Thursday, December 31, 2009

Agenda for Jan. 5 City Council Meeting

On January 5, 2010, at 5:30 pm, the Mayor and City Council will hold a regular meeting located at Council Chamber, 100 E Ave A in Jerome. Below is a copy of the agenda. NOTE: This will be Mayor Charles Correll's farewell council meeting as the Mayor of Jerome. Mayor Correll has served as mayor for 8 years with four years as a councilman before that. The Mayor Elect, John Shine, will be sworn in as the new mayor at this meeting, along with the swearing in of all newly elected councilmembers.

The agenda:

Call to Order – 5:30 PM.
Pledge of Allegiance
Consent Agenda
The consent calendar consists of items that are considered to be routine in nature and will be enacted in the form of one motion. Any item can be removed from the consent calendar and heard in its regular order at the request of any council member or the mayor.

1. Approve the minutes of the regular meeting of December 15, 2009 and special meeting of December 21, 2009

Installation of Elected Officials
1. Judge Thomas Borreson to administer the oath of office to Mayor-Elect John Shine and Council Members-Elect Robert Culver and Chris Barber
2. Mayor Shine to appoint a councilperson to fill a vacancy
3. Mayor Shine to appoint council members to the finance committee

Elect Council President
Confirm Appointed Officers
1. Judge Thomas Borreson to administer the oath of office to City Treasurer Ross Hyatt
Citizen Correspondence, Issues & Reports
Resolutions
2. Resolution No. 1-10 Naming 401(k) Plan Administrators
3. Resolution No. 2-10 Authority to Assume Duties
4. Resolution No. 3-10 Amending the Wellness Plan
5. Resolution No. 4-10 Amending the Employee Manual
City Council Discussion & Possible Action Items
6. Approve payment to Sunrise Engineers for services performed for the South Lincoln and Main Street Project in the amount of $6,062.50 – Public Works
7. Approve the applications for submission to NXGen Payment Services – Finance
8. Approval for Walt Appell to attend a NRWA meeting in Washington DC – Public Works
9. Approve Landscaping/Snow removal contract in the amount of $3,360 – Fire
10. Approve the replacement of the belt press drive assembly from Seepex Pump at a total cost of $7243 – Sewer
11. Approve purchase of a 2005 Chevrolet Colorado at a cost of $5295.00 – Water
12. Approve the sale at auction of office equipment and surplus vehicles – Fire and Water

Council Reports
City Administrative Report
Department Head Reports
Executive Session
Adjourn

Be Prepared for 2010


Resolve to Be Ready 2010
Article by Clint Blackwood, Director of Jerome County Emergency Management

As the year 2010 approaches, many of us make resolutions that we are sincere in making, but very few manage to keep them. The Jerome County Office of Emergency Management offers a New Years Resolution that everyone can easily keep. Resolve to Be Ready. Being Ready for emergencies can be an easy New Year’s resolution to keep by following the Ready Campaign’s three simple steps: 1) Get an emergency supply kit; 2) Make a family emergency plan; and 3) Be informed about the types of emergencies and appropriate responses.

Taking these steps and having an emergency supply kit both at home and in the car, will help people for winter power outages and icy roads. Each of these kits should include basic necessities such as water, food and first aid supplies and to help you survive if you are without power or become stranded in your vehicle. Complete checklists for each kit are available online. In addition, by visiting www.ready.gov or the Spanish language website www.listo.gov , or calling 1-800-BE-READY or 1-888—SE-LISTO, individuals can access free materials that will bring their families peace of mind. This information is produced by the Ready Campaign in partnership with the Ad Council.

Our nation’s emergency managers, firefighters, law enforcement officers, EMT/paramedics, public works employees, and other first responders do an incredible job of keeping us safe, but they can’t do it alone. We must all embrace our individual responsibility to be prepared – in doing so, we contribute to the safety and security of our community and the nation as well.

The Jerome County Office of Emergency Management is working within the community to provide a comprehensive Emergency Management program which coordinates people and resources to protect lives, property and the environment within Jerome County by using an all hazards approach of mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery for disasters and emergencies.

Neighborhood preparedness training programs such as Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and Map Your Neighborhood (MYN) are available. For more information please contact the Office of Emergency Management at 324-9261 or email cblackwood@co.jerome.id.us.

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

How to Avoid a Sewer Backup


In a climate like southern Idaho, winter is the wost time for sewer backups. The City of Jerome frequently hears from residents who have sewer water backing up into their laundry rooms or other areas of the home where they may have drains draining directly into the sewer system. As a rule, the City will help residents clean up these backups and assist in recovering destroyed property, however the City is rarely entirely responsible for the situation. In fact, the blame for sewer backups should be attributed to the cold weather.

As the temperature cools down in the winter, wastewater from toilets, kitchen sinks, and other sources flow more slowly to the Wastewater Treatment Plant. As a result, grease and other household products tend to congeal in cold sewer pipes, causing blockages and occasional freezing. As these blockages continue to build, the sewer line will back up into homes and businesses, causing an unsightly and smelly mess.

Here are a few tips to avoiding sewer backups:

1. The best way to dispose of grease to avoid blockages is to throw it away with the trash, instead of pouring it down the drain.

2. If you do end up pouring grease down the drain, always dilute it with dish soap and warm water first. Simply running hot water down the drain is not effective in disposing of grease and can actually increase the risk for blockages. By adding dish soap to the grease before pouring it down the drain, you will denature and break up the grease particles which will it to flow more rapidly to the Wastewater Treatment Plant.

3. If you plan on leaving on vacation or during extremely cold weather (when average temperatures are less than 15 degrees), leave a tap dripping so as to avoid freezing pipes.

4. If installing new sewer or water lines in a home or business, NEVER place pipes on exterior walls. This is one of the most common and avoidable causes for sewer and water pipe breakages. In addition, all pipes should be insulated, regardless of location.

