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Submitted by Doyle Beck, Legislative District Chair #32 GOP & Friends, Once again, we find ourselves at the start of a new legislative session, with new priorities, controversies, and opportunities. Over the next several weeks, my hope is to help you stay informed and engaged in the legislative process. I find that the work of the state Legislature is as important as that of Congress. And good news – your members of the state Legislature are easier to get ahold of in order to voice your opinions. On Monday, Gov. Brad Little unveiled his legislative priorities and the spending blueprint for the state of Idaho. I encourage you to read his speech. More importantly, however, is that you look at the governor’s budget. This is a long document, but it is easy to understand once you spend time with it. You’ll see what state agencies are spending, what they’ve requested, and what the governor recommends. This is the book from which legislative budget writers will spend our money. There is an argument that the state’s budget-setting process is not transparent or public enough. This is our chance to shift the tide a bit toward more public engagement and input in the decisions about which programs receive funding and at what level. As the legislative session goes on, I plan to share with you key topics, and positions of organizations that follow the Legislature including the Idaho Freedom Foundation, Idaho Association of Commerce and Industry, and the Idaho Education Association, among others. My goal is for you to be involved, to help shape the outcome so that our Republican values are represented by area lawmakers. If you have questions or comments, please feel free to share them. You can view the 2023 Idaho Legislative Budget Book here: https://legislature.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/budget/publications/Legislative-Budget-Book/2023/Legislative%20Budget%20Book.pdf?ts=1673542597

Tim Urling, PCO # 16 Most of us are probably recovering from the shock of receiving our property tax notices and the enormous increase. I have to wonder where is all the money going and why so much. But after taking a moment to analyze how expensive our government is, it’s not so hard to see why. For example, nearly every program the city of Idaho Falls offers as entertainment or services operates in the red, and the taxpayer subsidizes the difference. The pool, the zoo, the soccer complex, the golf courses, the ice rink, etc., all receive tax money. They are never allowed to go bankrupt or worry about free market forces or economic woes. In February of 2021, I had hoped we had seen the last of public transportation when TRPTA was dissolved but not hardly. Less than a year later we have Greater Idaho Falls Transit. Brand new expensive buses drive around Idaho Falls largely empty at $3 a ride. You the taxpayer make up the difference. $4.2 million in taxes subsidized GIFT in this year alone. Private businesses must compete and operate at a profit but not socialist programs. Government is not productive. It has no wealth of its own. All it acquires it must take from the private sector. The city doesn’t have an accounting or budget problem. It has a spending problem. 2022 is not ending well. The number of Americans living paycheck to paycheck has risen to 63%, and even more cannot afford a $400 emergency. It’s no surprise that District 91 taxpayers rejected a massive $250 million school bond as inflation and interest rates are at record highs. The idea we can tax and borrow our way to prosperity is not working after all. “We believe the protection of individual rights is upheld when personal responsibility is exercised.” I think this Idaho Republican Party Platform would solve a lot of our problems if followed. I really believe government is supposed to be a negative force that leaves us alone and keeps us free. Instead, most believe government is supposed to be a positive force that does things for us and takes care of us from birth to death. I think there is too much confidence in government as the cure for everything. Many voices shout climate crisis but regardless of one’s opinion, does anyone believe bureaucrats and scientists on the public payroll are capable of developing a workable plan? Or as the so-called pandemic of 2020 taught us, a jump to government overreach, without thoughtful planning, can result in unnecessary hardships and increased risk. I’ve seen how government programs work, and it is difficult to find examples of success. In the spirit of Christmas, I suggest we give unnecessary programs and dysfunctional representatives the Santa’s boot and give our community the gift of wise representatives that are fiscally responsible. Let us each be wise men (and women) who are not hypnotized by the call of season sales just so we can put something shiny (and of little value) under our community tree. Tim Urling is the Precinct 16 committee officer in the Bonneville County Republican Central Committee.

