HomeMy Public PortalAboutMinutes_City Council Regular Meeting_08182020CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING
IONA CITY HALL
AUGUST 18, 2020 — 7:00 P.M.
PRESENT: Mayor Dan Gubler, Council President Rob Geray, Council Member Michael
Thompson, Council Member Peter Wadsworth, Council Member Kathy McNamara, Public
Works Director Zech Prouse (via teleconference), City Attorney Andrew Rawlings and City
Clerk Keri West.
ABSENT: None.
VISITORS: Amy Crump, Doug Crump, Devin Rowley, Bradley Crump, Sherri Crump, Kevin
Casper, Deb Sorenson, Sunnie Dunthorn, Shad Dunthorn, Kasey Andrew, Johnny Andrew, Terry
McNamara, Erica Jones, Brandon Jones, James West, Jeremy Richards, Sally Louk, Jed
Willardson, Shellie Willardson, Brad Andersen, Joan Ralphs, Pamela Hansen, Dianna
Blackburn, Jeff Blackburn, Matt Morris, Madisen Belnap, Taya Belnap, Kalli Belnap, Hailey
Belnap, Derek Belnap, Steve Belnap, Evan Belnap, LoAnn Belnap, Mike Belnap, Adam
Bostrom, Connor Belnap, Sara Sargent, Sydney Stolworthy, Christian Taylor and Marinda
Taylor.
Mayor Gubler welcomed everyone and Council President Geray led the Pledge of Allegiance. A
roll call was taken by Clerk West to open the meeting.
CONSENT AGENDA: City Council Work Meeting and Regular Meeting Minutes of July 21,
2020 were reviewed. Council reviewed the finance reports for the period ending July 31, 2020
(83% of the fiscal year elapsed). The City had $1,002,024.01 in the bank and routine bills had
been paid, "Exhibit A".
Mayor Gubler entertained a motion. Council Member Thompson made a motion to approve the
consent agenda as presented. Council President Geray seconded the motion. All in favor. Motion
carried.
ITEMS OF BUSINESS:
Public Hearing, Approval of Fiscal Year 2021 Annual Appropriations Ordinance (Ord.
244-08-20) — Mayor Gubler stated the budget being proposed for Fiscal Year 2021 is
$3,998,500. He continued and stated this includes the remaining amount to complete the water
project. Mayor Gubler asked if anyone in the audience was opposed to the proposed budget.
Brad Andersen of 4933 E. Camas Creek Circle asked what the budgeted expense is for police.
Mayor Gubler stated the police budget is $212,000. Mr. Andersen asked whether that includes a
police officer for the City of Iona, or if that amount is only for Bonneville County Sheriff's
Office (BCSO). Mayor Gubler stated that includes a 40 hour dedicated officer for the City of
Iona, through BCSO. Mr. Andersen stated when he was Mayor, there was a survey completed
that showed 80% of the residents wanted the City to have their own Police Department. Mayor
Gubler stated the City does have a full-time officer through BCSO that is dedicated to the City of
Iona for 40 hours each week, in addition to the regular coverage BCSO provides. He continued
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and stated the full-time officer does use the City of Iona police vehicle when patrolling in the
City.
Mayor Gubler asked if there were any other comments or questions from the public. No
comments made. Mayor Gubler closed this Public Hearing portion of the meeting.
Mayor Gubler entertained a motion. Council President Geray made a motion to approve
Ordinance No. 244-08-20, an Ordinance entitled the Annual Appropriation Ordinance for the
Fiscal Year beginning October 1, 2020, and ending on September 30, 2021, appropriating the
sum of $3,998,500 to defray expenses and liabilities of the City of Iona for said fiscal year,
authorizing a levy of a sufficient tax upon the taxable property and specifying the objects and
purpose for which said appropriation is made. Council President Geray also made a motion to
dispense with the rule of reading the proposed Ordinance in full and on three separate occasions.
Council Member Wadsworth seconded the motion. A roll call vote was taken:
Council President Geray: YES Council Member Wadsworth: YES
Council Member Thompson: YES Council Member McNamara: YES
Public Hearing, Amendment to Iona City Code §§ 11-12-1 and 11-12-2, pertaining to Off -
Street Parking requirements (Ord. 245-08-20) — Clerk West stated this section has been
discussed by the Council previously, but the Planning & Zoning Commission (P&Z) had some
recommendations that needed to be included. Mayor Gubler informed the public the reason for
this amendment is to further clarify requirements for off-street parking.
Mayor Gubler asked if there were any comments or questions from the public. No comments
made. Mayor Gubler closed this Public Hearing portion of the meeting.
Council President Geray noted P&Z had some feedback that is not reflected in this updated
version of the amendment. Clerk West apologized and stated she failed to send their comments
to Attorney Rawlings to be included in the final draft. Council President Geray stated he agreed
with the recommendations P&Z provided and would suggest tabling this item until it can be
updated with those changes. Attorney Rawlings stated it would be better for the City Council to
table it, rather than trying to capture all of the changes in a motion.
Mayor Gubler entertained a motion. Council President Geray made a motion to table this item
until the September City Council Meeting. Council Member Thompson seconded the motion. A
roll call vote was taken:
Council President Geray: YES Council Member Wadsworth: YES
Council Member Thompson: YES Council Member McNamara: YES
Public Hearing, Amendment to Iona City Code § 11-11-19, Fences, pertaining to public or
utility property interests (Ord. 239-07-20) — Mayor Gubler stated this item has been added due
to recent fence situations that have occurred in the City. He continued and stated this includes a
new fence permit process with a fee of $50 to cover the cost of processing the application and for
a site inspection completed by the Public Works Department to verify placement of the fence
prior to installation.
