Soda Springs council presses ahead on state-park idea for Enders Building but flags cost and timeline

The Soda Springs City Council on Nov. 17 debated next steps for a long-running effort to make the Enders Building and the nearby geyser the anchor of a proposed state park, with members agreeing the project has economic potential but sharply divided over funding, cost and timing.

Economic development specialist Molly Vasaras has been delegated to assemble a formal proposal and pursue grant funding, council members said. Councilor S1 told colleagues he felt it appropriate to turn the project over to Vasaras so she could use her expertise to prepare a compelling application for the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation.

Council members outlined the stakes: S1 said the city has invested about $600,000 in the Enders Building since 2018 and that ongoing carrying costs are roughly $40,000 a year. In conversations recorded during the meeting, estimates for a feasibility study ranged widely — from $20,000–$30,000 up to $100,000 — depending on scope and consultants. S1 said it could take years for the state to act through the budgeting and legislative process; one councilor estimated that legislative action would be unlikely before 2028.

Several speakers stressed the possible economic benefits. S1 and others framed the building and geyser as tourism anchors that could attract out-of-area visitors; S1 referenced work by state representatives and a newly involved local representative, Mike Bealey, and said Senator Harris has been supportive of the effort. But councilors also cautioned about the city’s exposure: S1 said the city currently spends tens of thousands annually to maintain the building and pointed to the risk of continuing to invest time and money while waiting for uncertain state support.

Councilors asked staff to pursue grant options for a feasibility study (including a grant program described during the meeting as “GRAMA” and other funding avenues), and to return with a timeline and cost estimates. No formal appropriation was approved at the Nov. 17 meeting; the council agreed to continue work on the proposal and to discuss budget options in future sessions.

The council also debated interim uses: S1 noted prior summer tours and temporary staffing of the building for public visits had cost roughly $12,000 in past years, which covered monitoring and tours but did not generate profits sufficient to offset long-term carrying costs.

Next steps: staff were asked to pursue grant funding and produce a scoped cost estimate for a feasibility study and to report back to council with a recommended timeline for the project’s next phases. If the council decides to fund a study directly, it will require a future budget action.