Snake River Canyons Park Board

Open Meeting Minutes

Thursday, June 4, 2026

Blue Lakes Country Club, Jerome, Idaho

Attending Board Members: Chairman Bill Bridges, Lisa Callen, Greg Moore, Steve Paulson, Mark Reyes and Brenda Weekes by telephone. Not present: Jim Williams and Jeff Pierson

Guests: Larry Hall Advisor for the Overlook Project, Aaron Utz with Idaho Power, Dave Frieberg with the BLM, Ray and Karleen Sheen with SIORA, Stephanie Martin and Rebecca Wildman taking minutes.

Bill called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. with a quorum present. Self-introductions were made.

Minutes: Minutes from the May 5, 2026, meeting were reviewed with Brenda suggesting changes as shown in Attachment A. Greg motioned to approve the minutes incorporating Brenda’s changes, Mark Reyes seconded, motion carried.

Treasurer’s Report:

• County account: $65,594 – budget anticipated staffing for the Overlook
• Overlook account: $177,276
• Idaho Power account: $184,600
• 501c3 account: Brenda corrected Bill’s $59,000 to today’s bank report of $28,660, with Bill agreeing the lower amount made more sense.

Other account balances are unchanged including:

• Broken Bridge $13,900.

Accounts Payable $9,150 to be paid from the Overlook account ($177,276). Per Brenda $2,700 in this account is for Brick donations from checks that were sent directly to the County. Bill said those funds are in a separate account, but he doesn’t have the exact amount with him. Bill to be reimbursed $1,000 in miscellaneous expenses.

Brenda added there is $3,500 from larger donors including Commercial Creamery, Dr. Irwin and Norquist. Reported about $180,000 will be used to finish this year’s projects; Greg inquired about committed expenditures.

Brick Donations and Installation Plan: Donations total $19,340 for roughly 50 4×8, 40 8×8 and six arrays totaling. The April Bricks R Us payment received for $1,270; May payment expected at the end of June at $1,095. Installation cost estimate is $17,900, with $7,000 for curbing and about $7,00 for installation and finish work. The group discussed holding about $18,000 for installation without running short.

QR Code Placement: Agreed QR code sign should go by the path, not at the parking lot interpretive sign cluster. The idea is to let visitors sign up for a brick immediately when they see the display. Brenda to share code with Bill and once ready, it will be posted and displayed.

Shoshone Falls Overlook: Larry handed out a comprehensive packet to review.

Steel & Concrete: Metal will be in place by the end of June, and ready for concrete pour. The frame is in four sections, powder coated and with corrugated decking. After installed they will pour concrete, place railings, then install the pathway and parking area. Timing uncertain with mid to late-July possible. Big concrete blocks were installed to stop vehicles from driving onto the path.

Bricks, Fencing, and Cost Exposure: Brick walkway may be cheaper if concrete pour reduces grading/fill needs. Black coated chain-link fencing estimated at $35,000, with county insurance entity (ICRMP), Idaho Power, and BLM to determine placements. Temporary fencing is already in place around the pad. No vote was takin on fencing because placement and scope were still unresolved.

Sheds: Must be painted “Shadow Grey” and not light blue. Jerome County P&Z require a new engineering report which is being obtained from EHM, after rejecting the manufacturers report. Solar has been ordered and security depending on the shed permit. Concern over what tie-downs, materials, and electrical requirements will be required. Shed installation on hold until P&Z sign-off is complete. Bench mounting was discussed noting earth augers may not work due to rocky substrate, and rock may need to be drilled and benches anchored.

Twin Falls Signs: Bill shared an update from TF Signs who are waiting to get the gate installed and the monument sign up – as they are dealing with the rock situation. Concrete to be poured today for the gate and monument sign. They have installed the interpretive signposts but placing them North/South facing, and not East/West as initially planned. Park has paid them $13k of the total cost estimate. Discussed ADA and parking lot striping and painted parking lot strips that were damaged by four-wheelers. Painting should have occurred after the gate was installed to protect it, with discussion about magnesium chloride paint, its application and maintenance.

