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Chubbuck City Council Meeting December 11, 2007
Posted on: December 14, 2007
Chubbuck Mayor Steve England approached the Council last night to approve a measure that would call for citizens of Chubbuck to vote on a Special Obligation Bond for the refurbishment of Holt Arena. England stated that he first started attending meetings 5-6 months earlier and that the bond election was deemed the most viable way to fund the improvements to the Arena.
At issue is the outdated bathrooms, seating, entrances, and the inability to hang speakers and lighting from the roof, vastly limiting the events Holt can host. The actual bond total will be $24 million with about $3.8 million funded by Chubbuck citizens. Homeowners with a taxable value of $100,000 would see an increase of about $77 to their property taxes yearly.
Holt Arena serves the entire Bannock County Area, however, the County is precluded from offering a bond due to State Statute. Also, State and University funds cannot be used for financing a sports venue forcing the Cities and private entities to cover the costs of remodel. As a result, the cities and School District 25 will have guaranteed use for a specific number of days without rent charges.
England noted that he and Pocatello Mayor Roger Chase insisted the plan include a surcharge on tickets to help pay the bond in full – possibly ahead of schedule, and that half the surcharge be placed in an endowment fund to help with future needs. In addition, after reviewing the bond needs, the committee placed the bond term at a maximum of 20 years.
During discussion, Councilman Richard Morgan expressed concern over the maximum amount of bonds that the City can offer. Morgan pointed to the need for the North County Sewer and a new fire station as other areas the City may need to bond. Morgan asked for more solid numbers so that residents will know if they need to make a choice between the new sewer or fire station and a the Arena renovations.
The Council unanimously approved the measure for release to ballot; however, on February 5 it will take a 2/3 yes vote for the measure to pass. In addition, both the Cities of Pocatello and Chubbuck would have to pass the bond for it to be instated.
The Council also approved a zoning change for Alpine Animal Hospital for the location at 4600 block of Burley Ave. Kaylee Estates Street Improvement Waiver was denied. Two ordinances involving toilet and refuse collection were also passed.
The Council authorized Mayor England to enter into an agreement with a construction manager for the news Sanitation Fleet Maintenance Shop. It is probable that Brennan Construction will be the contractor.
City Clerk, Ron Conlin reported that the Street Finances for the last fiscal year included Revenue of $1,381,789 with expenses of $1,282,614 leaving a positive balance of $99,175 which will be moved to the Road Capital Improvement Fund. The Council approved the report for submittal to the State as required by statute.
The Council also cancelled the second City Council Meeting in December making the next meeting January 8, 2008.
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