5. Never flush anything that is not biodegradable or large enough to cause a blockage. "Flushable" does not mean biodegradable. Condoms, tampons, paper towels, rubber gloves, wet-wipes, rags, and many other commonly flushed items can easily cause blockages or maintenance issues at the Wastewater Treatment Plant. The best rule is this: WHEN IN DOUBT, THROW IT AWAY IN THE TRASH.

By following these five basic tips, you will greatly reduce your chances of have a sewer backup in your home or business. If you do experience a backup, please call the City at 324-7122 and let us help you with the clean up.

For any questions, please call City Hall at 324-8189 or the WaterWorks Department at 324-7122.

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

A Gift Suitable for All Ages: A Christmas Message from Librarians Everywhere


What we really need is an all-purpose gift that will satisfy everybody.
It should be suitable for all ages. It should require no assembly. It shouldn't need batteries. You shouldn't have to feed it. It should last forever. It should be constantly entertaining. The more the recipient uses it, the more he or she should like it.

And of course, it should be free.

No such animal, right? Wrong. I'm talking about a library card.

I'll never understand it. Most adults these days carry cards of every description; most of them DON'T have library cards. So for the woman or man who has everything, why not offer everything else? -- access to the total accumulated knowledge of the human race, not to mention the most wonderful stories ever told.

Of course, the real winner of a gift like this is not an adult. It's a child.

Here's all you have to do to make your holidays a success. First, come down to the library and fill out a library card application for your child. Then, check out three of four books. Wrap the card and the books and offer them to your children in the fashion that your holiday traditions dictate. Save this very special package for last.

When the child rips it open, say that this unassuming little card will let him or her get presents all year long. Then read your child to sleep that night with one of the books.

After your children have gotten bored with their other toys, read them (or have them read) the other books, then trot them down to the library in that slow week at the end of the year. Teach your children about exchanging one present for another.

At the library, every day is Christmas. Behind every book cover there are riches. After introducing your kids to a treasure trove beyond Aladdin's wildest dreams, why not mosey over to the adult section, and browse through the latest offerings yourself? You know you deserve it.

Many people -- librarians, teachers, Secretaries of Education, even sport celebrities and actors -- have urged every child to obtain and use a library card. It's good advice.

Besides, at prices like these, who can argue? If you are not fully satisfied after a lifetime of learning and pleasure -- I'll cheerfully refund your money.

Trust me, this could be the best season's greeting card you'll ever send.


by James LaRue, Director, Douglas County Libraries, Colorado, December 24, 2007

Holiday Safety Tips from Chief Hatfield: Preventing Home Heating Fires


Who can prevent home heating fires? You can.

When the mercury drops, the risk of home fires starts to rise. Readers take note: Your family could be in serious danger! Heating equipment is the leading cause nationally of winter home fires and those fires are a major threat here in Jerome.

Although most people think they are safest in their own homes, homes are actually where we are at greatest risk of fire death. The nonprofit National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates that 3,145 people died in home fires in 2003. More than 80 percent of fatal fires occur in the home.

And while October is known for fire safety in schools and workplaces and fire stations, autumn also signals the beginning of the heating season here in Jerome.

According to NFPA, heating equipment is the leading cause of home fires in the months of December, January and February. The organization estimates that roughly 55,000 home heating equipment fires occurred in the latest year the organization studied.

The Jerome City Fire Department wants to keep our city safe and hold down the number of heating-related fires this season. But we need your help.

Here’s what you can do:

• Keep things that burn at least 3 feet away from heating equipment.
• Use fireplaces, woodstoves, heaters and furnaces properly and carefully, with good maintenance.
• Get furnaces and chimneys inspected once a year and cleaned or repaired if needed.
• Closely watch children and pets in rooms with heating equipment, and keep them safely away.
• Turn off portable space heaters when you get ready to sleep or if you leave the room.

Who can prevent heating fires? You can. NFPA’s data show that most home heating equipment fires involve portable or fixed space heaters (including associated chimneys), because they require more attention. Central heating furnaces are usually installed by builders; space heaters are more likely to be installed or placed by occupants and here’s where caution should be observed.

The start of the holiday season is a good time to check out your home’s heating equipment because it comes just before the start of the heating season. Get your chimney inspected and the furnace tuned up. Make sure you have a fireplace screen. If you’re buying new heating equipment, always select products listed by an independent testing laboratory. Choose a qualified installer and follow all codes and manufacturers’ instructions. And save the user’s guide that comes with the heating equipment, so you can keep it properly maintained in the future.

As your fire chief, it’s my duty to tell you what I know about this seasonal fire hazard and provide you with the safety basics you need to prevent a heating equipment fire. Then it’s up to you. Preventing heating equipment fires is simple – just keep these safety tips in mind and you’ll be on your way to a safer heating season.

Workshop on Title 17: Planning and Zoning

Last night, the Mayor and Council met to discuss the City of Jerome's Planning and Zoning legislation, Title 17. The workshop covered the significant changes to the current Title 17, including deletion and inclusion of zones, inclusion of allowed uses within a district, changes to current setbacks for all zones, changes to the zoning map, and other "housekeeping" items that the new Title 17 will correct in the previous code.

When Mayor and Council are satisfied with a final version of the Title 17, official public hearings will be held for addressing citizen comments and inquiries. At this moment, the first public hearing is slated for the second regular council meeting in January, held on January 19th. For questions, contact City Hall:

Friday, December 18, 2009

Workshop on December 21 to review Title 17

The Jerome City Council will hold a workshop on Monday, December 21 at 5:30 pm to discuss the new Title 17 code that governs planning and zoning practices within City limits. This new Title 17 document will replace the current Title 17 and make for more sustainable regulations and planning practices. For questions, call Micah Austin 324-8189.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Become a Fan of City Facebook Page


If you haven't already, become a fan of the City of Jerome's Facebook page. It is listed under, "City of Jerome, Idaho." The City uses this page to post current and urgent public service announcements, as well as other communication updates from the City. If you are new to Facebook, setting up an account is easy and only takes a couple of minutes.

