading by title only (motion 6-0) and then adopted (motion 6-0). The City will resubmit the ordinance to the FBI for final approval. Magic Valley MPO Long-Range Plan Update - Nathan Jerke, Executive Director of the Magic Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization (MVMPO), presented Vision 2050: Connecting the Magic Valley, the 20-year Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP). The plan is in a month-long public comment period. - Key data: - Over 300 people provided input through six open houses and online surveys. - Top community priorities: safety (number one), traffic congestion improvements, safer walking/biking facilities, improved lighting, and transit expansion. - Crash data (2019-2023): 7,700 crashes in the MPO area including 45 fatalities and more than 300 serious injuries; 100 crashes involved pedestrians/bicyclists with 5 fatalities and 28 serious injuries. - 80% of traffic starts and ends within the MPO boundary; 90% is small vehicle traffic. - Currently 8 intersections operate below Level of Service D; by 2050 without improvements, this could grow to over 20. - Sidewalk gaps: 65 miles; bicycle network gaps: 77 miles. - Transit (Ride TFT): 64,000 rides, 82,000 passengers annually; 52% are discounted (elderly/disabled); only 2 of 8 vans are ADA-compliant. - Projected 37% growth in dwellings and 38% growth in jobs over 25 years (1.8% population growth per year). - Project identification: 196 total projects identified, broken into three categories: - Committed ($78M): already funded projects (seal coats, maintenance). - Recommended ($160M): 82 high-priority projects (42 intersections, 11 roadway, 9 bicycle, 11 pedestrian, 9 safe routes to school). - Illustrative ($136M): 93 mid/low-priority projects, mostly bicycle/pedestrian, with unmet funding needs. - Twin Falls-specific recommended projects focus on major route intersections, pedestrian improvements near schools, and several planned studies (downtown circulation, regional pathways, transit strategic plan, truck access plan, congestion management). - Council Member Murray asked about a “foundational” project; Jerke identified the Blue Lakes/Pole Line intersection area as a critical gateway, noting that the area has filled quickly since alternate route construction. Public Comments - Maria Hernandez, a Twin Falls native, spoke in general public input. She thanked former co-workers Officer John Barsness and Officer Cindy Robertson of Boise Airport Police for encouraging her career transition from TSA screener to juvenile detention officer, which increased her hourly wage from $5.50 to $8.75. She urged others to follow their dreams. Advisory Reports & Announcements - Vice Mayor Craig Hawkins reminded that the District AIC meeting is Thursday at 9:00 AM at the Hilton Garden Inn. - Deputy City Manager Mitch Humble announced the retirement of Battalion Chief Schmitz (celebration Friday at 2:00 PM at the training center) and the grand opening of the city pool (tree planting at 3:00 PM, ribbon cutting at 4:00 PM). Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items approved (6-0). - Arbor Day proclamation read and presented. - Fire department promotions recognized ceremonially. - Use of $40,000 contingency funds for EOP negotiations approved (6-0). - Authorization to negotiate with top five firms for EOP development approved (6-0). - Ordinance No. 0-2026-004 (amended transient merchant code) adopted after third reading (6-0). - Magic Valley MPO Vision 2050 plan presented; public comment period ongoing (closing date not specified). - Meeting adjourned at 6:15 PM.

The Twin Falls City Council met on Monday, April 13, 2026, at 5:00 PM at 203 Main Ave E. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Jason Brown with all seven members present. The council approved a consent calendar, discussed several action items, heard public comments, and adjourned into executive session. The public hearing on a zoning district change was rescheduled to April 27, 2026. Proclamations - Mayor Brown read and presented proclamations declaring the third week of April as Youth Appreciation Week and April 19-25 as Neurodiagnostics Week in Twin Falls. Consent Calendar - The council approved items 4B through 4K (removing item 4A, the April 6 minutes, for next week) by a 7-0 vote. Approved items included: - Accounts Payable for April 02-08, 2026. - Special Event Permits for Cinco de Mayo Mother’s Day Fiesta, TFHS Choir Concert, Twin Falls Tonight, KTSY Summer Concert Series, Twin Falls Western Days, Chobani Summer Program, Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run, and Cirque Italia. - Improvement Agreement for Believers Church public infrastructure. Public Comments & Testimony - Maria Hernandez (Twin Falls resident) expressed gratitude to Officer Cervantes (badge 444) of the Twin Falls Police Department for professional assistance on April 12, 2026, and thanked Chief Matthew Hicks. - Matty Cameron (Twin Falls resident) addressed the council regarding the PSI discussion from the previous week, requesting consideration for the elderly and community when implementing policies. Discussion Items - 2026 Seal Coat Project – Chip Seal: Staff Engineer Sam O'Leary requested award to Boswell Asphalt Paving Solutions, Inc. for $1.6 million (under the $1.9 million budget). Discussion included cleanup and project lifespan (approximately 8 years). The council approved the award by a 7-0 vote. City Manager Rothweiler noted O'Leary recently passed her engineering licensure exam. - America250 in Idaho Celebration Fund Grant: Economic Development Director Shawn Barigar requested acceptance of a $2,500 grant to support patriotic events and an enhanced fireworks display for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The grant requires no local match. Council approved 7-0 to accept the grant and authorize the mayor to execute the agreement. - Amendment to Chapter 14 (Transient Merchants, Vendors, Peddlers, and Solicitors): Police Captain Brent Wright requested postponement to next week for paperwork adjustments; council agreed. - Alcohol Waiver (Idaho Statute 23-303): The council considered a waiver for Hong Kong Restaurant (163 Cheney Drive West) to sell beer/wine within 300 feet of Canyon Ridge High School. City Manager Rothweiler clarified the distance is property line to property line and the establishment abuts athletic fields. Council approved the waiver by a vote of 6-0-1 (Council Member Stone abstained due to a prior relationship with the business owner). - Additional Wastewater Reserve Funds: Environmental Manager Nathan Erickson requested $51,414.15 from wastewater reserves to cover fiscal year 2024-2025 contract overages for the OMI (Jacobs) contract operating the wastewater treatment plant and lift stations. The contract had a base of $3.9 million; overages were due to increased repair costs and reduced budget. Council approved the allocation 7-0. Advisory Board Reports - Council Member Reid reported on Airport Advisory Commission: summer construction includes Northwest Apron rehabilitation. - Vice Mayor Hawkins reported on Public Arts Commission: progress in identifying city art and estimating initial and maintenance costs. - Council Member Murray reported on Public Library Commission: library closed April 20-25 for recarpeting and remodeling. - Mayor Brown reported on Greater Twin Falls Transportation: an open house workshop at Hilton Garden Inn on April 15 at 1:30 PM to discuss road funding and legislative impacts. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved 7-0 (items 4B-K). - Award of 2026 Seal Coat Project: Approved 7-0 to Boswell Asphalt Paving Solutions, Inc. for $1.6 million. - Acceptance of America250 Grant: Approved 7-0 to accept $2,500 grant and authorize mayor's signature. - Alcohol Sale Waiver: Approved 6-0-1 (Stone abstained) for Hong Kong Restaurant. - Wastewater Reserve Allocation: Approved 7-0 for $51,414.15 to Jacobs. - Executive Session: Council voted 7-0 to adjourn into executive session under Idaho Code § 74-206(1)(f) to discuss pending litigation. The meeting moved to executive session at 5:43 PM and regular meeting adjourned at 6:20 PM.