News Flash

Marshall Public Library (MPL) is once again celebrating the holiday season with its third annual Jolabokaflod event, and this year’s giveaway is extra special. Beginning Monday, November 24, library cardholders can stop by to pick up a free hardback keepsake copy of The Polar Express, just in time for the book’s 40th anniversary.

Thanks to funding from the Friends of Marshall Public Library, the library has purchased 200 copies of The Polar Express to share with the community. Jolabokaflod, an Icelandic tradition that began during World War II, translates to “Christmas book flood” and celebrates the joy of exchanging books and spending quiet evenings reading at home.

“2025 marks the 40th anniversary of The Polar Express’s publication, so it was the perfect fit for Jolabokaflod this year,” said Amy Azzouzat, Public Services Supervisor. “Many adults in our community grew up reading it at Christmas, so it really has become a classic holiday story for multiple generations.”

Books will be available while supplies last, with a limit of one copy per household. A valid MPL card is required to receive a book. In addition to the physical copies, an e-book version with optional read-along audio will also be available to cardholders through Libby, the library’s e-book service.

For more information about Jolabokaflod or the giveaway, please contact Amy Azzouzat at 208-232-1263 ext. 106.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

Historic Spotlight: Abe Lincoln Lillibridge (Information courtesy of Idaho State University)

Abe Lincoln Lillibridge was born in Pocatello on October 13, 1891, in a home on what is now North Main Street—then still part of the Fort Hall Indian Reservation. As a young man, he worked as a press boy for the Pocatello Tribune, a machinist and draftsman for the railroad, and a pipe fitter for the Pocatello Gas and Power Company. His hands-on expertise led him through a range of mechanical jobs, including building mining equipment and working as a foreman in local machine shops.

During World War I, Lillibridge served in the 346th Field Artillery, 91st Division, reaching the Meuse River front as the war ended. After returning home, he began a long and impactful career at Idaho Technical Institute (now Idaho State University). There, he created everything from oil test demonstrators and road rollers to cranes, hoists, and a 50-ton punch press. He even built two Tesla coils for the Physics Department—each capable of generating about one million volts.

One of his proudest achievements was helping construct the University’s first atom smasher—a five-ton Cyclotron—and preserving a historic locomotive whistle, which was later used to celebrate Bengal football touchdowns. He also played a key role in rebuilding laboratories and campus facilities, leaving a mark on generations of students and faculty.

In his spare time, Lillibridge was a passionate railroad enthusiast who traveled widely to document train operations across Idaho and beyond.

 

He married Ethel Tolson on June 18, 1919, in Caldwell, Idaho, and together they raised three sons: Eldon, Harold, and Robert. Lillibridge passed away on July 22, 1971, after a long illness. In honor of his legacy, the Nuclear Science Engineering building at Idaho State University was named the Lillibridge Engineering Laboratory Building—a tribute to his decades of service, ingenuity, and devotion to education.

The Legacy of the Kasiska Family in Pocatello (brought to you by the Historic Preservation Commission)

The Kasiska family’s legacy in Pocatello began with William F. Kasiska, who immigrated from East Prussia (now part of Germany) with his wife, Mary. Their journey took them from New York to Wisconsin, Seattle, and finally to Pocatello in 1890.

William Kasiska was a visionary entrepreneur and civic leader. He invested in land, operated banks and ranches, and served two terms as Mayor of Pocatello. The Kasiskas owned significant real estate throughout the city, including:

-The Bannock Hotel (Simplot Square is now located where the Bannock Hotel once stood)

-The Kasiska Building (once located at the corner of W. Lewis and S. Arthur)

-Their residence at 155 S. Garfield

-The home now occupied by the President of Idaho State University

In the 1970s, both the Kasiska and neighboring Dr. Minnie and William F. Howard's home were relocated near the west end of Chubbuck Road to allow for future expansion of the Public Library, now known as the Marshall Public Library in Historic Downtown Pocatello.

William and Mary left a substantial estate to their daughters, Mabel and Eva, who carried on the family’s enterprises. Mabel Kasiska was one of Idaho’s first female banking executives. She owned and managed a bank in Lava Hot Springs, served on the Board of Directors of the Cassia National Bank in Burley, and invested in the Twin Falls Bank.

The Kasiska family left an enduring mark on Pocatello through their leadership, philanthropy, and community investment. Information courtesy of Idaho State University’s Department of Special Collections and Archives. For additional information on the Kasiska Family, please visit: https://www.isu.edu/healthsc.../about/kasiska-family-legacy/

Frederick Henry Stedtfeld (information courtesy of Idaho State University):

Frederick Henry “Fred” Stedtfeld was born on October 13, 1874, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to German immigrants, Henry and Sophia (Frodeman) Stedtfeld. Raised in a household rooted in Old World traditions, Fred learned the trade of baking from his father — a skill that would shape the course of his life.

By the early 1890s, as a young man in his late teens, Fred felt the pull of the American West. In 1892, with a well-worn recipe book tucked under his arm and dreams of opportunity ahead, he left Indianapolis and began working for the Union Pacific Railroad as a chef, steadily making his way westward. He worked in numerous restaurants along the rail lines, gaining experience and reputation at each stop.

His journey eventually brought him to Utah, and from there, he continued on to Pocatello, Idaho — a bustling railroad hub, and the place he would ultimately call home. Fred worked at the Pacific Hotel in Pocatello between 1896 and 1898 and after went back out working as a chef in towns along the railroad, including Omaha, Nebraska; Ogden, Utah; Salt Lake City, Utah; and Mackay, Idaho. During his time in Ogden, he met and married Pauline.

In 1905, Fred and his young family moved back to Pocatello; he worked briefly at the Office Café, located at 126 N Cleveland (now known as Main Street), and then quit to work as a chef at the Bannock Hotel. The Stedtfelds lived at 458 E. Center St.

In 1906, Fred opened the White House Café, a frame building located at 242 West Center Street, Pocatello. After it burned, he moved into a frame building known as the T. B. Smith building at 113 N. Main, which he named Fred’s Place; it remained open until 1909. It was located behind what was then the Temple Pharmacy (later, the old Pocatello Drug, on the corner of Main and Center Streets). Pauline worked with Fred part-time, while keeping an eye on their now three children, the third of whom died within its first year. Their fourth child, Norman, was born in 1908. 

In 1907, Fred purchased all of lots 13 and 14 (and later lot 15), Block 155 in Pocatello (known as 170 S 9th Ave) for $1.00, where, within subsequent years, with the help of Pauline’s father, a skilled carpenter, and his brothers traveled to Pocatello to build the Stedtfeld family home.

In 1909, Fred purchased the Turf Café, 238 (242/244) W Center Street, for $400 and renamed it the Monarch Café. A fire forced a move around the corner onto Main Street, where Fred established the Montana Café at 124 N Main, previously known as the Office Café. He held onto this business until 1915, when a second fire in the flue put him out of business.

Click link: Turf Cafe Menu 

Hamburger $0.15 - Sirloin Steak $0.40 - Mutton Chops $0.30 - Weiner Snitzel $0.35 - Halibut Steak $0.40

In 1911, Fred established yet another new restaurant in a new building at 144 N Main with new, state-of-the-art equipment. This was the beginning of Fred’s Cafe.

Fred Stedtfeld died in 1948, and in 1956, Fred’s Café went bankrupt and in that same year re-opened under new management and remained open until 1972.

Pauline Stedfeld died in 1984 at the age of 104.

Today, you can still see remnants of Fred’s Café in the tile work in front of 144 N Main Street.

May 29: Brady Chapel History & Restoration

The Brady Memorial Chapel stands as a proud local landmark at the entrance of Mountain View Cemetery in Pocatello, Idaho. Built between 1919 and 1922 to honor James H. Brady—former Idaho Governor and U.S. Senator—the chapel is a striking example of French Gothic Revival architecture. Designed by architect Frank Paradice and constructed by Alex Mathers, it was dedicated on Memorial Day, 1922, the same day the Lincoln Memorial was unveiled in Washington, D.C.

Originally open to the public for reflection and meditation, the chapel served the community until 1961. After that, it was repurposed as a storage facility and fell into disrepair. In 1979, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Some repair work was completed in 1988, including ceiling, door, and roof restoration. The stained-glass windows, originally designed by Herman Pierson, were also restored by Judy Countrell and protected with Plexiglass covers. A 1920s-style chandelier was installed to serve as an eternal light in memory of Twyla Thomas, a passionate advocate for the chapel’s preservation.

From the mid-1980s through 2015, the City’s Cemetery Committee and Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) worked steadily—with limited funding and generous in-kind contributions—to improve and maintain the chapel. In 2016, HPC ramped up its efforts through events like Memorial Day and Veterans Day open houses, the Before All Hallows’ Eve Scavenger Hunt, and the Stones to Stories program.

By 2019, it became clear that more substantial funding was needed. The Planning & Development Services Department and HPC requested support from the City Council to address pressing structural repairs. Council approved the request, with the condition that a comprehensive capital campaign plan be developed to secure sustainable restoration funding and a long-term maintenance endowment.

That plan came together in 2020, setting the stage for major restoration efforts.

In 2024, Phase I of restoration was completed. This included cleaning and repointing the masonry, along with replacing the deteriorated pinnacles using historically accurate replicas. Funding for this phase included $72,000 from the City, $13,000 in private donations, $10,000 from the Idaho Heritage Trust, and $5,000 from the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Future restoration phases will address:

• Repair of the slate roof

• Refurbishment of stained-glass windows and doors

• Interior masonry repointing and repair

• Restoration of finishes including floors and replica pews

• Installation of radiant heating to stabilize interior temperature and humidity

The City of Pocatello, HPC, and Friends of the Brady Chapel remain committed to preserving this historic gem and will continue pursuing funding and support to ensure its lasting legacy.

May 22: Self-Guided Historic Districts Walking Tours 

Did you know that there are 7 self-guided walking tours regarding Pocatello’s National Registered Historic Districts available online? 

These include:

•    Downtown Historic District

•    Eastside Downtown Historic District

•    Old Town Residential Historic District

•    University Neighborhood Historic District

•    Warehouse Historic District

•    Westside Residential Historic District

•    Historic Downtown Pocatello’s Neon Walking Tour

Take advantage of the great weather and check out some of our historic sites around town!

May 20: Historic Preservation Month: Pocatello’s WWII Contributions

Pocatello’s roots trace back to a boxcar depot along a narrow-gauge rail line connecting Salt Lake City to Montana’s mining operations in the late 1800s. Incorporated in 1889, Pocatello quickly became a major railroad hub. Thanks to its inland location and strong rail infrastructure, the city played a critical role during World War II.

In 1942, the U.S. Army established an airbase seven miles northwest of Pocatello. Spanning over 3,500 acres, the base served as a key training site for aircrews flying B-17 and B-24 bombers, as well as P-39 and P-47 fighters. It housed the 96th and 382nd Bomber Groups, along with the 453rd and 464th—units that trained thousands of pilots, navigators, and bombardiers. Functioning as a self-contained city, the base included housing, schools, a post office, hospital, chapel, dining facilities, and workshops. After its decommissioning in 1945, the site was transferred to the City of Pocatello in 1949 and became the Pocatello Municipal Airport (now Pocatello Regional Airport).

That same year, the United Service Organization (USO) opened a downtown recreation center and USO Hut to support servicemen stationed in Pocatello.

Also in 1942, the U.S. Navy commissioned the Naval Ordnance Plant (N.O.P.) in Pocatello—a 200-acre facility responsible for refurbishing and manufacturing naval gun barrels and ordnance components. One of only two such plants nationwide, and the only one west of the Mississippi, it was chosen for its strategic inland location and transportation network. Once weapons were completed, they were shipped roughly 50 miles to the Naval Proving Ground in the Arco Desert for testing—today, the site of the Idaho National Laboratory.

After the war, the N.O.P. was decommissioned and eventually sold in the 1950s. The area transitioned into an industrial park, home to various federal facilities and a public space now known as N.O.P. Park.

In June 2021, Industrial Realty Group, LLC (IRG) acquired the complex and rebranded it as the “Titan Center.” Since then, IRG has made significant improvements to attract a diverse mix of industrial and commercial tenants.

Pocatello’s contributions during WWII remain a proud chapter in the city’s rich history.

May 14: Pocatello Historical Figure – Frank Paradice

Frank Paradice Jr. is widely regarded as Pocatello's most influential architect during the first half of the 20th century. Born in St. Catharines, Canada, in 1879, Paradice was the eldest of eleven children. His family moved to Denver, Colorado, in 1880, where he grew up. In 1899, he graduated from Chicago's Art Institute and the Armour Institute of Technology with a degree in architecture.

Paradice began his career as supervising architect for the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad in 1900. He later moved to Boise in 1901, working alongside architect M. Morgan Nisbet. The duo contributed many notable structures, including the Empire Building in downtown Boise, a fine example of the Chicago School style, as well as what were considered some of Boise’s most innovative bungalows.

At the encouragement of his friend, future Idaho Governor James H. Brady, Paradice relocated to Pocatello in 1913 during a time of significant growth. He established his practice in the Kasiska Building, which he designed, and would go on to shape much of Pocatello’s architectural identity through his mastery of Art Deco and Neoclassical Revival styles.

From schools and churches to government buildings and private residences, Paradice left an indelible mark on the city. Paradice worked in Pocatello until his death in 1952. Some of his most notable projects include:

Fargo Apartments, ca. 1914 

Fargo Building (Station Square), ca. 1916

Franklin Building, ca. 1915

Federal Building, ca. 1916

Valentine Building, ca. 1916 

Bannock Hotel, ca. 1919

James H. Brady Memorial Chapel, ca. 1922

ISU’s Colonial Hall, ca. 1925 

Veterans Memorial Building, ca. 1927

ISU's Administration Building and Gravely Hall, ca. 1939

Pocatello High School redesign and gymnasium, ca. 1939

Masonic Temple, ca. 1947

Reed Gymnasium, ca. 1951

Others include:

Kasiska Building, ca. 1914 

Whittier School, ca. 1914 

Emerson School (Cre-Act Building), ca. 1914 

Church-White Building, ca. 1915 

Jefferson School, ca. 1920 

Washington Elementary School, ca. 1920 

Wooley Apartments (Brentwood Manor), ca. 1920 

Presbyterian Church, ca. 1927 

Central Building, ca. 1929 

Bannock Memorial Hospital, ca. 1948 

May 12: Pocatello Historical Figure: Clarence Rainey

Clarence Murray Rainey, an enrolled member of the Shoshone Tribe, was born on June 4, 1886, to Charles Rainey and Annetta Larsen. At just eight years old, Clarence was sent to the Carlisle Indian Industrial School in Pennsylvania, where he remained for five years. After completing the eighth grade, he was discharged on July 5, 1902.

Clarence continued his education at the Teller Institute in Grand Junction, Colorado, attending from December 23, 1903, until June 18, 1905. He later enrolled at the Academy of Idaho (now Idaho State University) in 1907 and again in 1909, becoming the earliest known Tribal member to attend the institution. While there, he studied trades such as plumbing and was active in athletics, playing football and pitching for the baseball team, where he earned the nickname “Strongheart Rainey.”

Following his studies, Clarence began working as a plumber in Pocatello and continued to play baseball locally. He also volunteered with the Pocatello Fire Department. In 1911, he worked for Greene and Higson as a plumber and later joined the City of Pocatello Water Department in 1917, where he eventually became City Water Superintendent—a role he held for thirty years.