Monday, December 14, 2009

City Council Meets Tomorrow Night

The Jerome City Council meets tomorrow night for a regularly scheduled meeting. Council meets at 5:30 pm in City Council Chambers located at 100 E Ave A. The agenda for the meeting is copied below:

Call to Order – 5:30 PM.
Pledge of Allegiance
Presentations

1. Give the oath of office to Firefighter Christina Jaegers
2. Award the Employee of the Month to Assistant Building Inspector Sonny Henry

Consent Agenda
The consent calendar consists of items that are considered to be routine in nature and will be enacted in the form of one motion. Any item can be removed from the consent calendar and heard in its regular order at the request of any council member or the mayor.

3. Approve the minutes of the December 1, 2009 regular meeting 091201MN.pdf
4. Officer Reports: Fire, Law Enforcement, Treasurer, Library, Building Dept Reports
5. Claims

Citizen Correspondence, Issues & Reports
6. Clint Blackwood, County Emergency Services to present the All Hazards Mitigation Plan
7. Thank you letter from Interfaith Volunteer Care Givers IntefaithThankYou.pdf

City Council Discussion & Possible Action Items
8. Approval to amend the Comprehensive Plan to include the City of Jerome, Idaho Impact Fee Study and Capital Improvement Plan – Administration ImpactFeeApproval.pdf
9. Approval to purchase eSoft InstaGate 604 Web Filtering Appliance for the library at a total cost of $4,049.00 – Information Services Librarysoftware.pdf
10. Approve the use of Grant funds to award a contract to Lee Nunnally Masonry for repair of the Senior Center rock wall for a cost of $16,690.00 – Engineering RockWallBid.pdf
11. Approve a Change Order in the amount of $16,380.00 for additional gravel from Walker Sand & Gravel for the Senior Center – Engineering SeniorGravel.pdf
12. Approve the purchase of an Ingram asphalt hotbox for street repairs in the amount of $27,622.00 – Public Works HotBox.pdf
13. Approve the placement of a stop sign at the corner of South Hayes and East Yakima – Public Works IMP Stop Sign Agenda Statement.pdf
14. Approval to purchase 2006 Chevy Silverado ¾ ton truck – Waterworks wastewater2006tk.pdf
15. Approval to purchase two 2004 Chevy Silverado trucks and one- 2005 Colorado Midsize pickup – Waterworks WaterTrucks.pdf
16. Approval to purchase used equipment trailer – Waterworks TrailerPurchase.pdf
17. Approval to go out to bid for the bio-tower construction project – Waterworks Bio-towerbid.pdf
18. Approval to repair 1998 Ford Crown Victoria at an approximate cost of $4,000 – Police VehRepair.pdf
19. Approval to auction surplus Herring Hall Marvin Safe – Police SurplusSafe.pdf
20. Approval to auction surplus 2001 Canon NP4050 copier – Police Surplus Copier.pdf
21. Approval to auction surplus 2001 Chevy Impala – Police SurplusVehicle.pdf
Council Reports
City Administrative Report
Department Head Reports
Adjourn

Thursday, December 10, 2009

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT: AVOID FREEZING PIPES

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT: Due to unusually low temperatures combined with freezing wind chills, there have been many complaints linked to broken water pipes. To ensure pipes do not freeze, keep a tap barely running overnight (a slow drip is sufficient). For questions, call 324-7122.

New Internet Usage Policy at the Jerome Public Library


To ensure the Jerome Public Library remains a family friendly atmosphere, the Library Board has approved a new internet usage policy, the "Acceptable and Ethical Network Use Policy." Below is a summary of these policies. For a copy of the entire policy, email Laura Burnett, City Librarian, at lburnett@ci.jerome.di.us. Beginning January 1, 2010, a filtering software will be utilized to ensure that these policies are observed by all library patrons accessing the internet.


The policies:

Jerome Public Library Computer Users Policy
(Adapted from Acceptable and Ethical Network Use policy)

Users shall be subject to the following conditions of use of the computer facilities offered by the Jerome Public Library:

• Users must have a library card. Users without a library card shall obtain access to designated “guest” station by requesting access from library staff at the front desk.

• Use by persons not having a library card shall be limited to the designated library computers, and to thirty minutes per session. Wireless users are not subject to the time limitation.

• Library account balance not to exceed $10.00 for all Library fees, charges, and fines or library and computer privileges are suspended.

• Daily use for minors (13-17 years with signed parent permission form) is limited to a one hour session. Minors accompanied by a parent who need to accomplish school work can request a longer time allotment.
o Minors only: There will be no more than one user at a computer at a time.

• Users will use computer stations in designated area for their age group. Child, Minor, Teen, , and Adult designations as marked on computer screens.

• Time limits for adults (18+) will be determined by staff and availability of work stations in the atrium.

• Users shall not access internet sites or view media depicting images of nude human genitalia, buttocks, or female breasts or which are pornographic, or sexually explicit.

• Users shall not create files on the computer, other than temporary internet files, or attempt to access or modify existing files.

• Users can download materials that are available for purchase through allowed sites with icons on the computer desktop.

• Users shall not install any programs, nor copy any programs.

• All use shall comply with all State and Federal laws and regulations.