Local Government Committee (LGC) Report Report DATE: 12-12-22 LGC Reports are a compilation of notes taken at LG meetings, and information shared with the committee from organizations and community members. Reports do not reflect the official positions of the Bonneville County Republican Party. We encourage the reader to research information and consider all sides of any issue. The intent of the LGC is to inform citizens of Bonneville County and encourage them to become involved in all levels of their community and local government. Point of interest regarding our recent election -shared by Janice McGeachin Voter turnout was down this year, with fewer than 600,000 Idahoans voting in the 2022 General Election. During the last mid-term election (2018), more than 612,000 Idahoans voted, and our population has grown considerably since that election. This reduced turnout may be attributable to fewer competitive statewide races. In 2018, the closest statewide race was for Superintendent of Public Instruction, which the Republican candidate won by just three percentage points. In 2022, the closest statewide race was for Attorney General, and the Democrat candidate lost by 25 points! BONNEVILLE’S BEST Bonneville’s Best is a chance to recognize the good things happening in our community. Do you know a person or business that is making a positive difference? Please send your short story (one or two small paragraphs) to BonnevilleGOP.info@gmail.com. Submitted by Jilene Burger Kudos to Corey and the management of Edwards Theater for the help they gave the couple who drove all the way from Jackson to watch The Chosen and then weren’t able to see the movie since the gentleman got sick. Corey did everything he could to help the sick man feel comfortable while waiting for the EMTs, and gave the couple free tickets to come back and watch a movie of their choice when he is feeling better. He even gave a ticket to our PCO, Jilene Burger, since she missed part of the movie while trying to help this man (kudos to her as well!) COUNTY Commissioner Bryon Reid November 29, 2022 -Submitted by Jayne Wolf Questions regarding the Gem Lake area The County is taking over a land island North of Idaho Falls. This is close to Jefferson County. The county has been taking care of this area. It will officially become county part of the county. The development of the gem Lake area Residential Property Annex: 49th South near Gem Harbor . U shaped property to be annexed. The city of Idaho Falls has sent notification that the property is to be annexed. The county has no say in this annexation per Austin Black Zoning Administrator. This property is still in the planning stage. Zoning administrator Black has noted to the City of Idaho Falls potential issues of traffic and that utilities are far from this area. The City told him that utilities and traffic will be handled by the developer. Businesses Development Annex: R.C. Willy still has permission to develop a distribution center at Sunnyside and Highway 15. Irrigation in the South area of Bonneville County We are currently at 140% water reserves. Currently there are no projections for the status of irrigation water for the coming season. Every month the county Commissioners receive a report from the Bureau of Recreation updating the status of water reserves. For detailed information regarding Water management; Water Education; Implementing of Conservation Measures; or Demonstration of innovative technologies, go to Bureau of Reclamation Water Conservation Field Services Program (WCFSP) website, ( https://www.usbr.gov/ ). Wells Approvals Our commissioners cannot address the increased number of wells being drilled in Bonneville county at new residential developments. Well approvals are regulated by the Idaho Department of Water Resources and the Bureau of Reclamation. Planning and Zoning and the County Commissioners are not the deciding entities regarding permits of wells. CITY City Council meeting November 10, 2022- Submitted by Dawna Howard, CCIF I was the ONLY person in the meeting other than city employees. They were ALL very nice to me. I think they missed the point of my 5 minutes BUT the mayor said she would send an officer over today to discuss the vandalism at our business, give me an update on the case and keep me informed of the actions taken. And Pam told me that she would make sure I got the documents I requested by Monday. The city clerk quit\retired, so my first request got sent during that transition when there was no one at that email. NOTES 1. Next meeting will be Tuesday November 22, 2022 (I will not be able to attend) That will be really close to the work meeting, getting an agenda in a timely manner will be difficult. I suspect they will sneak a few things in during that meeting 2. Public Works requested $497,000 ($250,000 will be a grant) to develop a list of future improvements, prioritizing and recommending allocations for capital improvements. It will be compiled into a comprehensive facility plan. We currently process 17 million gallons a day. This will be completed by the end of 2023. 3. They authorized shut off of unpaid electrical bills with a charge to have it reinstated. 4. Fire station 4 & 5 will replace outdated ventilation/exhaust systems to be compatible with the current systems used in the other stations. 90% of that cost will be a grant. 5. 32 acres at Pancheri/South Yellowstone backing up to the Snake River (there is an old jerky plant there currently). Approved for Urban Renewal District creating a new taxing district. They call them TIF's. The plan included with the ordinance contains an outline of the potential projects which may be completed with TIF funds and a financial feasibility study demonstrating that the expected tax revenue can cover the costs of the project. The Idaho Fall Redevelopment Agency (IFRA) board approved the plan in its September 15 meeting. 