Clarence and his wife, Lena Trimmings, whom he married in 1913, made their home at 735 W. Bonneville. Their house was known as one of the nicest in Pocatello. In addition to his work in the city, Clarence owned land in Fort Hall, including 20 acres of farmland, 60 acres of hay land, and 160 acres of grazing land.

Clarence Rainey passed away on March 1, 1947, at the age of 60. His lasting legacy is seen in the community through his contributions to both Pocatello and Fort Hall. Rainey Park stands as a tribute to his memory. He is buried at Mountainview Cemetery in Pocatello.

May 9: Pocatello Historical Figure Spotlight: Dr. Minnie Howard

Today, we honor Minnie Frances Howard, a remarkable woman whose legacy continues to shape the Pocatello community. Born in 1872 in Missouri, Minnie moved to Kansas as a teenager and began teaching in rural schools. She later earned her medical degree from the University of Kansas Medical School in 1899, an impressive feat for women at the time, and joined her husband, Dr. William Forrest Howard, in a joint medical practice.

In 1902, the Howards moved to Pocatello, where Minnie became a community leader, health advocate, and historian. She eventually stepped away from practicing medicine to raise her four sons, Nelson Jacob, Richard Philip, Forrest Hayden, and Francis Emmert (all of whom became doctors), and turned her focus to civic involvement.

Minnie was instrumental in preserving Pocatello’s history. Inspired by Ezra Meeker’s 1907 visit, she helped mark the original site of Old Fort Hall in 1916 and served as Bannock County Historian for over two decades. Her passion for education and public service was reflected in her leadership in numerous local and national organizations—from the Women’s Republican Club to the Southern Idaho Historical Society and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union.

Minnie passed away in 1965, but her contributions to medicine, historical preservation, and civic life have made her a lasting pillar of Pocatello’s heritage.

May 7: Preservation Highlight – The Purpose Center  

What many locals remember as the Petersen Building (ca. 1913) has found new life as The Purpose Center—a vibrant hub for business and community gatherings in Downtown Pocatello. Originally owned by T.C. Martin, the building housed the Petersen Furniture Company from 1921 through the late 1990s and later became home to Scott’s Ski and Sports until 2010. 

In 2019, Craig Yadon purchased the five-story historic structure and began an extensive rehabilitation. Today, the revitalized building features a tea shop and reception hall on the first floor and mezzanine, corporate offices on the third and fourth floors, and two executive suites on the fifth floor. 

Like the Whitman Building, the Purpose Center project benefited from the Federal Historic Tax Credit Program, which supports the preservation of historic structures by offering a 20% tax credit for qualified rehabilitation expenses. This program is available to contributing historic buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including many in the Downtown Pocatello Historic District. 

Through vision, investment, and historic preservation tools, buildings like The Purpose Center continue to enrich our community and connect us to Pocatello’s architectural heritage. 

May 5: Celebrating National Preservation Month - The Whitman Building

Originally constructed around 1905 as a two-story Eagles Lodge, the Whitman Building has undergone a rich and transformative history. In 1914, the structure was redeveloped into a four-story hotel, initially known as Hotel St. Marie, and later renamed the Hotel Nicollet. 
 (Photo: St. Marie)

(Photo: Hotel Nicollet)

 During its heyday, the Nicollet was regarded as one of Pocatello’s finest hotels and even housed the Princess Theater on the ground floor.

(Photo: Princess Theater)

 (Photo: Neglected Whitman)

May 2: Proclamation 

Yesterday evening at the City Council’s meeting, Mayor Blad issued a proclamation declaring May 2025 as Preservation Month in Pocatello. Receiving the proclamation was Marty Vizcarra, Pocatello Historic Preservation Commission Chair, who offered a few remarks regarding the Commission’s current efforts to preserve Pocatello’s history.

CLICK: Proclamation: Historic Preservation Month

(Image: Mayor and Commission Member holding proclamation)

MAY 1: May marks National Historic Preservation Month, and the Pocatello Historic Preservation Commission invites the community to celebrate this year’s theme: “Harnessing the Power of Place.”

APRIL 29: HAPPY BIRTHDAY POCATELLO - 136 YEARS OLD On the 29th day of April 1889 at 1:30 p.m., the Board of [Bingham] County Commissioners (you read that right, Pocatello was initially located in Bingham County) met and initiated the following action: 

“Petition from the residents of and citizens of the Town of Pocatello requesting that the Town of Pocatello be incorporated and police be established for their local government and that from thenceforth they may be a body politic and corporate by the name and style of the Inhabitants of the Town of Pocatello, with all the powers, rights, and privileges of incorporated towns and villages, as is contemplated and in such cases especially provided by the laws of the Territory of Idaho 1887 Revised Statutes thereof. It was ordered that the petition be granted and the town of Pocatello be declared incorporated and the following men be declared appointed Trustees, K.D. Williams, F.A. Caldwell, H.L. Becraft, L.A. West and G.H. Davis.” 

-From the meeting minutes of the Board of [Bingham] County Commissioners, Monday, April 29th, 1889, and verified by Judge D.W. Standrod in a judgement made in the Supreme Court of the State of Idaho (State ex. rel. J.T. Holcomb  v.  The Inhabitants of the Town of Pocatello, 1891).

The Pocatello Historic Preservation Commission (HPC), in coordination with the Friends of the Brady Chapel, will be hosting the Brady Chapel Veterans Day Open House located in Mountain View Cemetery, 1520 S. 5th Avenue, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, November 11.

“The Brady Chapel has been a part of the Pocatello community for over a century,” said Jim Anglesey, City of Pocatello Long-Range Planner and staff liaison to the HPC. “The open house provides an opportunity for the community to come and celebrate Pocatello’s history, learn more about the Chapel’s significance, and find out what current efforts are being undertaken to preserve this historic edifice.”

In 2024, the City received funding to initiate Phase I of the restoration of the Chapel, which included the cleaning and repointing of the limestone exterior and the installation of the reconstructed pinnacles atop the chapel. The HPC and Friends of the Brady Chapel are continuing to raise funds to continue the restoration of the Chapel. Future phases include repair and restoration of the roof, windows, and doors; the restoration of the interior, including masonry repair, pew restoration, woodwork, flooring, ADA accessibility, and climate control (which will help reduce humidity levels and stabilize historic materials).

“Support from the community is crucial in preserving the Brady Chapel,” said Anglesey. “In doing so, we hope the Chapel may be used more often and enjoyed by the public for generations to come.”

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

Pavement conditions in the City of Pocatello have shown measurable improvement, according to a recent survey conducted by Infrastructure Management Services (IMS), a nationally recognized firm that evaluates roadways across the country.

“The City’s increased PCI score shows our pavement plan is working,” said Tom Kirkman, Public Works Director. “By focusing on preventative maintenance and smart upgrades, we’re making our roads last longer and improving the drive for everyone.”

The City’s Pavement Condition Index (PCI) score increased from 72.15 to 75.28, placing Pocatello’s roads in the “Very Good” category. The national average typically ranges between 65 and 70, meaning Pocatello’s roadways are performing well above average. The PCI score is determined through a standardized assessment conducted by IMS, which evaluates roadway conditions on a scale of 0 to 100. The PCI score helps the City decide which streets need repairs and where to focus maintenance efforts. The evaluation looks at surface distress indicators like cracks, rutting, potholes, and ride smoothness.

“Achieving a PCI of 75.28 is something the community can be proud of,” said Mayor Brian Blad. “It reflects years of consistent planning and hard work by our Street Services team and demonstrates our commitment to keeping Pocatello’s roads safe, reliable, and in great shape for the community.”

The department is dedicated to providing safe, efficient, and sustainable roadway systems for all who live, work, and travel in Pocatello. Residents can report potholes and other street concerns anytime by downloading the new City mobile app, follow the link to learn more: PRESS RELEASE: City of Pocatello Launches New Mobile App for Service Requests.

The Street Services Department takes care of over 316 miles of roadway, including street repairs, snow and ice control, street sweeping, traffic signal maintenance, and stormwater infrastructure management. For more information about the Street Services Department or to view ongoing road maintenance updates, visit: pocatello.gov/444/Street-Services.

The City of Pocatello invites the public to a ribbon-cutting, open house, and push-in ceremony to celebrate the delivery of the department’s newest apparatus, Truck 1. The event will take place October 29, at 5:15 p.m. at Pocatello Fire Department, Fire Station #1, 408 E. Whitman Street.

This special event honors the arrival of a tractor-drawn aerial truck, a significant addition to the department’s fleet that improves both capability and maneuverability. The evening will include brief remarks, a ribbon-cutting, a traditional push-in ceremony, and an open house for community members to explore the station and see Truck 1 up close.

The push-in ceremony is a time-honored fire service tradition dating back to the days of horse-drawn fire equipment, when firefighters would physically push their apparatus back into the bay. Today, it symbolizes the welcoming of new apparatus into service and the commitment of firefighters to protecting the community.

“This new aerial truck represents a major investment in public safety and emergency response,” said Pocatello Fire Chief Ryan O’Hearn. “We’re excited to show the community what it can do and to carry on a proud fire service tradition with this ceremony.”

The public is encouraged to attend, meet their local firefighters, and help celebrate the future of fire service in Pocatello.

For more information, visit: pocatello.gov/m/newsflash/Home/Detail/2390.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The City of Pocatello is excited to announce the launch of its new mobile app, Pocatello – The One and Only, available now in both the Apple App Store and Google Play.

The app replaces “Poky Connect” and features a new service request system powered by SeeClickFix, offering improved reliability and integration with the City’s existing systems.

“We’re proud to offer a more modern, user-friendly platform that helps residents quickly report concerns and access City services,” said Mayor Brian Blad. “This is another step toward strengthening communication and accessibility in our community.”

Residents can easily report issues like potholes, clogged storm drains, or overgrown weeds, directly from their phones. Photos and videos can be attached, and users will receive email updates or push notifications as their requests are processed.

Don’t want to create an account, that’s OK! Users can remain anonymous and still report issues. Whether you create an account or not, you can always access the program map and listing showing open requests. You can also research archived requests to see all the public requests that have been submitted. It’s possible another citizen already reported the missing street sign, and you can see the request and the response.

The app also offers convenient access to key City resources:

•    Apply for City job openings

•    Pay your utility bill

•    Register for Parks & Recreation programs and more!

It’s an all-in-one way to stay connected with the City right from your phone. Simply search “Pocatello – The One and Only” in your app store and download it today.

For questions about the app or service request system, please contact Information Technology at 208-234-6220 or visit pocatello.gov.

The City of Pocatello is proud to join communities nationwide in observing National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (NLPPW), which takes place from October 19 to 25, 2025. This annual campaign raises awareness about the dangers of lead exposure and promotes ways families can prevent lead poisoning in their homes and neighborhoods.

Lead exposure most commonly occurs in homes built before 1978 due to deteriorating lead-based paint. Children can be exposed by inhaling or ingesting lead dust, paint chips, or contaminated soil. Lead dust can also be carried into the home from workplaces or hobbies, or found in certain metal toys. Exposure is especially dangerous for young children and can cause developmental delays, learning difficulties, and other serious health problems. The good news, lead poisoning is entirely preventable with proper education, testing, and prevention strategies.

Through the City’s Lead Safe & Healthy Homes Program, qualifying residents can get their homes made lead-safe and may also have other home health and safety issues addressed, all at no cost. 

Lead poisoning is preventable, and early action makes a difference. To learn more or apply for the program, visit leaducate.pocatello.gov or call 208-252-0125.

This program is led by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, NLPPW encourages local outreach and education efforts to empower residents to take action.

Beginning Monday, November 3, 2025, the City of Pocatello’s Street Services and Water Departments will shift to winter work hours. Crews will be on duty Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

After hours, residents are encouraged to report any public works emergencies according to the following guidelines:

•    Street-related emergencies:

Contact the Pocatello Police Department at 208-234-6100, dispatch will notify the appropriate crew

•    Water Department emergencies:

Available 24/7, call 208-234-6181

•    Sanitary sewer emergencies:

Call the Water Pollution Control Collection System Operator at 208-705-6442

To learn more about the City’s Public Works departments and services, visit:

pocatello.gov/436/Public-Works.

Starting November 3, the Marshall Public Library (MPL) invites patrons to pay off overdue fines in a meaningful way, by helping those in need.

As part of the Library’s annual “Food for Fines” drive, each non-perishable food item donated will forgive $1 in overdue fines. For example, 10 cans of food = $10 in fines forgiven. All donations will benefit The Idaho Foodbank.

“Thank you to the community for their continued support of those in need,” said MPL Librarian Kristy Lyon. “Over the past ten years, we’ve collected more than 9,400 food items thanks to your generosity.”

Now in its 11th year, the program continues to grow in community support and impact.

Donations must be shelf-stable and non-expired, including items like:

•    Canned fruits, vegetables, meats, or soups

•    Boxed meals and pasta

•    Peanut butter and jelly

Please note that home-canned goods, opened packages, or expired items cannot be accepted.

Food for Fines runs through December 13 and does not apply to:

•    Replacement fees for lost or damaged items

•    Card replacement fees

•    Future overdue fines

For those with replacement fees, Library staff are happy to discuss payment plan options.

To learn more about this program and others, visit marshallpl.org.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

Marshall Public Library is excited to host the Let’s Talk About It (LTAI) series, a dynamic reading and discussion program designed to bring together community members in thoughtful conversation around literature and culture.

The series theme, Pages and Palates, explores how food shapes our identities and relationships. Each event includes a short presentation by a guest scholar, guided discussion, and themed refreshments inspired by the book.

“Marshall Public Library has a proud history of promoting inclusion through displays, programs, and partnerships,” said Jackie Wood, public services librarian and program coordinator. “The LTAI series expands our efforts to celebrate the cultural richness of our community.”

Program Details

Who: Open to all members of the community

What: Let’s Talk About It scholarly discussion series

Theme: Pages and Palates

Theme essay: View online

When: Three Thursday evening sessions at 7:00 p.m.

•    November 13: Food, a Love Story by Jim Gaffigan with scholar Susan Bailey

•    January 15: The Language of Baklava by Diana Abu-Jaber with scholar Carlen Donovan

•    March 19: The Mistress of Spices by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni with scholar Shelley McEuen

Where: Marshall Public Library Yost-Ashcroft Family Exploration Center, 113 S. Garfield Ave.

How to Participate: Register at the library or visit marshallpl.org

This free series is sponsored by the Idaho Commission for Libraries, Idaho Humanities Council, Institute of Museum and Library Services, and the National Endowment for the Humanities.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The City of Pocatello is proud to announce the arrival of a brand-new aerial apparatus to the Pocatello Fire Department. The new apparatus will enhance the department’s ability to respond to emergencies and protect the community.

On September 30, 2025, crews welcomed Truck 1, a state-of-the-art tractor-drawn aerial, also known as a “Tiller Truck,” to the department’s fleet.

Truck 1 features a 107-foot aerial ladder, state-of-the-art technology, and enhanced maneuverability provided by its tiller steering system. The tiller has a separate cab and steering wheel with a driver in the back.  Unlike standard ladder trucks, the aerial tiller allows for greater precision in navigating tight city streets, alleys, and challenging rural roads.  

“This is more than just a fire truck, it’s an investment in safety, efficiency, and the future of our department,” said Chief Ryan O’Hearn. “The tiller truck expands our operational capabilities and ensures our firefighters have the best tools available to protect lives and property.”