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Mayor Gubler asked if there were any comments or questions from the public. No comments
made. Mayor Gubler closed this Public Hearing portion of the meeting.
Mayor Gubler entertained a motion. Council Member Thompson made a motion to approve
Ordinance No. 239-07-20, an Ordinance of the City of Iona, Idaho; amending Section 11-11-19
of the Iona City Code; requiring landowners to obtain a fence permit under the specified
procedure; providing for methodology and severability; and establishing an effective date.
Council Member Thompson also made a motion to dispense with the rule of reading the
proposed Ordinance in full and on three separate occasions. Council President Geray seconded
the motion. A roll call vote was taken:
Council President Geray: YES Council Member Wadsworth: YES
Council Member Thompson: YES Council Member McNamara: YES
Public Hearing, Resolution Reserving the Forgone amount for Fiscal Year 2021 (Res. 2020-
03) — Clerk West stated there was a Resolution passed last month, but the amount listed was
incorrect. She continued and stated she has met with the County Assessor and now has the
correct amount on this updated Resolution. Mayor Gubler explained the Forgone procedure and
read aloud the complete Resolution 2020-03.
Mayor Gubler asked if there were any comments or questions from the public. No comments
made. Mayor Gubler closed this Public Hearing portion of the meeting.
Mayor Gubler entertained a motion. Council President Geray made a motion to approve
Resolution No. 2020-03, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Iona, Idaho; reserving
the Forgone amount for Fiscal Year 2021 for potential use in subsequent years as described in
Idaho Code § 63-802, and the Forgone amount of $8,664. Council Member Wadsworth seconded
the motion. A roll call vote was taken:
Council President Geray: YES Council Member Wadsworth: YES
Council Member Thompson: YES Council Member McNamara: YES
Business License Application — Shellie Willardson, Big Swigz — Shellie Willardson
approached the podium and stated she wants to start a business to operate a soda shack at 3340
N. Main Street, which is on the corner of Iona Road and Main Street. Clerk West stated there
was a previous applicant for the same business type last year that was approved. However, Mrs.
Willardson has now taken over the business and has applied for the business license under her
name and updated business name. Mrs. Willardson stated they will be in a portable structure with
two windows for the drive thru. She continued and stated the entrance would be from Iona Road
and the exit would be on Main Street. Mrs. Willardson also stated there is a water main on the
property and asked if they would be able to access the City water there. She also asked if they
would be able to use the electricity from the existing pole on the comer. Director Prouse stated
the water was stubbed in during the 1993 improvement project, but there is nothing currently
connected to it. He also stated the City would need to research to see if a water hook-up fee has
been paid. He continued and stated if they want to use the water, there needs to be a connection
fee paid and a monthly water bill assessed. Director Prouse also stated there is a small 15-20 amp
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GFCI located on the corner for the City to use for Christmas lights. He continued and stated there
is a meter on it, so the City would need to determine usage and have the business owners pay
their portion of the bill. Mayor Gubler clarified; the water main was installed by the City in 1993
as a way to plan ahead, to avoid tearing up the sidewalks at a later date when the property was
developed. Council President Geray asked how much water and electricity the business intends
to use on a monthly basis. Mrs. Willardson stated she can research how much they will typically
use, but stated they have every intention of paying those monthly bills. Council Member
Wadsworth stated the 15 amp GFCI is not sufficient to run refrigerators and air conditioning for
a small building. Director Prouse stated there is power near the property if the business owners
want to contact Rocky Mountain Power to gain access to that power. Mayor Gubler stated the
applicant would be required to include electrical information when they obtain their building
permit. Council Member Wadsworth asked if this type of business requires food handler permits
or any other permits from Bonneville County. Mrs. Willardson stated no food handler or county
permits are required for soda shacks.
Mayor Gubler entertained a motion. Council President Geray made a motion to approve the
Business License for Shellie Willardson and Big Swigz. Council Member Thompson seconded
the motion. All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval of the Sale of 2015 Chevy Police Vehicle to Bonneville County Sheriff's Office —
Mayor Gubler stated the City is considering selling the 2015 Chevy truck that was previously
used as a police vehicle. He also stated this vehicle is not currently being used. BCSO does use
the City's SUV police vehicle, but this vehicle is not currently in use. He stated they had planned
on using it for the Public Works Department, but they decided the design does not meet their
needs. Mayor Gubler continued and stated BCSO has offered to purchase it for $14,500. Mayor
Gubler stated the City does not have to advertise the sale, because it is being sold to another
government entity. He continued and stated the value is approximately $15,000. Council
President Geray asked whether the $15,000 valuation included the after -market updates that were
added to the vehicle for police use. Director Prouse confirmed he had all of the equipment
assessed by Teton Communications and they found some of the equipment still viable and was
included in the total valuation.
Mayor Gubler entertained a motion. Council Member Thompson made a motion to approve the
sale of the 2015 Chevy Police Vehicle to Bonneville County Sheriff's Office in the amount of
$14,500. Council Member Wadsworth seconded the motion. All in favor. Motion carried.