20 years is the maximum allowed by state statute. From what I understand this pays more taxes giving tax relief to citizens. I have been researching and the concept seems credible. It will be completed over 20 years. The plan is for a 90 room hotel, restaurant and hopefully some retail. They showed lots of charts and numbers. You can request a copy of the 200 page document from the city (Brad Cramer). The city is to reimburse the developer $ 390,000 in 5(?) years. I didn’t write down a date but so it could be different. Resolution 2022-2905 if you want to look it up and read it. 6. Authorization of rezoning and building behind Skyline High School to 17th W. From my understanding it will be town homes and apartments similar to what they built and are building on Fremont Street. Local Contractor Matthew Bird will be building these units. Even though it was a Public Hearing NO ONE showed up to testify. From what I understand there was no public feedback during the neighborhood discussion meeting OR the planning and zoning meeting. SCHOOLS Please attend! D93 and D91 will both hold meetings on Dec. 14 at 7:00 pm. Please attend to learn what is happening in our schools. The D91 meeting will be held in the Idaho Falls High school library- call (208) 525-7500. The D93 meeting will be in the boardroom at the District Offices, 3497 N. Ammon Rd- call 208-525-4400. We recommend calling before you go as sometimes their schedules can change last minute. PLANNING & ZONING The Ammon Flagship homes project was defeated again because citizens got informed and showed up! The high-density housing project kept requesting R3 zoning while promising to only build to the density of R2. Many asked, why not just ask for R2 then? They claimed it was because they wanted the flexibility R3 would give them. Great concerns were expressed about not having the infrastructure in place to support the added strain such a large project would be sure to bring. Citizens also asked the county to insist these large builders front the cost for needed infrastructure changes to support their projects, instead of putting the burden on the taxpayers. Idaho Falls Planning Commission Meeting December 6, 2022 submitted by Kathy Kula 1. Final plat for East River Townhomes Division No. 1 was approved. North of W 33 rd N, east of the Snake River, south of Independence Dr, west of N 5 th W. The road for the subdivision will eventually connect to 5 th west. 2. Final plat for Hidden Bridge Subdivision was approved. North of E 22 nd St, east of S Higbee Ave, south of E 19 th St, west of S Holmes Ave. This is 28 lots for townhomes with TN zoning. 3000 sq ft lots. This is west of Home Depot. 3. Final plat for Southbridge Subdivision was approved. North of E 49 th S, east for Victorian Way, south of Castlerock Ln, west of S Holmes. R2 zoning, 6000 sq ft lots, after 30 lots are completed a secondary access road will be built. 4. Final plat for Snake River West was approved contingently upon final details. North of Porter Canal, east of Pioneer Rd, south of Interstate 15, west of Snake River Pkwy. Multi family, CC zoning. 5. Final plat for Maverik Idaho Falls Subdivision was approved. North of US Hwy 20, East of E 33 rd N, south of E 33 rd N, west of N 5 th E. This is a Maverik convenience store. It will accommodate semi’s but not be an actual truck stop. 6. Final plat for Freeway Commercial Center Division No. 4 was approved. North of W 17 th S, east of S Skyline, south of Pancheri Dr, west of Interstate 15. This is located near Camping World. Zoned HC. Arkansas based company presented. 7. Presentation of planning commission service plaques were given to Brent Dixon, Joanne Denney, George Morrison and Lindsey Romankiw.

Crime and Law Enforcement Forum- shared by Kathy Kula 11/17/22 This was an open forum presentation to ask questions regarding crime and law enforcement in Idaho Falls/ Bonneville County. There will be further forums held in the county in the coming months. In attendance: Police chief of Idaho Falls: Bryce Johnson Bonneville County Sheriff: Sam Hulse Captain of the Idaho State Police for Bonneville County: Chris Weadick Bonneville County Prosecutor: Randy Neal The drug problem was discussed. Fentanyl is the main culprit. 4 out of every 10 pills with fentanyl contains a potentially lethal dose. Fake pills are being made which contain at least 2 mg of fentanyl which is considered a deadly dose. Drug traffickers are using fake pills to exploit the opioid crisis and prescription drug misuse. It is the primary source in overdose deaths. Fake prescription pills are easily accessible and often sold on social media and e-commerce platforms making them available to anyone with a smartphone, including minors. There is a movement to synthetic from plant-based drugs. Usually, the lower priced motels in the area are where the drug activity is. The Fairbridge motel was discussed, and there isn’t any more activity there than any other motel in the area. High density drug area funding was applied for, but we did not meet the level in this area which has good and bad points. However, being I-15 is a highly traveled drug corridor, and as a result, the Bannock county area where I-15 meets I-84/86 intensifies this, Bannock has also applied for this funding, and it was granted. Sex trafficking is also an issue on the I-15 corridor. There is concern for THC in the vaping products, for THC is very harmful to the brain for underage users contrary to popular belief. There is a shortage of jail space, so only the higher offending cases are given jail time. Lesser offenses are plea bargained as a result. It would cost $20M to build a new jail which is needed. The cost is $96/day per inmate. All areas of law enforcement are understaffed due to the current social environment regarding police. They are hiring and getting great candidates. Murders increase from drugs, gangs and domestic violence. They are heavily monitoring the speeding on Pancheri and Sunnyside. All public parks are closed at 11PM due to a recent ordinance. This has helped with the homeless problem in that area. If the homeless settle on private property, it is up to the owner to lodge a complaint. Any other public area due to Constitutional rights, they cannot be made to leave. All areas of law enforcement work with the schools (public, private and charter) regarding safety which includes the handling of school shootings and drugs. They meet with other agencies in the county to monitor any students of concern. The first officer at a school knows to subdue the threat and not to stand down. Response time depends on the location of the school and the officers. The best way to handle is prevention. There is currently about a 1000 felonies per year. Crime statistics are available on each division’s website. Always call with anything suspicious. If it is active, the response will be given a higher priority. Always remove any graffiti as soon as possible. There are 2 types of graffiti. One comes from the lesser taggers usually into a lesser degree of drugs, and the other is gang tagging. We do have gangs in the area.