Truck 1 will replace the 23-year-old Tower truck that has served the department since 2000. Over the coming weeks firefighters will be undergoing specialized training to ensure they are fully prepared to operate the new apparatus safely and efficiently. Truck 1 was approved by City Council and ordered in 2022 for $1.8 million. 

The City of Pocatello continues to invest in modernizing equipment and strengthening emergency response. The acquisition reflects the City’s continued commitment to public safety.

For more information about the Pocatello Fire Department and its services, visit pocatello.gov/fire or call 208-234-6201.

The City of Pocatello Parks & Recreation Department will temporarily close Optimist Skate Park, 972 N. 7th Avenue, Thursday, October 9, and Friday, October 10, to allow for final construction work.

Crews from Artisan Skateparks, the original contractor, will be on-site completing finishing touches and winterization to prepare the park for the colder months. The skate park is expected to reopen to the public Saturday, October 11.

During this temporary closure, residents are encouraged to avoid the area to ensure the work can be completed safely and efficiently.

For more information, please contact the City of Pocatello Parks & Recreation Department at 208-234-6232.

The Marshall Public Library is excited to announce the launch of its brand-new teen Robotics Club, Tech Titans, beginning October 11 from 3 to 5 p.m. This dynamic program is made possible thanks to a generous $20,000 donation from the Friends of the Marshall Public Library.

Tech Titans offers local youth the opportunity to explore the exciting world of robotics—completely free of charge. Participants will team up to design, build, and program their own robots, taking part in friendly competitions that promote creativity, innovation, and teamwork. No registration is required, but space is limited to the first 30 students.

“This club is about more than just robots, it’s about teamwork, creativity, and building confidence,” said Library Specialist Audrey Hernandez. “I love seeing kids go from ‘I can’t do this’ to ‘How can I do this?’ That mindset shift is where the real growth happens. I’m incredibly excited to see this program take off.”

The Tech Titans Robotics Club is designed for teens and will be held at the Marshall Public Library. All materials will be provided.

For more information, contact Marshall Public Library at 208-232-1263.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The City of Pocatello is now accepting applications for the 2026 “Promise of Tomorrow Mayoral Scholarship.” This initiative, created by Mayor Brian Blad, was launched to help local students pursue higher education, especially those who may be facing challenges that make continuing their education more difficult.

Five Class of 2026 graduates will each receive a $2,000 scholarship ($500 per semester for two years) to attend Idaho State University. One of the five awards will be designated for a student whose parent or guardian is a current City of Pocatello employee.

“This is a great opportunity for students thinking about college, and the best part is—anyone can apply,” said Mayor Blad.

The scholarship is made possible by the City of Pocatello, the Pocatello-Chubbuck Chamber of Commerce Foundation, and generous sponsors: Idaho Central Credit Union, Lookout Credit Union, Frontier Credit Union, DL Evans Bank, Citizens Community Bank, and US Bank.

To be eligible, applicants must attend school within Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 boundaries (public, private, online, or homeschool).

Application Deadline: November 14, 2025, by 5:00 p.m.

Applications are available online at pocatello.forms.govos.com/f/MOscholarship /pocatello.forms.govos.com/f/MOscholarshipchildofemployee or can be picked up at the Mayor’s Office, 911 N. 7th Avenue. Completed applications will be accepted by email at mayor@pocatello.gov with the subject line “Mayoral Scholarship Program” or in-person at the Mayor’s Office. Applications are also available at high school counseling offices. 

The selection committee will evaluate financial need, educational goals, and other barriers to higher education. Questions? Please contact Anne Nichols, Chief of Staff, at 208-234-6163. 

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The City of Pocatello has been awarded $4.84 million through the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Community Wildfire Defense Grant. As a designated low-income community, the City is not required to provide matching funds and has five years to use the funding.

“This is a big win for Pocatello,” said Mayor Brian Blad. “These funds will help us protect our neighborhoods and open spaces from wildfires.”

The project will reduce wildfire risk across 1,350 acres of City-owned open space, spanning from the east and west benches of Pocatello down to the Portneuf River. It also includes prescribed fire training, community outreach, and the launch of a “Juniper Dump” program, offering free dumpsters for residents, especially those on the west bench, to safely dispose of juniper trimmings and create defensible space around their homes. As funding allows, adjacent private properties will also be included, with 16 landowners already agreeing to participate.

The funding will be used to:

1.    Implement fuel reduction on private properties and state lands. This includes partnering with willing landowners to hire contractors and supplying dumpsters for neighborhood cleanup efforts.

2.    Reduce fuels on City-owned properties. Areas of focus include City Creek, Sacajawea Park, along the Portneuf River, and general invasive species management.

3.    Build City capacity to conduct prescribed burns by training and equipping staff to implement long-term hazard fuels mitigation efforts.

4.    Carry out public education and outreach through a part-time Mitigation and Outreach Specialist, including home ignition inspections, signage, and awareness efforts.

The City extends its appreciation to the USDA and all partners involved in securing this critical funding.

Pocatello Animal Services, in partnership with Phil Meador Subaru, is thrilled to announce its annual Subaru Loves Pets adoption event, happening Saturday, October 4, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the shelter, 3100 Avenue of the Chiefs.

This year’s theme, “Pick Your Pupkin,” is all about giving every pet the chance to find their forever home. Thanks to Subaru’s support, adopters will have the unique opportunity to pick their own adoption fee, with Subaru covering the remaining cost. The promotion applies to all available pets at the shelter, including dogs, cats, and even small critters.

“We love seeing the community come together for our biggest adoption event of the year and help find our shelter pets loving homes,” said Sarah Moore, Administrative Assistant. “With Subaru’s generosity, families can focus less on adoption fees and more on opening their homes and hearts to a new best friend. It’s the perfect way to enjoy and celebrate fall by finding your perfect ‘pupkin.’”

In addition to adoptions, visitors can meet with a Phil Meador Subaru representative and learn more about how Subaru supports pet welfare nationwide through its Subaru Loves Pets initiative.

The shelter encourages anyone considering adoption to attend, meet the wonderful pets in need, and take advantage of this special opportunity. All cats and dogs adopted from Pocatello Animal Services are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up-to-date on vaccines before heading to their new homes.

For more information on Pocatello Animal Services and to view adoptable pets, click HERE or like the department’s Facebook page. 

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The City of Pocatello is excited to partner with the League of Idaho Cities for a free, family-friendly Open House STEM Night October 7, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Marshall Public Library, 113 South Garfield Avenue. 

The event will offer kids and families a chance to explore how their city works while enjoying hands-on activities, City vehicles, and free food provided by the League of Idaho Cities.

This event is part of the City’s ongoing efforts to connect with residents, promote civic engagement, and showcase the work being done by various departments across the community.

Attendees can:

•    Meet the Mayor and other City leaders during a special reading of Friends City, a fun story that highlights the people who help make the city a safe and enjoyable place to live.

•    Explore real City vehicles including fire trucks, police cruisers, sanitation equipment, and more.

•    Complete an activity book with puzzles, word searches, and games to learn about the roles of different City departments.

•    Win money for their school by turning in the final page of the activity book to be entered into a random drawing for a school cash prize.

“This event is a great way for families to engage with their local government in a fun, educational setting,” said Mayor Brian Blad. “We’re proud to work alongside the League of Idaho Cities to bring this interactive experience to the community.”

All are welcome to attend, no registration is necessary. For more information, please contact Events & Programs Specialist Xander Barigar with the Association of Idaho Cities at 208-344-7024.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

Construction is underway on the Monte Vista to Pocatello Creek Road Pathway Project, located on the east side of Interstate I-15 in Pocatello. 

The project is progressing steadily with current work including excavation, backfilling, and the construction of retaining walls at both the north and south ends of the pathway. Crews are also making improvements to the storm drainage system and installing new Americans with Disabilities Act-accessible ramps along Monte Vista Drive.

This multi-use pathway is being developed to operate independently of vehicle traffic, significantly increasing safety and accessibility for both pedestrians and cyclists. It is designed to connect to Pocatello’s existing pathway network and will enhance mobility between nearby residential neighborhoods and commercial areas. This phase also marks a major step in establishing direct pathway connectivity between the Idaho State University campus and the Portneuf Wellness Complex.

The project is expected to be completed late 2025, with minimal impacts to nearby traffic and property access anticipated during construction.

Funding for the project is provided through a Transportation Alternatives Program Grant, administered by the Local Highway Technical Assistance Council. The required 7.34% local match is being fully funded by community nonprofit partners, including the Portneuf Health Trust and the Portneuf Greenway Foundation, resulting in no financial burden to the City of Pocatello.

For project updates and additional information, visit projects.pocatello.gov.

Marshall Public Library’s Arts and Community Tickets (ACT) program is back with symphony and theater tickets for the 2025-2026 season!

The Idaho State Civic Symphony and the Friends of Marshall Public Library each donated one pair of season symphony tickets to ACT. The Friends also donated a season pair of Idaho State University (ISU) theater tickets. Community members may check out the symphony or theater tickets to admit two adults or one adult with one child age six or older to the event. The first symphony tickets will be available for the late September performance and the theater tickets for early October.

To check out the tickets, you must be a Pocatello city resident and have an adult Marshall Public Library card. Tickets are available one week prior to the performance on a first-come, first-served basis and are limited to one checkout per household per season. 

“The Idaho State Civic Symphony is pleased to partner with the Marshall Public Library and the ACT program for the 25-26 concert season,” said Jenni Warren, Executive Director of the Idaho State Civic Symphony. “Pocatello’s culture is diverse and a program such as ACT helps our community members explore the depths of our vibrant community. We are proud to be a part of this unique program!”

For the Idaho State-Civic Symphony schedule click HERE. For the ISU theater schedule click HERE. 

For more information on the Arts and Community Tickets program, contact Amy Campbell, Public Services Supervisor, at 208-232-1263 ext. 105. Details on other programs and services offered by the Marshall Public Library are available at marshallpl.org or like the library’s Facebook page. 

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

Pocatello Regional Airport will conduct its triennial live emergency exercise, as required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Wednesday, September 17, from approximately 9 a.m. to noon.

This full-scale drill is designed to test the communication, coordination, and response procedures of airport personnel, local first responders, and regional mutual aid partners. Crews will respond to a simulated aircraft incident, complete with volunteer role-players acting as injured passengers to enhance the realism of the exercise.

Participants, including local ambulances, fire crews, law enforcement, and even air medical responders, will transport volunteers to Portneuf Medical Center, allowing the hospital to test its internal emergency response capabilities as well.

Residents and visitors should expect to see emergency lights, sirens, and increased activity in and around the airport during the drill.

Please note:

All airport operations and scheduled commercial flights will continue as normal throughout the exercise. For more information, please contact Pocatello Regional Airport at 208-234-6154.

Get ready to make a splash, Pocatello’s favorite dog-friendly pool party is back! Whether your dog loves to swim or just wants to splash around, this event is the paw-fect way to close out the summer season in style.

Saturday, September 20, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Ross Park Aquatic Complex (2901 S. 2nd Ave.) will go to the dogs, literally. Organized by The Friends of the Pocatello Animal Shelter, this tail-wagging celebration invites pups to enjoy the pool just like their human pals. Entry is just $10 per dog, with all proceeds supporting life-saving animal programs

Funds raised from Splash Dance help support key programs at the shelter, including the Second Chance Fund, which provides emergency medical care for animals in need, and Katie’s Old Friends, which helps cover part of the adoption fees for senior dogs age six and older

To help ensure a safe and fun event for everyone, organizers ask participants to follow these guidelines:

•    Make sure your dog is wearing a collar with proper ID

•    Keep your dog leashed until inside the fenced pool area

•    Confirm your dog is current on vaccinations (check with your vet!)

•    Bring a doggie life jacket if needed and a few tennis balls (sharing encouraged!)

•    Pack the sunscreen, lawn chairs, and the whole family—it’s going to be a great day!

The Friends of the Pocatello Animal Shelter is a 501(c)(3) organization and for more information on the group, click HERE. 

For more information on Pocatello Animal Services and to view adoptable pets, click HERE or like the department’s Facebook page. 

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The Pocatello Police Department (PPD) is alerting the community to a recent uptick in virtual kidnapping for ransom schemes reported locally. Officers have received three reports involving a male suspect using a local phone number to carry out the scam.

In each case, the caller falsely claims to be affiliated with a criminal cartel and alleges to have kidnapped a juvenile family member. The suspect then demands a ransom payment from the families. These claims are entirely false.

During the ongoing investigation, PPD has determined that the scammers may be using artificial intelligence technology to generate fake images, videos, and audio recordings of the supposed victims in an effort to make the threats more convincing.

What to Do If You Receive a Call:

•    Do not send money or share personal information

•    Contact the Pocatello Police Department at 208-234-6100 as soon as possible

PPD is actively working to trace the phone numbers used in these cases and encourages residents to remain vigilant and share this warning with others.

Construction on the East Oak Street Child Pedestrian Safety Improvements Project, located in front of Greenacres Elementary School at the intersection of East Oak Street and Hyde Avenue, has been completed.

The project included the installation of Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons, new ADA-accessible ramps, upgraded sidewalks, and improved curb and gutter features. These enhancements are designed to increase safety for children walking and biking to school.

The City’s Engineering Department, in collaboration with the Street Services, also made roadway repairs and improvements along Hyde Street and East Oak Street, extending to North 15th Avenue. In addition, Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 contributed further improvements on school property, helping ensure the project’s success.

This project was made possible through the Child Pedestrian Safety Grant Program secured by the City of Pocatello, which provides funding to improve safety for children walking and biking, particularly around school zones. The City of Pocatello received $250,000 in state funding for the project. The Local Highway Technical Assistance Council is administering the grant with funds allocated by the Idaho State Legislature.

Today, September 3, 2025, the Idaho Attorney General’s Office announced that criminal charges will not be filed against the officers involved in the shooting of Victor Perez. The City of Pocatello has been committed to fully cooperating with the independent investigation and review, and respects the Attorney General’s determination. This decision does not lessen the pain of losing Victor, nor does it erase the grief felt in our community. We recognize the weight of this moment for everyone affected.

“My heart goes out to the Perez family over the loss of Victor. This incident has been difficult for our entire community. In Pocatello we stand together in challenging times. I am confident we will continue to support one another as we move forward,” said Mayor Brian Blad.

For further information, please refer to the press release and the letter from the Idaho Attorney General’s Office, at ag.idaho.gov/newsroom/office-of-the-attorney-general-concludes-investigation-into-officer-involved-shooting-in-pocatello/.

Council Seat #4

Dakota Bates        315 South 6th Ave.                208-251-6959

                dakotabates00@gmail.com

James Bucci            322 East Whitman St., Apt #1        978-305-4508

                buccimj2@gmail.com

Jim Young            1223 North Garfield Ave.            949-285-9898

                jimforpocatello@gmail.com

Council Seat #5

Linda Leeuwrik        835 East Halliday St.            208-226-6245

                linda4pocatello@gmail.com

Keven Lewis            235 South 4th Ave., PMB #240        208-269-5604

                kevenforidaho@gmail.com

Jeremy Marley        6740 Smile Ln.                208-530-5308

                jeremy@jeremymarley.com

Stacy Satterfield        1984 Anita Pl.                208-269-5445

                stacysatterfield70@gmail.com

Council Seat #6

Melissa Hartman         3077 Dartagnan Dr.             208-254-6037

                melissa@melissa4pocatello.us

Ann Swanson            2161 Diane Ln.                208-244-8521

                ann@annforpocatello.com

Mayor

Brian Blad            1522 Ridgeway Ct.                208-339-7740

                bcblad@gmail.com

Steve Brown            2345 Gail Dr.                    208-604-2138

                steveb1@doorstep.us

Greg Cates            625 University Dr.                208-251-4917

                poky5238@gmail.com

Mark Dahlquist        2451 Andrew St.                208-705-8402

                dahlquistformayor@gmail.com

Nate Kessel            727 Jefferson St.                208-243-4793

                kesselnater@gmail.com

Alana Leonhardy        340 South Arthur St.            208-254-1993

                aleonhardy@gmail.com

Carta Sierra “Idaho Law/Idaho Lorax”

                General Delivery                208-909-9690

                idaho.law@yahoo.com

The City of Pocatello Sanitation Department's collection trucks will operate as normal on Labor Day, September 1.