Oath of Appointment of Keri West as City Treasurer — Mayor Gubler swore -in Keri West as
the City Treasurer.
Mayor Gubler stated the former City Treasurer, Amy Sullivan, retired in July. He confirmed
Clerk West will now be the Clerk/Treasurer for the City of Iona. By law, she was previously
sworn in as the Clerk and has now been sworn in to also be the Treasurer.
Approval of Bid for Curbing Replacement Project on Main Street — Director Prouse stated
this project is 335' of curbing replacement and encompasses all the curbing on Main Street that
is in the worst condition. He continued and stated it will include the encroachment in front of the
post office also. Director Prouse confirmed the total bid is for $22,780. Clerk West stated there
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are sufficient funds available in the Capital Improvement budget for this project. Mayor Gubler
asked the Council if they had any comments or questions. No comments made.
Mayor Gubler entertained a motion. Council Member Thompson made a motion to approve the
bid for the curbing replacement project on Main Street in the amount of $22,780. Council
Member McNamara seconded the motion. All in favor. Motion carried.
Belnap Family Christmas Light Show — Mayor Gubler stated the Belnaps have been
presenting a Christmas Light Show annually for 12 years. He continued and stated during that
time, there have been discussions with the City Council regarding problems and safety concerns
that have arisen because of the show. Mayor Gubler stated the City has gotten involved and
helped handle most of the problems that have come up by lowering the speed limit on the road
during the show, helping the Belnaps order traffic signs and provide extra patrol. He continued
and stated this year the City has received complaints from neighbors about the impact they deal
with because of the show. As a result of those complaints, the City Council issued a letter to the
Belnaps in May to address those issues and added items of consideration in an attempt to get the
parties together to discuss and come up with solutions. Mayor Gubler also stated that last year,
the City Council offered to allow the Belnaps to relocate their show to the City Park. Recently,
the Belnaps sent an email to the City with this possibility and their requirements to do so. Mayor
Gubler stated in order to get through the meeting, there will be a 3-minute time limit for each
speaker that will be enforced. He continued and expressed his desire for everyone to be cordial
and if they are not, he will ask those members of the audience to leave. Mayor Gubler reiterated
the purpose of this meeting is to discuss the problems and come up with a solution.
Amy Crump of 3442 N. 55th E. approached the podium and stated she does not have Facebook,
but her friends and family have told her a lot of the things that have been said about her and her
family in regards to this situation. She continued and stated the Belnaps have put up signs, but it
is not enough. She said they have tried talking to the Belnaps, but they didn't listen. So, she has
now come to the City for help. Mrs. Crump continued and stated she was part of the show for a
long time in an effort to make the best of a hard situation. She said the problem is not the
neighbors, but the people that attend the show that are disrespectful, scream and yell, throw
garbage, dirty diapers and beer bottles on her property. She also stated there are people that park
on the bridge to her property and argue loudly with others over parking spots. Mrs. Crump
continued and said no one is disputing that this is a wonderful show and a great thing the Belnaps
have done for many years. But she feels like it needs to be moved to a larger venue to
accommodate everything. Mrs. Crump continued and stated there are a lot of peaceful visitors,
but also many disrespectful people that come to watch the show that have beer parties and leave
a mess for her to cleanup.
Doug Crump of 3442 N. 55th E. approached the podium and stated he agrees the light show is a
great thing, but living across the street from it is difficult. He continued and stated going to sleep
with the loud mufflers, music and people dumping their trash on his property gets old very fast.
He agreed it needs to be moved to a proper venue where people can enjoy it. Mr. Crump
continued and stated he has NO TRESPASSING signs on his property, but people ignore them
and go where they want to watch the show. He continued and stated they have tried talking to the
Belnaps directly and offered to help pay someone to help with security, but there has been no
resolution. This is why he and his wife have come to the City for help. Mr. Crump continued and
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stated this is supposed to be a Christian celebration, but they have gotten many threats aimed at
their family and their home because of the posts on the Belnaps Facebook page and the news
channels websites. He continued and stated there are good elements to the show, but the bad
elements need to be addressed.
Johnny Andrew of 3412 N. 55th E. approached the podium and stated he lives next to the Crumps
and agreed with the same concerns. He continued and stated people turn around in his driveway
all the time to watch the show and tear up his driveway. He just had to re -gravel his driveway
and fully expects to do it again next year because of this situation. Mr. Andrew stated the City
puts up caution cones and signs, but he also has 6 additional cones in front of his driveway that
people ignore. He continued and stated they are constantly picking up garbage after the show. He
also voiced his concern over moving it to the Iona City Park and affecting those that live across
the street from it.
Mayor Gubler stated there is no course of action or any voting that will be taking place for this
item. He continued and stated this is a discussion to attempt to resolve the problems associated
with the light show. He invited others in the audience to come up to the podium if they have
anything they would like to add to the record.
