The Idaho Falls City Council authorized an increase in the not-to-exceed amount for outside legal services to $150,000 for representation in the Eastern Idaho Home Builders lawsuit.

City staff explained the current agreement allowed up to $75,000 and that outside counsel has been providing defense and advice in the pending litigation. The city's motion identified the engagement letter with the law firm (listed in the meeting packet) and asked the council to raise the spending ceiling.

Why it matters: The council said the matter is litigation-related and requires additional outside counsel time and expense; the action does not itself determine litigation strategy but authorizes payment for continued legal services.

The vote: Council approved the higher not-to-exceed amount on a roll-call vote and authorized staff to proceed under the engagement terms.

Implementation: The city attorney's office will continue to coordinate with outside counsel. Staff did not disclose litigation strategy at the public meeting beyond the funding authorization.