Local Government Committee (LGC) Report LGC Reports are a compilation of notes taken at LG meetings, and information shared with the LGC. Reports do not reflect the official positions of the Bonneville County Republican Party. We encourage the reader to research information and consider all sides of any issue. The intent of the LGC is to inform citizens of Bonneville County and encourage them to become involved in all levels of their community. 11-10-2022 COUNTY Summary Cheryl Papke attended the Road & Bridge & Zoning Weekly Meeting of the Bonneville County Commissioners on Oct 26, 2022. These are notes from that meeting. Stop Signs on 49th St on the corners of 15th and 25th. • There are currently stop signs (2way) at these intersections, need to add LED stop signs (4 way) due to safety concerns • These intersections are on the boundaries of Ammon, Idaho Falls, and Bonneville Co • only 3 of the corners are Bonneville County • Need 4 LED Stop Signs – there is no power to the area probably need solar although there may be power available from Sand Creek golf course • $792 for both intersections (4 way stops LED lights) • There is a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Ammon and IF that outlines the management of these roads • While the city has annexed portions of the properties in the area, they have not annexed the road • Traffic counters have been installed and they are getting more than 1000 vehicles per day on 25th East • There was a recent fatality on 25th and 49th. Commissioner Reed emphasizing the need to get to a solution. There have been some struggles with Mayor Casper and the city lawyer, Sean Colletti. • Traffic lights are eventually needed at Holmes/49th S and 15th / 49th –the stop signs are just an interim solution 45TH E right of way • Some decisions on the expanded rights of way on 45th E needs to be made no later than March 15 • Contractor is involved (has to do with builders will not get out before then) • Landowners must make decisions before that date - contractor bids expected on Friday • 4 owners have not accepted offer – can’t get full market value ◦ on Lincoln road- Have certified appraisals Most done in Feb / March 2022 ◦ market values headed down - peaked in August ◦ Commissioners had given latitude to negotiate up ◦ Commissioner Reed suggested Jan 15th as a target date to finalize settlements, gives wiggle room 25th and 65th in 7 years • Ammon and Idaho Falls intentions of growing housing developments out there • Annexing pretty high end homes - Sand Creek Dunes city may come in and Annex for high density 49th S by the river by boat ramp by Gem Lake plans for high density housing • Proposal is to extend centralized city and water to the area • Plan is to have the Idaho Falls developer pay for that Improvement on 49th South • Gem Lake Harbour #2 Annex outside 17th N. approve annex go outside Idaho Falls and AMMON are annexing farm land • Bridges cost typically $1,000,000 • Commissioner Reed wants to strengthen language and protect Agriculture • This affects Bonneville Co – called the City area of impact (?) • Bonneville Co Sent the city a list of areas of impact – so far they have not heard from the city There was a discussion about a Permit for Outwest to put in fiber somewhere. Bonneville County Commissioner Meeting Commissioners were talking with the Bonneville County Attorney, and he said the Judge approved the Bond for Eastern Idaho Regional Authority. In addition the four parties (Bonneville, Bingham Counties, Ammon and Shelly) involved in the agreement to put together a package to propose to the Governor for the Wastewater Treatment Plant (located in Shelly) for $34,000,000. To complete plants expansion to accommodate the growth that is running a peak capacity. The $34,000,000 is part of the $415,000,000 the Governor received from the Federal Grant Funds. The vote in May will be on the ballot is to propose to form a Sewer District for the regions serviced by that plant. Melaluca and Andrus already put up 1.4 million towards the design and installation of the sewer line. Please refer to the letter from the Ammon Mayor, it adds to the “whys” and “benefits” for the citizens.