Interpretive Signs: Larry’s packet includes four signs: (1) wildlife and Chobani, (2) mining, (3) fishery, and (4) “Forged by Lava, Sculpted by Water.” The monument sign has already been approved.

Brenda said the sign sub-committee never saw the north-side materials prior to TF Signs already spending 11 hours on graphics. The panel beside the mining sign is from the wrong viewpoint and text for the overlook’s side of the canyon. The preferred fix is a new 3×4 side panel with a park map and history text, prepared in a format that TF Signs can print without additional graphics work. The group agreed to take the design back to the sign sub-committee first, then return it to the board. Larry requested the mockup be resent because he received it too late to include in the packet. Sign sub-committee meeting will be scheduled after Jim Williams returns and no final board action will be taken on this panel until then.

Idaho Transportation Department Signage on Highway 93: ITD will allow two signs on Highway 93, one north-facing just north of the Perrine Bridge and the other south-facing and just north of the stoplight when traveling south. ITD prefers an image-based sign with a note for them to substitute the Yingst grade as a hiking trail and not a grade. Other images edited slightly including the overlook of a waterfall. Larry would like it as a vertical sign.

Overlook Parking Area: Larry proposed rubber parking stops placed as designated lanes be installed if painted striping is not sustainable. Rubber would be anchored by rebar delineating each stall line. The lot was originally approved for ten lanes of eight feet each, but the current painted lines only show eight lanes. Larry estimates cost for rubber and rebar at $4,500, not including labor. Suggested having Stephen indicate the lines and have them re-done accurately. Larry is not asking for approval, and only suggesting. Aaron said C.J. Strike has something similar but in concrete, and that they work fine.

Budget Recap: Larry represented this budget includes everything except the amounts in question under Change Order #2 over whether Nix Excavation has been paid once or twice. Bill will go over payments with Nix to work through the discrepancy.

Other notes on flags, buildings, and that we are waiting for the engineering report. Buildings will be repainted Shadow Grey, and if the buildings can be placed now or to wait, noting they are under 200 square feet and should not require a building permit. Discussed how to secure the buildings and that they want the structures to be moved during the winter months.

Discussed TF Signs clarifying the parking lot striping was not included in the initial bid. Budget lists monument sign, 4×8 sign frames, gate, lock sign, with installation and labor as $26,977 with $13,048 already paid. Mark asked about TF Sign line items of $26,977.05 and $5,475. The $5,475 charge was clarified in the discussion with some referencing the cost for striping and another account that it included powder coating six benches. Concerns about the damaged striping due to the gate not being installed before striping painted. Discussed $1,100 for extra design work and if TF Signs agreed to do the striping at no charge. Discussion tabled until sign sub-committee meets and who to mention on the acknowledgement sign.

July 8 Event – Sharing the Spirit of America: BLM is the primary organizer with SRCP hosting. Event is a 75-minute ceremony including music and speakers from the State Historical Society, BLM, Foundation for America’s Public Lands, Bill Bridges, and the State of Idaho America 250. A simultaneous nation-wide reading of the Declaration of Independence will be shared by BLM Idaho State Director Megan Conry, Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane, Jerome County Commissioner Charlie Howell, and a Magic Valley area student. There will be a large event tent and platform with requesting help from the SRCP Board to volunteer with ushering and parking. Chobani’s food truck will serve food with Republic Services handling portable toilets and waste. Bill asked others to plan joining tomorrow’s 11:30 a.m. meeting by zoom or phone call.

Larry Hall Resignation: Larry announced his anticipated move from the area and announced that he will resign ad advisor effective today. He will be available to help with transitioning. The board thanked him for work on the Overlook, Broken Bridge and related projects.

Table Unfinished Overlook Items: The board agreed to table Larry’s proposed items until the budget and available dollars are clear. Several emphasized that the sign work and other tasks needed cleaning up.

