Lewiston City Council Work Session- 5/4/2026

The City of Lewiston, Idaho City Council held a work session on May 4, 2026, focusing on several key community and infrastructure topics. Significant procurement-related discussions included the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) 2026 action plan, with funding allocations proposed for local projects such as homelessness support, infrastructure improvements, and park repairs totaling approximately $270,000. The council also reviewed the annual accounting presentation for the Lewiston Civic Theater, highlighting the use of city funds for theatrical productions and community programs. A major portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Brighton arterial reconstruction project, where the Public Works Director presented a detailed traffic analysis and funding challenges. The council discussed funding strategies including federal grants, urban renewal funds, and the possibility of issuing a general obligation bond to accelerate construction, with an estimated $15 million needed for phase one. Additionally, the council addressed deferred maintenance and urgent health and safety upgrades for fire stations, debating whether to invest in repairs or pursue new construction, with cost estimates for a new station around $8.2 million plus inflation. Utility reserves were also reviewed, emphasizing the importance of maintaining adequate cash reserves for water, wastewater, sanitation, and stormwater funds, and clarifying restrictions on fund usage. The meeting concluded with council motions to add a vacant building ordinance discussion to a future session and adjournment.