Local Government Committee (LGC) Report LGC Reports are a compilation of notes taken at LG meetings, and information shared with the LGC. Reports do not reflect the official positions of the Bonneville County Republican Party. We encourage the reader to research information and consider all sides of any issue. The intent of the LGC is to inform citizens of Bonneville County and encourage them to become involved in all levels of their community. 11-10-2022 While there was no local school info to report we thought it important to share this. SCHOOLS Shared by Carolyn Harrison, Parents for Educational Choice Microsoft Founder, Bill Gates, who financed Common Core with, ultimately, $2 billion, signed an agreement with the United Nations' Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to globalize education. UN Asst. Secretary-General Robert Muller, admits the curriculum is based on the books of Alice A. Bailey, one of the Founders of the occult New Age Movement. She was also a key figure in theosophy, the group that helped inspire the National Socialists (Nazis) in Germany. The "spirits" Bailey channeled helped her predict a new global religion that would "smash" biblical Christianity, national sovereignty, and everything else at odds with [their socialist philosophies]”. H.R. 899 Addresses the Following: • The federal government does not have the authority to dictate how and what children should learn. • The Department of Education has been corrupted and bogged down by private interests, contentious politics, and general bureaucratic inefficiency and is doing more harm than good. It should be terminated by Dec. 31, 2022. • Education cannot be shaped by a uniform, “one-size-fits-all”. Only states and local districts can understand the needs of schools and the students that attend them on an individual level." This one-sentence-long Bill is sponsored by Kentucky U.S. Representative Thomas Massie, who introduced it on February 5, 2021. There are currently 20 Co-Sponsors, with the following states endorsing the legislation: • Texas, Florida, Georgia, Arizona, South Carolina, Alabama, Colorado, Illinois, North Carolina.

Local Government Committee (LGC) Report LGC Reports are a compilation of notes taken at LG meetings, and information shared with the LGC. Reports do not reflect the official positions of the Bonneville County Republican Party. We encourage the reader to research information and consider all sides of any issue. The intent of the LGC is to inform citizens of Bonneville County and encourage them to become involved in all levels of their community. 11-10-2022 PLANNING & ZONING Wind Project There is to be only one hearing unless there is an appeal. Project will encompass 32,000 acres in Bingham and Bonneville counties beginning 13 miles west of Idaho Falls and extending across both sides of Highway 20 to the edge of INL near East Butte. Bonneville is slated to have 115 windmills and no solar while Bingham will have the solar plus windmills. The area was picked for its remoteness and wind capabilities. It will impact 15 landowners. The land is currently used for agriculture and grazing. The windmills will be taller than those currently in the foothills surrounding Idaho Falls. As a result of their height, they can be less densely placed. Affected farmers expressed their support. It is estimated the project will supply enough power for 80,000 to 100,000 homes. The power will be sold to Rocky Mountain Power and Idaho Power. Mr. Green cites an employment benefit that will create 200 construction jobs and an additional 800 indirect jobs during the construction phase. The project is slated to begin in 2023 and is estimated to be completed and fully operational by 2025. Since an area of the land encompasses the Wasden Caves, a presentation was made by the archaeologist regarding her concerns for damage to them. She is working with the project on a compromise to ensure they are preserved. Several surrounding landowners also presented their very emotional concerns regarding the visual impact. Some have been on their land for many years and did not want the rural atmosphere obstructed by this project. The project was unanimously passed by the entire board. Zoning 1. Several properties were approved to be annexed and zoned to the city a. Limited commercial for 13 acres located north of Heyrend Way, east of Snake River, south of W 49 th S, west of S Yellowstone Hwy b. Zoned for R3, multiple dwelling residential, located north of E 49 th , east of N 5 th E, south of E 65 th N, west of 15 th E. c. Zoned R&D, Research and Development, located north of MK Simpson Blvd, east of the Snake River, south of W 33 rd N, west of N 5 th W Legal descriptions are part of the minutes viewable at the city planning commission minutes 2. Rezone .325 acres from P. Parks and Open Space to I&M, Industrial and Manufacturing, located north or E Anderson St, east of N Boulevard, south of Technology Dr, west of Boge Ave. This is already city owned property. Rezoned to enhance development. 