Tractor and Container: Tractor in the container but the lawn mower was not moved there yet, however mowing is not urgent because there was not new growth this year with Steve adding that the disc golf course has been sprayed. Six benches are inside the container with Bill having an idea where to place four of them. The board decided to test placing one with an anchor kit before committing to a full installation method. Concrete picnic tables are still needed: two by the Overlook and two more for the RV Park. The high school student painter has completed twenty feet of the middle of the back side of the container and will start back up next week.

Website and Facebook: Cheryl Viola has asked to be replaced as Facebook manager and Bill asked for suggestions.

Shooting Range and Archery: Bill will complete paperwork this week.

Walking Trail: Bill turned in paperwork to IDL on Monday seeking their approval first. If approved, the park will need to find $200k worth of gravel. Dr. Irwin and Norquist are really interested in getting this accomplished. Bill reminded that the BLM is not involved with this project. Last Monday IDL had a meeting to discuss developing the rim including building their own fee-use rock crawling park. Bill hopes the idea was shot down as the park does not want to compete with a second rock crawling park. IDL’s Lands Resource Supervisor Randal Brunmeier has resigned as of last Monday with Marybeth as the contact until the vacant position is filled. Bill asked Randal to join SRCP to work on the shooting range.

Volunteers: Brenda suggested the website list of what volunteers are needed to do and clarify scope.

Parking Lot next to Don Zuck Arbor: Bill to get forms completed and submitted with idea to get a vault toilet, picnic table, and arbor. Lisa hasn’t heard back from Colonial Arnot. Bill and Ray suggested Lisa contact the civilian contact, Dan Wray.

New Board Member: Bruce Balthrope and Stephanie Martin both turned in paperwork for Jerome Commissioners to consider appointment to the board or to serve as an advisor. The board believes there is one vacancy for the board position.

Meeting Time and Place: Discussed the recent change in meeting dates and times. Steve motioned to change the meeting time and date back to the second Thursday from 11:00 to 1:00 p.m. with Brenda’s second. The board voted in favor of this change with Greg voting in opposition. The next meeting will be July 9, 2026. Bill suggested a sign sub-committee be held next followed by a special meeting two weeks after that. Jim will be contacted for his availability suggesting June 22^, 2026. Agreed that signage and finances need to be dialed in before the board meets again.

New Agenda Items:

Accounting: The board agreed the park’s finances had crossed from a simple volunteer operation into a high-liability, and audit-sensitive system. A professional CPA/accountant was requested, likely under contract, and preferably as a non-voting board member or treasurer. The board believes the county must provide accountability structure now that the Overlook and RV Park will generate income.

Park Manager: Hiring a full-time park manager was also proposed with salary expectations around $50-$55k plus benefits. Members said the county commissioners should be approached as a board with clear demands, not as isolated volunteers. The group stressed separation of duties, QuickBooks-style reporting, and written procedures before audit pressures occur.

Weed Spray Day: Spray day scheduled for June 30, 2026. Partners include Tri County Weed and Pest and Twin Falls Weed and Pest, with tentative Blaine and Cassia county participation with multiple engines and drones. Living Earth to coordinate target areas, with an expected early-morning start and work continuing until weather or daylight shut it down. Primary target is rust skeleton weed with some nap weed too. Steve is hoping for 800-acre application day.

County Meeting to Present Budget: Scheduled for next Monday, Bill will present next year’s budget, and without the overlook open, he will estimate expenses.

Next board meeting is July 9, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., pending clearance from Blue Lakes Country Club.

Lisa motioned to adjourn at 11:24 p.m., seconded by Greg, motion carried.

Attachment A – Brenda’s edits from two sections in the May 7, 2026, Minutes:

ADA Hearing Sight Impaired Sign Feature: Brenda presented the ADA NaviLens coverage of four signs with initial setup of $1,046, and $851 per year thereafter. Brenda explained its features for sight-impaired people, utilizing a cell phone and translating in most 42 languages. The park has made a commitment to make the overlook fully accessible to all. Discussed incorporating into the sign as already designed or adding a sticker after the fact as sign design is already complete. Discussed costs, alternatives, or QR codes. Jody and Brenda will research more with Jim making a connection to the Idaho School for the Deaf and Blind. The board requested a demonstration of Navilens so they can better understand the system.

