11/05/2026 Bannock County Commissioners Meetings

At the November 5, 2026, Bannock County Commissioners meeting, commissioners and representatives from Pocatello and Chubbuck discussed a proposed expansion of the Bannock County Ambulance District. The district is seeking approval to place a levy measure on the May 2027 ballot to fund an additional advanced life support ambulance in Chubbuck and increase staffing for the McCammon ambulance. The presentation cited rising call volume, including a 128.5% increase in Chubbuck, and projected that the added unit could reduce response times. The proposed rate was described as increasing from about $22.89 to $40 per $100,000 of assessed value, generating an estimated $1.773 million annually. Estimated ongoing needs totaled about $2.45 million, with projected funds from the levy and variable grant-related revenue expected to cover costs; commissioners questioned the proposed $400,000 contribution toward dispatch costs and requested further discussion and supporting details.

Potential purchases include an ambulance estimated at $475,000, radios estimated at $168,000, and associated medical equipment and station setup. The ambulance may take about two years to obtain, and the proposal also includes staffing, training, maintenance, and dispatch expenses; the presentation estimated a $1.25 million draw on reserves for one-time startup costs. Commissioners expressed support for pursuing the Chubbuck expansion, but did not vote to approve the levy or purchases; they asked staff to continue work on costs, agreements, public education, and timing, with another discussion anticipated in about a month. Officials also said the ambulance district service contract remains under legal review. The commission separately approved the claims agenda as presented; no specific procurement items within it were identified in the transcript.