Full Post Style

Aerial shot of Blackfoot

Credit: City of Blackfoot

(BLACKFOOT, IDAHO) – The city of Blackfoot is asking for resident cooperation as it implements a significantly expanded water testing program mandated by the Environmental Protection Agency. The increased sampling in Blackfoot stems from changes the EPA made to its Lead and Copper Rules in 2021, which require public water systems nationwide to conduct more frequent testing. As a result, the city’s required testing has intensified from just 30 samples every three years to 120 samples annually.

To manage the effort, the city has partnered with a company named 120 Water, which will contact eligible residents to coordinate sample collection. The testing specifically targets homes built before 1986 or those with copper plumbing and lead solder. Water Superintendent Princton Lee urges contacted households to complete and return the free sample kits promptly, noting it costs the water department an additional $35 to resend a kit. This community cooperation is essential for keeping the city’s water system in compliance with federal regulations and ensuring the safety of its drinking water.

More Details

(IDAHO FALLS) – The City of Idaho Falls has announced its annual leaf collection program will begin on Monday, October 27. Officials in the city say crews will continue collecting leaves from residential curbsides through Friday, November 21. Residents are asked to rake leaves into the street along the curb, clear of any branches or other debris, at least a week before their scheduled pickup day.

During collection weeks, residents must also move all vehicles from the street to allow city crews clear access. The city noted that repeat collections are not guaranteed and will only occur if time and weather permit. For those who miss the curbside service, the city offers a free drop-off at the Bonneville County Transfer Station or one free curbside pickup of bagged leaves by appointment.

(REXBURG, IDAHO) – Officials in Rexburg are asking voters to approve a $16.75 million bond this November to fund the construction of a new police department facility. The city states that the new station is necessary to enhance service capabilities for the Rexburg Police Department and accommodate the community’s future growth. The bond ordinance, which outlines the proposal, is scheduled for a final city council reading on August 6th before being placed on the ballot.

If approved by voters, the bond would be repaid over a maximum of 15 years. The total repayment cost, including an estimated $5.8 million in interest, is projected to be nearly $22.6 million. This would translate to an average annual property tax increase of $61.51 per $100,000 of taxable assessed value for residents. To inform the public, the city is planning a series of open houses and town hall meetings to discuss the proposal in the coming months.