Residents regularly scheduled for a Monday pickup of garbage, recycling, and yard waste should still place their autocarts out by 7 a.m. Officials would also like to remind residents that the Bannock County Landfill will be closed to the public Monday, September 1.

The only days the City of Pocatello sanitation collection does not operate are Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. 

For more information on the services offered by the City of Pocatello Sanitation Department, visit pocatello.gov/361/Sanitation.

The City of Pocatello’s Planning & Development Services, in consultation with Stantec, is inviting residents, employers, and stakeholders to share their perspectives on local housing. An online survey is now open and will inform a comprehensive, citywide Housing Plan. The survey closes September 30 at 11:59 p.m.

Take the survey: surveymonkey.com/r/PocatelloHousingSurvey

The Housing Plan, identified as a priority in the City’s Comprehensive Plan, will:

•    Analyze housing demand and community needs

•    Evaluate the performance of current regulations

•    Recommend updates to City code, where appropriate

•    Explore potential public–private partnerships to support affordability

•    Outline strategies to increase the variety of housing options in Pocatello

“We want every voice at the table as we plan for Pocatello’s housing future. By sharing your perspective, you’ll help us ensure that our city offers a range of housing choices that support families, workers, and residents of all ages,” said Jim Anglesey, Long Range Senior Planner for the City of Pocatello. 

About Planning & Development Services:

Pocatello’s Planning & Development Services guides responsible growth, implements the City’s Comprehensive Plan, and works with the community and regional partners to support quality of life and economic vitality.

For more information about the project, contact Jim Anglesey at 208-234-6514 or janglesey@pocatello.gov.

Connections Credit Union Invests in Pocatello Community

The City of Pocatello is excited to announce the Riverside Golf Course, 3500 Bannock Highway, will soon welcome the Connections Credit Union Clubhouse. This new space is designed to bring the community together and encourage healthy, active lifestyles. Through a 20-year agreement, Connections Credit Union is helping make the new clubhouse possible, underscoring its commitment to investing in spaces where neighbors connect, families gather, and residents can enjoy the benefits of outdoor recreation.  

The existing clubhouse, originally built as a barn nearly 80 years ago, has served the community well but has far exceeded its intended lifespan as a commercial building. Plans call for the new clubhouse to be completed before the current building is taken down, with demolition expected after the new structure opens in 2026.

Design work is already underway. The City has awarded the project to Construction Services, Inc. The new clubhouse is anticipated to feature approximately 3,300 square feet on the main floor, with a full basement for storing golf carts. Amenities will include patio seating, a golf simulator, and other modern features to enhance the golfer experience.

“I believe this is an advantageous opportunity for the City of Pocatello, Connections Credit Union, and golfers in Southeast Idaho,” said Parks & Recreation Director Anne Butler.

“We’re proud to partner with the City on a project that will enhance Riverside Golf Course and benefit the community for years to come,” said Jamie Simmons, CEO of Connections Credit Union. “Riverside Golf Course is an important part of Pocatello’s recreational offerings, and this new clubhouse will create an even better experience for golfers and visitors alike.”

Additional updates will be shared as the design process moves forward and timelines for groundbreaking and construction are finalized.

For more information, contact the City of Pocatello Parks & Recreation Department at 208-234-6232. To contact Connections Credit Union, call 208-233-5544.

The City of Pocatello invites the community to roll up their sleeves and pitch in for the annual Portneuf River Cleanup Saturday, August 16. This event is an opportunity to help keep our river clean, healthy, and beautiful while supporting the long-term goals of the Portneuf River Vision.

Event Details

•    Date: Saturday, August 16, 2025

•    Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

•    Meeting Location: Pacific Recycling Trailhead (on N. Main, just off Kraft Rd.)

•    Cleanup Area: Raymond Park to Simplot, along the riverbank and in the stream

What to Bring

•    Work gloves (extras will be provided)

•    Optional: handsaws, nets (extras will be available), and boots/waders/water shoes

This year’s cleanup will focus on removing trash, debris, and invasive materials from both the banks and main channel of the Portneuf River. Thanks to the dedication of volunteers each year, the Portneuf River continues to improve as a recreational and ecological resource for our community.

“Every year, we see more people enjoying the river,” said Hannah Sanger, Science & Environment Administrator. “Events like this show how much our community cares about protecting and enhancing this natural treasure.”

Business groups, service clubs, and individual volunteers are encouraged to attend. Together, we can keep the Portneuf River a vibrant part of Pocatello for generations to come. If you have your own boat and would like to use it with the cleanup, contact stormwater@pocatello.gov or 208-234-6519 in advance for float route details. 

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The City of Pocatello will hold its general election Tuesday, November 4, 2025, for the purpose of electing a Mayor (four-year term) and Council Member Seats 4, 5, and 6 (each for four-year terms).

The first day to file a Declaration of Candidacy is Monday, August 18, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. Forms will be available in the Mayor’s Office at Pocatello City Hall, 911 North 7th Avenue, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The deadline to file is Friday, August 29, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.

Candidates must file a Declaration of Candidacy with the City Clerk, accompanied by:

1.    A nonrefundable filing fee of $40.00; or

2.    A petition of candidacy signed by at least five (5) qualified city electors, verified by the County Clerk’s Office.

In addition, candidates must affirm that they:

•    Are a qualified elector

•    Are at least 18 years of age

•    Are a U.S. citizen

•    Have their primary residence within the city limits

•    Have a voter registration address matching their residence address on the declaration

•    Have been a resident of the City for at least 30 days prior to filing

For more information, please contact Konni R. Kendell, City Clerk, at 208-234-6215.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The City of Pocatello is excited to share recent progress on several important projects funded by federal, state, and local partnerships. 

Centennial/Rainey Park Levee Setback – Funded by the Bureau of Reclamation

The City is working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on this vital flood protection and habitat project. The Corps has completed its review of the 60% design, and the City’s Engineering contractor, Harmony Design & Engineering, has submitted the 90% design. Construction is expected to begin in 2026. Funding is in place to move the levees and create new wetland and river access. However, additional funding will be needed for park and parking lot improvements outside the levee area.

Oxbow Project Design – Bureau of Reclamation

Surveying and site assessment are underway, including cultural resource reviews. A 60% design is expected by fall 2026, at which point public input will be invited. Funding will be pursued at that point to complete the final design and construction.

Portneuf Watershed Partnership – Bureau of Reclamation

The City has partnered with Trout Unlimited to hire a new Project Coordinator to support the Portneuf Watershed Partnership and lead outreach efforts for Marsh Creek. Additionally, the City is working with the University of Idaho to model surface water flow. Later this year, a Request for Proposals will be issued for designing restoration improvements along the North Portneuf River from Sacajawea Park to Simplot. This effort aims to improve floatability and riparian habitat, addressing invasive crack willow growth.

Forest Service Wildfire Fuels Reduction

The City has secured funding to remove junipers from City-owned land, with removal planned for winter 2025–2026. Additional funding requests are pending for similar work in other areas of town.

Idaho Community Development Block Grant – Public Restrooms

Contracts are underway to install public restrooms at three key locations by the end of 2025:

•    Optimist/Tydeman Park (near the new Skate Park)

•    Lower Ross Park (near Pleasureland playground)

•    Upper City Creek parking lot (vault toilet)

Simplot/Idaho Parks and Recreation – River Access Project

Thanks to support from Simplot and Idaho Parks and Recreation, a new river access point will be installed just south of Simplot near the Greenway Trailhead, with construction planned for Fall 2025.

Upper City Creek Parking Lot – Idaho Parks and Recreation

The parking lot will be relocated approximately 100 feet and a gate repositioned, with construction planned for 2026. This project includes the vault toilet mentioned above.

Greenway Trail Grant Projects – Multiple Funders

Thanks to assistance from the Portneuf Greenway Foundation, several Greenway projects are moving forward:

1.    Monte Vista to Pocatello Creek Road (along I-15) – Construction in 2025

2.    Pocatello Creek Road to Bannock County Events Center (along I-15) – Construction in 2025

3.    Brennan Bridge (connecting Brennan Trail to Millward Mile) – Construction in 2026

4.    Greenway extension over Pocatello Creek at the Pacific Recycling Trailhead – Planning underway

The City of Pocatello Parks & Recreation Department will temporarily close the Portneuf Greenway paved trail around the Edson Fichter Nature Area for maintenance August 14 and 15.

The closure is necessary to complete seal coating on approximately 3,000 yards of trail. For public safety and to allow crews to work efficiently, access to the entire path will be restricted during this time. We kindly ask that all users avoid the area to ensure the work is completed safely and efficiently.

This routine maintenance is part of the City’s ongoing efforts to preserve the quality and longevity of recreational pathways and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all trail users.

For more information, please contact the City of Pocatello Parks & Recreation Department at 208-234-6232.

The City of Pocatello Parks & Recreation Department has announced the temporary closure of Legacy Park, located at 3350 Iron Bend Road, for the remainder of the 2025 growing season to allow for final grading and hydroseeding.

Legacy Park, a 4.82-acre park, is currently under development. This closure marks a key step in the park’s progress, allowing time for turf establishment and initial landscaping. In spring 2026, additional features including a paved trail, parking lot, and new playground will be installed.

“We are excited to continue developing this beautiful new park for the community, and a special thank you goes to the Satterfield Family for their generous property donation, which is helping make Legacy Park a reality,” said Parks & Recreation Director Anne Butler.

To ensure successful turf growth and protect the newly seeded areas, the park will be closed to all public access, including UTVs, motorized vehicles, and foot traffic, beginning immediately. The public is kindly asked to avoid the area so that the work can be completed safely and efficiently.

For more information, please contact the City of Pocatello Parks & Recreation Department at 208-234-6232.

On July 30, just before 8:30 p.m., Pocatello Police Officers responded to a report of multiple shots fired at a parked vehicle in the 4800 block of Navajo Street.

During the investigation, officers identified 22-year-old Matthew Adcock of Pocatello as the suspect. Adcock was arrested on two counts of aggravated assault, as well as two additional counts of firing into an occupied dwelling related to a prior incident.

No injuries were reported during the incident. This case remains under active investigation, and no further information is available at this time.

The City of Pocatello, in partnership with the Southeast Idaho Skate Park Association, is excited to announce the grand opening of Optimist Skate Park, a state-of-the-art facility designed for skaters of all ages and skill levels. The ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held Friday, July 25 at 12:15 p.m., at the skate park located at 972 N. 7th Avenue.

The new skate park spans approximately 7,000-8,000 square feet and includes a variety of features like ramps, stairs, ledges, rails, and a 41-foot-long bowl that is six feet deep at one end. The skate park offers a safe, welcoming space for youth and adults alike. The project was funded through American Rescue Plan Act funding and a $25,000 donation made by the Southeast Idaho Skate Park Association. A memorial honoring Chevy Nichols, a beloved local skateboard enthusiast, will also be unveiled during the celebration. 

“We are thrilled to get this skate park open and celebrate with our friends at the Southeast Idaho Skate Park Association, the Nichols family, and so many others who helped make this park possible,” said Anne Butler, Parks & Recreation Director.  

For more information on the City of Pocatello Parks & Recreation Department, visit  pocatello.gov/pr.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The Pocatello City Council will hold a public hearing during the Regular City Council meeting Thursday, August 7 at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall, 911 North 7th Avenue, to gather community input on a proposed Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment.

The Pocatello City Council will hear comments from the public regarding the following application, ZOTA25-0001 ZONING ORDINANCE TEXT AMENDMENT.

A zoning ordinance text amendment application has been submitted by the City of Pocatello, represented by the Planning & Development Services Department. Proposed changes are regarding standards within the Sensitive Lands Overlay (§17.04.170).

Application materials may be obtained by emailing planning@pocatello.gov or by calling 208-234-6184. A staff report will be available the Monday prior to the hearing online at pocatello.gov/AgendaCenter and a hard copy will be available in the Planning & Development Services Department.

All interested persons are invited to attend to express their views regarding this proposal. Oral testimony is limited to three (3) minutes per person. Written testimony may be submitted to the Planning & Development Services Department in-person or via email at planning@pocatello.gov prior to the meeting. Written submissions that do not exceed two (2) pages may be submitted up to the start time of the meeting. Submissions that exceed two (2) pages must be submitted at least five (5) working days prior to the scheduled meeting date.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208-234-6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

Pocatello Fire Department, with the assistance of Pocatello Police Department, responded to a house near Jerome and Michael Street for a residential fire this morning, successfully rescuing two elderly individuals and a dog.

At approximately 12:39 a.m., dispatch received a call from a female who appeared to be having difficulty breathing. During the call, a fire alarm could be heard activated in the background, and the caller subsequently became unresponsive. Dispatch attempted to re-establish contact but was unsuccessful, prompting a full response from police, fire, and EMS.

Pocatello Police officers were the first to arrive on scene, locating an unresponsive elderly female inside a smoke-filled residence. Officers quickly removed her from the house and began rendering aid until EMS arrived. An elderly male was also located in the house and assisted out by fire department personnel. Both individuals were transported to Portneuf Medical Center for treatment.

Fire crews located the source of the fire in the basement of the residence and were able to quickly extinguish it. A dog was also rescued from the home, provided oxygen by firefighters, and transported to an animal shelter for veterinary evaluation.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. Damages are estimated to be approximately $50,000.

The Marshall Public Library is excited to announce an upcoming oral history event designed to help residents begin their journey into family history and personal storytelling. The event will take place Tuesday, July 29 at 6:00 p.m. in the Library’s Community Room.

The Library will welcome Idahocemetery, a nonprofit organization based in Pocatello that specializes in assisting individuals with genealogy and preserving oral histories. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn how to start a family tree, record and preserve family stories, and schedule future one-on-one sessions with Idahocemetery volunteers for personalized guidance.

“It’s never too early or too late to begin exploring your roots,” said Jack Garrett, Library Specialist at Marshall Public Library. “We’re proud to partner with Idahocemetery to offer this valuable resource to the community.”

The event is free and open to all ages. Whether you're a beginner in genealogy or looking for ways to preserve cherished family memories, this event will provide the tools and support to get started.

For more information, contact Marshall Public Library at (208) 232-1263 or visit marshallpl.org.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

Thanks to community cooperation and a little help from Mother Nature, the Pocatello Fire and Police Departments successfully navigated a demanding Fourth of July week with 163 fireworks-related calls with few major incidents. The public’s commitment to safe and sane celebrations made a significant difference.

First responders were dispatched to multiple reports of illegal fireworks use. Officers and firefighters issued several warnings and citations for the use of illegal fireworks and the discharge of fireworks in prohibited areas. Approximately $10,000 worth of illegal fireworks were confiscated and safely destroyed. Fire crews also responded to five dumpster fires and one grass fire directly attributed to fireworks activity.