Mike Belnap of 846 Barnwood Drive in Ammon, Idaho approached the podium and stated he is
one of the sons of Evan and LoAnn Belnap. He continued and stated Mr. and Mrs. Belnap have
asked him to speak on behalf of the family. Mr. Belnap stated the letter the City wrote his parents
in May stated their show was a public nuisance because of one complaint. He stated there are
now two complaints and admitted there could be many complaints. He continued and stated in
the Iona City Code 5-8-1 a Public Nuisance is defined by a "neighborhood, entire community or
substantial number of persons". Mr. Belnap continued and stated if they go by the law a
substantial number would be 10% of the residents in Iona, which would be approximately 235
people complaining to count this as substantial. Mr. Belnap stated there have been thousands of
comments on Facebook defending their show. He continued and discussed the May meeting at
which the City Council and Mayor discussed the show and said they should have done things
different. He also stated his family has not seen people parking in their neighbors' driveways and
throwing garbage. He continued and stated there is no proof of that and it is all hearsay. Mayor
Gubler stated it is not hearsay and that he and other council members have seen it. Mayor Gubler
also stated he has police officers that patrol the area and report to him what they are seeing and it
is verifiable. Mr. Belnap stated he has not seen any proof, so at this point it is just hearsay. Mr.
Crump interrupted and stated Mr. Belnap lives in Ammon and does not see it. Mr. Belnap moved
on and stated the noise ordinance in the City of Iona is 10:00 p.m. and their show ends at 9:30
p.m. He continued and said they adjusted it 10 years ago. Mayor Gubler agreed and stated the
City asked them to adjust it after a meeting when problems arose regarding the show. Mr. Belnap
stated that he knows that meeting had the same lip service they are getting tonight. Mr. Crump
interrupted again and stated the Belnaps do not want to listen to others' concerns and come up
with solutions. Members of the audience asked Mr. Crump to allow Mr. Belnap to speak. Mr.
Belnap stated in the recording of the May meeting, Mayor Gubler admitted to driving slowly and
idling his truck when driving by the show. He continued and stated Iona City Code 9-3-4 states,
"Any person who drives a vehicle at such a slow speed as to impede or block the safe and
efficient movement of vehicular traffic, shall be guilty of an infraction." He continued and stated
Mayor Gubler has already admitted that he does this. Council Member McNamara stated many
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of the visitors that come to watch the show do this also and will back up in the road without
looking for cars behind them. Mr. Belnap asked why she couldn't just go around them. Mr.
Belnap stated the Mayor was disrespectful to his parents at the meeting held in May. He
continued and stated the first thing the Mayor said in that meeting regarding the light show was,
"here we go again". Mayor Gubler confirmed that was exactly what he said because the City has
been dealing with the light show and the problems that have come with it for many years,
including during the previous administration. Mayor Gubler continued and stated every time
problems have come up relating to the light show, the City has had a sit down conversation with
Mr. and Mrs. Belnap to discuss it and try to come up with a solution. Mr. Belnap stated his
parents have been doing this light show for 12 years and it is their First Amendment right to do
this for their religion. Mr. Belnap continued and stated his parents have been doing this every
year to share the birth of Christ. He continued and stated his family cannot control what other
people believe and how they behave. Mr. Belnap stated this situation could have been handled
differently if the City had tried to have a conversation with the Belnaps and the Crumps to get
the problems resolved. He continued and stated there were many opportunities to have that
conversation and it never happened. Mr. Crump stated they have talked to the Belnaps four times
and nothing has been resolved. Mr. Belnap also stated they are ok to stop the show if the City
wants to take God out of this discussion and mentioned a religious story about a group that tried
to get God out of their City. He continued and said the City Council is trying to take God out of
the City and that his family has their religious rights. Council Member McNamara stated the City
did not try to shut the show down. Mayor Gubler stated the City is not attempting to take away
the Constitutional Rights of Mr. Belnap's family and stated they do have religious rights. He
continued and stated this attempt to come up with a solution is not about taking the rights of his
family, it is about the fact that what his family is doing is infringing upon others' rights. Mayor
Gubler continued and stated the Constitution also guarantees that we do not have the right to
impose on other people and take away their rights. He continued and stated the nuisance law that
was mentioned earlier also extends to the state of Idaho and can include one individual's
complaint to seek a solution to that problem. Mayor Gubler continued and stated Mr. Belnap has
implied the City is not following their own rules and that is not true. Mayor Gubler also stated
the Belnaps have stated things on the internet over the last few months that are not true,
including the lie that the City has shut the show down. He continued and said the City did not
shut the light show down. Evan Belnap interrupted from the audience and stated the letter the
City sent them was to shut them down. Mayor Gubler stated the City's letter did not shut the
show down. He continued and stated the City Council has a responsibility to everyone in this
community and one person does not have the right to infringe upon other people's rights, even if
they are legally doing those activities on their own property. Attorney Rawlings confirmed and
stated the public nuisance definition also includes, "anything that obstructs the free use of
property, interferes with the comfortable enjoyment of life or property..."
Mr. Belnap stated this situation is in the City's hands and if they want to shut it down, his parents
are ok. He also stated they will consider moving it to the Iona City Park if the City bears the
burden of cost to relocate it. Mayor Gubler stated the City is not going to invest in a personal
event on City property. The City offered to allow the Belnaps the opportunity to move their light
show to the City Park, but never agreed to incur all the costs associated with it. Mr. Belnap stated
he stands by everything he has said and stated he can tell Mayor Gubler is becoming defensive.