• Violation of this policy may result in immediate suspension of the User’s computer privileges and, if appropriate, library privileges.
Adopted by Jerome Public Library Board of Trustees December 8, 2009

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Gift Ideas from Chief Mike Hatfield


Novel Gift Giving Ideas for the Holiday Season
(For the person who seems to have everything)

First Off, let me say that only a Fire Chief would possibly think the following gift is worth giving but please hear me out. Answer the following riddles. What gift would be appreciated if needed, but not necessarily something that a person would want to have to use? What is one of the cheapest forms of fire insurance you can own? And finally, what gift can you give that might save a life or valued property for less than $25? Give up? Now given that a Fire Chief is asking the questions, the obvious answer has to be a “Fire Extinguisher”. For under $25, a durable dry powder fire extinguisher with at least a 2A10BC fire rating can be purchased at almost any hardware store. You might say that the person you care for already has a fire extinguisher; fine, but does that person have two? One Extinguisher is not enough when you look at all the places a fire extinguisher could be needed. A fire extinguisher can be stored and needed in the car, kitchen, boat, RV or garage to name just a few of the places that come to my mind. That’s my pitch for fire extinguishers, but an equally inexpensive story about the need for First Aid Kits, Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Detectors could apply as well. Just one last thought while you are wrapping that boring gift, make sure a candy cane or some sweet confection is tied to the present. Albeit that a valuable safety gift is needed, “Man does not live by a Fire Extinguishers alone”.

Thursday, December 3, 2009

NEW TRASH REMOVAL INFORMATION!

From December 15 to March 1st, all trash will be curb-side pickup only in preparation for snowy streets. There will be no alley pickup for trash during this time. Beginning December 15, all alley carts must be placed on the curb for pickup.

For questions, call PSI 208-733-4441

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

City Council Meets Tonight

The Mayor and City Council meet tonight at 5:30 pm at the Council Chambers in Jerome located at 100 East Ave A. A copy of agenda is below:

Call to Order – 5:30 PM.
Pledge of Allegiance
Presentations
1. Award the Employee of the Month to Grant Robbins – Public Works
2. Oath of Office to be given to new Firefighter Christina Jaeger

Consent Agenda
The consent calendar consists of items that are considered to be routine in nature and will be enacted in the form of one motion. Any item can be removed from the consent calendar and heard in its regular order at the request of any council member or the mayor.
3. Approve the minutes of the November 17, 2009 regular meeting and November 24, 2009 special meeting
4. Ratify payment to Eastern Idaho Railroad in the amount of $5,631 for work related to the force main project
Citizen Correspondence, Issues & Reports
5. Keith and LeeAnn Amend d.b.a. Kasota Construction to discuss water billing dispute.
6. Thank you letter from the Jerome County Historical Society

City Council Discussion & Possible Action Items
7. Agreement to settle a dispute over the distribution of tax revenues between the Jerome Highway District and the City of Jerome – Administration

Council Reports
City Administrative Report
Department Head Reports
Workshop to Discuss Proposed Changes to City Code - Waterworks
Adjourn

Monday, November 30, 2009

December Newsletter Now Available!

The December issue of the e-Newsletter is now available on the City's website: www.ci.jerome.id.us. In this issue, we explain the benefits of the Jerome Urban Renewal Agency, provided some helpful holiday tips to ensure a safe holiday season, discuss the City's purchase of property for a new City Hall, and several other city projects and updates. To access the newsletter, visit our website and click on the link for "Newsletter." As always, your feedback is appreciated.

The City of Jerome Purchases Property for a New City Hall

The article reprinted below appeared in the Friday, November 27 issue of the Time News. In brief, it summarizes a special meeting of the Jerome City Council where the City reached an agreement with the Jerome School District to purchase the old Central Elementary School site. The site will be used for the location of a new City Hall, replacing the dilapidated and outdated current City Hall, Police Station, and Fire Station located at 152 E Ave A. For more information, contact the City at 324-8189.

The Times News article:

JEROME — In a rare joint session, Jerome’s City Council and school board agreed to the city purchasing the former Central Elementary School site from the Jerome School District as the future site for a future city hall, police station and fire station.

The nearly 7.7-acre site just west of the Jerome County Courthouse and county jail is one of three building sites the county considered for the proposed new county jail and sheriff’s station.

City Administrator Ben Marchant presented the proposal to the school board for the $398,500 land purchase. Of that, $175,000 will be cash and $123,000 ofin-kind reimbursement. Payment includes an agreement for the city to reconstruct Third Avenue at a total cost of $250,000 and remove a current school district maintenance building when building plans are in place.

For now, the school district will continue to use the maintenance building. Once the structure is demolished, the city will waive the building permit fee for the school district to build a replacement.

Marchant explained the city’s interest in building a municipal complex but added there are no immediate plans to build. Earlier, he acknowledged there is no financing currently in place for such project, which could be several years from realization.

School Trustee Byron Burnham said the land sale would benefit both the city and the school district.

“I think this is in the best interest of the entire community and the taxpayers,” said Councilman John Shine, Jerome’s mayor elect.

Both boards unanimously approved the sale.

There were no comments about the site being one of Jerome County’s three preferred sites to build ajustice center that wouldinclude a jail.

“We knew the city was interested in it,” County Commission Chairman Charlie Howell said Wednesday.

“The site presented a couple of different problems for the jail. It would have been difficult for a private company to acquire that property from a school district to build a jail,” Howell said, referring to the county’s lease-to-purchase proposal for a new county jail. A private company would own the facility and accompanying land.

John Plestina may be reached at jplestina@magicvalley.com or 208-358-7062

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Ribbon Cutting for New Senior Center!