“We want to express our sincere appreciation to all the residents who followed the rules by using only safe and sane fireworks in permitted areas,” said Pocatello Police Chief Roger Schei. “The public’s cooperation played a major role in keeping our community safe.”

“The rain we received on the Fourth of July was also a welcome relief,” added Pocatello Fire Department Assistant Chief Dean Bullock. “It helped keep fuels damp and undoubtedly prevented more serious incidents.”

Both departments remind residents that fireworks safety and compliance with local ordinances are critical to protecting lives, homes, and land year after year.

For more information about fireworks regulations in Pocatello, visit pocatello.gov.

An old-fashioned craft is getting a vibrant new spin at Marshall Public Library! From July through October, the library is inviting the community to take part in a creative and charitable endeavor, the Granny Square Project to support veterans. 

The idea is simple and meaningful, for each book read, participants will crochet a granny square inspired by the colors on the book’s cover. Finished squares will be collected and stitched into afghans by volunteers, then donated to Southeastern Idaho Community Action Agency (SEICAA) in November to benefit their veterans housing project in honor of Veterans Day. The afghans will be delivered to support veterans in transitional housing supported by SEICAA.

“Granny squares are quick and beginner-friendly, making this a fun and meaningful way to give back,” said Amy Azzouzat, Public Services Supervisor.

The specific granny square pattern for this project is available at the library and online at marshallpl.org. Completed squares should be submitted with a form listing the book’s title and author. They’ll be displayed in the library, and participants are encouraged to share photos on social media. Participants can drop off their granny squares at the library through October 31.

*Direct link: https://marshallpl.org/the-granny-square-project/

Need help or want to craft with others? Join the library’s weekly Knitting and Crocheting Group, Wednesdays from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

For questions or to volunteer to crochet the squares together, contact Amy Azzouzat at 208-232-1263 ext. 106. If you’d like to learn more about SEICAA’s veterans’ services, contact Angie Rodgers, Veterans Services Coordinator, at (208) 232-1114 ext. 146 or visit seicaa.org/veterans/.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The Pocatello Fire Department wants to let the public know about the significant dangers and operational impacts of unauthorized drone flights over active wildfires. 

When an unauthorized drone enters the airspace of an active wildfire, all aerial firefighting operations are immediately grounded. This includes air tankers and helicopters vital to slowing the fire’s spread and supporting ground crews. These protocols are enforced to protect pilots who already operate in challenging, low-visibility conditions. 

The grounding of air support due to drone interference has direct and significant impacts on our ability to control and suppress wildfires:

•    Loss of Critical Time: Wildfires spread rapidly. Every minute that air operations are halted is a minute the fire can grow unchecked, potentially expanding to threaten more homes, infrastructure, and natural resources.

•    Reduced Effectiveness: Air tankers deliver thousands of gallons of retardant to create firebreaks and cool hot spots. Grounding these assets significantly reduces the effectiveness in containing a wildfire.

•    Increased Danger to Ground Crews: Without aerial support to knock down the intensity of the fire or cut off its advance, ground crews face increased risks and more challenging conditions, putting their lives on the line.

Flying a drone near a wildfire violates Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and may result in civil fines and criminal charges. Before flying, always check for Temporary Flight Restrictions and follow all FAA regulations. We urge everyone to give firefighters the space they need, both on the ground and in the air, to do their work safely and efficiently. For more information, visit faa.gov/uas.

Are you looking for your next job or your first one? Marshall Public Library is once again teaming up with the Idaho Department of Labor to host a FREE Employment Success Workshop on Wednesday, July 16 at 2 p.m. in the library’s Community Room.

This workshop is open to teens, first-time job seekers, and individuals exploring a career change. Attendees will receive expert tips on how to navigate today’s job market, search for opportunities, and use the resources available through the Idaho Department of Labor.

Participants will:

•    Learn how to access current job openings

•    Get insight into local labor market trends

•    Explore tools to enhance your job search

•    Receive a free copy of the “Maximize Your Job Search” workbook

After the workshop, attendees can schedule one-on-one follow-up sessions with Department of Labor staff for personalized assistance.

The City of Pocatello is always hiring! Explore current openings at Pocatello.gov/jobs. 

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The growing season is in full-swing, and “Garden to Give” is back again this year. Marshall Public Library (MPL) is teaming up with The Idaho Foodbank to help get excess produce from your garden to the food bank. 

The library will accept donations of locally grown fresh produce, including herbs, and transport it to the food bank. Since the first Garden to Give in 2019, MPL has collected several hundred pounds each year for the food bank, which will reach the people in our community who need it the most.   

“We have so many devoted gardeners in Pocatello,” said Public Services Supervisor Amy Azzouzat with MPL. “And they get a lot out of our short season. The library is happy to serve as a collection point to get their garden overflow to people who need it.”

After a chilly June, the summer sunshine seems to be here to stay, and gardens around the city are flourishing. If you have more produce than you can eat or share with friends and neighbors, MPL will help you get the overflow to The Idaho Foodbank.

MPL will collect the fresh produce from July through October. 

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The Pocatello Planning & Zoning Commission will host a public hearing Wednesday, July 9 at 6:30 p.m. at 911 North 7th Avenue to gather community input on a proposed Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment.

The amendment application was submitted by the City of Pocatello, represented by the Planning & Development Services Department, and involves proposed updates to standards within the Sensitive Lands Overlay (§17.04.170).

Residents interested in reviewing the application materials can contact the Planning & Development Services Department by emailing planning@pocatello.gov or calling 208-234-6514. A staff report detailing the proposed amendment will be available the Monday prior to the hearing at pocatello.gov/AgendaCenter or in person at the Planning office.

All interested persons are invited to attend to express their views regarding this proposal. Oral testimony is limited to three (3) minutes per person. Written testimony up to two (2) pages may be submitted up to the start time of the meeting or to the Planning & Development Services Department, and written testimony of more than two (2) pages must be submitted no later than five (5) working days prior to the scheduled meeting date.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

As the 4th of July holiday approaches, the Pocatello Fire Department reminds all residents to celebrate safely and responsibly. Following the recent wildfire on West Clark Street, fire danger in our area is undeniable.

We encourage everyone to enjoy the spirit of the 4th of July responsibly. Only “Safe and Sane” fireworks like sparklers, fountains, and poppers are allowed within city limits and only in designated areas. You can check out the City of Pocatello website for a map outlining where fireworks are allowed and where they are prohibited due to increased fire danger.

Click the link to see map: pocatello.gov/DocumentCenter/View/2750/2024-Pocatello-Chubbuck-Firework-Zones-Map-PDF

The recent fire on West Clark Street serves as a stark reminder of how quickly and easily a spark can ignite a devastating wildfire in our dry conditions. This incident underscores the importance of adhering to all fire safety guidelines and local regulations.

The use of illegal aerial fireworks includes rockets, Roman candles, mortars, and any that leave the ground is strictly prohibited in Pocatello due to their high fire risk. Aerial fireworks can easily ignite dry vegetation, rooftops, or other flammable materials and are a leading cause of wildfires and structure fires during the 4th of July holiday. 

We urge all residents to adhere to the following safety tips:

•    Use only Safe and Sane fireworks in permitted areas

•    Keep water or a hose nearby

•    Light fireworks away from homes and dry grass

•    Always supervise children

•    Soak used fireworks before disposal

Let's keep this Independence Day fun and fire-free. Thank you for doing your part to keep Pocatello safe. 

Starting Wednesday, June 25, the City of Pocatello Water Department will begin work to replace the water main line on South Arthur Avenue, between West Whitman Street and West Terry Street.

Crews will start at the intersection of South Arthur Avenue and West Whitman Street and proceed southeast towards West Terry Street. Work will occur Monday through Thursday, from 6:30 a.m. to approximately 5:00 p.m. each day. The project will require temporary street closures and parking restrictions during working hours. Every effort will be made to provide local access when possible. Residents are asked to park all vehicles away from the construction area. At the close of each day, access will be restored to all properties. The work may cause short-term disruptions to water service. Individuals in and around the construction zone are encouraged to keep a supply of drinking water available.

Parents and guardians are asked to instruct children to stay clear of the work zone, as it presents safety hazards.  

The project is anticipated to take approximately eight weeks to complete, although the schedule may change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

For questions about this or other Water Department projects, please contact the department at (208) 234-6182 or visit pocatello.gov/water.

Construction is moving swiftly at Optimist Skate Park, located at 972 N. 7th Avenue, where contractors from Pillar Design Studios/Artisan Skateparks are nearing completion of the concrete phase. The new 7,000–8,000 square foot skatepark is shaping up to be an exciting addition to the community, but the Pocatello Parks & Recreation Department is urging residents to stay out of the area until construction is fully complete.

While it may be tempting to try out the new park, several key elements still need to be installed, including:

•    Irrigation system

•    Grass and landscaping

•    Stormwater retention system

•    Final signage

•    Extensive painting and finishing work

A grand opening date will be announced in the coming weeks.

“We are just as excited as many of our patrons to see this park opened,” said Anne Butler, Parks & Recreation Director. “But please give us the space needed to complete the park correctly. For everyone’s safety, it’s imperative that the public stay out of the skatepark until we officially announce its opening.”

For more information about the City of Pocatello Parks & Recreation Department, please visit pocatello.gov/pr.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The City of Pocatello Water Department has released its 2025 Water Quality Report, which is now available to the public. 

This annual report summarizes the results of approximately 1,300 water quality tests conducted throughout the past year, covering more than 100 different compounds. It provides detailed information on the source of Pocatello’s drinking water, what it contains, and how the City’s testing and treatment processes work to reduce potential health risks and ensure water safety.

The full report is available online at pocatello.gov/waterreport.

Residents who would like a printed copy mailed to them can contact the Water Superintendent’s office at 208-234-6174. Paper copies are also available at the following locations:

•    City Hall – 911 N. 7th Avenue

•    Marshall Public Library – 113 S. Garfield Avenue

•    Water Operations Facility – 1889 N. Arthur Avenue

For more information about the City of Pocatello Water Department, visit pocatello.gov/Water.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets standards to limit the presence of certain contaminants in public water systems to ensure that tap water is safe to drink. As part of those standards, water utilities are required to provide customers with an annual report to help them stay informed about the quality of their drinking water.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

Pocatello City offices and departments will be closed Thursday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth National Independence Day. 

Trash and recycling will be collected as usual. Residents with Thursday service should set out their bins according to the regular schedule.

For more information, call the City of Pocatello at 208-234-6163 or visit us online at pocatello.gov.

The Pocatello Arts Council invites local artists to contribute to its 2025 entry for the annual Festival of Trees, benefiting scholarship programs through Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25.

This year’s tree, themed “ArtisTree,” will celebrate creativity in its purest form. Instead of traditional ornaments, the tree will be adorned with miniature original artworks, each a unique 4x4 canvas masterpiece, created by local artists and displayed on miniature easels.

How to Participate:

•    The Pocatello Arts Council will provide one blank 4x4 canvas to each participant, you bring the creativity!

•    Art does not need to be holiday-themed, offering artists full creative freedom.

Canvases can be picked up during First Friday Art Walks on July 4, August 1, and September 5 at The Glen Allen Project, 426 W. Lewis (shop #2, Lookout Point, Historic Downtown Pocatello). If you are unable to attend during Art Walk or have questions, please email artistree2025@gmail.com to arrange an alternative pickup.

Deadline:

All completed canvases must be returned by Friday, October 10, 2025. Return instructions will be provided with your canvas.

Join us in making this year’s tree a vibrant celebration of local art—and help support a great cause while you're at it!

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The City of Pocatello Parks & Recreation Department is excited to welcome Utah Jazz player Oscar Tshiebwe to Pocatello!

Junior Jazz players and the public are invited to a special meet-and-greet Wednesday, June 18, from 9–10 a.m. at Irving Middle School (911 N. Grant Avenue). During this FREE event, attendees will hear Tshiebwe share his journey to the NBA, ask questions about his career, and have a chance to get autographs and photos. The stop will include a short basketball clinic with Tshiebwe and the Junior Jazz Players. 

Oscar Tshiebwe, originally from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, moved to the U.S. to pursue basketball, later signing with the Indiana Mad Ants and joining the Salt Lake City Stars for the 2024–25 season. 

Delta Air Lines is donating two free Jazz tickets to youth and Junior Jazz players attending the event. Game dates and ticket information to-be-determined. The first 50 youth and Junior Jazz players to RSVP will also receive a free t-shirt. To RSVP, follow the link bit.ly/JrJazzSummerTrip25.

For more information on Junior Jazz Basketball or other team sports programs, visit teamsports.pocatello.gov. For all other Parks & Recreation offerings, visit pocatello.gov/pr.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

Pocatello Mayor Brian Blad and the City Council are hosting a Town Hall Meeting Wednesday, June 25, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in City Council Chambers, 911 North 7th Avenue. 

During the Town Hall meeting, City officials will discuss fireworks safety and fireworks enforcement. 

After the department presentations, there will be time for a question and answer session with those attending. Speakers must sign up before 6:00 p.m. The sign-in sheet will be placed on the Council Chambers entry table by 5:30 p.m. Each speaker will be allotted two minutes. 

The Town Hall Meeting will be available the following day on the City’s YouTube channel, by clicking youtube.com/@PocatelloCommunityMedia.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The final phase of the Center Street Underpass construction project is set to begin in January 2026. This phase will include the installation of shoring and the placement of a pedestrian bridge spanning Center Street.

Following a comprehensive construction review and the required approvals from Union Pacific Railroad, the City of Pocatello has decided to delay construction until 2026. The intent behind this decision is to minimize disruptions to Historic Downtown businesses, particularly during the important summer and winter retail seasons. The revised timeline also allows the contractor sufficient time to secure the necessary materials and allow crews to place concrete during more favorable weather conditions.

Originally constructed in 1943, the Center Street Underpass replaced an elevated viaduct to improve east-west connectivity in Pocatello. In the past year, the City has completed several key infrastructure improvements, including replacement of the waterline beneath the underpass, repairs and preservation of the abutments, and installation of a storm line and manhole to alleviate flooding issues

The City of Pocatello appreciates the continued patience and support of the community and local businesses as work progresses on this important infrastructure project.

In a unanimous vote at the June 5, 2025, regular City Council meeting, Dakota Bates was confirmed by the Pocatello City Council to fill vacant Council seat #4. His term takes effect immediately, and he will fulfill the remaining term through December 2025. 

"I'm pleased City Council confirmed my nomination of Dakota Bates for Seat #4," said Mayor Brian Blad. "I believe he will serve the Pocatello community with integrity, responsibility, and a strong desire to move our city forward. I'm confident he will be a thoughtful and dedicated representative for our residents."

As of June 5, 2025, City Council Members are Hayden Paulsen (Seat #1), Brent Nichols (Seat #2), Corey Mangum (Seat #3), Dakota Bates (Seat #4), Linda Leeuwrik (Seat #5), and Rick Cheatum (Seat #6).

Pocatello Mayor Brian Blad has announced his selection for vacant Seat #4 on the Pocatello City Council. 

At the June 5, 2025, regular City Council meeting, Dakota Bates will be considered for Seat #4. Seventeen applications were considered for the seat, and Mayor Blad interviewed six candidates. 

If the nominated individual is confirmed by City Council, Bates seat on City Council would be effective June 5, 2025, and Bates would fulfill the unexpired term through December 2025. 