3. Amendment changes and clarifications were submitted by the zoning dept. These were housekeeping items related to zoning ordinances. There seems to be some ongoing discussion between the city planning dept and zoning as to what an R1 and R2 zoning classification is. There was talk of future developments which would include businesses downstairs and residential living upstairs. There are landscaping requirements for commercial development areas regarding 1 tree per 5000 sq ft and 2 shrubs per tree. Requirements for the number of parking spaces as well. There was discussion that a home-based business must be operated by the homeowner. Discussion was given if the homeowner becomes ill such as in a daycare situation, single employee would be okay to run it. The changes were approved with a couple of exemptions. Refer to minutes at the city for details. 4. Final plat for Sparrow Hill was discussed. Located north of Strawberry Pl, east of Merlin Ct, south of Madison Ave, west of Delaware Ave. Plat will be done in phases. 5. Final plat for Terrace Gate Apartments & Barnwood Estates, located north of W 17 th S, east of Grizzly Ave, south of Pancheri Dr, west of S Skyline D. Townhomes and apartments. PUD in apartments. Seven 3 story bldgs. Southern portion will be townhomes. 6. Final plat for Energy Plaza Division No. 2, located north of DOE Pl, east of Energy Pl, south of Energy Dr, west of US Hwy 20. This was approved. 7. Final plat for Amerigas Propane Division No 1 Extension, located north of E Anderson St, east of N Holmes Ave, south of Pop Kroll Way, west of Hemmert Ave. Extension for final plat was approved.

Local Government Committee (LGC) Report LGC Reports are a compilation of notes taken at LG meetings, and information shared with the LGC. Reports do not reflect the official positions of the Bonneville County Republican Party. We encourage the reader to research information and consider all sides of any issue. The intent of the LGC is to inform citizens of Bonneville County and encourage them to become involved in all levels of their community. 11-10-2022 CITY Shared by Dawna Howard, CCIF The Fairmont Hotel, EconoLodge on Elva and Hotel West on Broadway have been housing the homeless, and people waiting for Idaho housing. Hotel West voluntarily quit doing this, and Econlodge was shut down a couple weeks ago. This week there was another drug bust at the Fairmont. This is the 3rd raid in a month. Dawna Howard had a mother call her this week to say her son had been arrested in that bust and had been taken to jail. She also Ubered a young lady from there to another hotel who had come into town to meet a friend. While there the woman was propositioned to have sex in exchange for drugs, she was followed and harassed. She said the hotel was stinky and she felt very unsafe staying there. This kind of activity will bring more crime to our area, and we should be involved with our City Council and local police to find a better solution for helping the homeless and low income housing applicants. There have been instances of tagging and graffiti throughout the city. Even when it is captured on video and a license plate reported to the police, nothing was done about the incident. Other reports to police of domestic violence, trespassing, graffiti, and vandalism went unattended by the police who said they no longer handle those types of issues. This might explain why the growing problem of sign theft during elections also goes unattended. I, myself, caught a thief red-handed and even got his name, and the police never followed through. Idaho Statute Title 50 Chapter 6 section 50-602 the mayor is to “preserve order and take care that the ordinances of the city are complied with”. Tonight Dawna is raising the question to the City Council that if citizens are experiencing these issues without law enforcement protection then why are we paying “taxes” for these services.