Signs – Other: Julianna asked for suggestions on the mining sign with others agreeing to give feedback in that group email. Brenda reported she, Bill, Charlie and Larry recently spoke at the Idaho Recreation and Parks Association Annual Conference and suggested using some of that language regarding the history of the park. Suggestions for additional signs including ADA parking, RV Parking, Video Surveillance, No Littering, No Camping, etc.  

Thursday, May 7, 2026

Snake River Canyons Park Board

Open Meeting Minutes

Thursday, May 7, 2026

Blue Lakes Country Club, Jerome, Idaho

Attending Board Members: Chairman Bill Bridges, Jim Williams, Steve Paulson Lisa Callen, Greg Moore, Brenda Weekes, Mark Reyes, and Jeff Pierson. Not present: none

Guests: Commissioner Art Watkins, Larry Hall Advisor for the Overlook Project, Mike Tylka Advisor, Jody Revai with Premier Security, Ray Sheen, and Bruce Balthrope with SIORA, Sarah Mayer and Julianna with Twin Falls Signs, Stephanie Martin, Dan Qualls, and Rebecca Wildman taking minutes.

Bill called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. with a quorum present. Self-introductions were made.

Minutes: Minutes from the March 12, 2026, meeting were reviewed, Jim motioned to approve the minutes, Mark Reyes seconded, motion carried.

Treasurers Report: The Idaho Power account balance is $184,600; the 501c3 account is $59k; other account balances are unchanged.

Bricks R Us: Brenda reported the Brick account has $17k with $12,300 in the 501c3 account and $2,700 in the county account. Sales include forty-eight to fifty of the 4”x8”, thirty-six in the 8”x8” size, several including the logo, and six with an 8”x8” array. Brenda has more brochures to distribute.

Overlook Report: Larry reported on the civil engineer’s drawings and shared Nix Excavating’s estimate of $144k, noting it was difficult to get bids based on the project and recent cost increases as a result from the war with Iran. Larry shared the budget noting there is enough to cover this expense. He reported that the engineering account balance is $4,300 and the construction account balance is $179k. Income includes cash, the Idaho Power and Chobani grants, plus cash grants from Dr. Irwin and Republic Services; remaining funds are $245k. Larry believes the account with First Fed has $56k and $184k in the county’s fund account; therefore $179,962 has not been spent with $60k excess funding at this point. Republic Services is also contributing some in-kind on the project.

Black chain link fencing is planned for the right and left sides of the overlook pad, plus on the east side of the parking lot. Fencing estimate is $43k and alternate bids will be sought. Timeline may dictate bid amounts, etc. This and other estimates are higher than anticipated due to disruptions in Iran.

The BLM’s July 8, 2026, celebration will happen regardless of project completion and will be promoted as a “Construction Milestone Celebration.”

Larry shared a draft stakeholder notice recapping his report and timeline and asked for feedback from the board before Bill sends it out.

With no further discussion, Jim motioned to approve the Hayes Construction estimate of $144k, Steve seconded, and all board members approved in favor.

Overlook Gate: Sarah shared the foundation was dug with some drilling needed, concrete will be poured on Friday and installation will be set for next week.

Ribbon Cutting: Bill said the May dates are off but will know more next month on timing.

BLM’s July 8 Celebration: The BLM is organizing their eighty-year anniversary celebration will proceed on July 8, as planned. The BLM has asked Lieutenant Governor Scott Bedke to read the preamble at this event because the Governor is unavailable.

Buildings: Bill expressed frustration with the Jerome County Building Department. Once approved the buildings and cameras are ready to be installed. Discussion about holdups due to the Building Department’s representations and resulting frustrations.