In coordination with the JCSCSA and the Jerome CoC, we will be having a ribbon cutting for the new Jerome Senior Citizen Center at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, November 24th. The new Senior Center is located at 520 North Lincoln. Please join us for this event.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Highlights from Last Night's Council Meeting

  • Rezoning of 32.02 acres located at 100 South and 100 East: PASSED
  • Fire Captains and newly hired Firefighters were pinned by Chief Hatfield (photos forthcoming)
  • Sawtooth Veterinary Hospital was publicly acknowledge for their contributions to the Jerome Animal Shelter
  • Dani Butz from Jerome High School proposed the idea of having a Youth City Council to the Mayor and Council. Her proposal was well received and Council expressed a desire to move forward with this. No motion was made.
  • Mayor and Council approved the purchase and construction of new bio tower for the Waste Water Treatment Facility. This bio tower will alleviate the over capacity issues that Plant is experiencing and reduce the amount of solids removed.
  • Mayor and Council approved a 2010 benefit package for health, dental, life, and vision insurance for city employees.
  • Ben Marchant, City Administrator, provided the Mayor and Council with an update on the City's Strategic goals and on a land acquisition project.
  • Micah Austin, Assistant to the City Administrator, updated the Mayor and Council on Planning and Zoning and on the various methods of communication current used to keep in touch with our citizens, including the e-Newsletter, the website, the City Blog, and Facebook.

Friday, November 13, 2009

Road Closure Notice for Monday November 16

Road Closure Notice: From Adams to Buchanan along 3rd Ave East will be closed next Monday for the installation of a fire line (water line). Crews will work to finish this small project as soon as possible. We apologize for any inconvenience.

City Council Agenda for Nov. 17, 5:30 pm

The Jerome City Council meets next Tuesday, November 17, at 5:30 pm at the Council Chambers located at 100 East Ave A. The agenda is copied below and will be available as a hardcopy at the Council Chambers the night of the meeting. As always, all members of the public are welcome to attend the council meeting and to address the council on issues of concern. For any questions, please call City Hall: 324-8189

The agenda for City Council Meeting, November 17, 2009; 5:30 pm

Call to Order – 5:30 PM.
Pledge of Allegiance
Public Hearings
1. Public Hearing to consider the recommendation of Planning and Zoning to approve a request from Gerald Martens, representing Gary Wolverton, to rezone those parcels described as Lots 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, & 8, Lutheran Care Village Subdivision, Section 19, Township 8 South, Range 17, comprising a total of 32.02 acres; more or less, and more commonly known as 1 South and 1 East of Jerome, from Residential 2 (R-2) to Area Business (AB).

Presentations

1. Presentation and pinning of Badges for Fire Captains
2. Oath of Office for Fire Captains and Firefighter Engineers
3. Thank you to Sawtooth Veterinary Hospital for Bow Wow Shelter Park

Consent Agenda
The consent calendar consists of items that are considered to be routine in nature and will be enacted in the form of one motion. Any item can be removed from the consent calendar and heard in its regular order at the request of any council member or the mayor.

4. Approve the minutes of the October 20, 2009 regular meeting, the October 20, 2009 executive session, and the November 4, 2009 special meeting
5. Officer Reports: Fire, Law Enforcement, Treasurer, Library, and Building
6. Claims

Citizen Correspondence, Issues & Reports
7. Jared Sauer, 413 East Avenue B, to discuss irrigation assessment policy
8. Dani Butz to discuss her Senior Year Project regarding a Youth City Council Program
City Council Discussion & Possible Action Items
9. To consider the recommendation of Jerome City Planning and Zoning regarding rezoning certain parcels known as Lots 1-8 of the Lutheran Care Village Subdivision from Residential-2 to Area Business – Administration

10. Approve construction of a second bio-tower – Wastewater

11. Approve the purchase of a Pitney Bowes Mail Inserting System – Administration

12. Personnel Training – Laura Burnett to attend the Public Library Association Conference in Portland Oregon March 24th – 27th, 2010 – Library

13. Personnel Training – Approve Detective Dan Kennedy to attend the Death and Homicide Investigation Course in Las Vegas, Nevada December 7 thru December 11, 2009 – Police

14. Personnel Training - Approve Officer Janeece Gonzales to attend the Criminal Drug Interdiction for Patrol Officers Course in Las Vegas, Nevada November 30 thru December 2, 2009 – Police

Council Reports
City Administrative Report
Department Head Reports
Adjourn

Progress on the 93 Tech Park




Crews are making progress on installing sewer and water pipe at the the 93 Tech Park (also known as the Jerome Butte Tech Park). Predominantly completed by public works technicians, Randy Bryant and Ron Olsen, crews continue to install pipe even with the wintry weather. The pictures above show Randy and Ron fusing water pipes in preparation for installation.

After the infrastructue has been installed for the butte project, streets, curb and gutter will finish the improvements necessary for business to begin construction on their own buildings. With the POP and OC 192 broadband connection, the 93 Tech Park will be the most desirable location in the Magic Valley for tech dependent businesses. For more information, call the City's economic development team: 208-324-8189. Ask for Ben Marchant or Micah Austin.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Planning and Zoning Commission Meets Tonight: 7:00 pm

The Planning and Zoning Commission meets tonight to discuss the applications of two special use permits for family daycare centers within the City. For those interested, the meeting begins at 7:00 pm at the City Council Chambers in downtown Jerome. The agenda for the P&Z meeting is below:

Regular Meeting
November 10, 2009
7:00 p.m.

1. Call to Order & Roll Call

2. Approval of October 27, 2009 regular meeting minutes

3. Public Hearing: consider Alisa Johnson’s renewal request for a Special Use Permit allowing a group daycare (7-12 children) located on Lot 4 Block 4 in Hillcrest Subdivision, NW Section 18, Township 8 South, Range 17, East of the Boise Meridian, more commonly known as 219 Mountain View Drive in Jerome.

4. Public Hearing: consider Elizabeth Pancoast’s request for a Special Use Permit allowing a family childcare facility (6 or fewer children) located on Lot3 Block 1 Mountain View Subdivision in the NE quarter of Section 18, Township 8 south, Range 17, East of the Boise meridian, more commonly known as 836 Teton Drive in Jerome.

