Idaho Falls Development News
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Idaho Falls Adopts State-Mandated Zoning Changes for ADUs and Short-Term Rentals; Park Regulations Updated
The City Council considered amendments to Title 11 of the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance. The first amendment, related to park and recreation facilities, defines these facilities and exempts them from general zoning code regulations, allowing for individual master plans for each park. This was approved. The second amendment addresses accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to comply with state mandate Senate Bill 1354. This bill preempts local regulations by requiring ADUs to be allowed on any single-family lot, removing restrictions on parking, limiting owner-occupancy requirements, and mandating minimum sizes and setbacks. Councilmember Lee expressed strong opposition, viewing it as a state overreach, and voted no, while the majority approved the ordinance with a delayed effective date of January 31st, 2027, to allow for potential legislative revisions. The third amendment concerns short-term rentals, also in response to state legislation (House Bill 583). This bill prohibits cities from regulating the time limits or number of occupants for short-term rentals. The ordinance was amended to remove these restrictions, although the definition of a short-term rental (30 days or less) remains. Council members noted concerns about potential negative impacts on neighborhoods, such as increased noise and the possibility of properties functioning like boarding houses.
Idaho Falls Council Approves Annexations, Subdivisions, and Revised Townhome PUD
The council held a legislative hearing and voted to approve the annexation of approximately 10.7 acres, known as the Boone property, located northeast of Section 8, Township 2 North, Range 38 East. The property was assigned a comprehensive plan designation of industrial and initial zoning of I&M (Industrial and Manufacturing). This action aligns with the Imagine IF plan and follows a unanimous positive recommendation from the Planning Commission. The council also approved the relevant statement of criteria and standards for this annexation and zoning. The council also approved the final plat for Peterson Place subdivision, located west of Broadway, which includes codifying public utility easements and dedication of right-of-way. Additionally, the final plat for MK Simpson Division No. 4, located on 33rd North, was approved, which is a two-lot subdivision intended for future Idaho National Laboratory (INL) campus development and includes a flag lot for access. This plat involved a clarification regarding lot numbering, with Lot 4 and Lot 5 being the correct designations in the final plat. Furthermore, the council approved the annexation and initial zoning for Lot 4, Block 1 of the Kingston-Bachman Industrial Park, a 1.35-acre property adjacent to Highway 20 and North Boulevard. This property, currently zoned IM1 in the county, will be annexed and zoned I&M (Industrial and Manufacturing) in compliance with the Imagine IF plan and located within the Controlled Development Airport Overlay Zone. The applicant cited sewer issues as the primary reason for annexation. Finally, the council approved the revised Planned Unit Development (PUD) for Willow's Place townhomes. This PUD, located on Bellen and Plummen, faced previous denials but was revised through mediation. Key changes include reducing density from 14 to 12 units, relocating the park amenity, shifting the road alignment, and addressing streetscape improvements. The mediation process involved council members Francis and Lee, who recused themselves from deliberation and voting. The revised plan was approved with the motion to accept the PUD and the related statement of relevant criteria and standards.
Idaho Falls Council Approves Numerous Purchases, Agreements, and Development Projects
The City Council approved several consent agenda items, including the purchase of a Viper handheld chemical analyzer for the fire department ($99,421), replacement of bathrooms at South Tourist Park by Rivers West Construction ($136,180), conductor wire purchase from multiple vendors ($1,603,713.64), and an off-airport rental car operating agreement with Avis Budget Car Rental, LLC for the airport. Council meeting minutes and May 2026 licensing information were also received. Under the regular agenda, the council approved a sole source purchase for Automation Works LLC for a wastewater treatment plant SCADA upgrade totaling $114,967.50. The police personnel manual amendments were approved. Bids for the South Horse Park Path Lighting System Project were rejected, and staff were authorized to negotiate on the open market. A service agreement extension was approved with the Idaho Bonneville Sewer District for three months. An annual water right lease agreement with the City of Pocatello for 2,069.9 acre feet of water for $121,296.14 was approved, noting a reduction in required mitigation. The council waived certain fees for the 2026 4th of July celebration, totaling $40,595.17. An indemnification agreement with Melaleuca for fireworks sponsorship was approved. A records destruction resolution was also approved. Additionally, the council approved the final plat for Peterson Place Division One and MK Simpson Division No. 4. Legislative hearings led to the approval of annexations and initial zoning for the Boone property (10.7 acres) and the Kingston-Bachman Industrial Park (1.35 acres). The revised Planned Unit Development (PUD) for Willow's Place townhomes was also approved after extensive discussion and a mediation process.
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