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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 1 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. 2 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 3 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 4 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 5 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 6 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 7 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. 8 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 9 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