Mayor Gubler stated he is defensive of the accusations that Mr. Belnap has made against him
and the City Council that are false. Mr. Belnap stated he listened to the recording of the meeting
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in May. Mayor Gubler stated the meeting in May was a Work Meeting, which is a less formal
meeting to have discussions amongst the City Council prior to making decisions on those items
at the Regular City Council meetings. Mr. Belnap said they should have gotten all the involved
parties together and invited them to the meeting to discuss this situation. Clerk West interrupted
and stated the City Council did meet in May to discuss this situation and how to move forward,
prior to inviting all the parties to meet at the July Work Meeting. She continued and showed a
copy of the letter she sent to Mr. & Mrs. Evan Belnap and Mr. & Mrs. Crump on July 7, 2020,
inviting them to the July Work Meeting to have that discussion. Clerk West continued and stated
this was intended to be a civil discussion between the involved parties in July, but Mr. & Mrs.
Belnap came to her office and requested to postpone the meeting until August because they
could not attend the July meeting. Clerk West then stated the Belnap family chose to post this on
Facebook with misinformation and complicated the situation, resulting in a larger and more
contentious meeting tonight. Mr. Belnap stated the contentions were brought on by the City.
LoAnn Belnap of 3453 N. 55th E approached the podium and summarized the letter the City sent
her in May. She emphasized in it, the City mentioned wanting to come up with a solution and
mentioned three options, but noted it was not an exclusive list. She stated the three options were
to discontinue the show, provide information about the show to all the neighbors and get their
approval to do the show, or to consider other alternatives which could include moving the show
to another location. She stated they knew they could not move their show to another location
because of the thousands of dollars of equipment they have and they knew they would not be
able to get all of their neighbors on board to continue as is. To them, this meant they needed to
discontinue the show. Mrs. Belnap continued and stated they are done with the show. Council
Member McNamara stated if they discontinue the show, that is their choice and the City is not
shutting down the show. She continued and stated the letter also said they could come up with
other solutions to keep the show going without impacting the neighbors. Mrs. Belnap again said
they are done with the show; they like their neighbors and realize it has come to a point where
the show cannot go on. Mrs. Crump spoke up and said it is not the City Council's fault or the
neighbors' fault that the show cannot go on. She continued and stated it is the fault of the
disrespectful people that visit the show and trespass and throw garbage. Mrs. Belnap stated she
understands. Mr. Crump spoke up and stated that Mike Belnap does not understand and that
people have been threatening his family because of the things Mike has posted on Facebook.
Mrs. Belnap stated they have received threats also. Mrs. Belnap continued and stated they are ok
to discontinue the show and she will enjoy her extra time now. She thanked the Council before
returning to her seat.
Sherri Crump of 2841 N. Midnight Blue Drive, Idaho Falls, Idaho approached the podium and
stated she is a daughter-in-law of the Crumps. She stated she used to love coming to watch the
Belnap Christmas Light Show, but she has now seen the other side of it. She continued and said
she knows the Belnaps mean well, but she doesn't think they are aware of everything that is left
over each night during the show. She stated that previously, her in-laws had suggested doing the
show every other year and asked if that was a possibility. Members of the Belnap Family got up
and started walking out of the room. Sherri Crump asked why they can't discuss solutions and a
member of the Belnap Family stated that LoAnn has already said the show is over and there is no
reason to continue discussing it. At this time, the entire Belnap Family walked out of the Council
Room.
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Devin Rowley of 3327 N. Dayton Street approached the podium and stated he lives a block away
from the Christmas Light Show and stated he has not experienced any of the nuisances that have
been discussed, but he does admit it is a nuisance to drive through that area during the show. He
made suggestions including having the Belnaps rent the space that people are parking on for
monetary compensation to the land owners or to purchase the homes that are being affected to
continue the show.
Terry McNamara of 3753 N. 55th E. approached the podium and stated he doesn't think the
Belnaps are taking their neighbors' concerns seriously. He continued and stated he lives on the
same street and they have problems associated with the Christmas Light Show, as well as other
neighbors along the street. However, most neighbors will not say anything because it is difficult.
Mr. McNamara continued and stated they should treat their neighbors the way they want to be
treated. He stated the Belnaps need to realize the show has grown out of proportion for where it
is located. The road it is located on is a county road and is dangerous.
Matt Morris of 2187 Aubree Way approached the podium and stated his family has lived in Iona
for 7 years and they love the community. He stated the demeanor of Mayor Gubler at the May
Work Meeting was disheartening and is not what this community stands for. Mr. Morris
continued and apologized for not attending more meetings in the past, but did state his
disappointment in the way items were discussed during that meeting. He continued and said he
admits the Christmas Light Show did pose threats and dangers to the community and is saddened
to hear the Belnaps state they will no longer do the show. He is sad to hear that visitors to the
show have treated the neighbors' properties so poorly. Mr. Morris continued and stated the letter
the City sent to the Belnaps in May did have a "strong arm feel" to get them to stop the show.
Mayor Gubler stated a lot of the conversation at that meeting was derived from past discussions
and was not an isolated incident. Mayor Gubler also said he lives on 55th East and has had a lot
of incidents where he has been almost hit by visitors of the show that backup or stop
unexpectedly. Mr. Morris understood and also stated the discussion that happened in May did not
sound like the City was open to suggestions. Mr. Morris suggested the City host a holiday event
at the City Park to make up for the canceled Iona Day celebration and to help the City change its
image.
Sara Sargent of 3897 N. McKibben Lane approached the podium and stated she appreciates the
amount of time and effort the Belnaps have put into their Christmas Light Show. She also
understands the negative effect this event has had on their neighbors. She continued and stated
she does not appreciate the language Mayor Gubler used to describe the residents of Iona at the
May Work Meeting. Mayor Gubler stated he was not referring to the residents of Iona in the
recording, he was referring to the visitors to the show that do not behave appropriately. Mrs.