Signs: Jim introduced the handout on signs noting one sign is smaller and its additional space to be filled with other information. Chobani has requested adding verbiage on signage which may be included on the Wildlife sign. Sarah said they are waiting for Chobani to approve their signage adding their decision to not go forward with the rock sign. Discussion about alternative usage for that rock including a SRCP place making sign. Bill asked to delay this decision for now.

Monument Sign: As previously approved by the board, Sarah confirmed this sign is being built now.

ADA Hearing Impaired Sign Feature: Brenda presented the ADA NaviLens coverage of four signs with initial setup of $1,046, and $851 per year thereafter. Brenda explained its features for sight-impaired people, utilizing a cell phone and translating in most languages. Discussed incorporating into the sign as already designed or adding a sticker after the fact as sign design is already complete. Discussed costs, alternatives, or QR codes. Jody and Brenda will research more with Jim making a connection to the Idaho School for the Deaf and Blind.

Weed Abatement: Steve was excited to report a reinstatement of Spray Days from the county with collaboration from Tri-County and Living Earth including twelve spray units and two county drones with spray technology.  This will be most comprehensive weed abatement to date for the park. Spraying tentatively scheduled during the last week of June. Living Earth is overseeing and it will impact places that haven’t been sprayed before.

Idaho Power: Idaho Power will not be installing the power pole at the Overlook until 2029. Steve added that he has changed Idaho Power’s plant pallet.

Signs – Other: Julianna asked for suggestions on the mining sign with others agreeing to give feedback in the that group email. Brenda reported she, Bill, Charlie and Larry recently spoke at the Idaho Recreation & Parks Ass. Annual Meeting and suggested using some of that language. Suggestions for additional signs including ADA parking, RV Parking, Video Surveillance, No Littering, No Camping, etc.

Rules: Bill solicited feedback for additional signs: Day Use Only, Park Hours: Dust to Dawn, Towing, No Shooting, No Fireworks, Leashed Pets, Federal, State and County Rules Apply, Leave No Trace, entrance fees, and no reckless driving in the parking lot. Jody shared that SIRCOMM will be able to view cameras and notified when motion is detected. Bill will compile and send to Board for additional suggestions.

Striping: Repainting after gate installation.

Benches: Are painted and will be delivered in next few weeks. Discussed pouring concrete pads before placing them. If needed, they can be stored in the container until ready to be placed.

Tractor and Container: Tractor is inside container with the backside of the container being painted by a high school student – so far paint cost is $250. The Mower Deck is at the airport with discussion on logistics in getting it moved to the container. Mark will contact Marty  at the airport to make arrangements.

Website and Social: No comments on either.

Open Board Position: Bill informed that John Weston has resigned from the Board and asked three attendees to introduce themselves as possible board members:

• Bruce Balthrope: Semi-retired general contractor and member of SIORA who has been attending meetings for several months now.
• Stephanie Martin: National Park Service resource with experience in geology, botany, and public projects and is willing to serve in an advisory capacity.
• Dan Qualls: Retired contractor with building experience with interest in the Shooting Range projects and is also happy to serve as an advisor.

Bill thanked them for their interest and requested they send a resume to the Jerome County Commissioners. He admitted his weakness is the shooting range project, to which Greg advised to expect frustrations as the BLM keeps changing directions. Bill informed them that although the proposed range is outside park boundaries, it was a promise from the park to be built. Bill will complete the next step in the shooting range paperwork and get it to the Commissioners.

Walking Trail from Bridge to Overlook: Bill informed that multiple people have offered to pay the $1k per year rental cost and that he has asked Randal with IDL to send him that paperwork. Discussed this process and getting grants.

Volunteers: SIORA will host a cleanup event on May 16 starting at 8:00 a.m. Rebecca added that the climbers are conducting a clinic and cleanup that morning at a specific area. Bruce informed that SIORA has volunteered for an Adopt-A-Highway along Highway 93 from the Bridge up to the Historical sign on both sides of the road noting a twice per year minimum commitment. Volunteers are welcome to help but must sign a release of liability.