Current City Council Members are Hayden Paulsen Seat #1, Brent Nichols Seat #2, Corey Mangum Seat #3, Linda Leeuwrik Seat #5, and Rick Cheatum Seat #6. 

Thursday’s meeting is scheduled to start at 6 p.m. Those not able to attend the meeting can watch the proceedings online at youtube.com/c/pocatellocommunitymedia. 

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

Today, City of Pocatello joined U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and the Idaho Department of Commerce to relaunch the sixth annual Support Local Gems initiative, which will serve as an all-day event to support Idaho small businesses.

Friday, June 6, 2025, Idahoans are invited to Support Local Gems by giving their business to their favorite local shops and restaurants. Idahoans can get involved by shopping at a small business, dining at an independent restaurant, purchasing a gift card for a loved one, writing a review online, or simply saying “thank you” to a small business they love.

“Pocatello’s small businesses are the heart of Pocatello,” said Mayor Brian Blad. “They play a vital role in driving our economy and enriching our community. Let’s show our support and appreciation for the local businesses that make Pocatello strong.”

“The Gem State is powered by our small businesses. The entrepreneurial spirit of small business owners and employees is vital to our state’s economy, workforce, and way of life,” said Risch. “Friday, June 6 is a special day to show our appreciation and support for these pillars of our communities. I invite all Idahoans to join me and Support Local Gems.”

“The majority of Idaho workers are employed by a small business and almost all of the registered businesses in our state are small businesses. The State of Idaho is a beacon of prosperity because we greatly value our small businesses and promote policies that help them succeed. I will join many Idahoans on Friday, June 6 as we celebrate and support Idaho small businesses – the local gems of our great state,” Governor Brad Little said.

Background: In 2020, Idaho’s small businesses faced unprecedented hardships as they worked to remain viable through the pandemic. To support these businesses, Senator Jim Risch and the Idaho Department of Commerce launched the Support Local Gems initiative in 2020 to encourage Idahoans to shop and dine locally. As challenges like inflation and supply chain disruptions continue, support for Idaho’s small businesses through Support Local Gems remains essential.

As we celebrate the sixth annual Support Local Gems initiative, Idahoans are encouraged to once again give their full support to the small businesses – our local gems – that make Idaho a special place to live and thrive. If your organization or small business would like to get involved in the Support Local Gems initiative, visit risch.senate.gov.

The City of Pocatello invites community members to an upcoming open house to learn more about the North Portneuf Crossing Project, a major infrastructure effort aimed at improving safety, mobility, and connectivity in the area.

Significant improvements are planned for the intersection of North Kraft Road and North Main Extension, including the installation of a traffic signal, extension of Foothill Boulevard, and numerous enhancements for pedestrians, cyclists, and public transit users.

Project highlights include:

•    Traffic signal installation at North Kraft Road and North Main Extension

•    Extension of Foothill Boulevard to Kraft Road and cul-de-sac at the end of Gathe Drive

•    Bicycle and pedestrian improvements

•    A paved trail on the north side of the Portneuf River with a pedestrian bridge over Pocatello Creek

•    A new Pocatello Regional Transit bus stop

•    Stormwater system upgrades

•    New medians, sidewalks, and crosswalks

•    Planning for a paved trail at the Pacific Steel & Recycling trailhead

The City of Pocatello was awarded a competitive $7,750,000 U.S. Department of Transportation grant to support these major safety and infrastructure improvements. The open house is part of phase I of the project which will complete environmental work and preliminary design plans. Community input gathered during this phase will help shape the final plans before the project moves into the design-build stage.

Open House information:

•    Date: June 10, 2025

•    Time: 4:00 – 6:00 PM

•    Location: Water Department Main Office, 1889 N. Arthur Ave, Pocatello, ID 83204

Residents are encouraged to attend, ask questions, and provide feedback on the project. For more information, visit: north-portneuf-crossing-pocatello.hub.arcgis.com/

Construction is scheduled to begin the second week of June on the East Oak Street Child Pedestrian Safety Improvements Project, located in front of Greenacres Elementary School at the intersection of East Oak Street and Hyde Avenue.

The project is designed to enhance pedestrian safety for children in the area by upgrading key infrastructure near the school. Work will take place along East Oak Street, between Hyde Avenue and North 15th Avenue. Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the construction process.

Project improvements include:

•    Removal and replacement of asphalt roadway and Greenacres Elementary parking lot

•    Sidewalk removal and installation of new sidewalks

•    Installation of new curb, gutter, and bulb-outs

•    Addition of curb ramps and driveway access

•    Installation of a rectangular rapid flashing beacon, pedestrian crossing signs, and pavement markings

This project is made possible through the Child Pedestrian Safety Grant Program, which provides funding to improve safety for children walking and biking, particularly around school zones. The City of Pocatello received $250,000 in state funding for the project. The Local Highway Technical Assistance Council is administering the grant with funds allocated by the Idaho State Legislature.

While some disruptions are expected, crews will work to reduce impacts and maintain safe access for students and pedestrians throughout the project. Construction is anticipated to wrap up by the end of summer 2025.

For questions or updates regarding the project, please contact the City of Pocatello Engineering Department at 208-234-6225.

The Pocatello Fire Department will conduct a Burn & Learn training exercise Tuesday, June 3, 2025, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 4335 Hawthorne Rd, across from Home Depot.

This live fire training provides critical, hands-on experience for firefighters and investigators to observe fire behavior, practice tactical operations, and improve fire investigation techniques, all in a controlled, realistic environment.

These exercises allow fire investigators to study how various materials burn, examine fire patterns, and understand the development of a fire from ignition through extinguishment. This hands-on training is crucial for improving accuracy in identifying fire origins and causes critical in arson investigations and fire prevention efforts.

Motorists should use caution in the area, as intermittent heavy smoke may reduce visibility. Alternate routes are advised. Residents with respiratory conditions may want to avoid the area during the burn.

The exercise will follow U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and National Fire Protection Association safety standards, with weather and safety conditions carefully monitored.

For any questions or concerns, please contact the Pocatello Fire Department at 208-234-6201. 

May 29, 2025, at approximately 6:19 a.m., the Pocatello Police Department was notified of a domestic disturbance in the area of 1730 West Quinn Avenue. An initial alert was issued at 8:05 a.m. on Nixle, advising the public to avoid the area due to an active investigation. 

Upon arrival, officers learned that the male suspect, 40-year-old Logan Smith, had barricaded himself inside the residence with a female and three children.

As the investigation progressed, the Pocatello Police Immediate Response Team and Crisis Negotiators were deployed to the scene. While speaking with Pocatello Police Dispatch, the female reported that the suspect was armed with both a gun and a machete. With dispatch's assistance, officers safely evacuated the woman and three children from the residence without incident.

Officers then obtained a search warrant for the residence. Following lengthy negotiations, the suspect peacefully surrendered and was taken into custody. Smith was arrested on three counts of aggravated assault. 

No injuries were sustained during the incident. The area has been cleared and reopened to the public. We want to thank the community for their patience and cooperation throughout the duration of this incident. 

Original Advisory( May 29, 8:05 a.m.): Police activity in the area of 1730 W. Quinn, public is requested to avoid the area

Officers with the Pocatello Police Department are currently in the area of 1730 W. Quinn in reference to a domestic disturbance that is currently under investigation. At this time the public is requested to avoid the area around. Further information will be released when it becomes available.

Beginning June 2, 2025, the City of Pocatello Water Department will begin its annual water system flushing program. The process is expected to take approximately three weeks to complete.

System flushing is a critical part of maintaining the City’s water infrastructure and serves several key purposes:

•    Improves water quality by removing sediment from distribution pipes

•    Ensures proper operation of fire hydrants and valves

•    Confirms adequate water flow for firefighting needs

What to Expect During Flushing:

•    You may experience a temporary drop in water pressure

•    Water may appear rusty or cloudy—this discoloration is not harmful and should clear within a few hours

If you notice crews flushing hydrants on your street, please avoid using tap water, especially for laundry or dishwashing, until the work is complete.

For your safety and the safety of our workers, drive cautiously around hydrant-flushing crews and treat them as you would any road construction team.

For more information, please contact the Water Department at 208-234-6174.

The City of Pocatello Sanitation Department’s collection trucks will be operating as normal on Memorial Day, May 26.  

Residents scheduled for a Monday pickup of garbage, recycling, and yard waste should still place their City autocarts out by 7 a.m. Officials would also like to remind residents that the Bannock County Landfill will be closed to the public Monday, May 26.

The only days the City of Pocatello does not operate are Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. 

For more information on the City of Pocatello Sanitation Department, visit pocatello.gov/sanitation. 

The City of Pocatello Historic Preservation Commission (HPC), in coordination with the Friends of the Brady Chapel, will be hosting the Brady Chapel Memorial Day Open House Monday, May 26, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Mountain View Cemetery.

A special presentation will take place at noon, highlighting the historical significance of the Chapel and ongoing preservation efforts.

“The Brady Chapel has been a part of the Pocatello community for over a century,” said Jim Anglesey, City of Pocatello Long-Range Planner and staff liaison to the HPC. “The open house gives the community a chance to celebrate Pocatello’s history, explore the Chapel’s significance, and learn about the efforts underway to preserve this historic landmark.”

In 2024, the City received funding to initiate Phase I of the Chapel’s restoration, which included cleaning and repointing the limestone exterior and installing reconstructed pinnacles. The HPC and Friends of the Brady Chapel continue to raise funds for future restoration phases. These improvements include exterior repairs to the roof, windows, and doors, along with interior restoration such as masonry repairs, pew and woodwork refinishing, updated flooring, enhanced ADA accessibility, and the addition of climate control systems to help reduce humidity and protect historic materials.

“Community support is vital to preserving the Brady Chapel,” said Anglesey. “Our hope is that, through these restoration efforts, the Chapel will be available for more frequent use and allow future generations to enjoy its historic value.”

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The Pocatello City Council will hear comments from the public regarding the City’s proposed South 5th Avenue Area Wide Plan during their June 5, 2025, regular City Council meeting held at 6 p.m., 911 North 7th Avenue.

The South 5th Avenue Area Wide Plan is available to review online at Pocatello-SOUTH 5TH AVE AREA WIDE PLAN or may be obtained by emailing planning@pocatello.gov or by calling 208-234-6500. Agenda item information will be available online the Monday prior to the hearing at pocatello.gov/AgendaCenter or in the Planning & Development Services Department.

All interested persons are invited to attend and express their views regarding this proposal. Oral testimony is limited to three (3) minutes per person. Written testimony up to two (2) pages may be submitted to the Planning & Development Services Department up to the start time of the meeting, and written testimony of more than two (2) pages must be submitted no less than five (5) working days prior to the scheduled meeting date.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The City of Pocatello’s Utility Billing Office will close early Wednesday, May 21, from 2:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. to allow staff to attend a Blood Pressure Awareness Seminar in recognition of Blood Pressure Awareness Month.

Regular business hours will resume Thursday, May 22. The City appreciates the community’s understanding as staff take part in this important wellness training.

For more information or questions about your utility account, please contact Utility Billing at 208-234-6241 or visit utilities@pocatello.gov.

The Marshall Public Library (MPL) is proud to announce the addition of new educational materials on stuttering, thanks to a generous donation from The Stuttering Foundation. These newly available books and DVDs offer valuable support and information for individuals who stutter, as well as those who care for and work with them.

The resources are aimed at a wide audience, including parents, adults who stutter, speech-language pathologists, educators, pediatricians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. The DVD content features some of the world's leading speech therapists working directly with children who stutter, offering practical insights and proven techniques. The donation from the Stuttering Foundation enhances the MPL’s commitment to serving as a hub for inclusive, accessible information.

Since 1947, the nonprofit Stuttering Foundation has distributed free, research-based materials to public libraries across the country to raise awareness and support those affected by stuttering. MLP is honored to be part of this effort and welcomes the community to explore these resources.

For more information or to access the new materials, visit the MPL in person or at marshallpl.org. 

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

Marshall Public Library (MPL) is excited to announce its new sister library partnership with Kasama Provincial Library in Zambia!

What’s a sister library? It’s a unique opportunity to connect communities across the globe. Through this partnership, both libraries will engage in sharing culture and creativity via story times, pen pal letters, art exchanges, short stories, poetry, and collaborative projects, bringing joy and connection across continents.

To kick off the partnership, MPL is hosting a special celebration Saturday, May 17, at 11 a.m. in the Exploration Center. Guests will enjoy:

•    A presentation and story time with two native Zambians

•    Traditional African snacks

•    A chance to write letters or draw pictures to send to Kasama

•    A video introduction from our sister library in Zambia

Come celebrate with us and be part of this exciting international friendship!

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The City of Pocatello has received official notice regarding the termination of two major competitively-awarded federal grants totaling more than $17 million. These funds would provide long-needed for critical infrastructure modernization, including safe drinking water improvements.

City officials are actively working to formally dispute the termination of both awards, as outlined under federal grant regulations. Both projects have strong community support and have already provided jobs to Pocatello businesses. The City remains fully committed to advocating for these projects and the transformative benefits they represent for the community.

“These grants were key to advancing Pocatello’s infrastructure modernization goals to meet our community’s needs,” said Mayor Brian Blad. “We are pursuing all available avenues to reinstate this funding and move these important projects forward.”

Grant information: 

-         In December 2024, the City was awarded $16.4 million through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Community Change Grant Program. The grant was intended to support the South 5th Avenue Complete Streets and Sewer Project, aimed at improving water infrastructure and transportation safety.

-         Additionally, the City had secured $1 million from the U.S. Forest Service’s Urban and Community Forestry Program, to expand local tree-planting efforts.

For more information or updates, visit pocatello.gov.

The City of Pocatello is excited to announce the Mayor received 17 applications for vacant City Council Seat #4. The field of potential new City Council members has been narrowed down to six candidates. 

Friday, May 9, Pocatello Mayor Brian Blad announced the short-list of candidates for vacant seat #4. Following the interview process, Blad will submit his final selections for confirmation at a regular City Council meeting. Mayor Blad anticipates having the position filled by the beginning of June. 

“Thank you to everyone who submitted an application. I’m incredibly proud of our community and inspired by how many people are eager to serve and contribute to the future of Pocatello. Narrowing down the list for interviews was no easy task, as each applicant brought thoughtful ideas and a strong passion for our city,” said Mayor Blad.

Once appointed, the new Council Member will serve the remaining term for seat #4, which ends January 2026. Seat #4 will be up for election in November 2025. 

Potential City Council Member candidates:

Dakota Bates

Kathleen Johnson

Keven Lewis

Rainbow Maldonado

Juliana Schirmer

Marty Vizcarra

Construction is scheduled to begin mid-May on the Monte Vista to Pocatello Creek Road Pathway Project, a new pedestrian pathway located on the east side of I-15 in Pocatello. 

This project will establish a safe, accessible pedestrian corridor connecting Monte Vista Drive to Pocatello Creek Road, improving mobility between nearby residential neighborhoods and commercial areas.

The scope of work includes:

•    Excavation and backfilling

•    Asphalt and concrete paving

•    Installation of retaining walls

•    Storm drainage improvements

•    Installation of a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon on the south side of Monte Vista Drive to improve pedestrian connectivity and safety

The pathway is designed to be separated from vehicle traffic, enhancing safety and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists, and linking to the city’s existing trail network.

