The Pocatello City Planning and Zoning Commission voted to recommend denial of an annexation application by Christopher White for 21.92 acres along North Facer Mountain Drive, finding the proposal failed to meet standards for approval under Pocatello City Code section 17.02.110.

City long-range planner Jim Anglesey told the commission staff had determined the parcel had been removed from the city's Area of City Impact because the city "cannot be reasonably served by city utilities and sanitation services." He said the hearing was noticed in the Idaho State Journal on Dec. 30, 2025, and property owners within 300 feet were notified; staff reported no written comments had been received.

During public testimony, longtime Facer View Drive resident Bob Curtis opposed the annexation and said the neighborhood had experienced water shortages in the past. Curtis told commissioners he was concerned that new development would further strain local water supplies and could force nearby residents to drill wells.

Hal Jensen, planning and development director for Bannock County, told the commission the applicant had been told by county staff to request annexation because state statute and county ordinance require an annexation request when property touches a city boundary. Jensen said the county would continue to assist the applicant if development proceeded in county jurisdiction.

Commissioner Mendoza moved to recommend denial, citing the staff finding that the property had been removed from the area of city impact and could not be reasonably served by city utilities and sanitation. The motion authorized the chair to sign findings of fact and recommendation; the motion was seconded and, following a roll-call vote, carried.

The commission's recommendation will be forwarded according to the city's procedures; the record reflects the commission authorized the chair to sign the written findings and recommendation.