Council approves eligibility report to begin Narrows Urban Renewal District planning

The Idaho Falls City Council voted Jan. 22 to approve an eligibility report authorizing the Idaho Falls Redevelopment Agency to begin drafting an urban renewal plan for the Narrows area.

Community Development staff introduced the item and said approval of the eligibility report is a first procedural step under Idaho law; it does not obligate the council to create a district. Consultant Brad Kramer (transcript: "Brad Kramer from perspective planning") reviewed the statutory criteria and found seven of the 15 criteria met for the study area, citing problematic topography (shell rock and lava outcrops), gaps in the street network, faulty lot layout and some insanitary/unsafe onsite observations. The consultant recommended the agency proceed to prepare an urban renewal plan and accompanying economic feasibility analysis.

Staff noted the statutory limit that no more than 10% of the city's taxable valuation may be included in urban renewal districts. Using 2024 valuations, the consultant said the proposed district would capture about 1.52% of the city's value; using 2025 numbers the consultant estimated roughly 1.87% — both well under the statutory cap. The council approved the resolution on a roll-call vote.

What happens next: if the agency proceeds, staff will prepare an economic feasibility study and a draft urban renewal plan that will return to public hearing and council consideration. The eligibility approval allows that next drafting step but does not create the district absent further council action.