5. Consider Alisa Johnson’s renewal request for a Special use Permit allowing a group daycare (7-12 children) on that parcel more commonly known as 219 Mountain View Drive

6. Consider Elizabeth Pancoast’s request for a Special Use Permit allowing a family childcare facility (6 or fewer children) on that parcel more commonly known as 836 Teton Drive

7. Staff Reports

8. Adjournment

Friday, November 6, 2009

Design Guidelines Committee for Downtown Jerome

As mentioned in an article printed in the Times News last week, the City of Jerome is taking a proactive approach to revitalizing Jerome by instituting a set of design guidelines that address architectural and aesthetic standards for the downtown. The City is currently in the process of developing these standards. As part of this process, the City is encouraging anyone interested in assisting in contributing their opinion, concerns, and thoughts in creating these design standards to join the Downtown Design Review Committee. This committee will work closely with the Planning and Zoning Commission to draft design standards that reflect the desires and expectations of the community as a whole.

If you, or someone you know, is interested in serving on the Downtown Design Review Committee, the please contact the Planning and Zoning Administrator, Micah Austin, and let him know your interest. We are hoping to have these Design Review Guidelines completed by early 2010 so that we can begin the new year with the goal of revitalizing our downtown. Contact Information:

Micah Austin
208-324-8189 ext 101
maustin@ci.jerome.id.us

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Election Results

As printed below, a special meeting of the City Council will be held to officially recognize the election. As of now, here is a summary of the results:

Mayor Elect: John Shine
Council Members Elect: Chris Barber (incumbent) and Robert W. Culver (incumbent)

Special Council Meeting Tonight

A special meeting of the City Council will be held tonight at 5:30 pm at the City Council Chambers. At this meeting, the election results will be officially recognized. The new mayor will be announced as well as the two council members who received the majority of votes. The mayor and council members will begin their terms in January 2010.

This meeting will be held at the City Council Chambers located at 100 East Ave A. For updates, check back with the City Blog or the City Facebook page.

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Remember to Vote!

Today is Election Day, please remember to vote. For residents living north of Main Street, the polling place is at the Jerome Public Library. For residents living south of Main Street, the polling place is the City Council Chambers. Polls will be open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm. All residents age 18 and older are allowed to vote. Same day registration at the polls is available.

CANDIDATES FOR MAYOR:

John Andoe
Mike Dahmer
John Shine


CANDIDATES FOR CITY COUNCIL:

Chris Barber
Robert W. Culver
Senate Dale Eskridge
Dale S. Ross
Larry H. Webb

Friday, October 30, 2009

November e-Newsletter Now Available!

The November issue of the City of Jerome's electronic newsletter is now available on our website: www.ci.jerome.id.us. Click on the "Newsletter" link and choose which resolution you prefer. In this issue, the City Administrator discusses revitalizing downtown Jerome, we provide an update on the wastewater treatment plant, and there are several other articles detailing City projects and updates.

If you would like to sign-up for the City e-Newsletter, simply send an email to enews@ci.jerome.id.us and you will automatically receive the monthly newsletter on or before the first of each month.

As always, your feedback is appreciated and valued. Thank you!

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Design Review: Article in Times News

The article below appeared this morning in the Times News. In summary, the Design Review process is a proactive approach to revitilizing downtown Jerome and ensuring that quality workmanship is used when improving or altering business storefronts and facades. Public input is appreciated as we fine tune and revise the Design Review process. Please leave an anonymous comment if interested. Here's the article:

"The city of Jerome is preparing a new city code that will require downtown property owners to have city approval before making changes to their buildings and signs.

Micah Austin, assistant to the city administrator, said the code is commonly used in small communities to protect the value of older buildings.

He cited McCall and Ketchum as a few examples.

If passed by the city council, the code would require property owners to bring some form of design plan before the city planning and zoning committee for review.

The volunteer committee would have the authority to approve or deny requests.

"The purpose of the design and review process is to ensure that buildings follow the theme of Jerome," Austin said. "Currently, we have little or no standards for building design and improvements."

Austin said there will be no cost or fees associated with the design and review process.

Two business owners contacted by the Times-News said they support the proposal, saying down-town Jerome looks rundown because of shoddywork on storefronts andtemporary signs.

They asked not to be identified because they feared offending neighboring businesses.

If approved, the code will be applied to commercial and residential properties within the business district on Main Street and Lincoln Street.

Austin said the proposal is being reviewed by the city attorney, who will send it to the planning and zoning committee for review.

There will be a public comment period before it is voted on by the city council.

"We don't want this to be a unilateral decision," Austin said. "We want to people to make comments and suggestions because it affects them."

Joshua Palmer may be reached at jpalmer@magicvalley.com."

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Planning Zoning Commission Meets Tonight

The City of Jerome Planning and Zoning Commission will meet tonight at 7:00 pm in the City Council Chambers located at 100 East Ave A.

The agenda is posted below. Please come with questions and comments for the commission.

City of Jerome Planning & Zoning Agenda

Board Members: Chairman Rod Mink and Commissioners Ray Taylor, Ken Hall, Nicole Spencer, George Christodoulou and Carl McEntarffer.



City Council Chambers
100 East Avenue A Jerome, ID 83338

Regular Meeting
October 27, 2009
7:00 p.m.

1. Call to Order & Roll Call

2. Approve minutes from October 15, 2009 special meeting

3. Board’s recommendation/denial of sending revised edition of Title 17 to City
Council for approval

4. Review/discussion of proposed “Design Review” ordinance

5. Discussion of proposed Business License ordinance

6. Staff Reports

7. Adjournment

Monday, October 26, 2009

Two Fire Trucks Available for Public Purchase

The City is auctioning two outdated fire trucks that have served the residents of Jerome for over 40 years. These trucks are now available for purchase at on online auction. Click the address below to see the items or to make a bid. The bidding is open to anyone:

http://www.publicsurplus.com/sms/jerome,id/list/current?orgid=86695

Pictures of the trucks are below. The first is a 1963 America LaFrance and the second is a 1962 Seagrave Ladder Truck .