Sargent stated what she heard on the recording was disappointing. She also stated she appreciates
the Mayor and City Council for serving Iona, but encouraged them to be respectful during
meetings even when confronting frustrating situations.
Brad Andersen of 4933 E. Camas Creek Circle approached the podium again and stated when he
was the mayor of Iona he sat down with the Belnaps and the Crumps to work out times for the
Christmas Light Show. At that time, they agreed upon the timeframe and hours the show could
run. Mr. Andersen stated the Light Show is a good thing for the community and that no one has
perfect neighbors. However, sometimes we have to deal with situations relating to our neighbors
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and certain things they do. He continued and stated he understands it is important to listen to
complaints from one person, but the Council also needs to consider what is beneficial for the
whole community. He continued and stated he recognizes the show has grown to include 3-4
houses and suggested reducing the size of the show to reduce the impact to the neighbors. Mr.
Andersen suggested getting the Belnaps and the Crumps together to come up with a solution. He
also stated this year has been a tough year on a lot of people and he is disappointed the City
wants to shut down the Christmas Light Show too. Council Member Wadsworth spoke up and
said the City does not want to get rid of the Christmas Light Show. He appreciates the ideas
being given tonight, but is frustrated the Belnaps were not willing to listen to ideas. Council
Member Wadsworth stated the City is being blamed for canceling the Christmas Light Show, but
the Belnaps have not been willing to listen to ideas on how to keep it going without negatively
impacting their neighbors. Mr. Andersen stated the letter the City sent the Belnaps did not sound
like the City was looking for suggestions. He continued and stated the City Council has options
and should reach out to people to get ideas before getting to the point of the Belnaps canceling
their show. Mr. Andersen stated he thinks we all need to be good neighbors and tolerate the
things they do to maintain good relationships in the community, especially because this show is
only 30 days out of the year. Mr. Andersen continued and stated there used to be another light
show close to his house and the homeowners did it for a lot of years then decided to quit. Terry
McNamara interrupted and said he talked to that homeowner a few days ago and he told him his
kids stopped helping with the light show that is why they quit. Mr. Andersen said that is not true.
Mr. McNamara told Mr. Andersen to sit down. Mayor Gubler and Council Members asked the
audience members to calm down and called for respect in the Council Chambers.
Joan Ralphs of 5245 E. Free Avenue approached the podium and asked if the Belnaps could
scale back the show. Council President Geray stated that had been mentioned earlier and was not
accepted as an option by the Belnaps. Mrs. Ralphs stated if the show was smaller, it may
decrease the impact. Clerk West stated she had received a suggestion from a resident of Iona
prior to the meeting to make the show a drive through show, rather than a show that requires
people to stop and park to watch. She continued and stated there are ideas to keep the show
going, but that is difficult to do when all parties are not willing to listen.
Mayor Gubler read aloud a letter from Eric Astel, who lived next door to the Belnaps for 13
years. He gave his perspective in his letter and stated similar complaints that have been
mentioned by other neighbors.
Brandon Jones of 790 Jerry Avenue, Idaho Falls, approached the podium and stated it is
important to still discuss solutions. He continued and stated there are multiple light shows in
Idaho Falls that are designed to drive by, because there is not enough room for cars to park and
watch. He also said there are examples in other areas the Belnaps could learn from and adapt
their show to keep it going.
Amy Crump approached the podium again and stated she has tried to be a good neighbor and has
attempted to talk to the Belnaps and they have been unwilling to listen to their concerns. She
feels as though the Belnaps stalled the meeting in July and filled social media with hate that was
aimed at her and the City Council, instead of trying to come up with a solution. She continued
and said they have tried to work with the Belnaps to scale the show back, but was told by Mr.
Belnap the show is all or nothing. Mayor Gubler asked the Crumps if the Belnaps were to change
10
their show to be designed to drive by, if they would be ok to let it continue. Mr. Crump showed
concern regarding getting in and out of his driveway. Mr. Crump said after tonight's meeting and
all of the threats his family has received because of the hateful postings on social media done by
the Belnap Family, he does not know if he can compromise with them now.
Council President Geray stated he came to the meeting objectively and heard the Belnaps declare
they would be canceling their show and he has not heard anything to contradict that. He
continued and stated it was disappointing to hear and see members of the Belnap Family
laughing and smiling while the neighbors' complaints were being voiced during the meeting.
Council President Geray continued and stated he understands this is an asset to the community,
but he also has to consider the rights of all the property owners nearby. He said after the behavior
he saw tonight and the things he has read and seen on Facebook, he has seen nothing that would
inspire him to try and negotiate with the Belnaps. He continued and stated with the Belnaps
declaration of canceling the show and not staying to listen to any ideas on how to resolve the
issues, he has come to the conclusion that their show is done and there is no reason to continue
discussing it.
Mayor Gubler stated he received and responded to over 90 emails pertaining to this situation. He
also stated there were many people that admitted they did not understand the full story because
of misinformation that was portrayed on social media and other media outlets. Mayor Gubler
continued and stated he has heard from many people stating how the show has impacted them
and the City cannot disregard the rights of others to enjoy their own properties by allowing one
landowner to host an event that impacts so many others. He also stated if anyone has any
solutions on how to accommodate everyone involved, he would be happy to listen.