Parking Lot next to Don Zuck: Nothing new.

Equestrian Trailhead on 700 East: Lisa informed they are waiting until grants are announced. Bill asked how many posts and buckets are needed and Lisa will research and respond to him. Lisa confirmed grant funding is for the gravel and vault toilet. Lisa reported that we have applied with the Internal Readiness Training (IRT) and have submitted all paperwork.

With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 10:37 a.m.

Executive Sessions may be held pursuant to Idaho Code 74-206(1) as needed during time such sessions are called.

Note: Any person needing special accommodations to participate in the meeting should contact the committee chairman, 208-293-2426; 48 hours prior to the meeting.                                                                             

Snake River Canyons Park Board

Open Meeting Minutes

Thursday, March 12, 2026

Blue Lakes Country Club, Jerome, Idaho

Attending Board Members: Chairman Bill Bridges, Steve Paulson, Brenda Weekes, Mark Reyes, Jim Williams, John Weston, Lisa Callen, and Jeff Pierson (by phone). Not present: Greg Moore

Guests: Commissioner Art Wakins, Larry Hall Advisor for the Overlook Project, Mike Tylka Advisor, Aaron Utz with Idaho Power, Jody Revai with Premier Security, Bruce Balthrope, Ray and Karlene Sheen with SIORA, Tim Lauda, Jim Wall, and Kevin Utley interested in a location for gun dog field trials, Sarah Mayer, Shane Claborn and Kinsey Thatcher with Twin Falls Signs, and Rebecca Wildman taking minutes.

Bill called the meeting to order at 11:05 a.m. with a quorum was present and self-introductions were made.

Minutes: Minutes from the February 12, 2026, meeting were reviewed with no changes. Jim made a motion to approve, Lisa Callen seconded, motion carried.

Treasurer’s Report: The general account budget is $90,900 and $21k has been spent, primarily on garbage, toilets and security services. The overlook account has $193k, which is enough to finish the overlook project. The 501(c)3 account has a balance of $100k and recent checks were written totaling $60k.

Bricks R Us: Brenda shared her report and explained the process with Bricks R Us, her process of tracking payments made through the website, through the county, or directly to her, and moving funds into the 501c3 account. She reported sales to date totaling over $13k from more than 70 donors.

Shoshone Falls Overlook:

Ribbon Cutting: Bill suggested hosting an event early May, pending Chobani’s preferred date.

Overlook Management: Jerome Commissioners directed the Board to work with Premier Security to hire and manage staff for the overlook. Committee has flagged areas for placing signs, and Cooper Smith from Chobani identified one of two specific rocks for their legacy sign marker.

Overview of Project: Larry shared background information on the project’s origins in 2017, an initial Geotech survey with Idaho Power and Jerome County contributing $100k each. Idaho Power has since contributed another $250k, and Chobani contributed $250k in January 2026 for their Legacy Project. All work on the road and parking areas are complete and paid for. There is still work to be completed on the overlook pad, pathways, and ADA. Pending final expenses, the budget will be finalized with an estimate of $470k, and possible $90k carryover.

Gate and IDL: Bill reported that Randal Brunmeier with the Idaho Department of Lands notified him that the grade the road comes down is on IDL property and that IDL will need to approve signage and the gate. Larry shared sign mockups noting they have been sent to IDL. Discussion about the gate and when it will be locked – primarily after hours – for safety reasons and protecting the park’s assets. It was reported that someone has already rutted up the road with their vehicle.

Concessions: Larry’s research proved that a container-type building was not a viable option. He consulted Out West Barns Hickory Shed and they have a building design with a single sloped roof, concession windows and a side door and could be painted with shadow grey. Larry shared a concept design and Out West’s deeply discounted cost of $6,251 including delivery.