To learn more about these trucks or to bid on them, visit: http://www.publicsurplus.com/sms/jerome,id/list/current?orgid=86695

Friday, October 23, 2009

Update on City Projects

The following project updates were posted by the Director of the Public Works Department, Walt Appell:

 Project Updates

West 8th and Date:
The Public Works portion of this project is complete until the actual construction gets underway. There have been some delays in getting this project started due to minor paperwork processing at the state level. We expect to begin work in December.

Traffic Signal on South Lincoln @ I-84:
I contacted ITD and they informed me that the bid opening was on the 20th of October at 2 PM. The traffic signal project is supposed to be scheduled for November weather permitting. This project is not Public Works but we have kept involved since it is within our city limits and it involves the area that we maintain the grass and sprinkler system in.

Safe Routes to School:
The PS&E package has started being put together now due to the change in dates that was sent out by the state. The new date is 01/2010 instead of 07/2010. This project looks like it will be started in the early spring and completed before school starts in 2010. The second application for another project involving North Birch is on hold until they see how the first one is completed.

93 Tech Park:
The crews have been out on site unloading sewer manholes and some water supplies. And yes, we are now starting to receive pipe for the sewer line installation. We will have part of the Infrastructure crew on site and starting work on 10/26/2009 at 8 AM. Since it took awhile for pipe to start arriving the trenches have weeds in them that the wind has blown into them. This means that they will burn them out before they start of installing the pipe.

Senior Center:
The big hole in the Southwest corner of the property has been dug for the installation of a French drain that will dispose of the storm water and snow melt per the storm water management requirements. Some pipe repair for the irrigation system will have to be completed before we can construct the French drain. As for the old rock wall no funding has been found for the restoration which may cause it to be removed due to the safety of our citizens.

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Youth City Council

The question below was posted today on our Facebook page. Please comment if you have any suggestions for such a program or if you know any high school or middle school students who would be interested in participating:

The City is considering a Youth Council program where high school and middle school students would "serve" as honorary council members. Would any of you be interested in participating in such a program?

If you haven't already, consider becoming a fan of our Facebook page where we post weekly questions like the one above to generate feedback from our citizenry. We value two-way communication in all decision made for Jerome. Click the Facebook link to the right if interested.

Thank you!

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Meet the Candidates for City Council

The Jerome Civic Club is hosting an evening to Meet the Candidates for City Council. This will be held on October 26th, 7:00-9:00 pm at the Jerome Senior Center (old), located next to the post office (Train Depot).

Candidates:
- Chris Barber
- Bob Culver
- Senate Eskridge
- Dale Ross
- Larry Webb

When: October 26, 2009 (Monday)
Where: Jerome Senior Center (Train Depot), located next to the post office
Time: 7:00 - 9:00 pm

Bring questions to ask the candidates. All questions will be submitted to the moderator for consideration.

Friday, October 16, 2009

Council Agenda for Oct. 20 meeting

Below is the agenda for the Oct. 20 meeting of City Council. Council will meet at 5:30 pm at Council Chambers, located at 100 East Ave A in Jerome.

CALL TO ORDER: 5:30 PM.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

PRESENTATIONS

1. Presentation and pinning of Badge for Fire Chief Mike Hatfield
2. Mayor to announce Dave Richey as Employee of the Month for October

CONSENT AGENDA


3. Approve the regular and executive meeting minutes for October 6, 2009
4. Officer Reports: Fire, Law Enforcement, Treasurer, Library
5. Claims
6. Approve blanket purchase order to purchase polymer – Waterworks
7. Approve blanket purchase order to purchase alum - Waterworks

CITIZEN CORRESPONDENCE, ISSUES & REPORTS


8. Letter from Max and Sheila Coy

ORDINANCES – NEW BUSINESS


9. Bill No 543, Ordinance No 1068 – Introduction, suspension of rules, and adoption
10. Bill No 544, Ordinance No 1069 – Introduction, suspension of rules, and adoption

CONTRACTS, CAPITAL ACQUISITIONS

11. Discussion and possible action regarding the Sanitation contract.


CITY COUNCIL DISCUSSION & POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS
12. Authorization for City Administrator to attend the Solar Power International Conference in Anaheim, CA. - Administration
13. Approve payment to ICRMP in the amount of $104,012 for the liability insurance policy renewal - Finance
14. Approval to offer 1963 LaFrance fire engine and 1963 Seagraves ladder truck at auction as surplus equipment - Fire

COUNCIL REPORTS

CITY ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT

EXECUTIVE SESSION

ADJOURN

Council Meeting: October 20, 5:30 pm

City Council will hold a regular session on October 20 at 5:30 pm at Council Chambers. Council Chambers are located at 100 East Ave A, Jerome ID, 83338.

A copy of the agenda will be posted this afternoon (Friday) on this blog. If you have any questions about this Council Meeting, please email Shonna Fraser at sfraser@ci.jerome.id.us or call 208-324-8189 ext 105.

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Road Closures and Irrigation

A road closure is scheduled next week due to construction on the Force Main project. The road will be closed Monday, October 19 and continuing through the week until October 26. The streets to be closed will be from West Ave. I and Fir Street to W. Boulevard along Ave H. Detours will be provided with signs posted directing traffic around the closures.

Also, City irrigation water has been discontinued for the season. Irrigation will continue in Spring 2010 in time for planting gardens and watering lawns. Now is the best time to winterize automated sprinkler systems for the winter to ensure sprinkling pipes from bursting.

If you have any questions about the road closures or irrigation related issues, please call the Department of Water Works at 324-7122.

Monday, October 12, 2009

The City's Five Strategic Priorities

In carrying out the daily operations of the City of Jerome, employees keep in mind five strategic priorities. The priorities are focused on continual improvement of the community, infrastructure, safety, planning, and well-being of Jerome. When City department heads post their bi-weekly progress reports, they reference these five areas in order to detail the accomplishments and progress in the their department during the previous two weeks.