Council Member Wadsworth stated Mayor Gubler had mentioned earlier there were 4 neighbors
that had complained about the Christmas Light show and only 2 were in attendance tonight.
Mayor Gubler stated another neighbor was unable attend the meeting due to medical reasons and
asked Mayor Gubler to visit him at home to discuss his concerns and how it has impacted him.
Mayor Gubler again stated he does not think it is a bad idea to encourage the Belnaps to adapt
their show to be a drive by spectacle, rather than requiring visitors to stop and watch. Mr. Crump
asked if the City would monitor that and have someone patrol it to keep traffic moving. Mayor
Gubler confirmed the City would provide enforcement. He continued and stated as residents we
do need to be good neighbors by communicating and compromising with them to allow everyone
to enjoy their freedoms.
Council Member Thompson stated he is saddened by the comments made tonight and lack of
understanding and listening. He encouraged the neighbors of the Belnaps to try talking to them
directly and work out a solution. Council Member Thompson continued and stated he does not
agree with many things Mike Belnap said tonight and on social media. He also stated he
attempted to reach out to Mike Belnap directly, but he refused to talk to him and was in the
process of retaining an attorney. Council Member Thompson stated he was elected to listen to all
of the residents and it is disheartening to have a situation like this come up and be denied
communication to aid in resolving the problems. He continued and stated he does not want the
show to end, but there needs to be a resolution to the problems it has created.
11
General Water System Discussion — Mayor Gubler stated the new water tank is complete. He
continued and stated they are now beginning the process of building the well house. Mayor
Gubler also stated the City is in the process of receiving a grant from the Army Corp of
Engineers for approximately $500,000. It has been fully funded, but it still being reviewed. He
also stated they have completed drilling the well and it was able to pump 1500 gallons per
minute for 24 hours straight. The goal was 1300 gallons per minute.
STAFF REPORTS: Clerk West stated she has spoken with a representative from Bonneville
County Emergency Management and was informed that under the CARES ACT, each city and
county in the state of Idaho has an allotted amount for them to use to purchase items relating to
COVID-19. She continued and stated there is approximately $80,000 available to the City of
Iona to purchase new equipment such as touchless water fountains and bathroom fixtures, to help
slow the spread of COVID-19. She advised the Council and the public to contact her directly
with any ideas on what items would benefit the City during this pandemic.
Director Prouse stated nothing to report.
Council President Geray stated they have set a date for the Veterans Day program, which will be
Wednesday, November 11, 2020. Location and more information will be available as it gets
closer.
Council Members Wadsworth, Thompson and McNamara all stated nothing to report.
Mayor Gubler announced a past City employee, Ross Johnson, passed away earlier this week. He
continued and stated Mr. Johnson worked for the City for over 30 years and was the previous
Public Works Director.
SUGGESTED AGENDA ITEMS: No comments made.
Meeting Adjourned at 9:14pm
COUNCIL APPROVED: September 15, 2020
‘(..)
ATTEST:
Keri West, City Clerk/Treasurer
Dan Gubler, Mayor
12
City of Iona Check Register - Iona Page: 1
Check Issue Dates: 8/1/2020 - 8/31/2020 Sep 08, 2020 03:13PM
Report Criteria:
Report type: Summary
GL Period Check Issue Date Check Number
Payee
Description
GL Account Amount
08/20 08/03/2020 17805
08/20 08/03/2020 17806
08/20 08/03/2020 17807
08/20 08/03/2020 17808
08/20 08/04/2020 17809
08/20 08/06/2020 17810
08/20 08/06/2020 17811
08/20 08/06/2020 17812
08/20 08/06/2020 17813
08/20 08/06/2020 17814
08/20 08/06/2020 17815
08/20 08/10/2020 17816
08/20 08/10/2020 17817
08/20 08/12/2020 17822
08/20 08/12/2020 17823
08/20 08/12/2020 17824
08/20 08/12/2020 17825
08/20 08/12/2020 17826
08/20 08/12/2020 17827
08/20 08/12/2020 17828
08/20 08/13/2020 17829
08/20 08/13/2020 17830
08/20 08/13/2020 17831
08/20 08/13/2020 17832
08/20 08/13/2020 17833
08/20 08/13/2020 17834
08/20 08/13/2020 17835
08/20 08/18/2020 17836
08/20 08/19/2020 17837
08/20 08/19/2020 17838
08/20 08/19/2020 17839
08/20 08/19/2020 17840
08/20 08/19/2020 17841
08/20 08/19/2020 17842
08/20 08/19/2020 17843
08/20 08/24/2020 17844
08/20 08/24/2020 17845
08/20 08/24/2020 17846
08/20 08/24/2020 17847
08/20 08/24/2020 17848
08/20 08/24/2020 17849
08/20 08/24/2020 17850
08/20 08/24/2020 17851
08/20 08/24/2020 17852
08/20 08/24/2020 17853
08/20 08/24/2020 17854
08/20 08/24/2020 17855
08/20 08/24/2020 17856
08/20 08/24/2020 17857
08/20 08/26/2020 17864
Grand Totals:
Summary by General Ledger Account Number
FALLS PLUMBING SUPPLY, INC.
METROQUIP, INC.