Local Government Committee (LGC) Report LGC Reports are a compilation of notes taken at LG meetings, and information shared with the LGC. Reports do not reflect the official positions of the Bonneville County Republican Party. We encourage the reader to research information and consider all sides of any issue. The intent of the LGC is to inform citizens of Bonneville County and encourage them to become involved in all levels of their community. DATE: October 24, 2022 COUNTY Many people have asked about the ballot box located on the street at the new Bonneville County location (Capital and B). I talked to Hannah at the office yesterday and she assured me it did have a camera on it and before the camera was set up the box was locked. We talked at length about the process if someone dumped several ballots in at once. She went over the process of verifying votes, checking registrations, verifying signatures. They do have bar codes that match each requested mail in ballot. During business hours they empty the box at least 4 times a day. County Commissioner Jon Walker stated the same process. I have volunteered at the polls for several years and elections and I have not witnessed anything that led me to question the process. If you are the least bit concerned or witness something out of the ordinary CALL the office and ask for Helena or Hannah. They are good people. I feel that Bonneville County has a pretty secure process that validates integrity in voting. We do need to encourage in person voting that is always best. Please vote (in person) on November 8, smartly and with research. They are anticipating a BIG turnout and have added 2 extra people for monitoring in each polling location. The training class was the biggest I have attended. I was encouraged! Dawna Howard, Founder Concerned Citizens of Idaho Falls CITY Parks in Idaho Falls are now closed between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. to promote public safety, reduce vandalism and ensure a better quality of life for residents. Q: If property size is made smaller when roads are made wider, will the property taxes be less? A: No. Property taxes will be based on the original size. Land next to Home Depot was annexed. 41 townhomes and 91 condos are scheduled for this area. The City Council is not allowed to receive outside information if a topic will be a subject of a public hearing. If they were to meet in private with a source of extra information, they would need to recuse themselves. When approving a development, the council is not permitted to consider the impact on the schools in the affected area. Impact fees are collected to pay for roads, power, water, sewer, fire, parks and recreation, and police. There are currently 9 locations for police. The new law enforcement building will centralize the police department. Appointees from IF City Council (Following quotes are from the City newsletter.) “Idaho Falls City Council President Michelle Ziel-Dingman received an appointment from the Idaho Transportation Department Board to the state Public Transportation Advisory Council (PTAC). Ziel-Dingman will serve alongside five others from across the state to advise the department on issues and policies regarding public transportation in Idaho. PTAC plans activities, identifies transportation needs and promotes coordinated transportation systems across Idaho.” Questions to Ask How is the Idaho Transportation Department Board formed? When are elections/appointments? What activities does PTAC plan? How are transportation needs determined, what metric is used? “Governor Brad Little appointed City Council member John Radford to the Idaho Economic Advisory Council (EAC). The EAC advises the Governor and the Idaho Department of Commerce on goals and objectives to promote economic development in the state. The council gives recommendations on applications for the Tax Reimbursement Incentive, the Community Development Block Grant and Rural Community Investment Fund funding.” Questions to Ask What do John Radford, and other members of the EAC, believe are the goals and objectives of economic development in the state? What are the Tax Reimbursement Incentive, the Community Development Block Grant and the Rural Community Investment Fund? SCHOOLS Debate on the D91 Bond continues. All committee members agree there is a need for updates, and mostly all believe the historic IF High school is a solid structure worth saving. Given that the district believes it could be used as a tech school, it seems they agree on that point. Since the October Central Committee meeting, where both sides had a voice, some national construction figures have been offered (even though Idaho figures are generally lower.) The district's plan is for 1,800 students, which seems to be too high given that Idaho Falls High School enrollment has bounced between 1,150 and 1,350 for the past 20 years. The district appears to be using a factor of approximately 135 square foot per student, which is reasonable given the national averages (some are higher and some are lower.) The district is trying to budget for $456 / square foot. A number nearly double the national average cost of new high school construction ($206 in 2018, $213 in 2020, and $254 in 2022.) 1,600 students X 135 SF/student X $270/SF = $58,320,000 Factor in that Idaho construction costs are lower than national average: $58,320,000 X 90.9% = $53,012,880 Now, add the cost of the design work: $53,012,880 + 6.5% = $56,458,717 Finally, add on ten million dollars for a healthy sitework budget and another two million for a furnishing budget: $56,458,717 + $10,000,000 + $2,000,000 = $68,4548,717 That's roughly half what the district is trying to budget for a new high school. The district has added a factor of 50% inflation over four years which seems unrealistic given that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) is up about 15% over the last four years which is considered an unusually steep rise. A 50% inflation factor seems very unlikely. While there is an existing need for students, and a definite need for a new elementary, some are having a challenge justifying the numbers. We do, however, look forward to more debate on the subject and encourage more study. PLANNING & ZONING Public hearing notification letters are sent out if a land owner is within 300 ft of an area being affected. This is for a