Funding for the project is made possible through a Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) Grant, administered by the Local Highway Technical Assistance Council. The TAP grant requires a local match of 7.34%, which will be fully covered by local non-profit partners, including the Portneuf Health Trust and the Portneuf Greenway Foundation, resulting in no financial impact to the City.

The Transportation Alternatives Program is a federal initiative that supports projects focused on active transportation infrastructure such as pedestrian and bicycle facilities, safe routes to school, and other community enhancements, guided by the Federal Highway Administration.

The project is expected to be completed by fall of 2025, with minimal disruptions anticipated during construction. The timeline may be adjusted in the event of unforeseen delays. 

Pocatello Animal Services will host a low-cost rabies vaccination clinic on Saturday, May 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the animal shelter, 3100 Avenue of the Chiefs.

Rabies vaccines will be available for $10 per animal, payable by cash or check only. Valid photo identification is required, and credit cards will not be accepted. Pets receiving their first rabies vaccination will be covered for one year. To qualify for a three-year rabies booster, owners must bring proof of a previous rabies vaccination.

In addition to rabies vaccinations, pet licenses are currently being offered at half-price through the end of May. Microchipping services will also be available for $22.50 tax included.

These services help ensure pets in the community remain safe, healthy, and properly identified.

To learn more about Pocatello Animal Services and its programs, visit Pocatello Animal Services.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The City of Pocatello is pleased to announce that the 1st Avenue Storm Sewer Project is wrapping up ahead of schedule.

As part of the project, the Center Street Underpass was temporarily closed. Beginning Thursday evening, May 1, once paving is completed on 1st Avenue just south of Center Street, the eastbound lane of Center Street will reopen to traffic.

Following the reopening of the eastbound lane, crews will complete paving on 1st Avenue north of Center Street. The entire project is expected to be completed, and both lanes of traffic under the Center Street Underpass is scheduled to reopen next week, weather permitting.

This infrastructure project included the installation of a new storm sewer system along 1st Avenue from East Clark Street to East Whitman Street. These improvements are designed to significantly reduce flooding in the Center Street Underpass area during storms and periods of heavy runoff.

Funding for this critical infrastructure improvement was made possible through the American Rescue Plan Act.

The City extends its sincere appreciation to residents and commuters for their patience and cooperation throughout the duration of the project. For additional information or questions, please contact the Streets Department at 208-234-6250.

With the continued encouragement and support of the Mayor and City Council, the City of Pocatello Water Department is proud to hold its 31st Annual Open House in celebration of National Drinking Water Week, from May 5 through May 8, 2025. The event will be held at the Water Operations Facility located at 1889 North Arthur Avenue. Open house hours are Monday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Wednesday - Thursday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The open house is designed primarily to educate youth about the importance of water conservation, water quality, and environmental stewardship, though it provides valuable insights for people of all ages. This longstanding event has proven to be a meaningful and lasting educational experience for the community.

Interactive displays and demonstrations will highlight key themes, including water quality, aquifer protection, water conservation, stormwater management, wastewater treatment, and reuse and recycling.

Water Department staff will be joined by representatives from City departments, including Water Pollution Control, Sanitation, and Science & Environmental, plus the Bannock County Landfill, all working together to promote environmental education and awareness.

Over the past 31 years, approximately 62,900 children and adults have attended the open house. The program has earned multiple honors, including the American Water Works Association Pacific Northwest “Water Education” award and the 2008 Association of Idaho Cities City Achievement Award.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

Pocatello Mayor Brian Blad and the City Council are hosting a Town Hall Meeting Tuesday, May 13, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in City Council Chambers, 911 North 7th Avenue. 

During the Town Hall meeting, City officials will highlight summer activities for the Marshall Public Library and the Parks & Recreation Department. 

After the department presentations, there will be time for a Question & Answer Session with those attending. Speakers must sign up before 6:00 p.m. The sign-in sheet will be placed on the Council Chambers entry table by 5:30 p.m. Each speaker will be allotted two minutes. 

The Town Hall Meeting will be available the following day on the City’s YouTube channel, by clicking youtube.com/@PocatelloCommunityMedia. 

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities. If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho. Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY POCATELLO - 136 YEARS OLD

On the 29th day of April 1889 at 1:30 p.m., the Board of [Bingham] County Commissioners (you read that right, Pocatello was initially located in Bingham County) met and initiated the following action:

“Petition from the residents of and citizens of the Town of Pocatello requesting that the Town of Pocatello be incorporated and police be established for their local government and that from thenceforth they may be a body politic and corporate by the name and style of the Inhabitants of the Town of Pocatello, with all the powers, rights, and privileges of incorporated towns and villages, as is contemplated and in such cases especially provided by the laws of the Territory of Idaho 1887 Revised Statutes thereof. It was ordered that the petition be granted and the town of Pocatello be declared incorporated and the following men be declared appointed Trustees, K.D. Williams, F.A. Caldwell, H.L. Becraft, L.A. West and G.H. Davis.”

-From the meeting minutes of the Board of [Bingham] County Commissioners, Monday, April 29th, 1889, and verified by Judge D.W. Standrod in a judgement made in the Supreme Court of the State of Idaho (State ex. rel. J.T. Holcomb  v.  The Inhabitants of the Town of Pocatello, 1891).

The Pocatello City Council will hear comments from the public regarding the City’s proposed Historic Preservation Plan during their May 15, 2025, Regular Meeting at 6 p.m., 911 North 7th Avenue.

The Historic Preservation Plan is available to review online at pocatello.gov/Documentcenter/View/10077 or may be obtained by emailing planning@pocatello.gov or by calling 208-234-6514. Agenda item information will be available the Monday prior to the hearing online at pocatello.gov/agendacenter or in the Planning & Development Services Department. 

All interested persons are invited to attend and express their views regarding this proposal. Oral testimony is limited to three (3) minutes per person. Written testimony up to two (2) pages may be submitted up to the time of the meeting to the Planning & Development Services Department, and written testimony of more than two (2) pages must be submitted no later than five (5) working days prior to the scheduled meeting date.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

Marshall Public Library (MPL) is thrilled to announce its participation in the 24th annual Free Comic Book Day Saturday, May 3, 2025! 

Get ready for an exciting adventure as we celebrate Free Comic Book Day! Join us at the MPL, 113 South Garfield Avenue, doors at 10 a.m., so be sure to arrive early because supplies are limited. This event is absolutely free and welcomes everyone, no registration needed. Along with your free comic book, enjoy a comic-themed craft project, challenge yourself with a fun puzzle, and capture the moment at our hero-themed photo spot.

The library thanks Bob Beason, owner of Captain Bengal’s Comic Cove, for his help and support with this event. Mr. Beason helped provide the comics for giveaway as well as the hero cutouts for the photo spot.

Free Comic Book Day is a worldwide event where over 2,000 comic book shops and libraries open their doors to new and longtime fans, offering a selection of special edition comics at no cost. This year, the official Free Comic Book Day Retailer Selection Committee has chosen forty-six exciting titles, including popular franchises like Star Wars, Godzilla, Transformers, Mega Man, and Street Fighter. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just discovering the world of comics, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

For more information about Free Comic Book Day and a full list of available titles, visit freecomicbookday.com or contact the Marshall Public Library at (208) 232-1263.

Don’t miss out—mark your calendar and join us for Free Comic Book Day 2025!

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

All dogs and cats over the age of three months that reside within the Pocatello city limits must be licensed and have the license tag affixed to their collar at all times. 

To help make that easier, license fees are half-price during May. Prices are as follows for May: 

Non-spayed/non-neutered - $12.50 

Spayed/neutered - $7.50

Senior citizen (60+) rate for non-spayed/non-neutered - $9 

Senior citizen (60+) rate for spayed/neutered - $2.50

Cats $2.50 (Waived license fee for the first year with purchase of a microchip $21.23 plus tax). 

Duplicate/replacement license - $1 

*Pet licenses are effective June 1 through May 31 of the following year

*Late License Fee - $5.00 (Added to the cost of the License fees after June 1).

To be eligible for the senior citizen rate, residents must be age 60 years and older. To find a location near you where pet licenses are sold or learn more, visit pocatello.gov/151/Dog-Cat-Licenses. Simply visit a location with a valid driver’s license to get your pet a license. 

Pet licenses can be purchased at Pocatello Animal Services, Pocatello City Hall (dogs only), McKee’s Feed and Garden Center (dogs only), and veterinarian clinics (check with your veterinarian to see if they sell licenses). 

Cat Licenses can only be purchased at the Animal Shelter. 

Multiple Animal Housing Permits must also be renewed each year starting in May. The fee is $25 for the first year and $10 each year to renew. The fee goes up to $15 to renew after May 31. 

If a person inside the Pocatello city limits has three or more dogs and/or six or more cats, they are required by the City to get a Multiple Animal Housing Permit. The pet owner can pick up an application at the Animal Shelter or can print one here: https://pocatello.gov/DocumentCenter/View/72/General-Animal-Housing-Permit-Application-PDF

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

With Pocatello City Council Member Josh Mansfield’s resignation, City Council Seat #4 will be vacant beginning May 1, 2025. Pocatello Mayor Brian Blad is now accepting applications for the vacancy. 

The individual selected and confirmed would fulfill the remainder of Seat #4’s term, which would be from appointment to January 8, 2026. To remain in the seat after January 8, 2026, the individual would need to win the November 2025 election, as Seat #4 is up for election this year.

Those interested in serving may submit applications for the Mayor’s consideration. Following the selection process, the proposed appointee will be confirmed by the City Council.

Applications must be received at the Mayor’s Office by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, April 30, no exceptions. Per Idaho law, interested individuals must be registered voters of the city of Pocatello and be at least 18 years of age.

Applicants are asked to submit only the following items:

1.    A resume no more than two pages in length

2.    Answers to the following questions, with each answer limited to 150 words

a.    Why are you interested in serving as a City Council Member?

b.    In your opinion, what is the major issue facing Pocatello?

c.    How would you address the issue you just described?

*Note: Unsolicited references or letters of reference are not accepted. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Individuals can submit their applications in person at City Hall, 911 North 7th Avenue, by mail to P.O. Box 4169, Pocatello, ID 83205 or by email to mayor@pocatello.gov. 

For more information about City Council positions, contact City Clerk Konni Kendell at 208-234-6217. In addition, attached is a list of expectations for City Council Members.

Pocatello Animal Services is pleased to report that all ten puppies remaining in our care have continued to test negative for the parvovirus. Following extensive disinfection and containment measures, the shelter is safe to reopen.

The shelter will resume normal business hours starting Tuesday, April 29, 2025. While we are reopening to the public for adoptions and other services, volunteer activities will remain suspended until further notice out of an abundance of caution.

The ten puppies are still under evaluation and will not be immediately available for adoption. We anticipate they will be ready for adoption in the near future once they are cleared by our shelter veterinarian.

We sincerely appreciate the community’s patience, understanding, and support as we worked to manage this situation. 

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

Pocatello Animal Services has temporarily paused animal adoptions after canine parvovirus was diagnosed in animals cared for by the shelter. 

Animal Services has confirmed that four puppies in their care have tested positive for the parvovirus. Despite their best efforts, these puppies were exhibiting severe symptoms and were humanely euthanized to prevent the spread of the virus and to protect the health of the remaining animals in the facility.

At this time, ten other puppies at the shelter have tested negative for parvo and are being closely monitored. Out of an abundance of caution, the shelter is temporarily closed to the public and volunteers to limit the risk of cross-contamination.

Parvovirus is a highly contagious and potentially deadly virus that affects unvaccinated dogs, especially puppies. Animal Services staff is working diligently to disinfect all affected areas and implement strict isolation protocols to contain the virus and ensure the safety and well-being of the animals at the shelter.

We appreciate the community’s understanding and support as we work to resolve this situation. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available and when it is safe to reopen.

WE’RE HIRING! Are you in the market for full-time, summer, or seasonal work? Then, stop by the Public Services Annex, 2405 Garrett Way, Friday, April 25, from 2 to 7 p.m. for the City’s largest hiring event of the year. 

“Join us at the City’s annual hiring fair. It’s the perfect opportunity to connect with various departments and discover the job that’s right for you,” said Mayor Brian Blad. 

The City is looking to fill dozens of positions, including but not limited to Sanitation Operator, Senior Equipment Operator, Zookeeper, Parks & Recreation Maintenance Technician, Lifeguard, Groundskeeper, and much more. City of Pocatello employees will be on-site to answer questions about available jobs, demonstrate equipment, give tours, and help fill out applications. Chromebooks will be available for applicants to apply online and to upload their resumes. 

“We are thrilled to dive into the summer season of 2025! The City is bursting with fantastic opportunities,” said Heather Buchanan, Human Resources Director. “From full-time positions with benefits to flexible summer jobs for students, we have something for you.” 

If you can’t attend the hiring event but would like to see what jobs are available at the City of Pocatello, click HERE. Or, visit our website at pocatello.gov, and click on the “Job Openings” icon.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The Pocatello City Council will hear comments from the public regarding the City’s proposed Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan (PROST) during their May 1, 2025, Regular Meeting.

The PROST Plan is available to review online at pocatello.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12112/ or may be obtained by emailing planning@pocatello.gov or by calling 208-234-6514. Agenda item information will be available the Monday prior to the hearing at pocatello.gov/AgendaCenter or in the Planning & Development Services Department.

All interested persons are invited to attend and express their views regarding this proposal. Oral testimony is limited to three (3) minutes per person. Written testimony up to two (2) pages may be submitted up to the time of the meeting to the Planning & Development Services Department, and written testimony of more than two (2) pages must be submitted no later than five (5) working days prior to the scheduled meeting date.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

During a press conference on April 17, Pocatello Mayor Brian Blad addressed the community following the officer-involved shooting that occurred April 5. The City understands the importance of releasing additional information to the community. 

There are still many questions the City cannot answer because of the Eastern Idaho Critical Incident Task Force and pending litigation.

Once the external investigations are complete, the Idaho Attorney General’s Office will conduct the review of the investigative findings. 

April 17 – PRESS CONFERENCE: Mayor Brian Blad, Additional Information Released to Public Following Officer-Involved Shooting

1.    VIDEO: Officer-Involved Shooting April 5, 2025

2.    Security Camera Footage from Nearby Building

3.    911 Call to Dispatch

4.    911 Call to Dispatch Transcribed

5.    Dispatch Audio to Responding Officers

April 12 – PRESS RELEASE: City Addresses Need for Law Enforcement During Protest at City Hall

April 11 – PRESS RELEASE: Statement Following Officer-Involved Shooting

April 10 – VIDEO: Mayor of Pocatello’s Statement on the Officer-Involved Shooting Saturday, April 5, 2025

April 7 – PRESS CONFERENCE: Pocatello Police Chief Roger Schei Updates Community After Officer-Involved Shooting April 5

April 5 – PRESS RELEASE: Officer-Involved Shooting in the 700 block of N. Harrison

Registration is now open for the 28th Annual “Run with the Big Dogs” event scheduled for Saturday, April 19, at 10:30 a.m. at Lower Ross Park. The event organized by The Friends of the Pocatello Animal Shelter features a 2k walk/run, and a 5k run. Registration is $40 per participant. Register before March 31 to get a Run with the Big Dogs T-shirt. Entrants will receive a bandana and a “doggy bag” full of freebies (while supplies last). 

“This event is truly amazing! It’s wonderful to see so many people with their dogs enjoying the day together,” said Chris Abbott, Pocatello Animal Services Director. “We’re incredibly grateful to all our participants, sponsors, and The Friends of the Pocatello Animal Shelter for their ongoing support — they’re the reason this event is such a success year after year.”