RMT EQUIPMENT
TETON MICROBIOLOGY LAB
Premier Truck Group
Cashier Idaho Department of Labor
CROWN TROPHY
HOLDEN KIDWELL HAHN & CRAPO P.L.L.C.
LANDON EXCACATING, INC.
LUCKYDOG RECREATION
COMMERCIAL TIRE
ALLEN ELDRIDGE
GREG MCBRIDE
BONNEVILLE CO. SOLID WASTE
DIGLINE, INC.
HONNEN EQUIPMENT
IDAHO TRAFFIC SAFETY, INC.
INTERSTATE BILLING SERVICE, INC.
IONA FOOD MART
Nutrien Ag Solutions
CITY OF IONA
INTERMOUNTAIN GAS CO.
LANDON EXCACATING, INC.
NETBACK, LLC
PSI ENVIRONMENTAL
TACOMA SCREW PRODUCTS, INC.
VERIZON WIRELESS
TYLER GRIFFIN
DOME TECHNOLOGY
FORSGREN ASSOCIATES, INC.
D & S ELECTRICAL SUPPLY CO.
POST REGISTER
ROCKY MTN. POWER
TETON MICROBIOLOGY LAB
THE DEVELOPMENT COMPANY
ALLEN ELDRIDGE
BMC WEST LLC
BONNEVILLE COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS
GREG MCBRIDE
MOUNTAIN WEST LLC
PORTER'S OFFICE PRODUCTS
ROCKY MTN. POWER
BLACKFOOT
CITY OF IDAHO FALLS TREASURER OFFICE
HOLDEN KIDWELL HAHN & CRAPO P.L.L.C.
PEAK ALARM
SPARKLIGHT
WEX BANK
KADEN LORDS
SUSAN WALDEN
Solenoid
Maintenance Supplies
Bolts
Water tests
'04 Sterling Dumptruck Repair
Unemployment Insurance Tax
Softball Trophies
City Attorney Fees
Sand
Swing Parts- Iona City Park
Tires for Backhoe
Building inspections
Mechanical Inspections
County Dump refuse
UTILITY LOCATOR
Sweeper Air Filters
Orange flags
International Dump truck service
Propane
Mad Dog Plus
City water usage/bill
Natural gas
Sand- 1 Load
Data Backup 5GB
Dumpster
Driver Bit
Cell phones
REFUND WATER OVERPAYMEN
Iona North Water Tank Project
PAM Addition and Zoning Map
Sprinkler Parts
PH -Amend Budget FY20
Shop
Water tests
Water Bond Project- Contract Am
Building inspections
Concrete mix and 4X4X8's
Seal Coating 2020
Mechanical Inspections
Parks -Playground chips
Office supplies
Street Lights
TELEPHONE
DISPATCH SERVICES-2ND PMT.
City Attorney Fees
Qtrly Security alarm monitoring
Internet
Public Works-Dsl
REFUND WATER OVERPAYMEN
REFUND WATER OVERPAYMEN
104710 105.00
104710 2,300.88
104710 .00 V
514710 75.00
104710 2,633.28
104150 137.05
104960 343.80
104160 1,638.00
104710 41.33
104710 2,146.20
514710 1,101.02
104720 1,000.00
104720 200.00
104710 90.00
514710 45.50
104710 57.45
104710 82.80
514710 1,995.30
104710 6.70
104710 885.00
104710 539.00
514175 64.54
514710 43.31
104150 75.00
104710 229.27
104710 6.95
104960 264.02
011075 22.13
514820 262,059.88
104163 44,924.93
104710 22.68
104155 388.02
104175 9,919.41
514710 75.00
514160 10,000.00
104720 1,000.00
104710 56.17
104820 36,690.07
104720 250.00
104710 800.00
104150 10.58
104175 50.79
104150 172.34
104680 4,561.19
104160 900.00
514150 117.78
104150 155.05
104710 215.31
011075 6.32
011075 20.55
388,524.60
M = Manual Check, V = Void Check
City of Iona
Check Register - Iona
Check Issue Dates: 8/1/2020 - 8/31/2020
Page: 2
Sep 08, 2020 03:13PM
GL Account
Debit Credit Proof
Grand Totals:
Dated:
01-1075 49.00 .00 49.00
01-2010 .00 49.00- 49.00-
10-2010 17.48 63,563.36- 63,545.88-
10-41-50 542.93 .00 542.93
10-41-55 388.02 .00 388.02
10-41-60 2,538.00 .00 2,538.00
10-41-63 2,990.00 .00 2,990.00
10-41-75 1,347.79 .00 1,347.79
10-46-80 4,561.19 .00 4,561.19
10-47-10 11,625.28 17.48- 11,607.80
10-47-20 2,493.14 .00 2,493.14
10-48-20 36,690.07 .00 36,690.07
10-49-60 386.94 .00 386.94
51-2010 .00 324,929.72- 324,929.72-
51-41-50 211.15 .00 211.15
51-41-60 10, 000.00 .00 10, 000.00
51-41-75 8,686.95 .00 8,686.95
51-41-80 41,934.93 .00 41,934.93
51-47-10 2,036.81 .00 2,036.81
51-48-20 262,059.88 .00 262,059.88
388,559.56 388,559.56- .00
,S'ec,r- /6- - ,zd
VAikirfficriMeLi2u
Cc Y 9/r57-?c-2c)
Report Criteria:
Report type: Summary
M = Manual Check, V = Void Check