rezone or subdivision only not for a start of building because by that point the rezone or subdivision has already been approved. If you want to attend a hearing, you need to sign up. The City of Idaho Falls is seeking applicants to serve their community by joining the Planning and Zoning Commission. In addition to planning and zoning applications, the commission can suggest changes to the Zoning Code and other development standards and requirements. They also play a vital role in developing the city's comprehensive plan and smaller, neighborhood plans. https://www.idahofallsidaho.gov/civicalerts.aspx?AID=2160 ARPA money will be used to develop a public engagement guidebook that will help unify depts, have better communication and obtain public input. Under this will also be: to address coordination with builders and developers and to identify barriers to the construction of alternate housing types, adopt with the county a new area of impact agreement, create a city action team to explore a complete strict policy and streetscape standards, as well as a partnership with USU for walkable center and neighborhood plans. Growth continues. As of the end of September, there were 107 projects applied for, 1755 permits applied for, 1606 permits issued, and 10,246 inspections completed this year. They are seeing some slow down in projects applied for, but permits issued is the highest ever. More inspectors are needed due to the increase in building. (The following are Dawna Howard’s, Founder CCIF, thoughts on the reconnector project.) Neither plan was very good but will there be a perfect solution? Do nothing is NOT an option as there is many times those onramps are backed up and I have to use Broadway to Skyline to get people to and from the airport (I am a part time Uber driver) and crossing over to the Riverside exit across the Lindsay onramp is difficult, merging with incoming traffic. H2....49th crosses the hatch pit where contaminated materials have been dumped. Prevero (which is city annexed, I learned that last night) has very expensive custom homes built there, and a golf course. Having a busy highway as their backyard seems wrong. This is the plan that is favored by the city council and mayor. E3...Olympia exchange connects by Roadhouse Saloon affecting the Snake River RV Park and the grain silos across the road. There seems to be less homes affected with this plan; however, its close proximity to the airport (will that really help congestion) and all those onramp improvements will be tore down. Why the expense to build all that? FYI...It was mentioned about the area off Saturn and Scorpius being torn down. Did you know that Antares Park is a historical site and can not be touched in any way. That is good to know. Here is the link to view these plans and also to leave comments. The next phase with public input will be in August 2023. https://i15us20connector.com comments@i15us20connector.com

The Official Republican Party in Bonneville County, ID Bonneville County Republican Central Committee bonnevillegop.info@gmail.com 208-497-1211 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 15 September 2022 Lawsuit against Bonneville County Republicans Dismissed With Prejudice, Court Order Vacated The Bonneville County Republican Central Committee (BCRCC) is pleased to announce that the unprecedented lawsuit filed by former Idaho Republican Party Chairman Tom Luna against the BCRCC & several of its volunteers has been settled by dismissal with prejudice of all claims made by plaintiffs in the case. The BCRCC is also thrilled to announce that the preliminary injunction/restraining order issued by a visiting judge to the Court has been entirely vacated and nullified. This order wrongfully restricted the Bonneville County Republican Party’s right to communicate with republican voters on the eve of the Republican Party’s own primary nomination. The vacation of this order reinforces the great value and importance of freedom of speech, as well as the Republican Party Organization’s role in preserving the principles upon which it is founded. The dismissal of this suit and the subsequent vacation of the Court’s preliminary injunction follows a recent resolution from the Idaho Republican Party Delegates, which directed the Idaho Republican Party’s Executive Committee to dismiss with prejudice the lawsuit against the Bonneville County Republican Party. The resolution directing dismissal of the suit was passed overwhelmingly by the delegates at the Idaho Republican Convention. Former Chairman Tom Luna filed suit against the BCRCC and the 10 individual volunteers on its Executive Committee on May 12, 2022-- just 4 days before the republican primary nomination. He admittedly did so without consulting any other members of the State Party’s Executive Committee. At the Idaho Republican Convention held just two months later, Luna was defeated overwhelmingly in his bid for reelection as Party Chair. The victor, Dorothy Moon, won the race with 434 votes to Luna’s 287. At the same convention, Bonneville County’s own Mark Fuller was also overwhelmingly elected to the State Party’s Executive Committee as 2nd Vice Chair. This lawsuit quickly became one of the most divisive wedges in the Idaho Republican Party. It negatively affected the Party’s ability to promote its platform and the principles found therein. It restricted the Party’s right to freedom of speech. It also had a detrimental effect on the lives of several of the volunteers who were personally named as defendants in the suit. It was a bully tactic intended to publicly intimidate and silence the local Republican Party and its volunteers. The BCRCC is very grateful to see this divisive lawsuit and its claims dismissed. The BCRCC is excited for the future of the Republican Party, both in Bonneville County and all across Idaho. We look forward with eagerness to the many wonderful things we will accomplish as we continue to advance the principles of the Republican Party. END

Concerned Citizens of Idaho Falls has two meetings in September at Franklin's Cheesesteaks, 170 E. Elm St. September 20, 6pm Review of City Council Meeting and discussion of recalls. September 27, 6pm Guest speakers share comparative data between Idaho cities and answer questions. Brian Stutzman shares information on school bonds, taxes, and levies.

https://idahofreedom.org/lead-map/