The City of Jerome's Five Strategic Priorities:
1. Inspire an inviting and friendly atmosphere
2. Promote balanced, diversified, and sustained economic growth
3. Provide professional and quality health and safety services
4. Provide prudent management and planning of our capital assets and fiscal resources
5. Attract and retain talented, motivated, and skilled professionals

To get an idea of how these work into our overall mission, below is an excerpt from the Department of Administration's Bi-Weekly Report. Ross Hyatt is the Finance Director and Department Head for the Administration Department:

Activities:

 Worked with Kathy and created PowerPoint Presentation for Department Head Meeting. Focused Training on Purchase Management.
Priority# 4

 Met with Anita from the Jerome School District to go over roles for Safe Routes to School grant. City has agreed to act as
sponsor for this project. Finance Department is in charge of administrator of non-infrastructure portion of grant, while public
works in charge of infrastructure. Priority# 1

 Met with Representatives of Premier Insurance to go over viable insurance options for future coverage. Determined will gather needed
information for future quotes through HR. Priority#4

 Met with Kathy and Martie to go over Hazmat pay issue. Priority#4

 Met with Kathy Markus and Monica to go over Pay for Performance issues. Priority#5

 Attended council meeting and presented fund balance policy along with proposed transfer of funds within Water fund. Priority#4

 Met with Fire Chief Hatfield, Paula, Kathy, and Martie for Hazmat Reimbursement. Felt that additional time was needed to gather
information for more efficient and informative meeting. Priority#4

 Met with Representatives from Nexgen to go over options for credit card machines as well as billing processing and web-based
pay options. Nexgen is preparing a proposal for the library for a credit card machine, and are signing us to utility bill rate. Priority#4

 Attended HR training – gathered relevant information in becoming better managers as well as FLSA standards. Priority#5

 Met with Pat to go over ZGA Architects Space Needs analysis. Priority#4

 Met with Monica to work through Pay for Performance Spreadsheet. Priority#5

 Continued work with Kathy in learning new tasks, learning backgrounds of relevant issues at hand in department, and performed
other responsibilities of position. Priority#4

 Attended the final Citizens Academy. Priority 5

 Kathy began sharing w/Shonna duties related to Office of the City Clerk. Priority 5

Monday, October 5, 2009

First Snowfall of the Year

The weekend was busy for several City departments. An early snow storm blew in on Saturday night and by Sunday morning, three inches of soggy snow had brought down hundreds of leafy branches all over Jerome, calling the Public Works crews to clear away broken limbs from city sidewalks and streets. By 8:00 am this morning, the PW crews were scouring the parks clearing the branchs and debris.

The Fire Department and Police Departments answered several calls related to the storm over the weekend, including 20 calls for service for Fire Department alone. Most of the calls for service were utility related, with branches and limbs bringing down telephone lines, cable lines, and power lines.

If you have a concerns or question for the Public Works Department, Fire Department, or Police Department, their numbers are listed below. For emergencies, call 911.

Public Works: 324-9669
Fire Department: 324-2323
Police Department: 324-4328
City Hall: 324-8189

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Fall in Library Land!

Happy National Family Day! for more information check out this link http://www.hometownlife.com/article/20090927/NEWS02/909270335

The past two weeks have been busy and productive for in library-land! Luckily the kids have gotten back into their routine and have settled down a notch, all computers have been functioning well, and the hiring process for both open positions went like clock-work.

We successfully completed two rounds of interviews and made offers to two fabulous women. Our circulation desk clerk should be starting this week and our new children's programmer will start after completing her two weeks notice with her current employer. We are all very excited with the level of quality and experience both of these people will bring to the library. Watch for new faces and welcome them to the City!

Laura and team sat down for performance evaluations and goal setting for the coming year. Edie will be making improvements to the Sci-Fi/Fantasy collection as well as attending Library courses at CSI, Vicki will be making many improvements to the children's collection, and Angie will be adding an academic emphasis to teen services. We are all looking forward to a great FY10.

Vicki and Edie have cataloged many new adult and children's materials for the collection.

Patrons have caught on quickly to the new on-line catalog and all of its features. The "hold" function is quite popular and the use of books from Burley and DeMary has been a welcome addition to our services.

Laura, Angie, and Edie will be attending the Idaho Library Association conference in Burley this week, leaving Vicki to run things with Cliff and Charlie. Due to staffing issues caused by conference attendance, the library will close at 5pm on Wednesday vs. 8pm. Come early if Wednesday is your usual night to shop.

1,200 children's books arrived for distribution through our "Spoonful of Stories" program that will kick of on October 15 at 6pm. If you know of a family with children ages 4-8, please have them call to sign up to participate. Every family will receive a book a month for 12 months with the goal of creating home libraries throughout Jerome for 100+ families.

Happy Autumn,
Laura Burnett
Director of Jerome Public Library
324-5427

Friday, August 7, 2009

The City of Jerome is Now Blogging!

Welcome to the City of Jerome's first blog!
As a better way of communicating with our citizens and employees, the City has decided to launch a blog for sending City updates to citizens and employees. If a citizen or employee has a question, comment, or concern about anything City related, they may submit an anonymous comment to the blog administrator using the blog's "Comment" function. This anonymous comment will not be posted and will be read only by the blog administrator. At this time, the blog administrator is Micah Austin, Assistant to the City Administrator.

While the anonymous question or comment will not be automatically posted on the blog, if it will help other citizens or city employees with their own questions, then the blog adminstrator may post these questions or comments after careful review.

If you have any questions about how to use this blog, please call Micah (324-8189 ext 101) and he will take you through a brief tutorial.

Please, use this tool to assist in addressing the communication challenges that can exist in the City. Our goal is for more transparency in government and familiarity with our citizens' input on City functions.

Sincerely,

Micah