Interested participants can register for the race online through the link below or in person at the Pocatello Animal Shelter, 3100 Avenue of the Chiefs. The day includes vendors, raffle prizes, a silent auction, splash pools for dogs, and refreshments for participants and dogs.

Proceeds from the Run with the Big Dogs event directly support shelter animal adoptions, helping more pets find their forever homes.

To register, visit pocatelloshelterfriends.org/run-with-the-big-dogs. For more information on Pocatello Animal Services and to view adoptable pets, visit Pocatello.gov/animal or Like the Facebook page at facebook.com/PocatelloAnimalServices. 

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho. Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The Pocatello Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council (MYAC) is asking for you to lend a hand to those in need. 

MYAC will be holding an essential needs drive Saturday, April 19, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. next to Freckleton Park in the Community Recreation Center’s parking lot. At the event, MYAC members will be collecting toilet paper, body soap, toothbrushes, diapers, razors, deodorant, laundry detergent, shampoo, feminine hygiene products, canned dog and cat food, non-perishable food, and more. 

Collected items will be placed in the Free Little Pantry. Currently, there are two locations, one is located in the City Hall parking lot and the other is located in the parking lot of the Community Recreation Center. 

The Pocatello Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council is comprised of 9th through 12th grade students who live within the Pocatello/Chubbuck School District boundaries. Members are appointed by the Mayor and serve until they graduate.

For more information on the Little Free Pantry, visit pocatello.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2009&ARC=3680.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

Meeting has been postponed: Pocatello Mayor Brian Blad and the City Council are hosting a Town Hall Meeting Tuesday, April 15, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in City Council Chambers, 911 North 7th Avenue. 

During the Town Hall meeting, City officials will highlight summer activities for the Marshall Public Library and the Parks & Recreation Department. 

After the department presentations, there will be time for a Question & Answer Session with those attending. Speakers must sign up before 6:00 p.m. The sign-in sheet will be placed on the Council Chambers entry table by 5:30 p.m. Each speaker will be allotted two minutes. 

The Town Hall Meeting will be available the following day on the City’s YouTube channel, by clicking youtube.com/@PocatelloCommunityMedia.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The City of Pocatello is releasing the following statement regarding the presence of law enforcement during a protest that took place April 12 at City Hall, 911 North 7th Avenue. These officers were deployed solely as a safety measure, with the specific intent of identifying and quickly responding to any threat posed to protesters, bystanders, and law enforcement personnel. 

The deployment of officers was a precautionary measure taken in response to a credible threat communicated to Pocatello Police Department (PPD) by the Federal Bureau of Investigation(FBI). The FBI informed PPD of one or more individuals with a known interest in targeting law enforcement officers who were believed to be in or near the area of the protest at City Hall. In light of this information, PPD implemented an elevated security posture, which included positioning trained officers at strategic vantage points.

Additionally, in the days leading up to the event, PPD had been actively monitoring various sources to be prepared for all safety issues. Several threats raised specific concerns about potential acts of violence, prompting PPD to take appropriate measures to safeguard participants, bystanders, and public safety personnel.

The City of Pocatello continues to strongly support the constitutional right to peacefully protest. We appreciate the residents who gathered today to express their views in a peaceful, respectful manner. Our law enforcement teams are committed to protecting these rights while also responding appropriately to any potential threats that may compromise public safety.

The City’s goal is always to ensure that Pocatello remains a safe place for civic engagement and public dialogue.

We are saddened to hear the news of Victor Perez’s current condition. 

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones during this unimaginably difficult time. We recognize the pain and grief this incident has caused in our community,” said Pocatello Mayor Brian Blad. 

On April 5, 2025 at 5:22 p.m., officers responded to an individual armed with a knife, in the area of North Harrison Avenue. During the encounter, officers used lethal force on the individual. Immediate life-saving measures were initiated by officers on the individual, who was subsequently transported by ambulance to Portneuf Medical Center by the Pocatello Fire Department. That individual was later determined to be Victor Perez.

The criminal, external, and internal investigations regarding the officer-involved shooting are ongoing. The external investigation is being performed by the Eastern Idaho Critical Incident Task Force. The findings of that investigation will be released at some point in the future.

*The City of Pocatello does not typically release the names of minors. However, as Victor’s name was publicly shared by his family, the City has included it in this press release.

The Pocatello community has experienced a tragic event, and we are all reeling from what happened, especially the Perez family. Please know this incident has my full attention. The City Council and I do not take what happened lightly. 

We are addressing this matter with the seriousness and thoroughness it deserves and with the appropriate respect for the gravity of the situation. The criminal, external, and internal investigations regarding the officer-involved shooting are underway, which is why we cannot answer questions out of concern of interfering with or compromising the investigation. 

What I can tell you is the four officers were immediately placed on administrative leave following the incident, per City of Pocatello policy. We expect to release body camera footage in the coming weeks. 

We truly recognize the difficulty and pain of this situation. Everyone is looking for answers, including me and the City Council. That is why it is important to let the Eastern Idaho Critical Incident Task Force and others complete their investigations. 

Once the investigations are complete, we will act in accordance with the findings. No determinations will be made until the independent investigators have done their job.  

Again, please know this incident is top of mind for me and the City Council. 

Right now, our thoughts are with the Perez family, the neighborhood residents who witnessed the interaction, our entire community, and all members of the Pocatello Police Department. It will take a very long time for all of us to find normalcy, but our hope is we can find a way to move forward and build a stronger community together.

VIDEO: Statement from Pocatello Mayor Brian Blad

Join us for Zoo Idaho’s opening day! Zoo Idaho is back for the 2025 season, showcasing our amazing native species. The zoo will be open weekends in April and weekdays starting May 1.

Zoo Idaho is an indigenous zoo exhibiting only native species found within the Intermountain West. The majority of animals at the zoo were brought in through the help of Idaho Fish and Game and various agencies and organizations. These animals can no longer thrive in the wild and the zoo has given them a forever home. When you visit Zoo Idaho you can know you are supporting animal conservation and wildlife conservation. 

Admission to the zoo is $5.00 for kids under age 11 and $7.00 for adults, with discounts for local students, seniors, military members, and groups of 10 or more. Consider a Zoo Idaho Zoological Society (ZIZS) Membership for unlimited fun all season long. Visit ZooIdaho.Org/membership for more information.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

What draws people to the library? Everything! From books and digital resources to creative programming for all ages, libraries are essential to thriving communities. National Library Week, April 6–12, 2025, is a time to celebrate the many ways libraries bring people together, spark imagination, and support lifelong learning. 

This National Library Week, take time to rediscover the Marshall Public Library (MPL) and see how it draws us together as a community. Whether you're visiting for books, resources, or a place to connect, the MPL is here for you. The library provides free Wi-Fi, STEAM programs, and digital collections such as Libby and Kanopy, and so much more. 

Join us for special National Library Week events: 

•    Find the Comic Heroes – A special scavenger hunt in line with this year’s theme, Drawn to the Library! You can participate whenever the library is open. Monday-Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

•    Marshall Madness Winner Announced – After our bracket-style Battle of the Books competition, the winner will be announced Monday, April 7 at noon.

•    Storytime in a Box (Literacy Everyday): Babies – Monday at 11:30 a.m., Toddler – Wednesday at 11:30 a.m., Preschool – Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday at 10:15 a.m. or Monday at 1:30 p.m.

For more information about National Library Week events at the Marshall Public Library, visit marshallpl.org and follow us on Facebook facebook.com/marshallpl or Instagram instagram.com/marshallpubliclibrary1/. 

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

We are excited to announce this year’s Portneuf Valley Environmental Fair will be the grand finale of Earth Week held Saturday, April 26 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Lookout Point, 426 West Lewis Street. Admission is free, and the whole family can enjoy a fun day packed with free food, live music, hands-on activities, and more. A detailed schedule will be available at each entrance.

Once you arrive, explore exciting activities in the Kids’ Area, near the playground, and discover 80 interactive booths throughout the fair. Stop by the City of Pocatello’s Lead Safe and Healthy Homes Program for free lead testing on your toys, pottery, vintage items, and more. Bring a sealed well water sample to be tested for nitrates at the Idaho Rural Water Association’s booth. Recycle your lithium battery e-waste. To learn more about these opportunities, please visit envirofair.org/e-waste-recycling/ or envirofair.org/chemical-testing/.

Live music will be performed by Seize the Night, 3G Country, Mountain Strings Blue Grass Band, and cultural performances will feature the Sho-Ban Dance Troupe and Susan Avila Dixey.

Need a ride? Hop on the Pocatello Regional Transit bus and enjoy a free ride to the fair on B Route.

Discover the wonders of the Portneuf Valley. Together, we can promote sustainable practices and renewable energy while protecting our land, air, water, and human health. 

For more information and to get involved, visit our website at envirofair.org/ or our Facebook page Portneuf Valley Environmental Fair. See you at the fair!

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

Spring is here, which means the City of Pocatello Yard Waste Collection Program will begin. 

Starting Tuesday, April 1, Pocatello residents signed up for the yard waste program can place grass clippings, leaves, and garden trimmings in their designated autocart for pick up. No other material will be accepted. Yard waste autocarts are picked up on the regular trash pick-up day. The program will run through November 30. 

“Yard waste is another form of recycling that can be transformed and used as compost,” said Tom Kirkman, Director of Public Services.

Starting with 500 customers in April 2013, this optional program has expanded to 1,925 customers, with more yard waste carts being delivered every day. To sign-up for the Yard Waste Collection Program, contact the Sanitation Department at 208-234-6192. The current cost is $6.07 per month, billed to your City of Pocatello utility bill. 

Compost generated from the program is available for purchase at the Bannock County Landfill Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

For more information on the program, visit pocatello.gov/620/Yard-Waste. 

More on all the programs and services offered by the City of Pocatello Sanitation Department can be found at pocatello.gov/sanitation. 

Marshall Public Library is excited to invite the community to a biweekly Libby Drop-in Session. These sessions will be held Tuesdays at 1 p.m. and Saturdays at 11 a.m. This informal gathering is the perfect opportunity to learn how to use Libby, the library’s free e-book service, and get all your questions answered by our knowledgeable staff, one-on-one.

Whether you’re new to Libby or just need a refresher, you can learn how to:

•    Borrow and download e-books and audiobooks on a variety of devices

•    Customize your reading experience

•    Troubleshoot issues

No registration is required. Simply drop by MPL during one of these sessions and bring your device (smartphone, tablet, or e-reader) and library card to get started. If you are using an e-reader such as a Kindle, bring your Amazon account information.

MPL is dedicated to providing free access to resources, programs, and services that enrich the lives of our community members. Digital resources can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially if you are a new user. These drop-in sessions are a chance for library staff to help our members feel confident using Libby and to explore the thousands of titles available at their fingertips.

For more information, visit marshallpl.org or contact Jackie Wood at (208) 232-1263 or by email at jwood@marshallpl.org.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

“Check out” our Seed Library at the Marshall Public Library! The Seed Library is a collection of open-pollinated, heirloom, and hybrid seeds (vegetables, herbs, and flowers) that anyone in our area can “check out” to plant at home. Seeds are available starting Saturday, March 29. So, come in, check out a garden book, take home some seeds and let’s get growing!

There is a limit of three seed packets per person. “Return” your seeds by sharing some of your harvest with others in our community or saving seeds for use next year. Marshall Public Library (MPL) will accept saved seed returns that are clearly labeled or bring in produce this fall for The Idaho Foodbank through the Garden to Give program.

MPL Seed Library is possible this year with a donation of seeds from Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company, Burpee Seeds, Giving Ground Seeds, High Mowing Seed Company, Idaho Grimm Growers, and Seed Savers. If you have extra seeds, we will gladly accept donations for our Seed Library.

Have questions about the Seed Library? Please contact Librarian Kristy Lyon, 208-232-1263 ext. 106.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208-234-6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The Pocatello Fire Department (PFD) will be conducting a Burn and Learn training exercise March 31 and April 1, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 3534 Jason Avenue. The public may see flames and smoke coming from the vacant house during the exercise. 

During the Burn and Learn exercise firefighters experience real fire conditions in a controlled setting. This training is invaluable in preparing firefighters for the fire environment.   

Motorists are urged to use caution and maintain a safe distance while traveling in this area. There may be intermittent periods of heavy smoke that could cause low visibility. Weather conditions will be carefully monitored, and burns will only be conducted when conditions are favorable. 

Burn and Learn exercises are conducted in accordance with stringent U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and National Fire Protection Agency standards in order to protect the participants and the public. 

For any questions or concerns, please contact the PFD at 208-234-6201. 

Are you wanting to learn tips and tricks on how to search for jobs? Marshall Public Library will host a workshop by the Idaho Department of Labor Tuesday, April 8 at 4 p.m. in the Community Room.

Join us for an information session on how the Department of Labor help people in the job market. Teens, first-time job seekers, and those making career changes are encouraged to attend. During the workshop attendees will learn about the current labor market, how to look for work, and the tools available at the Idaho Department of Labor to help enhance your job search.

Following the workshop, attendees can set future appointments for one-on-one sessions at the Department of Labor for additional assistance. Participants will also receive a copy of the Maximize Your Job Search workbook. 

The City of Pocatello is always hiring, to find your next career with the City visit Pocatello.gov/jobs. 

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The City of Pocatello invites you to an open house regarding the creation of a 15-year plan for the Alameda area. Your feedback is vital as we move forward with the new plan. Join us Thursday, March 20, 2025, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Greenacres Elementary, 1250 E. Oak Street, Pocatello.

Area and Neighborhood Plans were identified in the City’s most recent Comprehensive Plan. The Area Plan will outline a vision for the neighborhoods within the Alameda area, which will assist in achieving the goals as outlined in the Comprehensive Plan. This plan will include specific neighborhood needs and recommendations on how the area will address issues such as development, affordable housing, transportation options, public amenities, and other priorities within the Comprehensive Plan. Overall, the Area Plan will provide needed guidance and direction for future growth and development within the Alameda area.

Can’t make it? Please participate in our online survey here: alameda-area-plan-pocatello.hub.arcgis.com/.

For more information on this project, contact Jim Anglesey at 208-234-6514 or janglesey@pocatello.gov.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

The City of Pocatello Parks & Recreation Department, in conjunction with the Southeast Idaho Skatepark Association, is excited to announce the final design of the Optimist Skatepark. The community is invited to the ground-breaking ceremony Friday, March 21 at noon, near North 8th Avenue and East Sherman Street. We anticipate crews from Artisan Skateparks will begin construction in early April.

In January, City leaders held an open house with Brad Siedlecki from Pillar Design Studios where four designs were presented. With input from the community, an updated design was created. The new skatepark will be between 7,000 and 8,000 square feet in size and will feature a large bowl, quarter pipe, stairs, rails, and ledges.

“We received so much feedback from our local skateboarders about the four designs presented. I think we’ve found the perfect balance to give everyone something they really wanted in this design,” said Anne Butler, Parks and Recreation Director.  

This $500,000 project was funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, also known as ARPA. An additional $25,000 will be donated to the City later this month by the Southeast Idaho Skatepark Association to add the stair set, second access, and “Idaho” feature on the quarter pipe. The association has also worked together with parents Brandon and Stacie Nichols to fundraise for a memorial to be built at the skatepark for Brandon Chevy Nichols, their son.  

For more information on the City of Pocatello Parks & Recreation Department, visit  pocatello.gov/pr.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.