Jody Revai researched the cost of solar for the building estimating $9,987 through Bisch’s, plus installation. He recommends enough power for two fridge/freezer combo units. These units are ideal as they can adjust use depending on temperature needs and were at a discount of $900/each. Having them now will help determine the actual solar power needs. Jim made a motion to buy two fridge/freezer units for the concessions stand, Brenda seconded, motion carried.

Jody added the solar bid will intentionally be over-built in case additional equipment needs to be powered in the future. Jody added the benefit of having two separate systems that can overlap in and serve as a backup to each other. He confirmed the solar will be installed on the roof and pointing south, and that it would run necessary lights. A whisper generator could also augment power needs. He will work with the vendor on details. Jim motioned to purchase the concession building, Mark seconded, motion carried.

Brenda informed about the ADA sight-limited display model they are intending to incorporate, and Jody believed it could easily be run with a battery and locked into the snack bar overnight. Cameras will be installed to provide security.

Fee Kiosk: Larry shared plans for the fee kiosk noting the intention is for it to be placed on BLM property. Estimated cost for this smaller building is $3,438.75 and it will also be equipped with solar. Jody added that additional cameras and surveillance is anticipated with live feed to law enforcement. Aaron suggested taking precautions to keep rodents out of these buildings with Steve and Jody discussing ways to prevent it. Brenda motioned to purchase this smaller building, Lisa Callen seconded, motion carried.

Bill added that extra gravel is included in Nix’s bid, and that gravel can be utilized for these buildings.

Signage:

U.S. Highway 93 Signs: Bill and Larry have approval from Jesse Barrus to have signs on the highway pending final approval from the State Highway Department. Signs will include other park assets in addition to just “overlook.”

Entrance sign: Will be large rock, either etched or plated, design still to be determined.

Interpretive signs: Suggested four different panels measuring 4’x8’ for interpretative information and images. Idaho Fish & Game design work is complete and a smaller size at 5’x4’.  Other signs will include geology and mining, and Native American and traditional fishery. Brenda stressed if the imagery portion is smaller there is extra area of space to fill. Bill believes the other three signs will fill the space. Jim suggested additional space could include information about the off-road, equestrian, and other recreational activities.

Twin Falls Signs: Shane Claborn shared mockups and discussed design elements for a monument. He reviewed the RV park signage emulating a rusted patina that would hold up well and discussed industrial vinyl with an anti-graffiti laminate, adding they can be replaced with updated signs if new information or donors are added. They can provide an accurate bid once more details are decided. Discussed placement on dirt and on rock and how to secure posts, with mention of break-away safety posts and ADA signage settings. Shane suggested a patinaed roof overhang on the signs noting it wasn’t included in this draft bid. Shane added they can quote installing a “high-notification stripped coating” for the gate signaling it is closed and they can even provide a quote for the gate. Shane provided a signage estimate of $19,247 noting it doesn’t include everything discussed.

Larry asked for approval of the backside of the entrance sign and it was discussed that its design was already approved.

Benches: CSI quoted bench construction for $275/per bench and six have been ordered. Bill asked if anyone has a source for building picnic tables and/or helping repair the corral trailhead post. Bruce Balthrope said he may be available.

Garbage Cans: Republic Waste gave a quote for one large dumpster at 2yd for $70/month or 6yd for $120/month. Discussed larger versus smaller containers and where to place them with Jim suggesting a smaller dumpster near portable toilets and 55/gal cans near the concessions and other places. Bill suggested placing them and seeing if they need to be emptied once per week or more often. Brenda reminded that Republic Waste offered donation of their services and Bill will make that inquiry.

Celebration: Larry summarized his vision for a ribbon cutting event inviting dignitaries and partners, possibly during the first part of May. Bill added that BLM’s marketer, Heather Thiel Nelson, informed him the BLM is thinking about hosting an event on July Fourth at the Overlook and celebrating the BLM’s 80^th anniversary and overlap in celebrating the U.S. 250^th anniversary.

Tour for U.S. Senator Staff: Samantha Marshall and Mike Matthews, local representatives for Senators Crapo and Risch respectively, toured the park with a focus on the shooting range explaining the issues that are holding up this project. Noted the concerns about shooting tailings, but also concerns that without a managed range areas see all kinds of trash and shells left behind. Bill added that twenty years of annual cleanups has significantly improved the southern areas of the park while the northern areas have not had this benefit and looks terrible.

Tractor and Container: Bill will follow-up on the intent to find an artist to paint the back side and end of the container. Rebecca suggested asking Camille Barigar. The portable toilet at this location will be moved as to not block the view of the container’s new art design.

Webpage: Jim asked for social media and the website to include SIORA and their work, and not just Southern Idaho Jeepers. Bill will communicate this.

Special Board Meeting: Bill would like to add a second Special Board meeting in April and will seek availability.

Idaho Power Pole: Idaho Power sent Bill a proposal to place a new power pole within the middle dirt section of the parking lot. The board discussed and agreed Bill and Larry should meet with Idaho Power at the area to determine exactly what is being proposed and consider the best options for the area. They also suggested lining entire parking area with boulders for safety reasons.

Bird Dog Field Proposal: Tim Lauda, Jim Wall, and Kevin Utley attended to inquire about placing a bird dog field training area between the Disc course and Big Little Ranches. The area in mind is just under 800 acres and they estimate a need of 280 acres with a 360 yard buffer zone could be used for dog trials, hunt tests and training. They described the trials and their use of guns, pigeons, and dogs, predicting major trials would be hosted in spring and fall months, but the area could be open for other uses in summer and winter months.

Brenda and Steve informed them how the park’s process works to apply for uses within the master plan and the BLM. The board shared their concerns about this use mentioning lead shot’s environmental issues, proximity, shooting/hunting regulations, archeological reviews and typical timelines for approval from the park’s leadership, the county, and the BLM. The Board offered suggestions for documentation and strategies and awareness of the hurdles they will encounter. Brenda will send them the initial request form.

Weed Abatement: Steve reported he has dedicated a full workday with the Tri-county weed crew (5 rigs and staff) for weed-abatement in the park and a focus on causeways. Rust skeleton weed is the biggest offender and where they will focus. They have already sprayed the disc golf course including each hole landing and launch spots. Bare ground spraying is ahead of schedule and more expensive this year due to newly added areas.

Shooting Range: John shared the proposal to build an archery range on the parcel between Golf Course Road and Blue Lakes Grade with one entrance through BLM’s gate at the well house. The second entrance is 100 yards down Golf Course Road and could incorporate a parking lot. He envisions two archery ranges with one including animals and bullseyes, and the second with strictly archery bullseyes. It could include a walk around for one-half to three-quarters of a mile, and it would be the only one like it throughout the state. Estimated layout is less than $10k and he thinks the three archery clubs in the area would help with outlay. He estimates using 30 acres and Brenda will send John the proposal form and will help him with the form and mapping. Project would include gravel, use of the container for storage, and a parking lot. Jim motioned to approve the archery concept, Mark seconded, motion carried.

Grants: Lisa Callen said the grant application results will be announced in October. She is working on paperwork with the National Guard Armory Readiness Training to help make trailheads. She believes they can be a valued partner for future projects.

Don Zuck Arbor Parking Lot: Jim suggested getting gravel for the lot and getting volunteers to spread it. Brenda will send Jim the BLM’s request form.  

Trail from Bridge to Overlook: Bill’s vision is to pursue this project; he mentioned the IDL’s proposed 10-year lease and estimates a $200k investment needed to create the trail.

IDL Permits: Bill informed that any use occurring on IDL property needs to have a permit submitted.

Other: Lisa asked about timelines, getting additional bids on signage and gating and Mark anticipates another quote coming in. Lisa offered to work with Larry on moving things forward.

With no further business the meeting was adjourned at 1:25 p.m.  

Next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 9, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Blue Lakes Country Club and a Special Meeting will be scheduled for later in April.